A formula unit is defined as the lowest whole number ratio of

the ions present in an ionic compound. The formula unit of an

ionic compound is always an empirical formula.

What is the formula unit of barium fluoride?

Answer :

Answer: [tex]BaF_{2}[/tex]

Explanation: Because barium is in Group 2, it forms ions with a charge of +2. Fluorine, in Group 17, form ions with a charge of -1. Cross the charges to get the subscripts (Since Ba has a charge of +2, F has a subscript of 2. Because F has a charge of -1, Ba needs a subscript of 1). Therefore, a formula unit of the compound is [tex]BaF_{2}[/tex].

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