Which of the following correctly represents the chemical formula of a compound formed by aluminium and sulphate ions?

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RRB JE CE 22 Apr 2025 Shift 2 CBT 2 Official Paper
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  1. Al(SO4)3
  2. Al2SO4
  3. Al2(SO4)3
  4. Al3(SO4)2

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : Al2(SO4)3
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The correct answer is Al2(SO4)3.

Key Points

  • The chemical formula of the compound formed between aluminium and sulphate ions is Al2(SO4)3, where aluminium (Al) has a charge of +3 and the sulphate ion (SO4) has a charge of -2.
  • The formula is derived by balancing the charges of aluminium and sulphate ions. Two aluminium ions (+6 total charge) combine with three sulphate ions (-6 total charge) to maintain electrical neutrality.
  • This compound is commonly known as aluminium sulphate, used in water purification, paper manufacturing, and as a mordant in dyeing fabrics.
  • Aluminium sulphate is a salt that dissolves in water to release aluminium and sulphate ions.
  • The molecular weight of Al2(SO4)3 is approximately 342.15 g/mol.

Additional Information

  • Aluminium Ion (Al3+):
    • Aluminium is a metal in group 13 of the periodic table and forms a trivalent ion (Al3+) by losing three electrons.
    • It is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and widely used in industries.
  • Sulphate Ion (SO42-):
    • The sulphate ion is a polyatomic anion consisting of one sulfur atom covalently bonded to four oxygen atoms in a tetrahedral arrangement.
    • It carries a charge of -2 and is commonly found in various compounds like gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O).
  • Balancing Chemical Formulas:
    • In ionic compounds, the total positive charge must equal the total negative charge to ensure electrical neutrality.
    • For Al3+ and SO42-, the charges are balanced by taking two aluminium ions and three sulphate ions.
  • Applications of Aluminium Sulphate:
    • Used in water treatment plants as a coagulating agent to remove impurities.
    • Employed in the paper and textile industries as a sizing agent and mordant.
    • Serves as a key component in antiperspirants and deodorants.
  • Ionic Bonding in Al2(SO4)3:
    • The compound is held together by ionic bonds formed between Al3+ cations and SO42- anions.
    • These bonds give aluminium sulphate its crystalline structure and solubility in water.
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