What is the correct formula for zinc nitrite? a. ZnNO2 b. ZnNO3 c. Zn2NO2 d. Zn2NO3 e. None of the above
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct formula for zinc nitrite is a. ZnNO2.
Here’s an explanation:
Zinc (Zn) forms a divalent ion (Zn²⁺), meaning it typically has a +2 charge in ionic compounds. The nitrite ion (NO2⁻) has a -1 charge. To balance the charges and create a neutral compound, one zinc ion (Zn²⁺) pairs with two nitrite ions (NO2⁻), because:
- The zinc ion has a +2 charge.
- Each nitrite ion has a -1 charge.
Thus, two nitrite ions are required to balance the +2 charge from one zinc ion. This results in the formula Zn(NO2)2, which is commonly written as ZnNO2.
Therefore, option a. ZnNO2 is correct.
The other options are incorrect because:
- b. ZnNO3: This would be the formula for zinc nitrate, not zinc nitrite.
- c. Zn2NO2: The formula is incorrect because it suggests two zinc ions and one nitrite ion, which would result in an unbalanced charge.
- d. Zn2NO3: This formula would represent a different compound, specifically zinc nitrate, with an incorrect stoichiometry.
- e. None of the above: This option is incorrect because a. ZnNO2 is the correct formula.
