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Ch.2 - Atoms, Molecules & Ions
Chapter 2, Problem 146c

Give systematic names for the following binary compounds: (c) CuO

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Identify the elements in the compound: Cu (copper) and O (oxygen).
Determine the type of compound: CuO is a binary ionic compound.
Identify the charge of the anion: Oxygen typically forms a 2- charge as an oxide ion (O^{2-}).
Determine the charge of the cation: Since the compound is neutral, copper must balance the 2- charge of the oxide ion. Therefore, copper must have a 2+ charge in this compound.
Name the compound: Use the cation name followed by the anion name. Since copper can have multiple oxidation states, specify the oxidation state using Roman numerals. The name is Copper(II) oxide.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Binary Compounds

Binary compounds consist of two different elements. In chemistry, these compounds can be ionic or covalent, depending on the nature of the bonding between the elements. Understanding the type of binary compound is essential for determining the correct naming conventions.
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Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed when metals transfer electrons to nonmetals, resulting in the formation of charged ions. In the case of CuO, copper (Cu) is a metal that forms a cation, while oxygen (O) is a nonmetal that forms an anion. Recognizing the ionic nature of CuO is crucial for applying the appropriate naming rules.
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Systematic Naming (IUPAC Nomenclature)

The systematic naming of compounds follows specific rules set by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC). For binary ionic compounds, the name typically consists of the cation's name followed by the anion's name with an '-ide' suffix. For CuO, the systematic name is copper(II) oxide, indicating the oxidation state of copper.
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