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Ch.2 - Atoms, Molecules, and Ions
Chapter 2, Problem 72h,i

Name the following ionic compounds: (h) NaH2PO4 (i) KMnO4

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1
Identify the cation and anion in the compound. Here, Na is the cation and H2PO4 is the anion.
Name the cation first. Na is sodium, so the cation is named 'sodium'.
Identify the anion. H2PO4 is the dihydrogen phosphate ion.
Combine the names of the cation and anion. The compound is named by stating the cation first followed by the anion.
The name of the compound is 'sodium dihydrogen phosphate'.

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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. Cations are typically named after the element, while anions often have their names modified, usually by adding an '-ide' suffix for simple anions or using a specific name for polyatomic ions. Familiarity with these naming conventions is crucial for accurately identifying compounds.
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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. Common examples include sulfate (SO4^2-) and phosphate (PO4^3-). Recognizing polyatomic ions and their charges is vital for correctly naming compounds that contain them, such as NaH2PO4, which includes the dihydrogen phosphate ion (H2PO4^-).
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