Question

Which of the following chemical formulas could represent a stable compound formed with an element "X" from group 1A and Oxygen?

Answer 1

Answer:

2. X₂O

Explanation:

• Elements in group 1A are known as alkali metal. Examples include lithium, sodium, and potassium among others.
• These elements have one valence electron in the outermost energy level and therefore form cations with a charge of +1.
• They have a valency of 2.
• Oxygen, on the other hand,has a valency of 2.
• Therefore, a chemical formula of a compound formed when an element in group 1A say X reacts with oxygen will be X₂O.
• To write the formula, we identify the symbol of the elements and their valence.
• Then the atoms of the two elements exchange their valencies which are written as a subscript on each symbol of an element.