Review: Polyatomic ions to memorize

Sulfate

SO₄²⁻; a polyatomic ion with a -2 charge, often found in salts.

Nitrate

NO₃⁻; a polyatomic ion that is a key component in fertilizers.

Carbonate

CO₃²⁻; a polyatomic ion that can react with acids to produce carbon dioxide.

Phosphate

PO₄³⁻; essential for biological molecules like DNA and ATP.

Acetate

C₂H₃O₂⁻; common in organic chemistry and found in vinegar.

Hydroxide

OH⁻; a polyatomic ion that acts as a strong base.

Chlorate

ClO₃⁻; used in disinfectants and as a bleaching agent.

Bicarbonate

HCO₃⁻; helps maintain pH balance in blood and is found in baking soda.

Nitrite

NO₂⁻; often used in food preservation and can form under anaerobic conditions.

True or false: Phosphate has a -2 charge.

False, because phosphate has a -3 charge.

Difference between sulfate and sulfite

Sulfate (SO₄²⁻) has four oxygen atoms; sulfite (SO₃²⁻) has three.

Fill the blank: The formula for ammonium is _____.

NH₄⁺; a positively charged polyatomic ion.

What is the charge of carbonate?

-2; the carbonate ion carries a -2 charge.