Question

Elements in the same family often form oxyanions of the same general formula. The anions are named in a similar fashion. What are the names of the oxyanions of selenium and tellurium: \(\mathrm{SeO}_{4}{ }^{2-}, \mathrm{SeO}_{3}{ }^{2-}, \mathrm{TeO}_{4}{ }^{2-}, \mathrm{TeO}_{3}{ }^{2-} ?\)

Short answer

The names of the given oxyanions are Selenate (\(\mathrm{SeO}_{4}{ }^{2-}\)), Selenite (\(\mathrm{SeO}_{3}{ }^{2-}\)), Tellurate (\(\mathrm{TeO}_{4}{ }^{2-}\)), and Tellurite (\(\mathrm{TeO}_{3}{ }^{2-}\)).

Step-by-step solution

Review oxyanion naming rules

Oxyanions are polyatomic anions containing oxygen atoms bonded to atoms of another element. In general, when there are two oxyanions with the same central element and different numbers of oxygen atoms, the one with more oxygen atoms is given the suffix -ate, and the one with fewer oxygen atoms is given the suffix -ite. Considering the charges in these examples, we can see that all of the given oxyanions have a 2- charge.

Identify the oxyanions with more and fewer oxygen atoms

According to the given formulas of oxyanions, we can see the following: - For Selenium: \(\mathrm{SeO}_{4}{ }^{2-}\) has more oxygen atoms than \(\mathrm{SeO}_{3}{ }^{2-}\) - For Tellurium: \(\mathrm{TeO}_{4}{ }^{2-}\) has more oxygen atoms than \(\mathrm{TeO}_{3}{ }^{2-}\)

Apply the naming rules to the given oxyanions

Now we can apply the rules to name these oxyanions: - \(\mathrm{SeO}_{4}{ }^{2-}\): Since this oxyanion has more oxygen atoms for selenium, it will have the suffix -ate. The name will be Selenate. - \(\mathrm{SeO}_{3}{ }^{2-}\): This oxyanion has fewer oxygen atoms for selenium, so it will have the suffix -ite. The name will be Selenite. - \(\mathrm{TeO}_{4}{ }^{2-}\): With more oxygen atoms for tellurium, it will have the suffix -ate. The name will be Tellurate. - \(\mathrm{TeO}_{3}{ }^{2-}\): As it has fewer oxygen atoms for tellurium, it will have the suffix -ite. The name will be Tellurite. So, the names of the given oxyanions are Selenate, Selenite, Tellurate, and Tellurite.

Key concepts

Polyatomic Ions

Polyatomic ions are a fascinating aspect of chemistry, comprising a group of atoms bonded together that carry an overall charge. These ions often include both cations and anions, with oxyanions being a specific subset. Oxyanions are polyatomic ions that specifically contain oxygen atoms bonded to another element. Because of their complex structure, they exhibit unique characteristics and play significant roles in various chemical reactions.

Here are some important facts about polyatomic ions:

• These ions are formed through covalent bonds within the ion itself, while the ion as a whole participates in ionic bonding.
• They typically behave similarly to monatomic ions in chemical reactions.
• The overall charge of a polyatomic ion is crucial for predicting and balancing chemical equations.

Understanding these ions is essential for mastering various areas of chemistry, especially when dealing with oxyanions and their reactions.

Naming Conventions

Naming polyatomic ions follows specific conventions, especially crucial for oxyanions due to their diverse types. The naming rules help ensure clear communication of compound structures in chemistry.

• The suffixes -ate and -ite are predominantly used with oxyanions. The suffix -ate is used for ions with more oxygen atoms, while -ite is for those with fewer.
• If more than two oxyanions exist involving the same element, prefixes like 'per-' (for one more oxygen atom than the -ate form) and 'hypo-' (for one less oxygen atom than the -ite form) may come into play.
• When the naming conventions are followed, they provide insight into the composition and structure of the ions, aiding in understanding their behavior in reactions.

This systematic approach simplifies the learning process and ensures consistency across chemical studies.

Chemistry Nomenclature

Chemistry nomenclature is a standardized method to name chemical compounds, fostering clarity and precision. In the context of oxyanions and other polyatomic ions, it's vital for understanding how compounds are formulated.

• Elements sharing the same family often form compounds with similar structures, thus often using similar naming conventions for consistency.
• Nomenclature deals with both the mathematical charges and the spatial arrangements of atoms, which is crucial in predicting the behavior of compounds.
• Learning these naming rules can also help identify patterns and predict the structures of unfamiliar compounds.

By grasping chemistry nomenclature, students can better interpret and convey chemical information globally.

Oxygen Atoms Bonding

Oxygen atoms typically form bonds with other elements to create structures like oxyanions. Their bonding with central elements determines the structure and properties of the resulting ion.

• Oxygen's high electronegativity allows it to form stable bonds with different elements, prominently seen in oxyanions.
• These bonds usually involve single or double covalent bonds, depending on the element's needs and the overall stability sought in the compound.
• The configuration of oxygen atoms around central atoms can affect the ion's shape, stability, and reactivity.

Understanding the intricacies of oxygen atom bonding helps appreciate the behavior and function of oxyanions in chemical reactions.