The carbonate ion is a polyatomic ion with the chemical formula CO32-. It consists of one carbon atom (C) and three oxygen atoms (O), arranged in a trigonal planar structure. The overall charge of the carbonate ion is -2.
This charge arises because the carbon atom forms double bonds with two of the oxygen atoms and a single bond with the third oxygen atom. The single-bonded oxygen atom carries a negative charge, contributing to the overall -2 charge of the ion.
Carbonate ions are commonly found in minerals such as limestone and marble, and they play a crucial role in various chemical processes, including the carbon cycle and the formation of sedimentary rocks.