Multiple Choice
What is the correct name for the compound with the formula SnSO4?
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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 sulfite?
A
(NH_4)_2SO_4
B
NH_4SO_3
C
(NH_4)_2SO_3
D
NH_4_2SO_3
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the ions involved in ammonium sulfite: ammonium ion is $\mathrm{NH_4^+}$ and sulfite ion is $\mathrm{SO_3^{2-}}$.
Determine the charges of each ion: ammonium has a charge of +1, and sulfite has a charge of -2.
Balance the total positive and negative charges to form a neutral compound. Since sulfite has a -2 charge, you need two ammonium ions (each +1) to balance it.
Write the chemical formula by placing the ammonium ion in parentheses with a subscript 2 to indicate two ammonium ions, followed by the sulfite ion: $(\mathrm{NH_4})_2\mathrm{SO_3}$.
Verify that the formula is neutral overall: total positive charge is +2 from two ammonium ions, total negative charge is -2 from one sulfite ion, so the compound is electrically neutral.
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