What is the formula of the sulphate ion?

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Study for the IGCSE Edexcel Chemistry Test. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the formula of the sulphate ion?

Explanation:
The key idea is recognizing the formula and charge of a polyatomic ion. The sulphate ion consists of one sulfur atom surrounded by four oxygen atoms and carries a total charge of 2−. Check the overall charge by oxidation states: sulfur is +6, each oxygen is −2, so four oxygens contribute −8. +6 plus (−8) gives −2, which matches the ion’s 2− charge. That makes the correct formula SO4^2−. The other options describe different species: for example, three oxygens would be sulfite (SO3^2−); a four-oxygen species with zero or unclear charge isn’t the sulphate ion; and a two-oxygen species like SO2 would be a different compound altogether.

The key idea is recognizing the formula and charge of a polyatomic ion. The sulphate ion consists of one sulfur atom surrounded by four oxygen atoms and carries a total charge of 2−. Check the overall charge by oxidation states: sulfur is +6, each oxygen is −2, so four oxygens contribute −8. +6 plus (−8) gives −2, which matches the ion’s 2− charge. That makes the correct formula SO4^2−.

The other options describe different species: for example, three oxygens would be sulfite (SO3^2−); a four-oxygen species with zero or unclear charge isn’t the sulphate ion; and a two-oxygen species like SO2 would be a different compound altogether.

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