Question

question 6 of 10
which of the following is the correct formula for silicon dioxide?

a. $\ce{si_{2}o}$

b. $\ce{sio_{3}}$

c. $\ce{sio}$

d. $\ce{sio_{2}}$

Explanation:

To determine the correct formula for silicon dioxide, we analyze the name. "Silicon" refers to the element Si, and "dioxide" means two (di-) oxygen (oxide) atoms. So the formula should have one Si atom and two O atoms, which is $\ce{SiO_2}$.

• Option A ($\ce{Si_2O}$) has two Si and one O, incorrect.
• Option B ($\ce{SiO_3}$) has one Si and three O, incorrect.
• Option C ($\ce{SiO}$) has one Si and one O, incorrect.
• Option D ($\ce{SiO_2}$) matches the "one Si, two O" from the name "dioxide".

Answer:

D. $\ce{SiO_2}$