Question Detail

CHM 101 Atoms and Atomic Theory Objective Question
Take CBT

Question

A student writes the formula for an ionic compound as Ca2O2. What is the correct formula for this compound?
Options
A CaO
Correct Answer
B Ca2O
C CaO2
D Ca2O3
Correct Answer

Option A is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

Calcium forms Ca2+ ions and oxygen forms O2- ions. The charges are equal in magnitude, so one Ca2+ balances one O2-, giving the formula CaO. The formula Ca2O2 is not in the lowest whole-number ratio; dividing the subscripts by 2 yields CaO.

Hint

The correct formula for an ionic compound should have subscripts in the smallest whole-number ratio while maintaining electrical neutrality.

Question Info

Course: CHM 101
Topic: Atoms and Atomic Theory
Type: Objective
Difficulty: Not specified
Question 1486 of 1872
Previous Course Details Next