What is the chemical formula for hydrogen oxide?

A chemical formula shows the ratio of atoms in a compound. When writing any formula, the cation (positively charged ion) is written first, followed by the anion (negatively charged ion).

For example, let’s consider hydrogen oxide (water). This compound is made of hydrogen and oxygen atoms:

• The hydrogen ion is H⁺ with a valency of +1.
• The oxide ion is O²⁻ with a valency of -2.

To balance these charges, we need two hydrogen ions (+1 each) for one oxide ion (-2). This way, the total positive charge (+2) equals the total negative charge (-2).

Thus, the chemical formula of hydrogen oxide is: H₂O

Final Answer: The chemical formula for hydrogen oxide is H₂O.