Chapter 8.1, Problem 2LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The difference between the representative unit of a molecular compound and that of an ionic compound needs to be explained.

Concept Introduction: A representative unit is defined as the smallest unit of a substance in which it naturally exists. For example, the representative unit of sodium chloride is NaCl and that of water is ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$ .

Explanation of Solution

For a molecular compound, the representative unit is a molecule. On the other hand, a formula unit represents an ionic compound. Thus, the representative unit of an ionic compound is a formula unit.

Here, the formula unit is defined as a chemical formula for ionic compounds where ions are listed in the lowest ratio such that the overall compound is neutral.