1. NO3
* NO3 is the nitrate ion (NO₃⁻). It has a -1 charge.
2. Fe2
* Fe2 represents two iron ions. Iron can have multiple charges, so we need to specify which one. Since it's a metal, we use Roman numerals to indicate the charge.
* Fe²⁺ is the iron(II) ion (ferrous ion).
* Fe³⁺ is the iron(III) ion (ferric ion).
Creating Chemical Formulas
To combine ions into a compound, the charges must balance out to create a neutral compound. Here's how to do it:
* Iron(II) Nitrate:
* One iron(II) ion (Fe²⁺) has a +2 charge.
* Two nitrate ions (2NO₃⁻) have a -2 charge.
* The formula is Fe(NO₃)₂
* Iron(III) Nitrate:
* One iron(III) ion (Fe³⁺) has a +3 charge.
* Three nitrate ions (3NO₃⁻) have a -3 charge.
* The formula is Fe(NO₃)₃
Important Note: You can't simply combine NO₃ and Fe₂ without specifying the charge on the iron.
