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The formula unit for the ionic compound, mercury(II) sulfide, consists of which of the following?

? 1 Hg+ ion and 1 S- ion
? 1 Hg22+ ion and 1 S2- ion
? 1 Hg2+ ion and 2 S- ions
? 2 Hg+ ions and 1 S2- ion
? 1 Hg2+ ion and 1 S2- ion

1 answer

The formula unit for mercury(II) sulfide is represented as HgS. In this compound, mercury exists in the +2 oxidation state. Therefore, the correct ions in the formula unit are:

  • 1 Hg²⁺ ion (not Hg₂²⁺)
  • 1 S²⁻ ion

Thus, the correct answer is:

  • 1 Hg²⁺ ion and 1 S²⁻ ion.