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Ch.2 - Atoms, Molecules, and Ions
Chapter 2, Problem 71i

Name the following ionic compounds: (i) K2CrO4

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1
Step 1: Identify the cation and the anion in the compound. In K2CrO4, K is the cation and CrO4 is the anion.
Step 2: Name the cation first. The cation K is potassium.
Step 3: Name the anion. The anion CrO4 is chromate.
Step 4: Combine the names of the cation and anion. The name of the compound is Potassium Chromate.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed when atoms transfer electrons, resulting in the formation of positively charged cations and negatively charged anions. These oppositely charged ions attract each other, creating a stable compound. Understanding the nature of ionic bonds is essential for naming and writing formulas for these compounds.
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Nomenclature of Ionic Compounds

The nomenclature of ionic compounds involves specific rules for naming the cations and anions. Typically, the cation is named first, followed by the anion. For polyatomic ions, such as chromate in K2CrO4, it is important to recognize their names and charges to accurately name the compound.
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Polyatomic Ions

Polyatomic ions are ions composed of two or more atoms that are covalently bonded and carry a net charge. In the case of K2CrO4, the chromate ion (CrO4^2-) is a polyatomic ion. Recognizing these ions and their charges is crucial for correctly identifying and naming ionic compounds.
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