Analysis shows that nickel oxide has the formula `Ni_(0.98)O_(1.00)`. What fractions of the nickel exist as `Ni^(2+)` and `Ni^(3+)` ions?

Explanation

The ratio of Ni and O atoms in pure nickel oxide
`(NiO)=1:1`
Let x be the number of Ni (II) atoms replaced by Ni (III) atoms in the oxide.
`:.` Number of Ni (II) atoms present `= (0.98- x)`
Since, the oxide is neutral in nature.
Total charge on Ni atoms = Charge on oxygen atoms
`2(0.98-x)+3x=2`
`rArr 1.96-2x +3x=2`
`x=2-1.96=0.04`
Percentage of Ni (III) atoms in nickel oxide
`=("Number of Ni (III) atoms")/("Total number of Ni atoms")xx100`
`=(0.04)/(0.98) xx 100=4.01%`
Percentage of Ni (II) atoms in nickel oxide
`=100 - 4.01 = 95.99% `