Naming 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. It typically forms between metals and nonmetals.

Front

What is the general formula for a binary ionic compound?

Back

The general formula for a binary ionic compound is represented as AB, where A is a cation (positive ion) and B is an anion (negative ion).

Front

How do you determine the formula of an ionic compound?

Back

To determine the formula of an ionic compound, balance the total positive charge from the cations with the total negative charge from the anions.

Front

What is the formula for magnesium chlorate?

Back

Mg(ClO3)2.

Front

What is the formula for aluminum sulfide?

Back

Al2S3.

Front

What is the formula for Copper II Sulfide?

Back

CuS.

Front

What is a cation?

Back

A cation is a positively charged ion that is formed when an atom loses one or more electrons.

Front

What is an anion?

Back

An anion is a negatively charged ion that is formed when an atom gains one or more electrons.

Front

What is the significance of the Roman numeral in Copper II Sulfide?

Back

The Roman numeral indicates the oxidation state of the metal cation; in this case, Copper has a +2 charge.

Front

What is the difference between a molecular compound and an ionic compound?

Back

Molecular compounds consist of molecules formed by covalent bonds between nonmetals, while ionic compounds consist of ions held together by ionic bonds between metals and nonmetals.