QuestionJune 5, 2025

5. Why is the molecular formula for magnesium sulfide MgS instead of Mg_(2)S_(2) Empirical formulas are always used for all compounds instead of molecular formulas. Scientists always reduce the formulas from ionic compounds because the ratio of ions is what is important. Scientists only need to simply when the subscripts are the same number.

5. Why is the molecular formula for magnesium sulfide MgS instead of Mg_(2)S_(2) Empirical formulas are always used for all compounds instead of molecular formulas. Scientists always reduce the formulas from ionic compounds because the ratio of ions is what is important. Scientists only need to simply when the subscripts are the same number.
5. Why is the molecular formula for magnesium sulfide MgS instead of Mg_(2)S_(2)
Empirical formulas are always used for all compounds instead of molecular formulas.
Scientists always reduce the formulas from ionic compounds because the ratio of ions
is what is important.
Scientists only need to simply when the subscripts are the same number.

Solution
4.1(259 votes)

Answer

MgS Explanation 1. Identify the type of compound Magnesium sulfide is an ionic compound formed by magnesium ions (Mg^{2+}) and sulfide ions (S^{2-}). 2. Determine the ratio of ions Ionic compounds are represented by their simplest ratio. The charges of Mg^{2+} and S^{2-} balance each other in a 1:1 ratio. 3. Write the empirical formula The simplest whole number ratio for magnesium sulfide is MgS, reflecting the balanced charges.

Explanation

1. Identify the type of compound<br /> Magnesium sulfide is an ionic compound formed by magnesium ions ($Mg^{2+}$) and sulfide ions ($S^{2-}$).<br /><br />2. Determine the ratio of ions<br /> Ionic compounds are represented by their simplest ratio. The charges of $Mg^{2+}$ and $S^{2-}$ balance each other in a 1:1 ratio.<br /><br />3. Write the empirical formula<br /> The simplest whole number ratio for magnesium sulfide is MgS, reflecting the balanced charges.
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