An ionic compound has a generic formula of QR2. Which elements could the Q and R represent?

Once you choose an answer, check it by plugging those elements into the QR2 formula to see if it looks right.

Q= Sodium R= Oxygen

Q= Magnesium R= Chlorine

Q= Oxygen R= Sodium

Q= Chlorine R= Magnesium

Q= Magnesium R= Chlorine

Explanation:

The element Q should be magnesium and R is chlorine.

An ionic compound is a compound that is formed by the combination of a metal and non-metal. Such bonds forms when there is a transfer of electrons from the metals to the non-metals. This leaves a net positive charge on the metal and a negative charge on the non-metal.

The electrostatic attraction leads to the formation of the bond.

 To solve this problem, the hypothetical compound is QR₂

       Mg                        Cl

     2 8 2                    2 8 7

So, Mg transfers 2 electrons to two atoms of chlorine.

 This leads to the formation of the compound MgCl₂