The nitrate ion has the formula [tex]\( \text{NO}_3^- \)[/tex].
Here's a brief explanation of why:
The nitrate ion consists of one nitrogen atom and three oxygen atoms and carries a negative charge of -1. This ion is commonly encountered in various chemical compounds and plays a significant role in the nitrogen cycle.
- [tex]\( \text{NO}_2^- \)[/tex] is the nitrite ion, which contains one nitrogen atom and two oxygen atoms with a negative charge of -1.
- [tex]\( \text{NO}_3^+ \)[/tex] is not a commonly recognized ion in basic chemistry.
To summarize:
- The correct formula for the nitrate ion is [tex]\( \text{NO}_3^- \)[/tex].
