To determine the formula of the ionic compound formed by lithium and oxygen, we need to consider the charges of the ions that each element forms.
1. Lithium (Li): Lithium is an alkali metal and is located in Group 1 of the periodic table. It loses one electron to form a cation with a +1 charge:
[tex]\[
Li^+
\][/tex]
2. Oxygen (O): Oxygen is a non-metal and is located in Group 16 of the periodic table. It gains two electrons to form an anion with a -2 charge:
[tex]\[
O^{2-}
\][/tex]
To form a neutral ionic compound, the total positive charge must balance the total negative charge.
- We need two lithium ions (each with a +1 charge) to balance one oxide ion (with a -2 charge).
Thus, the formula for the ionic compound formed by lithium and oxygen is:
[tex]\[
Li_2O
\][/tex]
Correct answer: A. [tex]\( Li_2O \)[/tex]
