Multiple Choice
What is the correct name for the compound with the formula Ca(NO2)2?
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3. Chemical Reactions
Naming Ionic Compounds
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Which of the following diagrams correctly represents the ionic compound magnesium oxide?
A
A diagram showing Mg^{2+} and O^{2-} ions arranged in a repeating lattice structure.
B
A diagram showing Mg^{+} and O^{-} ions paired together.
C
A diagram showing Mg and O atoms sharing electrons in a molecule.
D
A diagram showing Mg^{2+} and O^{-} ions randomly dispersed.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that magnesium oxide (MgO) is an ionic compound formed by magnesium and oxygen ions.
Recall that magnesium typically loses two electrons to form a Mg^{2+} ion, and oxygen gains two electrons to form an O^{2-} ion.
Recognize that ionic compounds form a repeating lattice structure where positive and negative ions are arranged in a regular pattern to maximize electrostatic attraction and minimize repulsion.
Eliminate options that show incorrect charges on ions (such as Mg^{+} or O^{-}) or that depict atoms sharing electrons, which would indicate covalent bonding rather than ionic bonding.
Conclude that the correct representation is the one showing Mg^{2+} and O^{2-} ions arranged in a repeating lattice structure, reflecting the true ionic nature of magnesium oxide.
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