Problem 77 - Chemistry Matter and Change

Question

Name the compound that has the formula \(\operatorname{Sr} \mathrm{Cl}_{2} \cdot 6 \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\)

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The compound with the given chemical formula \(\operatorname{Sr} \mathrm{Cl}_{2} \cdot 6 \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) is called strontium dichloride hexahydrate.

Step 1: Identify the Cation

The cation in the given chemical formula \(\operatorname{Sr} \mathrm{Cl}_{2} \cdot 6 \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) is Sr, which is the metal strontium.

Step 2: Identify the Anion

The anion in the given chemical formula \(\operatorname{Sr} \mathrm{Cl}_{2} \cdot 6 \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) is \(\mathrm{Cl}_{2}\), which is formed by two chloride ions (Cl⁻). We denote it as dichloride since there are two chloride ions in the compound.

Step 3: Identify the Hydrate

The hydrate in the given chemical formula \(\operatorname{Sr} \mathrm{Cl}_{2} \cdot 6\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) is \(6 \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\). We refer to this as hexahydrate since there are six water molecules in the compound.

Step 4: Combine the Cation, Anion, and Hydrate

Now we combine the cation, anion, and hydrate to name the compound. We have: strontium dichloride hexahydrate. So, the compound with the given chemical formula \(\operatorname{Sr} \mathrm{Cl}_{2} \cdot 6 \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) is called strontium dichloride hexahydrate.

Key Concepts

Strontium Compounds

Strontium compounds are chemicals composed of the element strontium, a silvery metal that belongs to the alkaline earth metals in group 2 of the periodic table. Strontium is often used in fireworks to produce a bright red color and can form various chemical compounds, primarily with chlorine, sulfur, and oxygen.
In the realm of chemistry, strontium's reactive nature is notable, as it often forms ionic compounds. It typically loses two electrons to form a stable strontium ion, \( ext{Sr}^{2+}\). This means that when forming compounds, strontium usually bonds with non-metals that accept these electrons, creating substances such as strontium chloride (SrCl₂).

• These compounds often have applications in electronics, pyrotechnics, and sometimes even pharmaceuticals.
• Understanding the properties of strontium is crucial for predicting the behavior of strontium compounds in chemical reactions.

Hydrate Chemistry

Hydrate chemistry involves compounds that contain water molecules within their crystalline structure. These are known as hydrates, and they play a significant role in various chemical processes, including synthesis and crystallization.
Hydrates are characterized by their ability to retain water molecules in a fixed ratio, which is vital in determining their physical properties. For example, in the compound \( ext{SrCl}_{2} \cdot 6 ext{H}_{2}O\), the presence of water is indicated by the dot followed by the water formula (H₂O), and the prefix "hexa-" represents six water molecules bound within the compound.

• The number of water molecules is essential for the proper nomenclature and understanding of hydrates. Hence, it's referred to as "hexahydrate" in this case.
• Hydrates like these can undergo transformations when heated, often losing their water content to become anhydrous (water-free) substances.

This transformation is a common theme in hydrate chemistry, making it crucial to clearly understand the water content and structure within various chemical compounds.

Chemical Formula Identification

Chemical formula identification is a fundamental skill in chemistry, enabling scientists and students to decipher and name compounds accurately. It involves reading chemical formulas to discern the elements present, the number of each type of atom, and any structural details such as water molecules or ionic compositions.
In the case of \( ext{SrCl}_{2} \cdot 6 ext{H}_{2}O\), the identification process starts by recognizing individual elements and compounds. The \( ext{Sr}\) represents the strontium cation, while \( ext{Cl}_{2}\) points to two chloride anions, indicating an ionic bond between these elements.

• Next, the \( ext{H}_{2}O\) denotes the water of crystallization, crucial for forming a hydrated compound.
• By analyzing these components, the compound's full name can be constructed as "strontium dichloride hexahydrate."

Understanding chemical formula identification is integral for naming compounds, predicting their reactions, and utilizing them effectively in scientific and industrial processes.