What is the correct chemical formula for Strontium acetate?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct chemical formula for strontium acetate is Sr(C₂H₃O₂)₂.
Explanation:
- Understanding the Components:
- Strontium (Sr) is an alkaline earth metal found in Group 2 of the periodic table. It typically forms a 2+ cation (Sr²⁺) when it ionizes, meaning it loses two electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration.
- Acetate (C₂H₃O₂⁻) is a polyatomic ion formed from acetic acid (CH₃COOH). The acetate ion carries a single negative charge, written as (C₂H₃O₂)⁻, which consists of two carbon atoms, three hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms.
- Combining the Ions:
- Since strontium has a 2+ charge (Sr²⁺) and acetate has a 1- charge (C₂H₃O₂⁻), it will take two acetate ions to balance the charge of one strontium ion.
- The formula is thus Sr(C₂H₃O₂)₂. This indicates that one strontium ion is paired with two acetate ions to form strontium acetate.
- Crystallization and Structure:
- When strontium acetate is formed, the strontium cation typically coordinates with the acetate anions in a crystal lattice structure. Each acetate ion is bonded to the strontium ion through ionic interactions. The compound is often seen as a white solid at room temperature and is soluble in water.
- Chemical Name:
- The name “strontium acetate” comes from the presence of the strontium ion (Sr²⁺) and the acetate ion (C₂H₃O₂⁻). The molecular formula reflects these components: one strontium ion (Sr²⁺) and two acetate ions (C₂H₃O₂⁻), balancing the overall neutrality of the compound.
In summary, strontium acetate’s formula is Sr(C₂H₃O₂)₂, which consists of a strontium cation paired with two acetate anions to maintain electrical neutrality.