Multiple Choice
In binary molecular compound nomenclature, the covalent compound would be named:
9
views
5. Molecules and Compounds
Naming Binary Molecular Compounds
Struggling with Introduction to Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What is the correct name of the binary molecular compound ?
A
Phosphorus(III) oxide
B
Tetraphosphorus dioxide
C
Phosphorus pentoxide
D
Tetraphosphorus decaoxide
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify that the compound is a binary molecular compound composed of phosphorus and oxygen atoms, indicated by the formula \(P_4O_{10}\).
Recall that in naming binary molecular compounds, prefixes are used to denote the number of atoms of each element: 'mono-' for 1, 'di-' for 2, 'tri-' for 3, 'tetra-' for 4, 'penta-' for 5, and so on.
Apply the prefixes to each element: since there are 4 phosphorus atoms, use 'tetraphosphorus'; since there are 10 oxygen atoms, use 'decaoxide' (note that 'oxide' is used for oxygen in compounds).
Combine the prefixes and element names to form the full name: 'tetraphosphorus decaoxide'.
Verify that this naming follows the standard conventions for binary molecular compounds, where the first element keeps its name and the second element's ending changes to '-ide', with appropriate numerical prefixes.
1:10mWatch next
Master Naming Binary Molecular Compounds Concept 1 with a bite sized video explanation from Jules
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Naming Binary Molecular Compounds practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations