Textbook Question
Which of the following are ionic, and which are molecular? (d) Ca(NO3)2
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Ch.2 - Atoms, Molecules, and Ions
Chapter 2, Problem 66h
Which of the following are ionic, and which are molecular? (h) N2O4
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Identify the types of elements involved in the compound N2O4. Here, nitrogen (N) and oxygen (O) are both nonmetals.
Recall that ionic compounds are generally formed between metals and nonmetals, whereas molecular (covalent) compounds are formed between nonmetals.
Since both nitrogen and oxygen are nonmetals, N2O4 is not composed of a metal and a nonmetal. Therefore, it does not fit the typical composition of an ionic compound.
Analyze the bonding within the compound. The atoms in N2O4 share electrons to form covalent bonds, which is characteristic of molecular compounds.
Conclude that N2O4 is a molecular compound due to the covalent bonding between the nonmetal elements.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Ionic vs. Molecular Compounds
Ionic compounds are formed from the electrostatic attraction between positively and negatively charged ions, typically involving metals and nonmetals. In contrast, molecular compounds consist of molecules formed by covalent bonds, where atoms share electrons, usually involving nonmetals. Understanding the distinction helps in predicting properties such as melting points, solubility, and electrical conductivity.
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Chemical Bonding
Chemical bonding refers to the forces that hold atoms together in a compound. Ionic bonds occur when electrons are transferred from one atom to another, resulting in charged ions. Molecular compounds are held together by covalent bonds, where electrons are shared between atoms. Recognizing these bonding types is essential for classifying compounds correctly.
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Nomenclature of Compounds
Nomenclature is the system of naming chemical compounds based on their composition and structure. Ionic compounds are typically named by combining the names of the constituent ions, while molecular compounds use prefixes to indicate the number of atoms present. Familiarity with nomenclature rules aids in identifying and categorizing compounds like N2O4, which is molecular due to its covalent bonds.
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