ATOMS, IONS AND MOLECULES Identifying common polyatomic ions Complete the following table: Some polyatomic ions name chemical formula phosphate anion
hydronium cation
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Here is the completed table with the missing polyatomic ions:
| Name | Chemical Formula |
|---|---|
| Phosphate anion | PO₄³⁻ |
| Nitrate anion | NO₃⁻ |
| Permanganate anion | MnO₄⁻ |
| Hydronium cation | H₃O⁺ |
Explanation
Polyatomic ions are ions that consist of two or more atoms covalently bonded together, functioning as a single charged unit. These ions can carry either a positive (cation) or negative (anion) charge and are essential in many chemical compounds and reactions.
- Phosphate anion (PO₄³⁻):
This ion is made up of one phosphorus atom and four oxygen atoms, carrying a -3 charge. It is commonly found in biological molecules such as DNA and ATP, as well as in fertilizers and detergents. Its high negative charge makes it reactive in ionic bonding. - Nitrate anion (NO₃⁻):
Nitrate consists of one nitrogen atom and three oxygen atoms with a single negative charge. It is a crucial component in agriculture as a nutrient in soil and is also found in explosives and preservatives. It’s highly soluble in water, making it environmentally significant. - Permanganate anion (MnO₄⁻):
This deep purple ion is composed of a manganese atom surrounded by four oxygen atoms and has a -1 charge. Permanganate is a strong oxidizing agent and is widely used in redox reactions, especially in analytical chemistry and water treatment processes. - Hydronium cation (H₃O⁺):
Formed when a proton (H⁺) associates with a water molecule (H₂O), hydronium is essential in acid-base chemistry. It represents the presence of acids in aqueous solutions and is a key player in determining pH.
Understanding these ions helps in grasping ionic bonding, reaction mechanisms, and the behavior of acids, bases, and salts in chemistry. Recognizing their names and formulas is foundational for further study in both inorganic and organic chemistry.
