Write the formula for each ionic compound. f. potassium hydrogen carbonate

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Identify the ions that make up the compound. Potassium is a metal that forms a positive ion (K+), and hydrogen carbonate (also known as bicarbonate) is a polyatomic ion that forms a negative ion (HCO3-).
2. Step 2: The overall charge of an ionic compound must be zero. Therefore, the charges of the ions must balance each other out.
3. Step 3: In this case, the potassium ion has a charge of +1 and the hydrogen carbonate ion has a charge of -1. Therefore, one of each ion will balance the charges.
4. Step 4: Write the formula by placing the symbol of the positive ion (K) first, followed by the symbol of the negative ion (HCO3).
5. Step 5: Since the charges balance with one of each ion, the formula for potassium hydrogen carbonate is KHCO3.

Key Concepts

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. The overall charge of the compound is neutral, meaning the total positive charge equals the total negative charge.

Polyatomic Ions

Polyatomic ions are ions that consist of two or more atoms bonded together, which carry a net charge. Common examples include sulfate (SO4^2-) and nitrate (NO3^-). In the case of potassium hydrogen carbonate, the hydrogen carbonate ion (HCO3^-) is a polyatomic ion that plays a crucial role in forming the compound.

Chemical Formula Writing

Writing chemical formulas involves combining the symbols of the elements or ions in a compound, along with their respective charges, to reflect the composition of the compound. The formula for potassium hydrogen carbonate is K(HCO3), indicating one potassium ion (K^+) and one hydrogen carbonate ion (HCO3^-), ensuring the overall charge is neutral.