Writing and Naming Binary Ionic compounds

Front

What is a binary ionic compound?

Back

A binary ionic compound is a chemical compound composed of two different elements, typically consisting of a metal and a non-metal, that are held together by ionic bonds.

Front

How do you name a binary ionic compound?

Back

To name a binary ionic compound, write the name of the metal (cation) first, followed by the name of the non-metal (anion) with its ending changed to '-ide'.

Front

What is the chemical formula for sodium nitride?

Back

Na₃N

Front

What is the chemical formula for magnesium sulfide?

Back

MgS

Front

How do you determine the charge of a cation in a binary ionic compound?

Back

The charge of a cation can be determined by its position in the periodic table; for main group metals, the charge is typically equal to the group number.

Front

What is the name of the compound NaH?

Back

Sodium hydride

Front

What is the name of the compound Li₃P?

Back

Lithium phosphide

Front

What is the chemical formula for magnesium phosphide?

Back

Mg₃P₂

Front

What is the significance of subscripts in a chemical formula?

Back

Subscripts indicate the number of atoms of each element in a compound; for example, in Mg₃P₂, there are 3 magnesium atoms and 2 phosphorus atoms.

Front

How do you write the formula for a binary ionic compound?

Back

To write the formula, combine the cation and anion, ensuring the total charge is neutral by adjusting the subscripts as necessary.