Question

1.25 pts

An ionic compound has the formula Na XO4, where X represents an unknown transition metal. The compound has a molar mass of approximately 293.8 g/mol. Which of the following elements is the most likely identity of X?

Answer 1

Lead, Pb.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hello!

In this case, since the molar mass of the compound is 293.8 g/mol, and the molecular formula is NaXO₄, we infer that the molar mass is computed via:

`293.8=m_(Na)+m_X+4*m_O`

Thus, we can solve for the atomic mass of X as shown below:

`293.8=23.0+m_X+4*16.0\\\\m_X=293.8-23.0-4*16.0\\\\m_X=206.8g/mol`

Thus, the element whose atomic mass is about 206.8 g/mol is lead (207.2 g/mol) even when it is not properly a transition metal.

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