Question

Name each polyatomic ion. (a) \(\mathrm{BrO}^{-}\) (b) \(\mathrm{BrO}_{2}^{-}\) (c) \(\mathrm{BrO}_{3}^{-}\) (d) \(\mathrm{BrO}_{4}^{-}\)

Short answer

\((a) \mathrm{BrO}^{-}\) is Hypobromite; \((b) \mathrm{BrO}_{2}^{-}\) is Bromite; \((c) \mathrm{BrO}_{3}^{-}\) is Bromate; \((d) \mathrm{BrO}_{4}^{-}\) is Perbromate.

Step-by-step solution

Identifying the Pattern

Recognize that the given ions are oxyanions of bromine, each containing a different number of oxygen atoms. Oxyanions with different numbers of oxygen atoms have different suffixes or prefixes to distinguish them.

Naming the Ion with the Fewest Oxygen Atoms

The polyatomic ion with the fewest oxygen atoms typically ends with the suffix -ite. In this case, \(\mathrm{BrO}^{-}\) is called Bromite.

Naming the Ion with One More Oxygen Atom

The ion with one more oxygen atom than the -ite ion is given the suffix -ate. Thus, \(\mathrm{BrO}_{2}^{-}\) is Bromate.

Naming the Ion with Even More Oxygen Atoms

An ion with even more oxygen atoms than the -ate ion is designated by the prefix per- and the suffix -ate. Consequently, \(\mathrm{BrO}_{4}^{-}\) is called Perbromate.

Naming the Ion with Fewer Oxygen Atoms than the -ite Ion

An ion with fewer oxygen atoms than the -ite ion uses the prefix hypo- and the suffix -ite. Therefore, \(\mathrm{BrO}_{3}^{-}\) is Hypobromite, following the convention of naming.

Key concepts

Chemistry Education

Chemistry, often referred to as the central science, sheds light on the composition, structure, properties, and changes of matter. A critical aspect of chemistry education is mastering the language of chemistry, which includes understanding chemical nomenclature, the system for naming compounds.

For students, grasping the nomenclature of polyatomic ions—groups of atoms that carry a charge—is essential. It can seem daunting at first due to the numerous ions and the rules for naming them based on the number of atoms they contain. However, by breaking down these rules into manageable steps, as seen in the provided exercise, learning becomes more accessible and less overwhelming.

Integrating interactive activities such as naming practice exercises can significantly improve chemistry education. This active learning approach reinforces memory retention and helps students gain confidence in their ability to navigate the complex nomenclature of chemistry.

Oxyanions

Oxyanions are a type of polyatomic ion that consists of a central atom surrounded by oxygen atoms. They are prevalent in various chemical compounds and have significant environmental and biological roles.

One of the intricate features of oxyanions is that they can have multiple forms, with different numbers of oxygen atoms attached to the central element. The naming of these ions follows a specific pattern, as demonstrated in the exercise with bromine oxyanions, using prefixes and suffixes to denote the number of oxygen atoms.

The step-by-step breakdown in the original exercise exemplifies the logical progression in writing the names of these ions. The use of names like 'bromate' and 'perbromate' gives students a clear understanding of the systematic approach to classifying and communicating the variations of oxyanions within chemical compounds. By focusing on familiar examples and repetition, learners can internalize these patterns and quickly recognize other oxyanions.

Ion Nomenclature

Ion nomenclature, the standardized naming system for ions, is a fundamental component of chemical literacy. The language used to describe ions is precise, enabling chemists to succinctly convey the composition of compounds.

As seen in the exercise, the nomenclature for polyatomic ions employs prefixes such as 'hypo-' and 'per-' alongside suffixes '-ite' and '-ate' to indicate the number of oxygen atoms in an oxyanion relative to the standard -ate form. When writing the name of an ion, the central atom's name is modified by these prefixes and suffixes to provide a clear and specific description.

For educational purposes, it is beneficial to introduce mnemonic devices or charts that succinctly map the prefix and suffix usage to the oxygen count in the oxyanions. This enhancement can aid students in memorizing the conventions of ion nomenclature, thus facilitating better understanding and accuracy when working with chemical formulas.