Question

multiple answer 1 point
choose all of the following statements that correctly describe ionic bonding.
the number of positive and negative ions in an ionic compound is sometimes equal.
the formula unit of an ionic compound represents the simplest ratio between ions.
most of the rocks and minerals in earths crust are ionic compounds.
ionic compounds are composed of independent, neutral units that can be isolated.

Explanation:

• For the first statement: In some ionic compounds like NaCl, the number of \(Na^{+}\) and \(Cl^{-}\) is equal. So, "The number of positive and negative ions in an ionic compound is sometimes equal" is correct.
• For the second statement: The formula unit of an ionic compound (e.g., \(MgCl_{2}\) has a ratio of \(Mg^{2 +}:Cl^{-}=1:2\)) represents the simplest ratio between ions.
• For the third statement: Many common rocks and minerals (e.g., halite (\(NaCl\)), calcite (\(CaCO_{3}\))) are ionic compounds.
• For the fourth statement: Ionic compounds are composed of a lattice of ions (not independent, neutral units). For example, in \(Na_{2}O\), there is a network of \(Na^{+}\) and \(O^{2 -}\) ions held by ionic bonds, not neutral units.

Answer:

A. The number of positive and negative ions in an ionic compound is sometimes equal.
B. The formula unit of an ionic compound represents the simplest ratio between ions.
C. Most of the rocks and minerals in Earth's crust are ionic compounds.