1.16 Analysis shows that nickel oxide has the formula What fractions of nickel exist as and
Given formula is Ni0.98O1.00.
Ratio of Ni to O is 0.98.
This means 98 Ni are required for 100 atoms of O.
Let us assume that Ni+2 ions are x.
So the number of Ni+3 ions will be 98 - x.
Using the charge neutrality principle, the net charge of Ni should be equal to a net charge of O.
So the equation becomes :
x(2) + (98-x)3 = 2(100)
or 2x + 294 - 3x = 200
or x = 94.
Thus the fraction of Ni+2 ions =
and fraction of Ni+3 ions = 4%
fraction of Ni+2 ions = 100-4 =96%