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Chemistry Information: Polyatomic Ions and Compounds

 

Chemistry involves knowing the names and formulas of certain compounds. In addition, an understanding of a few basic polyatomic ions can help. The polyatomic ions usually combine with metals in the first and second columns of the periodic table.

Names and Formulas of Compounds

WaterH2O
AmmoniaNH3
Carbon DioxideCO2
Sodium ChlorideNaCl
Nitrous OxideN2O
Calcium CarbonateCaCO3
Calcium OxideCaO
Calcium HydroxideCa(OH)2
Sodium Hydrogen CarbonateNaHCO3
Hydrochloric AcidHCl
Sulfuric AcidH2SO4
Nitric AcidHNO3

Common Polyatomic Ions

CO32-Carbonate
ClO3-Chlorate
CrO42-Chromate
CN-Cyanide
OH-Hydroxide
NO3-Nitrate
NO2-Nitrite
PO43-Phosphate
SO42-Sulfate
SO32-Sulfite