Multiple Choice
What is the correct name for K_2SO_4?
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3. Chemical Reactions
Naming Ionic Compounds
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Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for sodium phosphate?
A
Na2PO4
B
Na3PO3
C
NaPO4
D
Na3PO4
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the ions involved: sodium ion (Na\textsuperscript{+}) and phosphate ion (PO\textsubscript{4}\textsuperscript{3-}).
Determine the charge on each ion: sodium ion has a +1 charge, phosphate ion has a -3 charge.
Balance the total positive and negative charges to make a neutral compound. Since phosphate has a -3 charge, you need three sodium ions (each +1) to balance it.
Write the chemical formula by combining the ions with the correct subscripts: three sodium ions and one phosphate ion, resulting in Na\textsubscript{3}PO\textsubscript{4}.
Verify that the total positive charge (+3 from 3 Na\textsuperscript{+}) balances the total negative charge (-3 from PO\textsubscript{4}\textsuperscript{3-}), confirming the formula is electrically neutral.
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