Question

based on this information, which two formulas below represent neutral compounds? choose 2 answers: a liso₃ b li₂so₃ c caso₃ d ca₂so₃

Explanation:

Step1: Determine ion charges

Lithium (Li) has a +1 charge ($Li^+$), calcium (Ca) has a +2 charge ($Ca^{2 +}$), and the sulfite ion ($SO_3^{2-}$) has a - 2 charge.

Step2: Check charge - balance for each compound

For A. $LiSO_3$: One $Li^+$ (+1 charge) and one $SO_3^{2 -}$ (-2 charge), total charge is $+1+( - 2)=-1$, not neutral.
For B. $Li_2SO_3$: Two $Li^+$ (2×+1 = +2 charge) and one $SO_3^{2 -}$ (-2 charge), total charge is $+2+( - 2)=0$, neutral.
For C. $CaSO_3$: One $Ca^{2+}$ (+2 charge) and one $SO_3^{2 -}$ (-2 charge), total charge is $+2+( - 2)=0$, neutral.
For D. $Ca_2SO_3$: Two $Ca^{2+}$ (2×+2 = +4 charge) and one $SO_3^{2 -}$ (-2 charge), total charge is $+4+( - 2)=+2$, not neutral.

Answer:

B. $Li_2SO_3$, C. $CaSO_3$