The valency of nitrate (NO₃⁻) is 1.
Explanation
- Nitrate is a polyatomic ion with the formula NO₃⁻
- It carries a single negative charge (−1)
- Valency is determined by the combining capacity, which equals the charge here
Key Point
Valency of an ion = magnitude of its charge
So, for nitrate:
Charge = −1 → Valency = 1
Example in Compounds
- NaNO₃ (Sodium nitrate)
Sodium has valency 1, nitrate also has valency 1
- Ca(NO₃)₂ (Calcium nitrate)
Calcium has valency 2, so it combines with two nitrate ions
Practical Insight
Nitrate is commonly found in:
- Fertilizers
- Chemical reactions
- Salts in chemistry