Chapter 2, Problem 59QAP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

To give all the formulas of compounds containing no other ions than K⁺, Ca²⁺, Cl^-, S^2-.

Concept introduction:

There are two types of ions:

Cations: These are positively charged ions formed by losing electrons.

Anions: These are negatively charged ions formed by gaining electrons.

Cations and anions combine to form ionic compounds.

Steps to write chemical formula from ions:

Let’s say we have two ions A+3 and B-2.

• Identify the cations and anions.

Cations are positively charged, and anions are negatively charged.

Here

A+3 = cation

B-2 = anion

• Write both cation and anion together (placing cation first) as:

${\text{A}}^{\text{+3}}{\text{B}}^{\text{-2}}$

• Put a value in the subscript of anion which is equal in magnitude with charge of cation and in the subscript of cation, put the value equals to magnitude of charge of anion as:

• If the subscript of anions and cations are multiple of a common number, then make it the smallest whole number ratio.