Question

Predict the formulae of the binary compounds formed by combination of the following pairs of elements:
(i) Magnesium and nitrogen
(ii) Silicon and oxygen

• A. $Mg{N}_2,Si{O}_2$
• B. $M{g}_3{N}_2,Si{O}_2$
• C. $M{g}_2{N}_3,S{i}_2{O}_3$
• D. $MgN,Si{O}_2$

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

$M{g}_3{N}_2,Si{O}_2$

Three Mg ( $+2$ oxidation state) combine with two N ($-3$ oxidation state) to form $M{g}_3{N}_2$.

One Si ( $+4$ oxidation state) combine with two O ($-2$ oxidation state) to form $Si{O}_2$.

Note: In a neutral molecule, the total charge on cations is numerically equal to the total charge on anions.