Question

3. Ferrous and ferric ions have valency:

• A. +1 and +2 respectively
• B. +2 and +3 respectively
• C. -2 and -3 respectively
• D. +1 and +3 respectively

Answer 1

The correct option is B

+2 and +3 respectively

Hint: If an element exhibits two different electropositive valencies, then the suffix -ous is used at the end of the metal name for lower valency. And suffix -ic is used for higher valency.

The explanation for the correct option:

(B) The metal iron exhibits +2 and +3 valencies. For lower valency, it is named ferrous (symbol ${\mathrm{Fe}}^{2+}$).

For higher valency, it is named ferric (symbol ${\mathrm{Fe}}^{3+}$).

Hence, option (B) is correct.