Number of ions after ionization in [Co(H2O)6]Cl3
1. Initial compound:
The initial compound is [Co(H2O)6]Cl3, which consists of a central cobalt atom surrounded by six water molecules and three chloride ions.
2. Ionization of the compound:
Upon ionization, the compound will dissociate into its constituent ions. The chloride ions will dissociate completely, as they are spectator ions. The water molecules will also dissociate, leaving behind the central cobalt ion.
3. Formation of ions:
After ionization, the central cobalt atom will lose the coordinated water molecules to become a charged ion. The cobalt ion will have a charge equal to the number of water molecules lost. Since each water molecule can donate one electron pair, the cobalt ion will have a charge of +6.
4. Final number of ions:
After ionization, the compound [Co(H2O)6]Cl3 will form one cobalt ion with a charge of +6. Additionally, the three chloride ions will remain as spectator ions. Therefore, the total number of ions after ionization will be four: one cobalt ion and three chloride ions.
In conclusion, the compound [Co(H2O)6]Cl3 will form four ions after ionization: one cobalt ion and three chloride ions.