Skip to main content
Ch.3 - Molecules, Compounds & Chemical Equations
Chapter 3, Problem 48a,c

Name each molecular compound. a. SO3 c. BrF5

Verified Solution

Video duration:
2m
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

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

Molecular Compounds

Molecular compounds are formed when two or more nonmetals bond together by sharing electrons. These compounds typically have distinct properties, such as lower melting and boiling points compared to ionic compounds. The naming of molecular compounds often involves using prefixes to indicate the number of atoms of each element present in the compound.
Recommended video:
Guided course
02:06
Naming Molecular Compounds

Nomenclature of Molecular Compounds

The nomenclature of molecular compounds follows specific rules, primarily using prefixes to denote the number of atoms. For example, 'mono-' for one, 'di-' for two, 'tri-' for three, and so on. The first element in the compound is named first, followed by the second element with an '-ide' suffix, unless it is a single atom of the first element, in which case the prefix 'mono-' is often omitted.
Recommended video:
Guided course
02:06
Naming Molecular Compounds

Chemical Formula Interpretation

The chemical formula of a compound provides information about the types and numbers of atoms present. In the case of SO3, the formula indicates that there is one sulfur atom and three oxygen atoms. Understanding how to interpret chemical formulas is essential for correctly naming and identifying molecular compounds.
Recommended video:
Guided course
03:13
Intepreting the Band of Stability