Multiple Choice
Which one of the following correctly pairs the element with the charge it typically forms in an ionic compound?
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3. Chemical Reactions
Naming Ionic Compounds
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Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for barium hydroxide?
A
Ba_2(OH)
B
Ba_2O_2H_2
C
Ba(OH)_2
D
BaOH
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that barium hydroxide is a compound formed from barium ions and hydroxide ions. Barium is an alkaline earth metal in group 2 of the periodic table, so it typically forms a 2+ charge as an ion: $\mathrm{Ba^{2+}}$.
Recognize that the hydroxide ion, $\mathrm{OH^-}$, carries a 1- charge. To balance the charges in the compound, the total positive charge must equal the total negative charge.
Since barium has a 2+ charge and hydroxide has a 1- charge, two hydroxide ions are needed to balance one barium ion. This leads to the formula $\mathrm{Ba(OH)_2}$, where the subscript 2 applies to the hydroxide group.
Check the other options: $\mathrm{Ba_2(OH)}$ suggests two barium atoms with one hydroxide, which does not balance charges; $\mathrm{Ba_2O_2H_2}$ is a rearrangement of atoms but not the conventional formula; $\mathrm{BaOH}$ implies one barium and one hydroxide, which does not balance charges.
Conclude that the correct chemical formula for barium hydroxide is $\mathrm{Ba(OH)_2}$, reflecting the proper ratio of ions to achieve electrical neutrality.
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