Oxidation numbers of A, B, C are +2, +5 and -2 respectively. Possible formula of compound is
- A2(BC2)2
- A3(BC4)2
- A2(BC3)2
- A3(B2C)2
Answer
(2) A3(BC4)2
Solution
For a neutral compound, the sum of oxidation numbers = 0.
(1) A2(BC2)2: 2(+2) + 2[(+5) + 2(-2)] = 4 + 2 = +6 ✗
(2) A3(BC4)2: 3(+2) + 2[(+5) + 4(-2)] = 6 - 6 = 0 ✓
(3) A2(BC3)2: 2(+2) + 2[(+5) + 3(-2)] = 4 - 2 = +2 ✗
(4) A3(B2C)2: 3(+2) + 2[2(+5) + (-2)] = 6 + 16 = +22 ✗
∴ The possible formula is A3(BC4)2 (like Ca3(PO4)2).
Answer: (2)