Question

Name the following molecular compounds: (a) \(\mathrm{SiO}_{2}\), (b) \(\mathrm{XeF}_{4}\) (c) \(\mathrm{P}_{4} \mathrm{O}_{10}\) (d) \(\mathrm{Cl}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{7}\)

Short answer

The names for the compounds are: (a) silicon dioxide, (b) xenon tetrafluoride, (c) tetraphosphorus decoxide, (d) dichlorine heptoxide.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Naming Convention

The traditional naming convention for molecular compounds is to use prefixes to indicate the number of atoms of each element present in the compound. This system uses the following prefixes: mono- (1), di- (2), tri- (3), tetra- (4), penta- (5), hexa- (6), hepta- (7), octa- (8), nona- (9), deca- (10). When the compound contains only one atom of the first element, the prefix mono- is often omitted.

Naming Compound (a)

For \(\mathrm{SiO}_{2}\), the first element is silicon (Si) and the second is oxygen (O). There is one silicon atom and two oxygen atoms. The prefix for one is usually omitted, and the prefix for two is 'di-'. Therefore, the name is silicon dioxide.

Naming Compound (b)

For \(\mathrm{XeF}_{4}\), the first element is xenon (Xe) and the second is fluorine (F). There is one xenon atom and four fluorine atoms, giving us the name xenon tetrafluoride.

Naming Compound (c)

For \(\mathrm{P}_{4} \mathrm{O}_{10}\), the first element is phosphorus (P) and the second is oxygen (O). There are four phosphorus atoms and ten oxygen atoms. Using the prefixes, we get the name tetraphosphorus decoxide.

Naming Compound (d)

For \(\mathrm{Cl}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{7}\), the first element is chlorine (Cl) and the second is oxygen (O). There are two chlorine atoms and seven oxygen atoms. The name for this compound is dichlorine heptoxide.

Key concepts

Chemical Nomenclature

Understanding chemical nomenclature is essential for students delving into the world of chemistry. It is the systematic method for naming chemical compounds and provides a uniform way to identify substances. This system is particularly relevant when dealing with molecular compounds—combinations of nonmetals bonded together.

In the step-by-step solution provided, we can see the application of prefixes derived from Greek or Latin to quantify the number of atoms in a compound. It allows anyone with a basic knowledge of these prefixes to decipher the composition of a compound like SiO_{2} being named as silicon dioxide; 'di-' indicating two oxygen atoms. To practice and consolidate this understanding, students may find it beneficial to create flashcards with these prefixes or to regularly quiz themselves to build familiarity with the terms.

Remember, the first element in the formula is usually written out in full, while the second takes on the '-ide' suffix, coming together to reveal the compound's etymology and composition in its name.

Inorganic Chemistry

Inorganic chemistry focuses on compounds that are not carbon-based, which includes a vast array of substances, from salts to metals, and from simple molecules like SiO_{2} to more complex structures. The compounds mentioned in the exercise, such as XeF_{4} and Cl_{2}O_{7}, are part of this diverse category.

To dive deeper into the subject, students should be familiar with the periodic table—understanding groups and periods, along with the properties of the elements. This knowledge underpins the ability to predict compound formation and their respective nomenclatures. For example, recognizing that xenon, a noble gas, can form compounds under certain conditions aids in appreciating the given name xenon tetrafluoride. Strengthening one's grasp on this concept may involve working through various exercises that involve recognizing and naming different types of inorganic compounds.

Molecular Formula Interpretation

The interpretation of molecular formulas involves understanding not only the types of atoms present but also their ratios. The formula P_{4}O_{10} reflects a compound consisting of phosphorus and oxygen atoms in a 4:10 ratio. This is crucial information that, when paired with chemical nomenclature rules, results in the name tetraphosphorus decoxide.

For reinforcing this concept, a recommended method for improvement is the construction of molecular models. This can help visualize the actual structure of compounds, aiding in the comprehension of how SiO_{2} packs into a three-dimensional lattice network, for instance. Being able to translate between a molecular formula, its structural representation, and its name is a fundamental skill in chemistry. Tackling a variety of compounds, from simple diatomics to more complex molecules, enables students to become proficient at decoding the language of chemistry.