What is the name of the compound (NH4) 2SO2
The correct answer and explanation is:
The compound (NH4)2SO2(NH_4)_2SO_2 is commonly referred to as ammonium bisulfite.
This compound consists of two ammonium ions (NH4+NH_4^+) and one bisulfite ion (HSO3−HSO_3^-). The ammonium ion is a polyatomic cation formed from ammonia (NH3NH_3) by the addition of a proton (H+H^+). The bisulfite ion, also known as the hydrogen sulfite ion, is a sulfur-containing anion where sulfur is bonded to three oxygen atoms, one of which is bonded to a hydrogen atom.
In terms of its chemical structure, the bisulfite ion HSO3−HSO_3^- is derived from sulfuric acid (H2SO4H_2SO_4) by removing one hydrogen ion. In its ionic form, the sulfur atom has a formal charge of +1, and the oxygen atoms carry negative charges. The proton from the ammonium ion attaches to the oxygen of the bisulfite ion, resulting in the formation of ammonium bisulfite.
Ammonium bisulfite is typically encountered in solutions, especially in the context of industrial applications like flue gas treatment, where it can act as a reducing agent. It is also used in various chemical syntheses and as a component in some disinfectants.
When dissolved in water, ammonium bisulfite dissociates into its ions, providing a mildly acidic solution. The compound can also be involved in reactions with other chemicals, such as in the production of sulfur dioxide (SO2SO_2) or in the neutralization of strong bases.
In summary, ammonium bisulfite is a simple ionic compound with a practical role in chemistry, particularly for its ability to participate in redox reactions and in industrial processes related to sulfur and its compounds.