Question

The basic structural unit of zeolite is:

• A. $Si{O}_4^{4-}$
• B. $Si{O}_2$
• C. $(R_{2}SiO{)}_n$
• D. $(Si{O}_3{)}_n^{2n-}$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $Si{O}_2$

If Al atoms replace few Si atoms in 3-D network of $Si{O}_2$, overall structure known as aluminosilicate, acquires a negative charge. Cations such as $N{a}^{+},K^{+}orC{a}^{2+}$ balance the negative charge.
Thus, basic structural unit of zeolite is $Si{O}_2.$