Chemistry: The Science in Context (4th Edition)

Published by W.W. Norton & Co.
ISBN 10: 0393124177
ISBN 13: 978-0-39312-417-0

Chapter 2 - Atoms, Molecules, and Ions: Matter Starts Here - Problems - Page 71: 89

Answer

(b) Na$_{2}$SO$_{3}$

Work Step by Step

Sodium's elemental symbol is Na$_{+}$. The symbol for sulfite is SO$_{3}^{2-}$. Sodium has a +1 charge whereas sulfite has a -2 charge. For the compound between sodium and sulfite to have a neutral charge, the charges must equal. We need two positive charges to counter the -2 charge of sulfite. We then need to combine two sodium atoms for every sulfite ion. The molecular formula for sodium sulfite is option (b) Na$_{2}$SO$_{3}$.
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