Question

A metallic element `X` forms a carbonate with the formula `X(CO_3)_2`. What would the corresponding formula be of the fluoride compound of element `X`?

Answer 1

`XF_4`

Explanation:

The starting species is `X(CO_3)_2`. And thus, separating the ions, we get `X^(4+)` and `2xxCO_3^(2-)`.

Fluorine is an excellent oxidant and gives `F^-` ions upon reduction, so to preserve electrical neutrality we get `XF_4`.