Question

The basic structural unit of silicates is:

• A. SiO₃²⁻
• B. SiO₄²⁻
• C. SiO⁻
• D. SiO₄⁴⁻

Hint:

In silicate chemistry, the SiO unit is the fundamental building block of the structure, forming various network topologies.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The basic structural unit of silicates is the SiO\(_4^{4-}\) tetrahedron, where each silicon atom is surrounded by four oxygen atoms in a tetrahedral arrangement.