Question

which best describes ionic compound formulas?
they have more positive charges than negative.
they have more negative charges than positive.
they have an equal number of positive and negative charges.
they have an unbalanced chemical formula.

Explanation:

Ionic compounds are made up of positive and negative ions. In an ionic compound formula, the overall charge must be neutral. This means the sum of the positive charges from cations must equal the sum of the negative charges from anions. If there were more positive charges than negative or vice - versa, the compound would have a net charge and would not be stable in the solid state (where ionic compounds typically exist). An unbalanced chemical formula is not a characteristic of ionic compound formulas in terms of charge balance. The key principle is charge neutrality.

Answer:

They have an equal number of positive and negative charges.