Molecular Structure, Writing Formulas, and Naming Compounds

This set of flashcards is designed to help students review key concepts from the lecture on molecular structure, chemical formulas, and the naming of compounds.

What is VSEPR theory used for?

To predict the molecular structure and approximate bond angles around a central atom.

What does a bond angle represent?

The angle between any two bonds that includes a common atom.

How is bond distance measured?

In angstroms or picometers.

What molecule is produced during oil refining and has many uses including plastics and dyes?

Benzene (C6H6).

How many regions of electron density form a linear geometry?

Two regions.

What does 'ionic compound' refer to?

Substances made of positive and negative ions held together by ionic bonds.

What prefix indicates three atoms in molecular compounds?

Tri-.

What defines a polar molecule?

A molecule that has polar-covalent bonds resulting in a net dipole moment.

What is the empirical formula?

The simplest whole-number ratio of atoms in a compound.

How do you name an ionic compound?

Name the cation first, then the anion with the ending modified if necessary.

What are the prefixes for four and five atoms in molecular compounds?

Tetra- for four and penta- for five.

What are polyatomic ions?

Groups of atoms that are covalently bonded and carry an overall charge.

What is a characteristic of a non-polar molecule in terms of bond arrangement?

The bond moments cancel out.

Name an example of a transformation from a non-polar to a polar compound.

Phospholipid bilayer where hydrophilic heads face water.

What is the common name for H2O?

Water.

What is the formula for sulfur trioxide?

SO3.

How are acids typically identified in their chemical formula?

They typically start with H and produce H+ ions in aqueous solutions.

What is the difference between binary and oxyacids?

Binary acids contain hydrogen and one nonmetal, while oxyacids contain hydrogen and a polyatomic ion.

What does the 'hydro-' prefix indicate in acid naming?

It indicates the presence of hydrogen in binary acids.

What does a dot signify in ionic hydrates?

It separates the formula of the anhydrous compound from the water of hydration.

What is the formula for sodium bicarbonate?

NaHCO3.

What are the electrical properties of polar molecules?

They tend to align in an electric field.

How are molecular compounds named?

Use prefixes for numbers and the 'ide' ending for the second element.

What does the term 'lone pair' refer to?

A pair of valence electrons not involved in bonding.

What is the purpose of the criss-cross method?

To balance the charges when writing formulas for ionic compounds.

What is the charge of ammonium ion?

NH4+1.

What prefix is used for 10 atoms in molecular naming?

Deca-.

Give an example of a compound containing a transition metal with variable charge.

Iron (II) chloride, FeCl2.

What is the name of CO?

Carbon monoxide.

What is meant by 'molecular formula'?

It shows the actual number of atoms of each element in a molecule.

What is the charge of sulfate ion?

SO4-2.

What is the difference between structural and molecular formulas?

Structural formulas show how atoms are arranged, while molecular formulas show quantity.

How do we determine the molecular polarity?

By analyzing the arrangement of polar bonds and their dipole moments.

If a molecule contains only nonpolar bonds, what can we infer about its polarity?

The molecule is likely nonpolar.

Why are Roman numerals used in naming some transition metals?

To indicate the oxidation state of the metal.

What is a key feature of hydrates in ionic compounds?

They contain water molecules integrated into their crystalline structure.

What is the formula for dinitrogen pentoxide?

N2O5.

What is the impact of bond angles on molecular structure?

They determine the 3D shape and spatial arrangement of the molecule.