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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for calcium nitrate?
A
Ca(NO3)2
B
CaNO3
C
Ca(NO2)2
D
Ca2(NO3)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the ions involved: Calcium typically forms a Ca^{2+} ion, and nitrate is the polyatomic ion NO_3^{-}.
Determine the charges on each ion: Ca^{2+} has a charge of +2, and NO_3^{-} has a charge of -1.
Balance the total positive and negative charges to form a neutral compound. Since calcium has a +2 charge, you need two nitrate ions, each with a -1 charge, to balance the charge.
Write the chemical formula by placing the calcium ion first, followed by the nitrate ion with a subscript of 2 to indicate two nitrate ions: Ca(NO_3)_2.
Verify that the formula is electrically neutral by confirming that the total positive charge (+2) equals the total negative charge (2 × -1 = -2).