Question

"how many particles would one formula unit of alcl3 produce when dissolved in solution?"

Answer 1

I think you mean “atoms”
And it’s 4 atoms

Answer 2

Answer: 4

Justification:

1) The dissolution of a formula unit of AlCl₃ is given by the chemical equation:

AlCl₃ (s) → Al₃⁺ + 3 Cl⁻

So, 1 unit of AlCl₃ yields 1 partilce of Al₃⁺ and 3 particles of Cl⁻.

2) You get that through a mass balance and the oxidation states (balance of charge).

i) Mass balance: the same number of atoms of each species must appear on the reactant and the product sides.

ii) The oxidation state of Al is 3+ and the oxidation state of Cl is 1-, so the total net charge is 3+ + 3(1-) = 3 - 3 = 0.