Write out the name for (ionic compound) Ba(NO3)2
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The name for the ionic compound ( \text{Ba(NO}_3\text{)}_2 ) is barium nitrate.
Explanation
Barium nitrate is composed of two distinct ions: barium ions (( \text{Ba}^{2+} )) and nitrate ions (( \text{NO}_3^{-} )). The formula ( \text{Ba(NO}_3\text{)}_2 ) indicates that for every barium ion, there are two nitrate ions. This is due to the charges of the ions; barium has a +2 charge, while each nitrate ion has a -1 charge. To achieve electrical neutrality in the compound, two nitrate ions are needed to balance the +2 charge of one barium ion.
Barium is an alkaline earth metal located in Group 2 of the periodic table. It readily loses two electrons to form a ( \text{Ba}^{2+} ) ion. Nitrate, on the other hand, is a polyatomic ion made up of one nitrogen atom covalently bonded to three oxygen atoms, carrying an overall -1 charge. The presence of multiple oxygen atoms in the nitrate ion allows for the formation of strong covalent bonds within the ion itself, while its overall negative charge allows it to combine with positively charged metal ions like barium.
In terms of physical properties, barium nitrate is a white, crystalline solid that is soluble in water. It is commonly used in pyrotechnics, providing a bright green color when burned. Additionally, it has applications in the manufacturing of other barium compounds and is sometimes used as a laboratory reagent.
In summary, the naming of ionic compounds follows the convention of stating the name of the metal (in this case, barium) followed by the name of the non-metal or polyatomic ion (in this case, nitrate). Hence, ( \text{Ba(NO}_3\text{)}_2 ) is named barium nitrate.