The discussion focuses on identifying the group number of the element X in various ionic compound formulas: MgX, XCl2, and XF2. The user initially concluded that X belongs to group 16 based on the formula MgX. However, confusion arose regarding the group for X in XCl2 and XF2, where the user incorrectly assumed group 1. The correct identification requires understanding the charge balance in ionic compounds, specifically that X must balance the charges of the accompanying elements.
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NickP717 said:Homework Statement
Identify the group to which X belongs in each ionic compound formula. Enter your response using the group number.
a) MgX
b)XCl2
c) XF2
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
The first one I figured out was group 16. However, the next two I thought were group 1, but I keep getting the wrong answer. Help anyone?