What is the chemical formula for acetate?

The chemical formula for acetate is designated as C2H3O2(-), which reflects its composition and charge. Acetate is derived from acetic acid, where a hydrogen ion has been lost, resulting in the negatively charged ion (anion) C2H3O2(-). This formula indicates that the acetate ion consists of two carbon atoms, three hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms.

This structure is important in various biological and chemical processes, as acetate is a crucial metabolic intermediate and is involved in energy production. The presence of the negative charge signifies that acetate can readily participate in ionic interactions in solution, influencing its behavior in biochemical systems.

Other choices represent different anions with distinct compositions and none correspond to acetate, confirming that C2H3O2(-) is indeed the correct representation for the acetate ion.