Q
QuestionChemistry

Write the empirical formula of at least four binary ionic compounds that could be formed from the following ions: Mg^2 +, Ar−, S^2−, O^2−.
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Answer

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Step 1
: Understand the problem

The problem asks us to find the empirical formula of at least four binary ionic compounds. A binary ionic compound is composed of two elements: a metal and a nonmetal. In this case, we are given four ions: Mg²+, Ar⁻, S²⁻, and O²⁻. Since Ar⁻ is a noble gas, it will not form an ionic compound. Therefore, we will consider Mg²+, S²−, and O²− to form binary ionic compounds.

Step 2
: Find the whole-number ratio of cations and anions

To find the empirical formula, we need to determine the whole-number ratio of cations (positive ions) and anions (negative ions) in each compound. We are given three ions: Mg²+, S²⁻, and O²−.

Final Answer

The empirical formulas of four binary ionic compounds are MS, MgO₂, Mg₂S, and Mg₂O₃.