Chemistry Help?

If the formula for a compound is represented by XY2 and the charge on the Y ion is -2, what is the charge in the X ion?

+1
+2
+3
+4

Question

Chemistry Help?

If the formula for a compound is represented by XY2 and the charge on the Y ion is -2, what is the charge in the X ion?

 +1
 +2
 +3
 +4

anonymous · Answer

@Cuanchi

anonymous · Answer

Its not +2

matt6288 · Answer

X is probably a metal, how do you know its not +2

matt6288 · Answer

The charge of X must add to the charge of Y2 to make zero. Y2 has a total charge of -4 (2 x -2), so X must be +4 in order to make the compound neutral.
XY2 could be something like CO2

anonymous · Answer

I know its not 2 because I didn't have enough time to wait for someone to answer, so I chose which one I thought it was and submitted it. Turns out +2 was wrong. Maybe this will help someone who has the same question in the future? :)

matt6288 · Answer

Great attitude, you learn more from mistakes so at least now you know :) sorry it wasn't answered sooner