Ionic Bond Chemistry Example 2

Solution

1. 1
   Al forms $\text{Al}^{3+}$ (loses 3 electrons). O forms $\text{O}^{2-}$ (gains 2 electrons).
2. 2
   To balance charges, find the least common multiple of 3 and 2, which is 6.
3. 3
   Need $2 \times \text{Al}^{3+}$ (total charge $+6$) and $3 \times \text{O}^{2-}$ (total charge $-6$).
4. 4
   Formula: $\text{Al}_2\text{O}_3$.