Understanding Binary Covalent Compounds
Binary covalent compounds are composed of two different elements that are chemically bonded together through covalent bonds. These compounds are typically made up of nonmetals, and their names are derived from the names of the individual elements. In this section, we will delve into the world of binary covalent compounds and explore the rules for naming them.
Prefixes and Suffixes
When naming binary covalent compounds, prefixes and suffixes are used to indicate the number of atoms of each element present in the compound. The prefixes used are:
- Mono- (one atom)
- Di- (two atoms)
- Tri- (three atoms)
- Tetra- (four atoms)
- Penta- (five atoms)
- Hexa- (six atoms)
- Hepta- (seven atoms)
- Octa- (eight atoms)
- Nona- (nine atoms)
- Deca- (ten atoms)
The suffix used is -ide, which is added to the root of the second element’s name.
Rules for Naming Binary Covalent Compounds
To name a binary covalent compound, follow these steps:
- Identify the elements: Determine the two elements that make up the compound.
- Determine the prefix: Use the prefixes listed above to indicate the number of atoms of the first element.
- Add the root of the second element: Add the root of the second element’s name to the prefix.
- Add the suffix: Add the suffix -ide to the root of the second element’s name.
- Combine the names: Combine the prefix, root, and suffix to form the full name of the compound.
Examples
- CO (carbon monoxide)
- Prefix: Mono- (one carbon atom)
- Root: Ox- (from oxygen)
- Suffix: -ide
- Full name: Carbon monoxide
- NO2 (nitrogen dioxide)
- Prefix: Di- (two oxygen atoms)
- Root: Nit- (from nitrogen)
- Suffix: -ide
- Full name: Nitrogen dioxide
- SF6 (sulfur hexafluoride)
- Prefix: Hexa- (six fluorine atoms)
- Root: Sulf- (from sulfur)
- Suffix: -ide
- Full name: Sulfur hexafluoride
Answers Key
- CO (carbon monoxide)
- NO2 (nitrogen dioxide)
- SF6 (sulfur hexafluoride)
- PCl5 (phosphorus pentachloride)
- N2O4 (dinitrogen tetroxide)
- Cl2O7 (dichlorine heptoxide)
- SO3 (sulfur trioxide)
- ICl3 (iodine trichloride)
- NF3 (nitrogen trifluoride)
- AsF5 (arsenic pentafluoride)
📝 Note: When writing the formulas of binary covalent compounds, it is essential to include the correct number of atoms of each element.
Conclusion
Naming binary covalent compounds is a straightforward process that involves using prefixes and suffixes to indicate the number of atoms of each element. By following the rules outlined in this section, you can confidently name binary covalent compounds and expand your knowledge of chemistry.
What is the prefix used to indicate one atom of an element?
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Mono-
What is the suffix used to indicate the second element in a binary covalent compound?
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-ide
How do you name a binary covalent compound?
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Identify the elements, determine the prefix, add the root of the second element, add the suffix, and combine the names.
Related Terms:
- Naming covalent compounds Practice Worksheet
- Naming covalent compounds Worksheet pdf
- Ionic Binary compounds Worksheet
- Naming chemical compounds Worksheet
