Question

Which of the following polyatomic ions will form an ionic compound with two sodium ions? CO32− HCO31− NO21− NO31−

Answer 1

Answer:

CO32−

Explanation:

We have to consider the valencies of the polyatomic ions involved. Recall that it is only a polyatomic ion with a valency of -2 that can form a compound which requires two sodium ions.

When we look closely at the options, we will realize that among all the options, only CO32− has a valency of -2, hence it must be the required answer. In order to be double sure, we put down the ionic reaction equation as follows;

2Na^+(aq) + CO3^2-(aq) ---------> Na2CO3(aq)