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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for calcium nitrate?
A
Ca_3N_2
B
Ca(NO_3)_2
C
Ca_2(NO_3)_3
D
CaNO_3
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the ions involved: Calcium typically forms a Ca^{2+} ion, and the nitrate ion is NO_3^{-}.
Determine the charges of the ions: Ca^{2+} has a +2 charge, and NO_3^{-} has a -1 charge.
Balance the total positive and negative charges to make a neutral compound. Since calcium has a +2 charge, you need two nitrate ions (each with a -1 charge) to balance the charge.
Write the formula by placing the calcium ion first, followed by the nitrate ion with a subscript of 2 to indicate two nitrate ions: Ca(NO_3)_2.
Verify that the formula is electrically neutral by confirming that the total positive charge (+2 from Ca^{2+}) equals the total negative charge (2 × -1 from two NO_3^{-} ions).