Question

Given an ion with a charge of +4, how many ions with a charge of -2 will be necessary to create a stable compound? Explain.

Answer 1

Answer:

$\boxed {\boxed {\sf 2 \ ions}}$

Explanation:

A stable compound has a net charge of 0. Basically, when added, the two ion charges must equal 0 and balance each other out.

We have one ion with a charge of +4. There is another ion of -2. Clearly, these are not balanced yet.

We need more -2 ions to balance it. If we have 2 ions, then their charge is -4 because:

• 2 * -2 charge = -4 charge

The +4 ion and 2 -2 ions (with a charge of -4) balance each other out and create a net charge of 0. So, 2 ions with a charge of -2 are necessary to create a stable compound.