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In the ionic compound with the general formula M₂X₃, what is the likely charge on X, -2 or -3? Explain.

User Suzanna
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Final answer:

The likely charge on X in the ionic compound with the general formula M₂X₃ is -2.

Step-by-step explanation:

Because the ionic compound must be electrically neutral, it must have the same number of positive and negative charges.

Two aluminum ions, each with a charge of 3+, would give us six positive charges, and three oxide ions, each with a charge of 2-, would give us six negative charges. The formula would be Al2O3.

User Moken
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