Question

Define formula unit of an ionic compound.

Answer 1

Definition of the formula unit:

1. The empirical formula of an ionic or covalent molecule is referred to as the formula unit of an ionic compound.
2. It is the lowest whole number ratio of ions that make up the compound.
3. It represents the smallest unit of a compound.
4. Examples of formula unit of an ionic compound:

(a) The formula unit of Water is ${\mathrm{H}}_2\mathrm{O}$,

(b) The formula unit of Zinc sulfate is ${\mathrm{ZnSO}}_4$.