Step 1: Understanding coordination number and cubic holes.
In ionic compounds, the coordination number refers to the number of ions or atoms surrounding a central ion in the lattice structure. When a cation occupies a cubic hole in the lattice, the coordination number is 8.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) 3: This is the coordination number for a trigonal planar geometry, not cubic.
(B) 4: This is the coordination number for a tetrahedral hole, not cubic.
(C) 8: Correct — The coordination number for a cation in a cubic hole is 8.
(D) 6: This is the coordination number for an octahedral geometry, not cubic.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (C) 8.