What is the compound formula for
Cation: Na+
and Anion: CN-
NaCN = sodium cyanide.
To determine the compound formula for Na+ and CN-, we need to find the combination that results in a neutral compound. Since Na+ has a +1 charge and CN- has a -1 charge, they have opposite charges that cancel each other out.
The compound formula for Na+ and CN- is NaCN.
In this compound, the positive charge of the sodium ion (+1) balances out the negative charge of the cyanide ion (-1), resulting in a neutral compound.
To determine the compound formula for the cation Na+ and anion CN-, we need to find a combination that balances the charges of the ions.
First, let's note the charges of each ion:
- The cation Na+ carries a charge of +1 since it lost one electron (sodium has 11 protons and 10 electrons after losing one).
- The anion CN- carries a charge of -1 since it gained one electron (carbon has 6 protons and 7 electrons after gaining one, while nitrogen has 7 protons and 8 electrons after gaining one).
The compound formula should have an equal number of positive and negative charges to achieve electrical neutrality. In this case, the charges are already balanced.
Therefore, the compound formula for Na+ and CN- is NaCN.