Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a common polyatomic anion?
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3. Chemical Reactions
Polyatomic Ions
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the formula for the polyatomic ion called carbonate?
A
CO_3^{2-}
B
PO_4^{3-}
C
SO_4^{2-}
D
NO_3^{-}
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that a polyatomic ion is a charged species composed of two or more atoms covalently bonded together, carrying an overall charge.
Recall the common polyatomic ions and their formulas: carbonate, phosphate, sulfate, and nitrate are among the most common.
Identify the carbonate ion, which consists of one carbon atom and three oxygen atoms, carrying a charge of 2-.
Write the formula for carbonate as \(C\!O_3^{2-}\), where the subscript 3 indicates three oxygen atoms and the superscript 2- indicates the charge.
Compare this formula to the other options: phosphate (\(P\!O_4^{3-}\)), sulfate (\(S\!O_4^{2-}\)), and nitrate (\(N\!O_3^{-}\)) to confirm that \(C\!O_3^{2-}\) is the correct formula for carbonate.
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