A metal oxide has a lattice energy in the range of 3300 kJ/mol. Is the charge on the metal ion M likely to be 1+, 2+, or 3+? Explain.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of lattice energy. Lattice energy is the energy required to separate one mole of an ionic solid into its gaseous ions. It is influenced by the charges on the ions and the distance between them.
2. Step 2: Recall the relationship between lattice energy and ionic charge. Lattice energy increases with the magnitude of the charge on the ions. Higher charges result in stronger electrostatic attractions, leading to higher lattice energies.
3. Step 3: Consider the typical lattice energy values for different charges. Generally, compounds with 1+ and 1- charges have lower lattice energies, while those with 2+ and 2- charges have higher lattice energies. Compounds with 3+ and 3- charges have even higher lattice energies.
4. Step 4: Compare the given lattice energy with typical values. A lattice energy of 3300 kJ/mol is relatively high, suggesting that the metal ion likely has a higher charge, such as 2+ or 3+.
5. Step 5: Conclude based on the comparison. Given the high lattice energy, it is more likely that the metal ion M has a charge of 2+ or 3+, as these charges correspond to stronger ionic interactions and higher lattice energies.