Multiple Choice
What is the general name for polyatomic ions that contain one or more oxygen atoms?
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3. Chemical Reactions
Polyatomic Ions
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for the nitrite ion?
A
NO_3^-
B
N_2O_2^-
C
NO_2^-
D
NO_2^+
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the nitrite ion is a polyatomic ion composed of nitrogen and oxygen atoms with a specific charge.
Recall the common polyatomic ions involving nitrogen and oxygen: nitrate (NO_3^-), nitrite (NO_2^-), and others like nitronium (NO_2^+).
Identify that the nitrite ion specifically has one nitrogen atom and two oxygen atoms, carrying a single negative charge.
Compare the given options to this definition: NO_3^- has three oxygens (nitrate), N_2O_2^- has two nitrogens and two oxygens, NO_2^- has one nitrogen and two oxygens with a negative charge, and NO_2^+ has a positive charge.
Conclude that the correct formula for the nitrite ion is \(NO\_2^-\) because it matches the composition and charge of the nitrite ion.
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