Question

The formula of the stable binary compound which is formed by the combination of magnesium and nitrogen is ______.
A. $Mg_3N_2$
B. $MgN$
C. $Mg_2N$
D. $MgN_2$

Answer 1

In order to determine the formula of the compound made from the above given element one go through the electronic configuration of each element and find out that the elements are capable of making which type and how many number of bonds.

Complete step by step answer:

Firstly Magnesium is an alkali earth metal of Group 2. hence has a valency of 2 so from here we can conclude that it can share or lose 2 electrons.
Secondly Nitrogen is a group 15 element with a valency of 8-5=3 from here it can be concluded that it can share or gain 3 electrons.
Thus, the formula of the compound formed would be $Mg_3N_2$ that is also known as magnesium nitride.

So, the correct answer is Option A.

Note:
The above question can also be done by cross method since in that we just have to write each element from which the compound have to be made with there valency at their bottom and than cross them and get the formula of the desired compound in the above case if rite $Mg$ with 2 below it and $N$ with 3 below it and than cross them clearly we get $Mg_3N_2$. Magnesium ions are essential for all life on Earth, and can be found mainly in seawater and the mineral carnallite.
A compound shaped by a mix of two unique components which are available in a fixed proportion by mass are known as binary compounds.

Key Points:
Ionic bonds are shaped among cations and anions.
A cation is shaped when a metal particle loses a valence electron while an anion is framed when a non-metal increases a valence electron. The two of them accomplish a more steady electronic design through this trade.

Ionic solids structure crystalline lattices, repeating patterns of atoms, with high melting points, and are normally solvent in water.