Question:medium

Predict the formula of the stable binary compounds that would be formed by the combination of the following pairs of elements.
  1. Lithium and oxygen 
  2. Magnesium and nitrogen 
  3. Aluminium and iodine 
  4. Silicon and oxygen
  5. Phosphorus and fluorine 
  6. Element 71 and fluorine

Updated On: Jan 21, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

Prediction of formula of stable binary compounds:

The formula of a stable binary compound is predicted using the valency or oxidation state of the combining elements so that electrical neutrality is achieved.


(a) Lithium and Oxygen

Lithium has valency +1 and oxygen has valency −2.

Stable compound formed:
Li2O


(b) Magnesium and Nitrogen

Magnesium has valency +2 and nitrogen has valency −3.

Stable compound formed:
Mg3N2


(c) Aluminium and Iodine

Aluminium has valency +3 and iodine has valency −1.

Stable compound formed:
AlI3


(d) Silicon and Oxygen

Silicon has valency +4 and oxygen has valency −2.

Stable compound formed:
SiO2


(e) Phosphorus and Fluorine

Phosphorus commonly shows valency +5 with fluorine.

Stable compound formed:
PF5


(f) Element 71 and Fluorine

Element with atomic number 71 is Lutetium (Lu). Lutetium shows a valency of +3 and fluorine has valency −1.

Stable compound formed:
LuF3


Final Answer (Summary):

(a) Li2O
(b) Mg3N2
(c) AlI3
(d) SiO2
(e) PF5
(f) LuF3

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