What Is The Correct IUPAC Name For CuSO3?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct IUPAC name for CuSO₃ is Copper(I) sulfite.
Explanation:
- Identifying the Cation (Cu)
- Copper (Cu) is a transition metal and can have multiple oxidation states. The most common oxidation states of copper are +1 (Cu⁺) and +2 (Cu²⁺).
- The oxidation state must be determined based on the charge of the anion (SO₃²⁻).
- Identifying the Anion (SO₃²⁻)
- The sulfite ion (SO₃²⁻) has a charge of -2.
- Since there is only one Cu atom present in the compound, the charge of Cu must be +1 to balance the overall charge.
- Determining the Oxidation State of Copper
- Let x be the oxidation state of Cu. The total charge of the compound must be neutral:
[
x + (-2) = 0
]
[
x = +1
] - Therefore, the oxidation state of Cu in CuSO₃ is +1.
- Naming the Compound Using IUPAC Rules
- Copper is named first, followed by its oxidation state in Roman numerals in parentheses: Copper(I).
- The anion sulfite (SO₃²⁻) is named normally.
- This gives the final name: Copper(I) sulfite.
Common Mistakes:
- Some might incorrectly name it Copper(II) sulfite (CuSO₃ does not exist in this form).
- Another common mistake is confusing sulfite (SO₃²⁻) with sulfate (SO₄²⁻).
Thus, the correct IUPAC name for CuSO₃ is Copper(I) sulfite.
Now, I’ll generate an image representing Copper(I) sulfite’s molecular structure.

Here is the 3D molecular structure of Copper(I) sulfite (CuSO₃), showing the copper ion bonded to the sulfite ion in a trigonal pyramidal shape. Let me know if you need any modifications!