Question

the diagram above represents a solution of ions in water. which of the following are the most likely identities of ions x and y?
a ion x is na+, and ion y is k+.
b ion x is na+, and ion y is f−.
c ion x is cl−, and ion y is k+.
d ion x is cl−, and ion y is f−.

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze the nature of water molecules

Water (\(H_2O\)) is a polar molecule. The oxygen atom has a partial negative charge (\(\delta -\)) and the hydrogen atoms have partial positive charges (\(\delta+\)).

Step2: Determine ion - water interactions

Positive ions (\(Na^+\), \(K^+\)) will be surrounded by water molecules with the oxygen (partial negative) facing the ion. Negative ions (\(Cl^-\), \(F^-\)) will be surrounded by water molecules with the hydrogen (partial positive) facing the ion.
Looking at ion \(X\), it is surrounded by the oxygen - rich ends of water molecules (since oxygen is partial negative, it is attracted to positive ions). So \(X\) is a positive ion (\(Na^+\) or \(K^+\)).
Looking at ion \(Y\), it is surrounded by the hydrogen - rich ends of water molecules (since hydrogen is partial positive, it is attracted to negative ions). So \(Y\) is a negative ion (\(Cl^-\) or \(F^-\)).

Answer:

B. Ion \(X\) is \(Na^+\), and ion \(Y\) is \(F^-\)