What is the charge on the copper ion in the compound CuF_2?

• A. +2
• B. +1
• C. 0
• D. +3

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the overall charge of the compound CuF_2, which is neutral (0 charge).
2. Recall that fluorine (F) typically has a charge of -1 in ionic compounds.
3. Since there are two fluorine atoms, calculate the total negative charge contributed by fluorine: \$2 \times (-1) = -2$.
4. Let the charge on the copper ion be \(x\). Write the charge balance equation for the compound: \(x + 2(-1) = 0\).
5. Solve the equation for \(x\) to find the charge on the copper ion: \(x - 2 = 0 \Rightarrow x = +2\).