Question

Write the empirical formula of at least four binary ionic compounds that could be formed from the following ions:

Answer 1

Answer:

MgI₂

MgO

PbI₄

PbO₂

Explanation:

Binary compounds are formed when a cation combines with an anion. Such compounds are also known as ionic compounds.  

The four binary compounds that can be formed are as follows:

Mg²⁺ I⁻

When writing the empirical formula the charge of the anion is written as the subscript of the cation, and the charge of the cation is written as the as script of the anion, such as  

Mg₁I₂ or MgI₂

Mg²⁺ O²⁻

Mg₂O₂ or MgO

Pb⁴⁺ I⁻

Pb₁I₄ or PbI₄

Pb⁴⁺ O²⁻

Pb₂O₄ or PbO₂

Answer 2

MgO
MgI2
PbO2
PbI4

These are the possible compounds