Question

select the correct answer. what is the formula of the compound vanadium(v) oxide? use the list of polyatomic ions and the periodic table to help you answer. a. vo₂ b. vo₅ c. v₅o₂ d. v₂o₅ e. v₂o₂

Explanation:

Step1: Determine oxidation states

Vanadium(V) means vanadium has an oxidation state of +5. Oxygen in oxides typically has an oxidation state of -2.

Step2: Use charge balance

Let the formula be \( V_xO_y \). The total positive charge from V is \( +5x \), and total negative charge from O is \( -2y \). For a neutral compound, \( 5x = 2y \).

Step3: Find smallest integers

Find the smallest integers \( x \) and \( y \) that satisfy \( 5x = 2y \). Let \( x = 2 \), then \( 5(2)=10 \), so \( 2y = 10 \) gives \( y = 5 \). So the formula is \( V_2O_5 \).

Answer:

D. \( V_2O_5 \)