What will be the ratio of magnesium atoms to oxygen atoms in four formula units of magnesium oxide?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: One to one
The formula of magnesium oxide is MgO, so each formula unit contains one magnesium atom and one oxygen atom. Four formula units therefore contain four magnesium atoms and four oxygen atoms. The ratio is 4:4, which simplifies to 1:1. The number of formula units changes the totals but not the simplest ratio. Hence option A is correct; the other ratios do not follow from MgO.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
One to one
Why is this the correct answer?
The formula of magnesium oxide is MgO, so each formula unit contains one magnesium atom and one oxygen atom. Four formula units therefore contain four magnesium atoms and four oxygen atoms. The ratio is 4:4, which simplifies to 1:1. The number of formula units changes the totals but not the simplest ratio. Hence option A is correct; the other ratios do not follow from MgO.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Chemical Reactions and Equations.
