How many valence electrons in CO32-

Answer 1

The CO3^2- ion, also known as the carbonate ion, is comprised of one carbon (C) atom and three oxygen (O) atoms, with an overall charge of -2. To determine the total number of valence electrons for this ion, you need to consider the valence electrons of each individual atom and the charge of the ion.

Here's the breakdown:

- Carbon (C) has 4 valence electrons.
- Oxygen (O) has 6 valence electrons.

So, for the carbonate ion:

- 1 carbon atom contributes 4 valence electrons.
- 3 oxygen atoms contribute 6 valence electrons each, totaling 18 valence electrons (6 × 3 = 18).

Now, add the number of electrons contributed by carbon and oxygen:

4 (from C) + 18 (from O) = 22 valence electrons

Since the carbonate ion carries a -2 charge, this means there are 2 additional electrons:

22 valence electrons + 2 extra electrons (due to the charge) = 24 valence electrons

Therefore, the CO3^2- ion has a total of 24 valence electrons.