Question

Suppose that X represents an arbitrary cation and that Y represents an anionic species. Using the charges indicated in the superscript of X and Y, fill in the remaining blanks below by writing the appropriate subscript for each X and Y to balance the net charge on the ionic XaYb compound formed (where a and b represent positive, whole numbers of X and Y, respectively).

Y- Y2- Y3-
X+
X2+ XY2
X3+

Answer 1

See explanation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hello!

In this case, when having the cationic and anionic species with the specified charges, in order to abide by the net charge rule, we need to exchange the charges in the form of subscripts and without the sign, just as shown below:
`X^(m+)Y^(n-)\rightarrow X_nY_m`

Thus, for all the given combinations, we obtain:

- Y⁻

`X^+Y^-\rightarrow XY\\\\X^(2+)Y^-\rightarrow XY_2\\\\X^(3+)Y^-\rightarrow XY_3`

- Y²⁻

`X^+Y^(2-)\rightarrow X_2Y\\\\X^(2+)Y^(2-)\rightarrow X_2Y_2\rightarrow XY\\\\X^(3+)Y^(2-)\rightarrow X_2Y_3`

- Y³⁻

`X^+Y^(3-)\rightarrow X_3Y\\\\X^(2+)Y^(3-)\rightarrow X_3Y_2 \\\\X^(3+)Y^(3-)\rightarrow X_3Y_3\rightarrow XY`

Best regards!