Which compound contains the carbonate ion?

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

Multiple Choice

Which compound contains the carbonate ion?

Explanation:
The key idea is recognizing the carbonate ion, CO3 2-. It’s a polyatomic ion with three oxygens around a central carbon and carries a 2− charge. In salts, it pairs with metal ions to balance that charge. Among the options, the one that contains the carbonate ion is the salt that includes CO3 2− together with potassium ions (two K+ to balance the 2− charge). The other compounds contain sulfate (SO4 2−), nitrate (NO3−), and a combination of ammonium and hydroxide, not carbonate. So potassium carbonate is the compound that contains the carbonate ion.

The key idea is recognizing the carbonate ion, CO3 2-. It’s a polyatomic ion with three oxygens around a central carbon and carries a 2− charge. In salts, it pairs with metal ions to balance that charge. Among the options, the one that contains the carbonate ion is the salt that includes CO3 2− together with potassium ions (two K+ to balance the 2− charge). The other compounds contain sulfate (SO4 2−), nitrate (NO3−), and a combination of ammonium and hydroxide, not carbonate. So potassium carbonate is the compound that contains the carbonate ion.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy