Question

What is the charge of Mg in $Mg{Cl}_2$ ?

• A. 1+
• B. 3+
• C. 2+
• D. 4+

Answer 1

The correct option is C

2+

The net charge on an ionic compound is zero.
$C{l}^{-}$ ion always has a unit negative charge.

The charge on Magnesium ion can be calculated as:

Charge on magnesium ion + 2$\times$(charge on chloride ion) = 0
Charge on magnesium ion + 2$\times$(-1) = 0
$\therefore$ Charge on magnesium ion = +2

Thus, magnesium has two units positive charge, written as $M{g}^{2+}$.