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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct IUPAC formula for lead(IV) carbonate?
A
PbCO3
B
Pb2CO3
C
Pb2(CO3)4
D
Pb(CO3)2
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the oxidation state of lead in lead(IV) carbonate. The Roman numeral IV indicates that lead has a +4 charge (Pb^{4+}).
Determine the charge of the carbonate ion. The carbonate ion (CO_3) has a charge of -2 (CO_3^{2-}).
Balance the total positive and negative charges to form a neutral compound. Since Pb is +4 and each CO_3 is -2, you need two carbonate ions to balance one Pb^{4+} ion.
Write the formula by placing the lead ion and the carbonate ions with the appropriate subscripts to reflect the ratio: one Pb ion and two CO_3 ions, which is Pb(CO_3)_2.
Confirm that the overall charge of the compound is zero by multiplying the charge of each ion by its subscript and adding them: (+4) + 2 × (-2) = 0, ensuring the formula is electrically neutral.