Each of the following pairs of elements will react to form a binary ionic compound. Write the formula of each compound formed, and give its name. (d) Aluminum and oxygen

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the charges of the ions formed by each element. Aluminum typically forms a +3 ion (Al^3+), and oxygen typically forms a -2 ion (O^2-).
2. Determine the simplest whole number ratio of ions that will result in a neutral compound. Since aluminum has a +3 charge and oxygen has a -2 charge, you can use the criss-cross method to balance the charges.
3. Write the chemical formula by placing the ions in the ratio determined. The subscript for each ion becomes the charge magnitude of the opposite ion.
4. Check the formula to ensure the total charges from the cations and anions balance to zero, confirming the compound is electrically neutral.
5. Name the compound by stating the cation name followed by the anion name modified to end in 'ide'.

Key Concepts

Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed when atoms transfer electrons, resulting in the formation of positively charged cations and negatively charged anions. These oppositely charged ions attract each other, creating a stable compound. The properties of ionic compounds include high melting and boiling points, and they typically conduct electricity when dissolved in water.

Valence Electrons

Valence electrons are the outermost electrons of an atom and are crucial in determining how an element will react chemically. In the case of aluminum and oxygen, aluminum has three valence electrons and tends to lose them to form a cation, while oxygen has six valence electrons and tends to gain two to form an anion. Understanding valence electrons helps predict the charges of the ions formed in a reaction.

Chemical Formula

A chemical formula represents the composition of a compound using symbols for the elements and numerical subscripts to indicate the number of atoms of each element. For aluminum and oxygen, the formula is Al2O3, indicating that two aluminum ions combine with three oxide ions to achieve electrical neutrality. This formula reflects the ratio of the ions in the compound.