Problem 14 - Chemistry Matter and Change

Question

Name each of the binary covalent compounds listed below. $$\mathrm{CO}_{2}$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The compound is named carbon dioxide.

Step 1: Identify the Elements

The formula given is \( ext{CO}_2\), which indicates that the compound is composed of carbon (C) and oxygen (O).

Step 2: Determine the Prefixes

Count the number of each type of atom in the compound. There is one carbon atom and two oxygen atoms. In binary covalent compounds, prefixes are used to denote the number of atoms; 'mono-' indicates one, and 'di-' indicates two.

Step 3: Naming the First Element

For binary covalent compounds, the first element (carbon in this case) retains its elemental name. No prefix is needed for one atom of the first element, so we simply include 'carbon'.

Step 4: Naming the Second Element

For the second element (oxygen in this case), use the prefix 'di-' to indicate two atoms, and change the ending of the element to '-ide.' Therefore, 'oxygen' becomes 'oxide.'

Step 5: Combine the Names

Combine the names from the previous steps to form the compound name. Place the name of the first element followed by the prefix-modified name of the second element. The result is 'carbon dioxide.'

Key Concepts

Chemical Naming Conventions

Chemical naming conventions are essential when trying to communicate and understand various chemical compounds.
Especially for binary covalent compounds, these conventions establish a systematic way in which names are formulated so that they reflect the composition of the compound.

• Binary covalent compounds are made from two non-metal elements.
• They rely on specific rules for naming that often include prefixes to signify the number of atoms involved.

Understanding these conventions not only helps in writing the compound names but also ensures that one can deduce the formula if given the name.
For instance, in the naming of binary covalent compounds, the first element retains its elemental name, while the second element receives the suffix '-ide.'
This structure gives a clear indication of both what elements are present and, through the use of certain prefixes, how many atoms of each are included. When we adhere to these conventions, we ensure clarity and uniformity in the scientific community.

Molecular Formula Interpretation

Interpreting a molecular formula is a critical skill in chemistry as it allows one to decipher the actual composition of a compound.
The molecular formula provides a shorthand way to understand which elements are involved and how many atoms of each are present.

• The subscript in molecular formulas indicates the number of each type of atom.
• For binary covalent compounds, this directly correlates with how the compound should be named according to established naming conventions.

For example, the molecular formula \( \mathrm{CO}_2 \) tells us there is one carbon atom and two oxygen atoms.
The '2' as a subscript next to oxygen indicates that oxygen appears twice in the compound. Understanding these numbers helps one remember that this number mirrors the prefix used in the compound's name.
Thus, it provides the basis for determining the correct naming, such as carbon dioxide, where 'di-' signifies two oxygen atoms.

Naming Prefixes in Chemistry

The use of prefixes in chemistry, particularly for naming compounds, serves a crucial function in identifying the quantity of atoms within a compound.
This is especially significant for binary covalent compounds where prefixes precede the element name to indicate its quantity.

• 'Mono-' for one: This prefix is generally omitted for the first element but used for the second when only one atom is present.
• 'Di-' for two: Used to denote two atoms of a specific element.
• Other prefixes include 'tri-' (three), 'tetra-' (four), and so forth.

In the specific process of naming the compound \( \mathrm{CO}_2 \), the prefix 'di-' specifies the presence of two oxygen atoms, forming the name 'dioxide.'
These prefixes make it easier to write and understand the names of more complex molecules in a systematic and standardized manner.