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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for the ionic compound formed between Fe^{3+} and O^{2-}?
A
Fe_2O_3
B
FeO_2
C
Fe_3O_2
D
FeO
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the charges of the ions involved: Fe^{3+} has a charge of +3, and O^{2-} has a charge of -2.
To form a neutral ionic compound, the total positive charge must balance the total negative charge.
Find the smallest whole number ratio of Fe^{3+} and O^{2-} ions such that the total positive charge equals the total negative charge. This means solving for integers \(x\) and \(y\) in the equation: \(3x = 2y\).
Determine the values of \(x\) and \(y\) that satisfy the equation. The smallest such integers are \(x = 2\) and \(y = 3\), meaning 2 Fe^{3+} ions and 3 O^{2-} ions combine.
Write the chemical formula using these subscripts: \(\mathrm{Fe}_2\mathrm{O}_3\).