Answer :
The basic unit of an ionic compound is called a formula unit. The basic unit of a covalent compound is a molecule.
What is a formula unit?
A formula unit is the chemical formula of an ionic compound that lists the ions in the lowest ratio that equals a neutral electrical charge. In chemistry, we use chemical formulas to describe the elements or molecules that make up a substance.
What is a formula unit example?
It is the lowest whole number ratio of ions represented in an ionic compound. Examples include ionic NaCl and K2O and covalent networks such as SiO2 and C (as diamond or graphite). Ionic compounds do not exist as individual molecules; a formula unit thus indicates the lowest reduced ratio of ions in the compound.
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