Question

Give the name of each of the following polyatomic anions. a. \(\mathrm{CO}_{3}^{2-}\) b. \(\mathrm{ClO}_{3}^{-}\) c. \(\mathrm{SO}_{4}^{2-}\) d. \(\mathrm{PO}_{4}^{3-}\) e. \(\mathrm{ClO}_{4}^{-}\) f. \(\mathrm{MnO}_{4}^{-}\)

Short answer

a. Carbonate (\(\mathrm{CO}_{3}^{2-}\)) b. Chlorate (\(\mathrm{ClO}_{3}^{-}\)) c. Sulfate (\(\mathrm{SO}_{4}^{2-}\)) d. Phosphate (\(\mathrm{PO}_{4}^{3-}\)) e. Perchlorate (\(\mathrm{ClO}_{4}^{-}\)) f. Permanganate (\(\mathrm{MnO}_{4}^{-}\))

Step-by-step solution

Recognize the chemical formula

Identify the chemical formula of each polyatomic ion and match it with the common name. a. \(\mathrm{CO}_{3}^{2-}\) is named Carbonate b. \(\mathrm{ClO}_{3}^{-}\) is named Chlorate c. \(\mathrm{SO}_{4}^{2-}\) is named Sulfate d. \(\mathrm{PO}_{4}^{3-}\) is named Phosphate e. \(\mathrm{ClO}_{4}^{-}\) is named Perchlorate f. \(\mathrm{MnO}_{4}^{-}\) is named Permanganate

Combine the Results

Now, we have the names of each of the given polyatomic ions: a. Carbonate (\(\mathrm{CO}_{3}^{2-}\)) b. Chlorate (\(\mathrm{ClO}_{3}^{-}\)) c. Sulfate (\(\mathrm{SO}_{4}^{2-}\)) d. Phosphate (\(\mathrm{PO}_{4}^{3-}\)) e. Perchlorate (\(\mathrm{ClO}_{4}^{-}\)) f. Permanganate (\(\mathrm{MnO}_{4}^{-}\))

Key concepts

Chemical Nomenclature

Chemical nomenclature is the system of naming chemical substances in a structured and standardized way. It helps scientists and students accurately identify compounds and their components. This system is crucial in maintaining clear communication in chemistry.

• Polyatomic ions are charged entities composed of multiple atoms. The charge is distributed over several atoms, not just one.
• The names of polyatomic ions usually end in "-ate" or "-ite," depending on the number of oxygen atoms it contains. For example, carbonate and sulfate have a suffix "-ate."
• Hydrogens and oxides: When hydrogen atoms are added to a polyatomic ion, the prefix “bi-“ can be added, or the number of hydrogens can become part of the name, like bicarbonate for \\(\text{HCO}_{3}^{-}\).
• Naming complexity: Although there are rules, some names must be memorized, as not all follow a predictable pattern.

In essence, understanding the chemical nomenclature allows you to grasp the core identities and characteristics of each chemical compound. This leads to better understanding and communication in scientific discussions.

Anion Identification

Anion identification involves recognizing the negatively charged ions, particularly those formed when an atom gains one or more electrons. Polyatomic anions, such as those given in the exercise, are a common type of anion encountered in chemistry.

• Based on Charge: Anions are negatively charged, which means they can attract positively charged cations to form compounds.
• Recognizing Common Anions: Some common polyatomic anions like sulfate (\(\text{SO}_{4}^{2-}\)) and nitrate (\(\text{NO}_{3}^{-}\)) are prevalent in many compounds and reactions.
• Importance of Subscripts and Superscripts: The subscripts indicate the number of atoms, while superscripts show the charge. Recognizing and remembering these are crucial in identifying anions.

The ability to identify anions based on their chemical formula is fundamental as it forms the basis for predicting how different ions will interact in a chemical reaction.

Chemistry Education

Chemistry education plays a pivotal role in understanding the interactions and properties of various substances in our world. It teaches students to explore and solve complex chemical problems using a systematic approach.

• Building Foundational Knowledge: Concepts like chemical nomenclature and anion identification are foundational subjects that help in more advanced studies, allowing students to write and interpret chemical formulas correctly.
• Application of Theory to Practice: Understanding the names and charges of ions helps learners apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems, such as balancing chemical equations or predicting reaction outcomes.
• Development of Analytical Skills: Through exercises like identifying anions, students develop analytical skills and logical thinking, necessary for tackling more complex chemical phenomena.

Effective chemistry education encourages curiosity, precision, and detail-oriented study, empowering students to explore further concepts and innovations in the field. In this way, foundational topics pave the way for future scientific discoveries.