Problem 13 - Chemistry

Question

The common name for \(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\) is ammonia. What would be the systematic name for \(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\) ? Support your answer.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The systematic name for NH3, also known as ammonia, is \( \textbf{nitrogen trihydride} \) following the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) nomenclature system.

Step 1: Identify the elements involved in the compound

In the given formula NH3, there are two elements involved: Nitrogen (N) and Hydrogen (H).

Step 2: Interpret the chemical structure

The compound contains one nitrogen atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms. The chemical structure can be represented as N(H)3.

Step 3: Apply systematic nomenclature rules

For inorganic compounds, we follow the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) nomenclature system. In this system, the first element (Nitrogen) will retain its name, and the second element (Hydrogen) will be replaced with the ending -ide. Additionally, we will mention the number of hydrogen atoms as a prefix.

Step 4: Determine the systematic name

In the case of NH3, the nitrogen atom retains its name, while the three hydrogen atoms will be represented as 'trihydride' (tri- as a prefix for three and -ide as a suffix for hydrogen). Thus, the systematic name for NH3 is \( \textbf{nitrogen trihydride} \).