What is the formula of cobalt(II) nitrate hexahydrate?
Co(NO3)2 • 6 H2O
C2NO3 • 6 H2O
[Co2NO3]6(H2O)
[Co(NO3)2]6(H2O)
Cb(NO3)2 • 6 H2O
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct formula for cobalt(II) nitrate hexahydrate is:
Co(NO3)2 • 6 H2O
Explanation:
Cobalt(II) nitrate hexahydrate is a compound consisting of cobalt(II) ions, nitrate ions, and water molecules. Let’s break down its components:
- Cobalt(II) Ion (Co²⁺):
- The Roman numeral (II) in the name indicates that cobalt has a +2 charge in this compound. Thus, the cobalt ion is Co²⁺.
- Nitrate Ion (NO3⁻):
- Nitrate is a polyatomic ion with the chemical formula NO₃⁻. Since cobalt is in the +2 oxidation state, it combines with two nitrate ions (each with a -1 charge) to neutralize the overall charge of the compound.
- Water Molecules (H₂O):
- Hexahydrate means that the compound contains six molecules of water (6 H₂O) for every formula unit of cobalt(II) nitrate. These water molecules are coordinated to the cobalt ion in the crystal structure, forming a complex hydrate.
When written together, the formula Co(NO3)2 • 6 H2O reflects the stoichiometry of this hydrated salt, where Co represents the cobalt ion, (NO₃)₂ represents the two nitrate ions, and 6 H₂O indicates the six water molecules.
This type of compound is often found in laboratory settings and is used in various chemical applications, including as a catalyst and in the preparation of other cobalt compounds. The hydrated form is typically more stable and easier to handle compared to an anhydrous (without water) version of cobalt(II) nitrate.
Let me create a visual representation of this formula for you.
Here is a visual representation of cobalt(II) nitrate hexahydrate (Co(NO₃)₂ • 6 H₂O). The image depicts the cobalt ion (Co²⁺) paired with two nitrate ions (NO₃⁻) and six water molecules (H₂O) in the hydrated form. Let me know if you’d like further explanations or have other questions!
