Which of the following is the correct formula for nitrite?

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Study for the IMAT Chemistry Exam. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions; hints and explanations included for each question. Prepare effectively for your exam.

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is the correct formula for nitrite?

Explanation:
Nitrite is the -ite oxyanion. Its formula is NO2−, which comes from having two oxygens (each typically −2) totaling −4, and to give an overall −1 charge, nitrogen must be in the +3 oxidation state. That pattern distinguishes it from other nitrogen-oxygen species: nitrate has three oxygens (NO3−), nitrous oxide is a neutral molecule (N2O), and nitric oxide is also a neutral molecule (NO). So the nitrite ion is specifically NO2−.

Nitrite is the -ite oxyanion. Its formula is NO2−, which comes from having two oxygens (each typically −2) totaling −4, and to give an overall −1 charge, nitrogen must be in the +3 oxidation state. That pattern distinguishes it from other nitrogen-oxygen species: nitrate has three oxygens (NO3−), nitrous oxide is a neutral molecule (N2O), and nitric oxide is also a neutral molecule (NO). So the nitrite ion is specifically NO2−.

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