Question

Which is the correct interpretation of the formula mgf2? the lattice contains 1 magnesium atom for every 2 fluorine atoms. the lattice contains 1 magnesium ion for every 2 fluoride ions. the lattice contains 2 magnesium atoms for every fluorine atom. the lattice contains 2 magnesium ions for every fluoride ion.

Answer 1

Answer: the lattice contains 1 magnesium ion for every 2 fluoride ions.

`MgF_2` is an ionic compound. It contains positive ions of Magnesium and and negative ions of Fluorine. To balance the +2 positive charge of one magnesium ion, two (-1) negatively charged Fluorine ions are present. Hence, The correct interpretation of
`MgF_2` is that the lattice contains 1 Magnesium ion for every 2 Fluoride ions.