Identify the sulfate ion. Multiple Choice SO- SO42- SO32- SO2- S2- – [Free] B101
Identify the sulfate ion. Multiple Choice SO- SO42- SO32- SO2- S2-
Question:
Select the single best answer. Identify the sulfate ion.
- SO−
- SO42−
- SO32−
- SO2−
- S2−
Answer:
✅ Correct Answer: SO42−
The correct formula for the sulfate ion is SO42−. This ion consists of one sulfur atom centrally bonded to four oxygen atoms.
- The sulfate ion carries an overall charge of -2.
- The molecular geometry is tetrahedral, with the sulfur atom at the center.
- This structure is well-established and widely recognized in inorganic chemistry.
🔍 Explanation of Incorrect Options:
- SO−: Incorrect – not a valid or commonly recognized ion.
- SO32−: This is the sulfite ion, not sulfate.
- SO2−: Incorrect – not a standard or stable anion.
- S2−: This is the sulfide ion, consisting of just sulfur, not a polyatomic ion.
🔬 Summary:
- The sulfate ion has the formula: SO42−
- It is composed of 1 sulfur atom and 4 oxygen atoms.
- The charge on the ion is −2.