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2.1.2 Compounds, formulae and equations

Definitions

Term Definition
Binary compounds Compounds that contain two elements only.
Diatomic molecules Molecules composed of two atoms only.
Polyatomic ions Ions containing more than one atom.

Concepts

Anions to know

Ion Formula
Nitrate \(NO_3^-\)
Carbonate \(CO_3^{2-}\)
Sulfate \(SO_4^{2-}\)
Hydroxide \(OH^-\)

Cations to know

Ion Formula
Ammonium \(NH_4^+\)
Zinc ion \(Zn^{2+}\)
Silver ion \(Ag^+\)

Writing ionic equations

  • We can only dissociate aqueous compounds
  • Split all chemicals into ions
  • Cancel out spectator ions
  • Note: No aqueous compound = no ionic equation

Solubility

Solubility Compounds
Soluble in water - All common sodium, potassium and ammonium salts (also their carbonate and hydroxide salt)
- All nitrates
- Most common chlorides
- Most common sulfates
Insoluble in water - Silver chloride, lead chloride
- Lead sulfate, barium sulfate, calcium sulfate, strontium sulfate
- Most common carbonates
- Most common hydroxides