Grade 9 Science: Ionic Formulas

Ionic Formulas Worksheet

Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. Show all your work for calculations.

Ionic bonds are formed between a metal and a nonmetal through the transfer of electrons. This results in the formation of charged particles called ions, which are held together by electrostatic forces. Cations are positively charged ions (formed by metals losing electrons), and anions are negatively charged ions (formed by nonmetals gaining electrons).

1. An ionic bond typically forms between a   and a  .

2. Atoms gain or lose electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration similar to that of a   gas.

3. A positively charged ion is called a(n)  , while a negatively charged ion is called a(n)  .

1. Which of the following elements is most likely to form a cation?

2. What is the charge of an ion formed from an element in Group 17 (halogens)?

Write the chemical formula for the ionic compound formed from each pair of elements:

1. Sodium and Chlorine

2. Magnesium and Oxygen

3. Aluminum and Fluorine

4. Calcium and Nitrogen

Name the following ionic compounds:

1. KCl

2. Fe₂O₃

3. Cu(NO₃)₂

4. NH₄Cl

1. In an ionic bond, electrons are shared between atoms.

2. The criss-cross method can be used to determine the subscripts in an ionic formula.