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Ch.7 - Periodic Properties of the Elements
Chapter 7, Problem 74c

Little is known about the properties of astatine, At, because of its rarity and high radioactivity. Nevertheless, it is possible for us to make many predictions about its properties. (c) What is the chemical formula of the compound it forms with Na?

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Chemical Bonding

Chemical bonding refers to the forces that hold atoms together in compounds. In the case of astatine (At) and sodium (Na), the bond formed is ionic, where sodium donates an electron to astatine, resulting in the formation of Na+ and At- ions. Understanding this concept is crucial for predicting the formula of the compound formed.
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Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed when metals and nonmetals react, resulting in the transfer of electrons. Sodium, a metal, loses one electron to become Na+, while astatine, a nonmetal, gains an electron to become At-. The resulting compound is electrically neutral, and its formula reflects the ratio of the ions involved.
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Chemical Formulas

A chemical formula represents the elements in a compound and their respective ratios. For the compound formed between sodium and astatine, the formula is NaAt, indicating one sodium ion for every astatine ion. This notation is essential for conveying the composition of the compound succinctly.
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