Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for the sulfite ion?

• A. S_2O_3^{2-}
• B. SO_3^{2-}
• C. HSO_3^{-}
• D. SO_4^{2-}

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the sulfite ion is a polyatomic ion composed of sulfur and oxygen atoms with a specific charge.
2. Recall the common polyatomic ions involving sulfur and oxygen: sulfite, sulfate, thiosulfate, and bisulfite (hydrogen sulfite).
3. Identify the sulfite ion as having the formula \(SO_3^{2-}\), which means it contains one sulfur atom, three oxygen atoms, and carries a 2- negative charge.
4. Compare the given options: \(S_2O_3^{2-}\) is thiosulfate, \(HSO_3^{-}\) is bisulfite (hydrogen sulfite), and \(SO_4^{2-}\) is sulfate.
5. Conclude that the correct formula for the sulfite ion is \(SO_3^{2-}\) based on the number of oxygen atoms and the charge.