1. Ionic Compounds A substance containing ions that can conduct an electric current when dissolved Compounds formed between a metal and nonmetal (ions) – Charge of Cations + Charge of Anions = net charge of zero

2. Example Consider an ionic compound that contains Mg 2+ and Cl - How will the charges add up to zero Cation Charge: Anion Charge : Compound Net Charge: 2+ + 2(1-) = 0

3. Criss-Cross Method – The Subscript of the cation is equal to the charge on the anion, and the subscript on the of the anion is equal to the charge of the cation. (criss- cross method) – Must be reduced to lowest whole number ratio – If they are equal, no subscripts are necessary

4. 2(+1) + 1(-2) = 0 *Remember overall charge should be 0