I'm just now learning how to write formulas and name them. Some elements, like iron for example, can be Iron(II) or Iron(III). So my question is: Is there a simple way to tell which elements have multiple cations, or is it pure memorization?
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Transition metals often form more than one cation, although other metals may sometimes exhibit more than one cation. For example, Pb forms both +2 and +4 cations. That information is often given on the Periodic Table of the Elements.
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There is no smple way to tell.
No foolproof rule we can apply.
There are patterns to give hints, but you're going to need to learn variable valency by heart.
No foolproof rule we can apply.
There are patterns to give hints, but you're going to need to learn variable valency by heart.