Give the name or formula of the following ionic compound: copper (l) carbonate
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The name of the ionic compound copper(I) carbonate is given by its chemical formula Cu₂CO₃.
Explanation:
To determine the correct formula and name of copper (I) carbonate, we must first break down the elements involved and consider their charges and oxidation states.
- Copper (I):
- Copper can form multiple oxidation states, the most common being copper(I) (Cu⁺) and copper(II) (Cu²⁺).
- The “(I)” in copper(I) indicates that copper has a +1 charge in this compound.
- When copper is in the +1 oxidation state, it forms Cu⁺ ions.
- Carbonate (CO₃²⁻):
- The carbonate ion (CO₃²⁻) is a polyatomic ion, consisting of one carbon atom bonded to three oxygen atoms, with an overall charge of -2.
- This charge is a constant for the carbonate ion.
- Balancing the charges:
- To form a neutral ionic compound, the total positive charge must balance the total negative charge.
- Copper (I) ions have a +1 charge, and carbonate ions have a -2 charge.
- Since two copper (I) ions are needed to balance the charge of one carbonate ion (because +1 × 2 = +2 and the carbonate ion has a -2 charge), the formula for copper (I) carbonate is Cu₂CO₃.
Final Name and Formula:
- Name: Copper(I) carbonate.
- Formula: Cu₂CO₃.
This naming convention follows the rule that the Roman numeral indicates the charge of the metal cation (copper), and the carbonate is identified by its consistent polyatomic charge. Copper (I) is also called cuprous, while copper (II) is known as cupric, distinguishing between the two oxidation states of copper.