Naming Ionic Compounds

Front

What is an ionic compound?

Back

An ionic compound is a chemical compound composed of ions held together by electrostatic forces termed ionic bonding. They typically form between metals and nonmetals.

Front

How do you name ionic compounds?

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Ionic compounds are named by stating the name of the cation (positive ion) first, followed by the name of the anion (negative ion). For example, NaCl is named sodium chloride.

Front

What is the charge of silver (Ag) in AgF?

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Silver (Ag) has a charge of +1 in AgF, making it a cation.

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What is the formula for magnesium sulfate?

Back

The formula for magnesium sulfate is MgSO₄.

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How do you determine the formula for calcium phosphide?

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To determine the formula for calcium phosphide, you need to know the charges of calcium (+2) and phosphide (-3). The formula is Ca₃P₂.

Front

What is the chemical formula for lead (IV) nitrate?

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The chemical formula for lead (IV) nitrate is Pb(NO₃)₄.

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What is the formula for the ionic compound formed between potassium and oxygen?

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The formula for the ionic compound formed between potassium and oxygen is K₂O.

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What is the significance of Roman numerals in naming ionic compounds?

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Roman numerals indicate the oxidation state of the metal cation in ionic compounds, especially for transition metals. For example, iron(III) indicates Fe with a +3 charge.

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What is a polyatomic ion?

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A polyatomic ion is a charged ion composed of two or more atoms bonded together, which can be either positively or negatively charged, such as sulfate (SO₄²⁻).

Front

How do you write the formula for an ionic compound with a transition metal?

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To write the formula for an ionic compound with a transition metal, determine the charge of the metal and the nonmetal, then balance the total charges to find the correct ratio.