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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for copper(II) oxide?
A
CuO
B
Cu2O3
C
CuO2
D
Cu2O
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the oxidation state of copper in copper(II) oxide. The Roman numeral II indicates that copper has a +2 charge (Cu^{2+}).
Determine the charge of the oxide ion. Oxygen typically forms an oxide ion with a -2 charge (O^{2-}).
Combine the ions in a ratio that results in a neutral compound. Since Cu^{2+} and O^{2-} have charges of equal magnitude but opposite sign, they combine in a 1:1 ratio.
Write the chemical formula by placing the symbols of copper and oxygen with their respective subscripts reflecting the ratio. Since the ratio is 1:1, the formula is CuO.
Verify that the total positive charge balances the total negative charge to confirm the formula is electrically neutral.