High School Chemistry : Help with Polyatomic Ions

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for High School Chemistry

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Help With Polyatomic Ions

Which of the following polyatomic ions has a net charge of ?

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

For this question, you need to have the charges of polyatomic ions memorized. This will tell you that of the answer choices only the carbonate ion has a net charge of .

Chlorate: 

Nitrite: 

Phosphate: 

Carbonate: 

Example Question #2 : Help With Polyatomic Ions

When the ionic compound  is put in water, it dissociates to produce which of the following ions?

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

 and  are known as polyatomic ions. When a compound made up of polyatomic ions ionizes in water, it separates into the original polyatomic ions, not the individual elements.

Example Question #3 : Help With Polyatomic Ions

What is the correct molecular formula for phosphoric acid?

Possible Answers:

None of the answer choices are correct

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Phosphoric acid combines a single phosphate ion with three hydrogen ions. The correct molecular formula is .

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