QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
Why must lead have a + 2 charge?
A. The anion and the cation always have the same charge.
B. The number of anions and cations must be the same.
C. So the net charge equals zero.
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Answer
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Step 1:Let's solve this step by step:
Step 2:: Understand Lead's Electronic Configuration
Lead (Pb) has the electron configuration $$1s^{2} 2s^{2} 2p^{6} 3s^{2} 3p^{6} 4s^{2} 3d^{10} 4p^{6} 5s^{2} 4d^{10} 5p^{6} 6s^{2} 4f^{14} 5d^{10} 6p^{2}
Step 3:: Analyze Electron Loss Mechanism
Lead tends to lose its two outermost 6p electrons, resulting in a + 2 charge (Pb²⁺). This occurs because: - The 6p electrons are furthest from the nucleus - Losing these two electrons creates a more stable electron configuration
Step 4:: Evaluate the Given Options
- Option A is incorrect: Anion and cation charges are not necessarily the same - Option B is incorrect: The number of anions and cations is not the determining factor - Option C is CORRECT: By forming Pb²⁺, the ion can create a neutral compound where the total charge balances to zero
Step 5:: Explain Charge Neutrality
When lead forms ionic compounds, it typically achieves charge neutrality by combining with anions like chloride (Cl⁻) or oxide (O²⁻) to create compounds with zero net charge.
Final Answer
The lead ion has a + 2 charge so the net charge equals zero when combined with appropriate counter-ions.
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