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Multiple Choice
What is the simplest formula for the compound copper(II) oxide?
A
CuO_2
B
CuO
C
Cu_2O_2
D
Cu_2O
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the elements present in the compound and their respective oxidation states. Copper(II) indicates copper has a +2 charge, and oxide (O) typically has a -2 charge.
Write the symbols for copper and oxygen with their charges: Cu^{2+} and O^{2-}.
Determine the ratio of copper to oxygen atoms needed to balance the charges so the compound is electrically neutral. Since Cu^{2+} and O^{2-} have charges of equal magnitude but opposite sign, they combine in a 1:1 ratio.
Write the empirical (simplest) formula by combining one copper atom with one oxygen atom, resulting in CuO.
Check the other given formulas to see if they can be simplified to CuO. For example, Cu_2O_2 simplifies to CuO by dividing subscripts by 2.