Multiple Choice
The formula for the sulfate ion, SO42–. If the term of 'thio' means the replacement of an oxygen by a sulfur, what is the formula for the thiosulfate ion?
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5. Molecules and Compounds
Polyatomic Ions
Problem 36
Textbook Question
Write the formula including the charge for each of the following polyatomic ions:b. sulfite
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the name of the polyatomic ion: sulfite.
Recall that the sulfite ion is composed of sulfur and oxygen atoms.
Understand that the sulfite ion has the chemical formula \( \text{SO}_3^{2-} \).
Recognize that the charge of the sulfite ion is \( 2- \), indicating it has two more electrons than protons.
Write the complete formula for the sulfite ion, including its charge: \( \text{SO}_3^{2-} \).
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Polyatomic Ions
Polyatomic ions are ions that consist of two or more atoms bonded together, which collectively carry a charge. They can be either positively charged (cations) or negatively charged (anions). Understanding polyatomic ions is essential for writing chemical formulas and balancing reactions, as they often appear in various compounds.
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Polyatomic Ions
Sulfite Ion
The sulfite ion is a specific type of polyatomic ion with the chemical formula SO3^2-. It consists of one sulfur atom bonded to three oxygen atoms and carries a -2 charge. Recognizing the structure and charge of the sulfite ion is crucial for correctly incorporating it into chemical formulas and understanding its behavior in chemical reactions.
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Chemical Formulas
Chemical formulas represent the composition of a substance using symbols for the elements and numerical subscripts to indicate the number of atoms. For polyatomic ions like sulfite, the formula must include the charge to convey the ion's overall electrical state. This is important for accurately describing compounds and predicting their reactivity.
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