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

Explanation

To determine the fractions of nickel that exist as \( \text{Ni}^{2+} \) and \( \text{Ni}^{3+} \) ions in nickel oxide with the formula \( \text{Ni}_{0.98}\text{O}_{1.00} \), we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Define Variables
Let \( x \) be the amount of nickel that exists as \( \text{Ni}^{2+} \). Consequently, the amount of nickel that exists as \( \text{Ni}^{3+} \) will be \( 0.98 - x \).

### Step 2: Charge Balance Equation
Since the compound must be electrically neutral, the total positive charge from the nickel ions must equal the total negative charge from the oxygen ions. The oxygen contributes a total charge of \( -2 \) (since there is one oxygen atom with a charge of \( -2 \)).

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