Which option represents the oxide 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 option represents the oxide ion?

Explanation:
The oxide ion is oxygen that has gained electrons to become negatively charged. Gaining two electrons gives oxygen a 2− charge, so the species is written as O2−. This is the common ionic form of oxygen in compounds, especially with metals. The other possibilities would be a positively charged oxygen (loss of electrons), a neutral oxygen atom (no charge), or a much less common three-electron gain (O3−), which isn’t the usual oxide form. So the oxide ion is O2−.

The oxide ion is oxygen that has gained electrons to become negatively charged. Gaining two electrons gives oxygen a 2− charge, so the species is written as O2−. This is the common ionic form of oxygen in compounds, especially with metals. The other possibilities would be a positively charged oxygen (loss of electrons), a neutral oxygen atom (no charge), or a much less common three-electron gain (O3−), which isn’t the usual oxide form. So the oxide ion is O2−.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy