How many atoms and ions are there in one formula unit?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the count of atoms and ions present in a single formula unit of a compound. This involves understanding the composition of chemical formulas and how to identify the total number of individual atoms and any ions present.
Answer
Number of atoms and ions varies per formula unit.
The total number of atoms in one formula unit depends on the specific chemical compound. It varies per compound.
Answer for screen readers
The total number of atoms in one formula unit depends on the specific chemical compound. It varies per compound.
More Information
In a formula unit, which represents the lowest whole number ratio of ions in an ionic compound, the number of atoms will depend entirely on the chemical formula. For example, K2CO3 has 6 atoms total: 2 potassium ions, 1 carbon atom, and 3 oxygen atoms. Note that each compound or molecule may differ.
Tips
A common mistake is not accounting for each element's subscript when counting atoms in a formula unit.
