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

What is the charge of an ammonium ion?

Back

The charge of an ammonium ion (NH4+) is +1.

Front

What is the formula for ammonium fluoride?

Back

The formula for ammonium fluoride is NH4F.

Front

What happens to an atom when it loses electrons?

Back

When an atom loses electrons, it becomes positively charged and is called a cation.

Front

What happens to an atom when it gains electrons?

Back

When an atom gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged and is called an anion.

Front

What is the typical charge of metals in ionic compounds?

Back

Metals typically lose electrons and form positive ions (cations) with a charge of +1, +2, or +3.

Front

What is the typical charge of nonmetals in ionic compounds?

Back

Nonmetals typically gain electrons and form negative ions (anions) with a charge of -1, -2, or -3.

Front

How do you determine the formula of an ionic compound?

Back

To determine the formula of an ionic compound, balance the total positive and negative charges of the ions.

Front

What is the formula for aluminum oxide?

Back

The formula for aluminum oxide is Al2O3.

Front

What is the significance of the subscripts in a chemical formula?

Back

The subscripts in a chemical formula indicate the number of atoms of each element in the compound.