Which ion is represented by the formula SO3(2-)?

Study for the ALEKS Placement Chemistry Exam. Review flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your chemistry exam!

The ion represented by the formula SO3(2-) is sulfite. This is because the "SO" indicates that it contains sulfur (S) and oxygen (O) atoms, and the (2-) indicates that this ion has a charge of negative two. The sulfite ion specifically consists of one sulfur atom bonded to three oxygen atoms and carries a -2 charge, which fits the given formula perfectly.

Sulfate, which is indicated by the formula SO4(2-), contains one sulfur atom and four oxygen atoms and also carries a -2 charge, but it is distinct from sulfite due to the one additional oxygen atom. Thiosulfate, represented by the formula S2O3(2-), contains a different structure entirely, incorporating two sulfur atoms. Nitrate, on the other hand, is represented by the formula NO3(-), indicating it is composed of nitrogen and oxygen, bearing a different count and configuration of atoms than what is found in sulfite. Therefore, the identification of SO3(2-) as sulfite aligns correctly with its chemical composition and charge.

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