Ch.2 - Atoms, Molecules, and Ions

Brown - Chemistry: The Central Science 14th Edition

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Brown 14th Edition

Ch.2 - Atoms, Molecules, and Ions

Problem 61c

Chapter 2, Problem 61c

Predict the chemical formulas of the ionic compound formed by (c) V2+ and CH3COO-

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Identify the charges of the ions involved: V^{2+} has a charge of +2 and CH_3COO^- (acetate) has a charge of -1.

To form a neutral ionic compound, the total positive charge must balance the total negative charge.

Determine the ratio of ions needed to balance the charges: Since V^{2+} has a +2 charge and CH_3COO^- has a -1 charge, you will need two acetate ions to balance one vanadium ion.

Write the chemical formula by placing the cation first followed by the anion, using subscripts to indicate the number of each ion needed: V(CH_3COO)_2.

Ensure the formula is neutral: Check that the total positive charge (+2 from one V^{2+}) equals the total negative charge (-2 from two CH_3COO^-).

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed through the electrostatic attraction between positively charged ions (cations) and negatively charged ions (anions). The overall charge of the compound must be neutral, meaning the total positive charge from cations must balance the total negative charge from anions. Understanding how to combine these ions based on their charges is essential for predicting the correct chemical formula.

Valency and Charge of Ions

The valency of an ion refers to its ability to combine with other ions, which is determined by its charge. In this case, V2+ has a charge of +2, while CH3COO- (acetate) has a charge of -1. To form a neutral ionic compound, two acetate ions are needed to balance the charge of one V2+ ion, leading to the formula V(CH3COO)2.

Chemical Formula Representation

A chemical formula represents the types and numbers of atoms in a compound. In ionic compounds, the formula reflects the ratio of cations to anions that results in a neutral charge. For V2+ and CH3COO-, the formula V(CH3COO)2 indicates that one vanadium ion is combined with two acetate ions, showcasing the stoichiometry of the compound.

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