If we think of the reaction of a Group I metal with oxygen as involving transfer

Question

If we think of the reaction of a Group I metal with oxygen as involving transfer of electrons from the metal atom to an oxygen molecule, what would happen if the addition of electrons to the oxygen molecule occurred in a step-by-step fashion? Each of the ions named below is known to exist. What would be the formulas for the resulting compounds if these ions were combined with sodium ions (Na^+)? O_2(g) + e rightarrow O_2^- (superoxide ion) O_2(g) + 2e rightarrow O_2^2- (peroxide ion) O_2(g) + 4e rightarrow 2O_2^2- (two oxide ion)

Explanation / Answer

When electrons are added to oxygen molecule step by step,

Fisrt it forms superoxide, followed by peroxide and finally oxide.

Formula of each of these ions with sodium ion,

(1) Na+ and O2-

NaO2 sodium superoxide

(2) Na+ and O22-

Na2O2 sodium peroxide

(3) Na+ and O2-

Na2O sodium oxide

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