Question

When nitrogen and magnesium form an ionic bond, what is the formula?

Answer 1

Mg ^+2 N^-3

Mg3N2. Magnesium nitride. I believe this would be the chemical formula.

Answer 2

Answer: The chemical formula for the given compound is $Mg_3N_2$

Explanation:

Magnesium is the 12th element of the periodic table having electronic configuration of $[Ne]3s^2$

This element will loose 2 electrons and form an oxidation state of +2 units.

Nitrogen is the 7th element of the periodic table having electronic configuration of $[He]2s^22p^3$

This element requires 3 electrons and thus shows an oxidation state of -3 units.

By criss-cross method, the oxidation state of the ions gets exchanged and this form the subscripts of the other ions. It results in the formation of a neutral compound.

Thus, the chemical formula for the given compound is $Mg_3N_2$