Question

One of two binary ionic compounds is often added to toothpaste. One of these compounds contains sodium and fluorine; the other contains tin(II) ions and fluorine.

Write the formula for the compound that contains tin(II) and fluorine.
a) SnF
b) Sn₂F
c) SnF₂
d) Sn₂F₃

Answer 1

The formula for the compound with tin(II) and fluorine is SnF2, also known as stannous fluoride, used in toothpastes for dental health.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct formula for the compound that contains tin(II) and fluorine is SnF2. This formula represents stannous fluoride, which is a binary ionic compound used in some toothpastes to prevent tooth decay. In ionic compounds, the total positive charge must balance the total negative charge to create a neutral compound. Tin(II) has a charge of +2 (Sn2+), and each fluoride ion has a charge of -1 (F-). Therefore, to achieve a neutral compound two fluoride ions are required per tin(II) ion, yielding the formula SnF2.