Question

What does the chemical formula of an ionic compound represent?

Answer 1

Calcium nitride is a red-brown, crystalline solid made up of calcium and nitrogen. Its chemical formula is  

C

a

3

N

2

. The ratio will be determined by the charges of the ions.

(3 x Ca2+) = +6

(2x N3-) = -6

The net charge of the compound will be zero.

Calcium nitride is formed along with the oxide, CaO, when calcium burns in air. It can be produced by direct reaction of the elements:

3 Ca + N2 → Ca3N2

Crystal structure - Cubic, cI80