The polyatomic ion in this compound is nitrate, [tex]$NO _3$[/tex]. What is the name of the compound?
[tex]$Zn (NO _3)_2$[/tex]
A. zinc (II) nitrate
B. zinc nitrate
C. zinc nitrite
D. zinc peroxynitrate
Answer (1)
Identify the cation ( Z n 2 + ) and anion ( N O 3 − ).
Determine the charge of the zinc ion (typically +2).
Name the compound as zinc nitrate.
The correct name is z in c ni t r a t e .
Explanation
Identify the compound The compound is Z n ( N O 3 ) 2 . We need to name this compound based on the given options.
Identify the ions Zinc (Zn) is a metal that typically forms a +2 cation ( Z n 2 + ). The polyatomic ion N O 3 is the nitrate ion, which has a -1 charge ( N O 3 − ).
Name the compound Since zinc typically has a +2 charge, we don't need to specify the charge with Roman numerals in the name. The compound consists of zinc ions and nitrate ions. Therefore, the name of the compound is zinc nitrate.
Examples
In chemistry, naming compounds is essential for clear communication. For example, zinc nitrate, Z n ( N O 3 ) 2 , is used in fertilizers and as a mordant in dyeing textiles. Knowing its correct name helps avoid confusion with other zinc compounds and ensures proper handling and application in various industrial and agricultural processes.
