Multiple Choice
Which is the correct name for the compound CoCO_3?
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3. Chemical Reactions
Naming Ionic Compounds
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Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for the ionic compound formed between potassium and oxygen?
A
KO
B
KO2
C
K2O2
D
K2O
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the ions formed by potassium and oxygen. Potassium (K) is an alkali metal that forms a +1 cation, written as $\mathrm{K}^{+}$, and oxygen typically forms a -2 anion, written as $\mathrm{O}^{2-}$.
Determine the ratio of ions needed to balance the overall charge of the compound. Since potassium has a +1 charge and oxygen has a -2 charge, you need enough potassium ions to balance the -2 charge from one oxide ion.
Set up the charge balance equation: $2 \times (+1) + 1 \times (-2) = 0$. This means two potassium ions are needed for every one oxide ion to make the compound electrically neutral.
Write the chemical formula by combining the ions in the ratio found. This gives $\mathrm{K}_2\mathrm{O}$, indicating two potassium ions for every one oxygen ion.
Compare this formula to the options given and confirm that $\mathrm{K}_2\mathrm{O}$ is the correct formula for the ionic compound formed between potassium and oxygen.
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