Give systematic names for the following binary compounds: (c) FeCl₃

Key Concepts

Binary Compounds

Binary compounds consist of two different elements. In the case of ionic binary compounds, one element is typically a metal and the other a non-metal. The naming convention for these compounds often involves the name of the metal followed by the name of the non-metal with an '-ide' suffix. Understanding this structure is essential for correctly naming compounds like FeCl3.

Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed when metals transfer electrons to non-metals, resulting in the formation of positively charged cations and negatively charged anions. The electrostatic attraction between these oppositely charged ions holds the compound together. In the case of FeCl3, iron (Fe) acts as the cation and chloride (Cl) as the anion, which is crucial for determining the compound's systematic name.

Stock System of Nomenclature

The Stock system is a method of naming transition metal compounds that includes the oxidation state of the metal in Roman numerals. This is important for compounds like FeCl3, where iron can have multiple oxidation states. In this case, iron has a +3 oxidation state, which is indicated in the name as 'iron(III) chloride,' providing clarity about the specific form of iron present in the compound.