Skip to main content
Ch.3 - Molecules, Compounds & Chemical Equations
Chapter 3, Problem 55a,b

Refer to the nomenclature flowchart (Figure 3.11) to name each compound. a. SrCl2 b. SnO2

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.

Nomenclature of Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are named based on the cation and anion they contain. The cation is named first, followed by the anion. For metals that can form more than one charge, such as tin (Sn), the charge must be indicated using Roman numerals in parentheses. In the case of SnO2, tin is the cation and oxide is the anion.
Recommended video:
Guided course
02:11
Ionic Compounds Naming

Oxide Ions

Oxide ions are negatively charged ions formed when oxygen gains two electrons, resulting in O2-. In ionic compounds, oxide typically pairs with metals to form stable compounds. Understanding the charge of oxide is crucial for correctly naming compounds like SnO2, where the oxide ion's charge influences the overall charge balance.
Recommended video:
Guided course
01:15
Oxidation Numbers in Ions

Determining Oxidation States

The oxidation state of an element in a compound indicates the degree of oxidation or reduction it has undergone. In SnO2, the oxidation state of oxygen is -2. To maintain charge neutrality, the oxidation state of tin must be +4, leading to the name tin(IV) oxide. Recognizing how to calculate oxidation states is essential for proper nomenclature.
Recommended video:
Guided course
01:09
Determining Oxidation Numbers