Question

What is the lowest whole number ratio between the aluminum ion and carbonate ion in the compound, aluminum carbonate?

A. 2 :1
B. 1: 1
C. 3 : 2
D. 1 : 2
E. 2 : 3

Answer 1

E. 2 : 3

Step-by-step explanation:

Aluminium carbonate is a neutral compound made by aluminium ion, Al³⁺ and carbonate ion, CO₃²⁻. As is neutral, the formula must be:

Al₂(CO₃)₃.

2 Al₃⁺ = 6 positives charges

3 CO₃²⁻ = 6 negative charges

Thus, the simplest whole number ratio between Al³⁺ and CO₃²⁻ must be:

2:3

And right answer is:

E. 2 : 3