Question

What is the formula (with cation and anion charges) for copper (II) hydroxide? ​

Answer 1

Answer:

Cu²⁺(OH)⁻₂

Explanation:

Step 1: Find the symbols for the substances

For copper, see your periodic table. Copper is "Cu".

For hydroxide, see your polyatomic ions chart. Hydroxide is "OH".

Step 2: Find the charges for each element.

Copper (II)'s charge is 2, which is the roman numerals in the brackets.

Hydroxide's charge is -1.

Charges are written as superscripts. You do not need to write "1".

In formulas, write the positively charged atom first.

Cu²⁺(OH)⁻   Put brackets around hydroxide because it has 2 elements.

Step 3: Write the number of atoms.

The number of atoms that an element has is the same as its partner's charge.

The charge of copper is 2, so hydroxide has 2 atoms.

The charge of hydroxide is 1, so copper has 1 atom.

Cu²⁺₁(OH)⁻₂

You do not need to write the "1" for atoms.

Cu²⁺(OH)⁻₂