Multiple Choice
Which pair of elements could readily form an ionic compound?
3. Chemical Reactions
Naming Ionic Compounds
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for calcium phosphate?
A
Ca(PO4)2
B
Ca3(PO4)2
C
CaPO4
D
Ca2(PO4)3
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the ions involved: calcium ion (Ca^{2+}) and phosphate ion (PO_4^{3-}).
Determine the ratio of calcium ions to phosphate ions needed to balance the charges so the compound is electrically neutral.
Set up the charge balance equation: 3 calcium ions (3 \(\times\) +2 = +6) will balance with 2 phosphate ions (2 \(\times\) -3 = -6).
Write the chemical formula using the ratio found: Ca_3(PO_4)_2, indicating 3 calcium ions and 2 phosphate ions.
Verify that the total positive and negative charges cancel out, confirming the formula is electrically neutral.
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