Multiple Choice
What is the correct name for the ionic compound K_2O?
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3. Chemical Reactions
Naming Ionic Compounds
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Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for aluminum chloride?
A
AlCl
B
AlCl_3
C
Al_3Cl_2
D
Al_2Cl_3
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the charges of the ions involved: aluminum typically forms a +3 charge (Al^{3+}), and chloride forms a -1 charge (Cl^{-}).
Determine the ratio of ions needed to balance the overall charge to zero. Since aluminum has a +3 charge, you need three chloride ions, each with a -1 charge, to balance it.
Write the chemical formula by combining one aluminum ion with three chloride ions, resulting in AlCl_3.
Check the other options to see if their ion ratios balance the charges: AlCl (1:1) and Al_3Cl_2 (3:2) do not balance the charges correctly.
Conclude that the correct formula is AlCl_3 because it reflects the proper charge balance between aluminum and chloride ions.
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