Understanding Atomicity

Atomicity refers to the total number of atoms present in a molecule.

Breaking Down the Formula

* Al₂(SO₄)₃: This represents aluminum sulfate.

* Al₂: Indicates two aluminum (Al) atoms.

* (SO₄)₃: Indicates three sulfate (SO₄) groups.

Calculating Atomicity

1. Sulfate Group: Each sulfate group (SO₄) contains one sulfur (S) atom and four oxygen (O) atoms, for a total of 5 atoms.

2. Total Atoms:

* Aluminum: 2 atoms

* Sulfur: 3 groups * 1 atom/group = 3 atoms

* Oxygen: 3 groups * 4 atoms/group = 12 atoms

3. Combined: 2 + 3 + 12 = 17 atoms

Therefore, the atomicity of Al₂(SO₄)₃ is 17.