What is the formula for copper(II) oxide?
A. [tex]$CuCO _4$[/tex]
B. [tex]$Cu _2 O$[/tex]
C. CuO
D. [tex]$CO _2$[/tex]
Answer (2)
Copper(II) has a +2 charge, and oxygen has a -2 charge.
The charges balance in a 1:1 ratio.
The chemical formula is CuO.
Therefore, the answer is C u O .
Explanation
Understanding the Problem The question asks for the chemical formula of copper(II) oxide. We need to identify the correct formula from the given options.
Identifying Charges Copper(II) indicates that copper has a +2 charge ( C u 2 + ). Oxygen typically has a -2 charge ( O 2 − ). To form a neutral compound, the charges must balance.
Determining the Ratio Since copper has a +2 charge and oxygen has a -2 charge, they combine in a 1:1 ratio to form a neutral compound. Therefore, the formula is CuO.
Final Answer The chemical formula for copper(II) oxide is CuO.
Examples
Understanding chemical formulas is crucial in various real-life applications. For instance, in environmental science, knowing the formula of pollutants like nitrogen dioxide ( N O 2 ) helps in assessing air quality. In medicine, the formula for saline solution (NaCl) is essential for intravenous drips. In cooking, understanding the chemical formula of baking soda ( N a H C O 3 ) helps in baking. These examples show how chemical formulas are fundamental in diverse fields, enabling us to understand and interact with the world around us effectively.
The chemical formula for copper(II) oxide is CuO, as copper has a +2 charge and oxygen has a -2 charge, balancing each other out in a 1:1 ratio. Therefore, the answer is option C, CuO.
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