Question

worksheet 3: writing ionic compounds

1. write the chemical formula for the ionic compound formed from:

a) na⁺ and cl⁻
b) mg²⁺ and o²⁻

Explanation:

Step1: Balance charges for Na⁺ and Cl⁻

Sodium ion ($\text{Na}^+$) has +1 charge, chloride ion ($\text{Cl}^-$) has -1 charge. One of each balances the charge: $\text{Na}^+ + \text{Cl}^-
ightarrow \text{NaCl}$

Step2: Balance charges for Mg²⁺ and O²⁻

Magnesium ion ($\text{Mg}^{2+}$) has +2 charge, oxide ion ($\text{O}^{2-}$) has -2 charge. One of each balances the charge: $\text{Mg}^{2+} + \text{O}^{2-}
ightarrow \text{MgO}$

Answer:

a) $\text{NaCl}$
b) $\text{MgO}$