Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for manganese(III) oxide?

• A. Mn3O4
• B. MnO
• C. MnO2
• D. Mn2O3

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the oxidation state of manganese in manganese(III) oxide. The Roman numeral III indicates that manganese has a +3 charge (Mn^{3+}).
2. Step 2: Recognize that oxide ions have a charge of -2 (O^{2-}).
3. Step 3: To write the correct formula, balance the total positive and negative charges so the compound is electrically neutral.
4. Step 4: Set up the charge balance equation: if there are x manganese ions (each +3) and y oxide ions (each -2), then 3x = 2y to balance charges.
5. Step 5: Find the smallest whole number ratio that satisfies 3x = 2y, which is x = 2 and y = 3, leading to the formula Mn_{2}O_{3}.