Barium ions carry a 2+ charge,and nitrogen ions carry a 3- charge.What would be the chemical formula for the ionic compound barium nitride?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To form a neutral compound, the total positive charge must balance the total negative charge. Since barium ions have a 2+ charge and nitrogen ions have a 3- charge, the formula requires three barium ions (3 x 2+ = 6+) to balance two nitrogen ions (2 x 3- = 6-), resulting in Ba₃N₂.

Barium Ions Carry a 2+ Charge,and Nitrogen Ions Carry a 3-