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Which of the following anions could be packed around a cation in the greatest number?

1. small anions that have a low electric charge
2. large anions that have a low electric charge
3. small anions that have a high electric charge
4. large anions that have a high electric charge

User Zzfima
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The greatest number of anions that could be packed around a cation would be small anions with a low electric charge, as they are less repulsive and can fit more closely together.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question is asking which anion size and charge combination would allow the greatest number of anions to be packed around a cation. Considering ionic radii and charge, we know that small anions can pack more closely around a cation than large anions, and anions with a low electric charge will exert less repulsive force on neighboring anions than those with a high charge. Therefore, the most packed arrangement around a cation would be with anions that are both small and have a low charge.

User Wes P
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