Chemical formula of cryolite is ..........?

CONCEPT:

Chemical Formula of Cryolite

• Cryolite is a mineral that is used in the aluminum extraction process, specifically in the Hall-Héroult process for the electrolytic reduction of alumina (Al₂O₃) to aluminum.
• The chemical formula of cryolite is Na₃AlF₆.
• Cryolite serves as a flux in the process, reducing the melting point of alumina and improving the efficiency of the aluminum extraction process.

EXPLANATION:

• CaF₂ - This is the formula for fluorite, not cryolite.
•  NaF - Sodium fluoride, which is incorrect as cryolite contains aluminum and multiple fluoride ions.
• AlF₃ - Aluminum fluoride, which is incorrect since cryolite also contains sodium.
• Na₃AlF₆ - This is the correct formula for cryolite, as it contains sodium, aluminum, and fluoride ions in the right proportions.

​Therefore, the chemical formula of cryolite is Na₃AlF₆.