What is the correct formula for aluminum oxide.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct formula for aluminum oxide is Al₂O₃.
Aluminum oxide is a chemical compound composed of aluminum (Al) and oxygen (O). It is commonly found in nature as the mineral corundum, which forms the basis for precious stones like sapphires and rubies. The formula Al₂O₃ represents two aluminum atoms for every three oxygen atoms.
This ratio comes from the valency of aluminum and oxygen. Aluminum, which belongs to Group 13 of the periodic table, has a valency of +3. Oxygen, found in Group 16, has a valency of -2. In order to balance the charges, two aluminum ions (each with a charge of +3) combine with three oxygen ions (each with a charge of -2) to form a neutral compound. The charges balance as follows:
- 2 × (+3) = +6
- 3 × (-2) = -6
Thus, the aluminum and oxygen atoms combine in a 2:3 ratio to form a neutral compound with the chemical formula Al₂O₃.
Aluminum oxide is an important material in various industries. It is widely used as an abrasive due to its hardness and resistance to scratching. It is also the primary raw material used in the production of aluminum metal via the Bayer process, which involves the extraction of aluminum from bauxite ore. Aluminum oxide is also used as a refractory material in high-temperature applications and as an electrical insulator in certain devices.
Its structure is a crystalline solid, typically with a hexagonal arrangement of atoms, which contributes to its hardness. The compound also exhibits amphoteric properties, meaning it can react both as an acid and as a base depending on the environment.