Which ion could be the nitrate ion?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $9.99Unlock all

Prepare for the IGCSE Edexcel Chemistry Test with engaging flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question comes with detailed hints and explanations to enhance your learning experience. Master your exam with confidence!

Multiple Choice

Which ion could be the nitrate ion?

Explanation:
Understanding polyatomic ions helps you spot nitrate by its formula and charge. The nitrate ion is NO3−, which means three oxygens bonded to a nitrogen and an overall negative one charge. That combination comes from nitrogen in a +5 oxidation state with three oxygens at −2 each: (+5) + 3(−2) = −1. That’s why the ion with formula NO3− is the nitrate ion. The other possibilities don’t fit: NO2− would be nitrite (two oxygens and a −1 charge), NO is nitric oxide (a neutral molecule), and N2O5 is dinitrogen pentoxide (a neutral covalent compound).

Understanding polyatomic ions helps you spot nitrate by its formula and charge. The nitrate ion is NO3−, which means three oxygens bonded to a nitrogen and an overall negative one charge. That combination comes from nitrogen in a +5 oxidation state with three oxygens at −2 each: (+5) + 3(−2) = −1.

That’s why the ion with formula NO3− is the nitrate ion. The other possibilities don’t fit: NO2− would be nitrite (two oxygens and a −1 charge), NO is nitric oxide (a neutral molecule), and N2O5 is dinitrogen pentoxide (a neutral covalent compound).

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy