Explain why ions with charges greater than 3 are seldom found in ionic compounds

Answer 1

Ions with charges greater than +3 or -3 are seldom found in ionic compounds because their high charge density leads to strong electrostatic repulsion, making it difficult for them to form stable ionic bonds with oppositely charged ions. Additionally, the higher the charge on an ion, the smaller its radius, which increases the energy required to remove or transfer electrons. This makes it less likely for these ions to form because the energy required to create them is so high that it is not favorable for the compound to form. Therefore, ions with charges greater than +3 or -3 are less stable and less common in ionic compounds.