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

• A. CO3^{2-}
• B. SO4^{2-}
• C. NO3-
• D. C2H3O2-

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the acetate ion is a common polyatomic ion derived from acetic acid (CH3COOH) by losing a hydrogen ion (H+).
2. Recall that the acetate ion contains two carbon atoms, three hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms, with an overall charge of -1.
3. Compare the given options: CO3^{2-} is carbonate ion, SO4^{2-} is sulfate ion, NO3^- is nitrate ion; none of these match the composition of acetate.
4. Recognize that the correct chemical formula for the acetate ion is C2H3O2^- (sometimes written as CH3COO^-), reflecting its structure and charge.
5. Therefore, identify C2H3O2^- as the correct formula for the acetate ion based on its atomic composition and charge.