Understanding Sulfate Ion Properties

The video tutorial explains the charge on the sulfate ion (SO4 2-) and its significance. It discusses two methods to understand the charge: analyzing compounds containing sulfate ions, such as sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) and calcium sulfate (CaSO4), and examining the formal charge using Lewis structures. The tutorial highlights the importance of resonance in understanding the sulfate ion's charge distribution. Dr. B concludes by emphasizing the consistent 2- charge on the sulfate ion.

What is the charge on the sulfate ion?

• 1+

• 2-

• 3-

• 0

Which of the following compounds contains the sulfate ion?

• CO2

• NaCl

• CaSO4

• H2O

How does the charge of sodium in Na2SO4 contribute to the overall charge balance?

• It is neutral

• It is 1-

• It is 1+

• It is 2+

What is the charge of calcium in calcium sulfate (CaSO4)?

• 2+

• 1+

• 3+

• 0

What is the formal charge on the double-bonded oxygen in the sulfate ion's Lewis structure?

• 0

• 1-

• 1+

• 2-

In the sulfate ion, what is the formal charge on the single-bonded oxygens?

• 0

• 1-

• 1+

• 2-

What is the formal charge of the central sulfur atom in the sulfate ion?

• 0

• 1-

• 1+

• 2-

What is the significance of resonance in the sulfate ion?

• It changes the charge

• It averages the bond lengths

• It adds more electrons

• It removes the charge

How is the overall charge of the sulfate ion affected by resonance?

• It becomes 1-

• It remains 2-

• It becomes neutral

• It becomes 3-

Where is the negative sign placed when writing the ionic charge of the sulfate ion?

• It is not used

• In the middle

• After the number

• Before the number