Multiple Choice
In the chemical formula of an ionic compound, where is the cation written?
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3. Chemical Reactions
Naming Ionic Compounds
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Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for ammonium sulfate?
A
NH_4_2SO_4
B
NH_4SO_4
C
(NH_4)_2SO_4
D
NH_4SO_3
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the ions involved: ammonium ion is NH_4^+ and sulfate ion is SO_4^{2-}.
Determine the charges on each ion: ammonium has a charge of +1, sulfate has a charge of -2.
Balance the total positive and negative charges to make a neutral compound. Since sulfate has a -2 charge, you need two ammonium ions (each +1) to balance it.
Write the formula by placing the ammonium ion in parentheses with a subscript 2 to indicate two ammonium ions, followed by the sulfate ion: (NH_4)_2SO_4.
Verify that the formula is electrically neutral by confirming the total positive charge (+2) equals the total negative charge (-2).
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