BkCl3
Berkelium chloride
Bk3+ balances chloride ions.
What Is the Charge of Berkelium?
Berkelium commonly forms Bk3+ Bk4+ in introductory ionic compounds.
Quick answer: Berkelium usually has a common ionic charge of +3 or +4, written as Bk3+ or Bk4+.
| Element | Berkelium |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Bk |
| Atomic number | 97 |
| Common ionic charge | +3, +4 |
| Common ions | Bk3+, Bk4+ |
Why Berkelium has this charge
Berkelium is an actinide. Its chemistry can be specialized, but +3, +4 is the most useful introductory reference range.
This is a classroom reference range, not an exhaustive list of all oxidation states.
Berkelium charge examples
Bk2O3
Berkelium oxide
Berkelium can form oxides where total positive and negative charge balances.
FAQ
Is Berkelium charge the same as oxidation state?
Ionic charge is the charge on an actual ion. Oxidation state is a bookkeeping number used inside compounds. They can match, but they are not always the same thing.
How do I use this in formulas?
Combine positive and negative ions so the total charge is zero. You can also use the ionic compound calculator.
Where can I see the full chart?
Use the periodic table with charges or the ionic charges chart.