Frequently Asked Questions about Ionic Compounds

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 59 views

What Name Should Be Used for the Ionic Compound Co2(SO4)3?

Understanding the Basics of Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed when two or more elements with different electronegativities combine to form a chemical bond. In this process, one or more electrons are transferred from one element to another, resulting in the formation of ions with opposite charges. These ions are then attracted to each other, forming a stable compound. The naming of ionic compounds is a crucial aspect of chemistry, as it helps in identifying the elements present in the compound and their respective charges.

The Rules for Naming Ionic Compounds

The rules for naming ionic compounds are as follows:

The name of the cation (positive ion) is given first, followed by the name of the anion (negative ion).
If the cation is a metal, its name is given as is. However, if the cation is a metal that can exhibit multiple charges, its charge must be indicated in parentheses.
If the anion is a polyatomic ion (a group of atoms that behave as a single unit), its name is given as is.
If the anion is a monatomic ion (a single atom), its name is modified by adding the suffix "-ide" to the root of the element's name.

Applying the Rules to Co2(SO4)3

In the given compound Co2(SO4)3, cobalt (Co) is the cation, and sulfate (SO4) is the anion. Since cobalt can exhibit multiple charges, its charge must be indicated in parentheses. Therefore, the name of the cation is cobalt(III).

The anion sulfate is a polyatomic ion, and its name is given as is. However, since there are three sulfate ions present in the compound, the name must be modified to indicate the number of sulfate ions. The suffix "-tris" is used to indicate three of something, so the name of the anion is trisulfate.

Evaluating the Options

Based on the rules for naming ionic compounds, the correct name for Co2(SO4)3 is cobalt(III) trisulfate. Let's evaluate the options:

A. cobalt(III) sulfide: This name is incorrect because the anion is sulfate, not sulfide.

B. cobalt(III) sulfate: This name is incorrect because there are three sulfate ions present in the compound, not one.

C. cobalt(III) trisulfide: This name is incorrect because the anion is sulfate, not sulfide.

D. cobalt(III) trisulfate: This name is correct because it accurately reflects the composition of the compound.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the correct name for the ionic compound Co2(SO4)3 is cobalt(III) trisulfate. This name follows the rules for naming ionic compounds and accurately reflects the composition of the compound.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ionic Compounds

Q: What is the difference between a cation and an anion?

A: A cation is a positively charged ion, while an anion is a negatively charged ion. Cations are typically formed by metals, while anions are typically formed by nonmetals.

Q: How do I determine the charge on a cation?

A: To determine the charge on a cation, you need to know the charge on the anion it is paired with. The total charge on the compound must be zero, so the charge on the cation can be calculated by subtracting the charge on the anion from the total charge on the compound.

Q: What is the difference between a monatomic ion and a polyatomic ion?

A: A monatomic ion is a single atom that has gained or lost electrons to form an ion. A polyatomic ion, on the other hand, is a group of atoms that behave as a single unit and have a charge.

Q: How do I determine the name of a polyatomic ion?

A: The name of a polyatomic ion is usually derived from the name of the elements that make up the ion. For example, the polyatomic ion SO4 is called sulfate.

Q: What is the suffix "-tris" used for in naming ionic compounds?

A: The suffix "-tris" is used to indicate three of something in the name of an ionic compound. For example, the name of the anion SO4 is modified to trisulfate to indicate that there are three sulfate ions present in the compound.

Q: How do I determine the charge on a polyatomic ion?

A: The charge on a polyatomic ion can be determined by knowing the charges on the individual atoms that make up the ion. The total charge on the ion is the sum of the charges on the individual atoms.

Q: What is the difference between a strong acid and a weak acid?

A: A strong acid is an acid that completely dissociates in water to form hydrogen ions, while a weak acid is an acid that only partially dissociates in water to form hydrogen ions.

Q: How do I determine the name of an acid?

A: The name of an acid is usually derived from the name of the anion it is paired with. For example, the acid HCl is called hydrochloric acid.

Q: What is the difference between a base and an acid?

A: A base is a substance that accepts hydrogen ions, while an acid is a substance that donates hydrogen ions.

Q: How do I determine the name of a base?

A: The name of a base is usually derived from the name of the cation it is paired with. For example, the base KOH is called potassium hydroxide.

Q: What is the difference between a strong base and a weak base?

A: A strong base is a base that completely dissociates in water to form hydroxide ions, while a weak base is a base that only partially dissociates in water to form hydroxide ions.

Q: How do I determine the charge on a base?

A: The charge on a base can be determined by knowing the charges on the individual atoms that make up the base. The total charge on the base is the sum of the charges on the individual atoms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ionic compounds are an important part of chemistry, and understanding how to name them is crucial for identifying the elements present in the compound and their respective charges. By following the rules for naming ionic compounds, you can accurately determine the name of a compound and understand its composition.