Question

What is the magnitude of the negative charge on each oxygen atom in the carbonate ion (CO₃²⁻)?

A) -1
B) -2/3
C) -2
D) -3

Answer 1

The magnitude of the negative charge on each oxygen atom in the carbonate ion (CO₃²⁻) is -2/3, as the total charge of -2 is evenly distributed among three oxygen atoms. The correct answer is B) -2/3.

Step-by-step explanation:

The magnitude of the negative charge on each oxygen atom in the carbonate ion (CO₃²⁻) can be determined by considering the total charge of the ion and the fact that the charge is evenly distributed among the three oxygen atoms. Here is how we can calculate this:

• The total charge of the carbonate ion is -2.
• There are three oxygen atoms in the carbonate ion.
• To find the charge on each oxygen atom, we divide the total charge by the number of oxygen atoms: -2 ÷ 3 = -2/3.

Therefore, the magnitude of the negative charge on each oxygen atom in the carbonate ion is -2/3.