What is the correct formula unit for the ionic compound, tin(IV) chloride?

a
SnCl4

b
Sn4Cl

c
Sn2Cl2

d
SnCl2

1 answer

The correct formula unit for the ionic compound tin(IV) chloride is:

a. SnCl4

Tin(IV) indicates that tin has a +4 oxidation state, and chloride has a -1 oxidation state. Therefore, four chloride ions are needed to balance the +4 charge from one tin ion, resulting in the formula SnCl4.