Which of the following is NOT a multivalent ion?
$Ag^{+}$
$Sb^{5+}$
$Cu^{+}$
$Cr^{3+}$
Answer (1)
Multivalent ions have multiple stable charges.
Analyze each ion: A g + , S b 5 + , C u + , C r 3 + .
Silver ( A g + ) primarily exists as +1.
The ion that is NOT multivalent is A g + .
Explanation
Understanding the Problem We are asked to identify which of the given ions is NOT multivalent. Multivalent ions are ions that can form stable chemical compounds with more than one valence (charge). The options are: A g + , S b 5 + , C u + , C r 3 +
Defining Multivalency A multivalent ion is an ion that can have more than one stable charge (oxidation state). We need to determine which of the given ions typically exhibits only one charge.
Analyzing Each Ion Let's examine each ion:
A g + : Silver commonly exists as A g + . It has other oxidation states, but +1 is the most stable and common.
S b 5 + : Antimony commonly exists as S b 3 + and S b 5 + .
C u + : Copper commonly exists as C u + and C u 2 + .
C r 3 + : Chromium commonly exists as C r 2 + , C r 3 + and C r 6 + .
Identifying the Non-Multivalent Ion Based on the common oxidation states, Silver (Ag) commonly exists as A g + . Although it can have other oxidation states, +1 is its most stable and common form. The other ions, Antimony (Sb), Copper (Cu), and Chromium (Cr), are known to have multiple common oxidation states. Therefore, the ion that is least likely to be multivalent among the given options is A g + .
Final Answer Therefore, the ion that is NOT multivalent is A g + .
Examples
Understanding multivalent ions is crucial in various fields, such as designing batteries, where different oxidation states of a metal can be utilized for energy storage. For example, in lithium-ion batteries, transition metals like cobalt and manganese exhibit multiple oxidation states, allowing for the transfer of electrons and storage of energy. Similarly, in corrosion science, the multivalent nature of iron leads to the formation of different types of rust, affecting the durability of structures. Knowing which ions are multivalent helps in predicting their chemical behavior and designing materials with specific properties.
