Magnesium ions carry a 2+ charge, and chloride ions carry a 1- charge. What is the chemical formula for the ionic compound magnesium chloride?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The chemical formula for an ionic compound is determined by balancing the charges of the ions. In this case, magnesium ions carry a 2+ charge, and chloride ions carry a 1- charge. To balance the charges, one magnesium ion combines with two chloride ions. Therefore, the chemical formula for magnesium chloride is MgCl2. Option A, MgCl, has an incorrect charge balance, as it would suggest that magnesium carries a 1+ charge. Option B and D are not valid chemical formulas.

Magnesium Ions Carry a 2+ Charge, and Chloride Ions Carry