Formulas for Binary Compounds

Front

What is a binary compound?

Back

A binary compound is a chemical compound that consists of exactly two different elements.

Front

What is the general rule for writing the formula of a binary ionic compound?

Back

The formula is written by combining the symbols of the two elements, with the cation (positive ion) first, followed by the anion (negative ion), and balancing the charges.

Front

What is the charge of a sodium ion (Na)?

Back

+1

Front

What is the charge of a potassium ion (K)?

Back

+1

Front

What is the charge of a magnesium ion (Mg)?

Back

+2

Front

What is the charge of a beryllium ion (Be)?

Back

+2

Front

What is the charge of a nitrogen ion (N) when it gains three electrons?

Back

-3

Front

What is the formula for the ionic compound formed between potassium (K) and oxygen (O)?

Back

K2O

Front

What is the formula for the ionic compound formed between magnesium (Mg) and phosphorus (P)?

Back

Mg3P2

Front

What is the name of the compound with the formula Be3P2?

Back

Beryllium phosphide