Chapter 5, Problem 55E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The formula for the compound formed by the element potassium when it is combined with acetate, chromate, phosphate, and cyanide is to be written.

Concept introduction:

Ions that are composed of a group of atoms with an overall charge are known as polyatomic ions.

In order to write the formula for ionic compounds containing polyatomic ions, use the formula and charge of the polyatomic ions.

To write the formula for the ionic compound that contains polyatomic ions, follow the following rules:

1. Write the symbol of the metal ion followed by the polyatomic ion’s symbol, their charges can be deduced from their group numbers in the periodic table.

2. The magnitude of the charge on each ion as a subscript is to be used as the subscript for the other ion.

3. Check if the subscripts can be reduced to simpler whole numbers.

4. Check and confirm whether the sum of the charge on the cation is equal to the sum of the charges of the polyatomic ions.