Chapter 9, Problem 87A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The chemical formula and name of the compound specified in the question are to be determined.

Concept Introduction: While naming ionic compounds, the name of the cation is written first followed by that of the anion. Every ionic compound is electrically neutral, so the total charge on the cation should be equal to the total charge on the anion.

Answer to Problem 87A

The compound specified in the question is lithium carbonate and its chemical formula is ${\text{Li}}_{\text{2}}{\text{CO}}_{\text{3}}$ .

Explanation of Solution

The alkali metal with the lowest atomic mass is lithium, so Q is Li. R, an anion having oxygen and carbon in a 3:1 ratio, is carbonate, ${\text{CO}}_{\text{3}}{}^{2-}$ . So, the compound is ${\text{Li}}_{\text{2}}{\text{CO}}_{\text{3}}$ .