Q
QuestionChemistry

What is the ionic charge for C, Si, Ge, Sn, and Pb?
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Answer

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Step 1
Ionic charge is determined by the number of electrons that an atom gains or loses to achieve a stable electron configuration, typically the octet configuration.

In general, elements from groups 1, 2, and 13 - 17 in the periodic table tend to lose or gain electrons and form ions. However, elements from group 14, such as C, Si, Ge, and Sn, rarely form ionic compounds. Here, we will discuss their possible ionic charges in various oxidation states.

Step 2
: Carbon (C)

Carbon typically forms covalent bonds and does not usually form monatomic ions. However, in the + 4 oxidation state, carbon can form the carbon tetrafluoride (CF4) molecule, where carbon has a formal charge of + 4. In this case, the ionic charge would be + 4.

Final Answer

- Carbon (C): + 4 (in the + 4 oxidation state) - Silicon (Si): + 4 (in the + 4 oxidation state) - Germanium (Ge): + 4 (in the + 4 oxidation state) - Tin (Sn): + 2 (in the + 2 oxidation state) or + 4 (in the + 4 oxidation state) - Lead (Pb): + 2 (in the + 2 oxidation state) or + 4 (in the + 4 oxidation state)