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Determining FormulasIt is possible to figure out or predict the formulas of ionic compounds just from knowing which elements are involved by considering the charges on the ions. On the pages listed here (to the left) are several examples of how to determine formulas. (They are also shown in example 9 of your workbook.) Each example tries to model the step-by-step thought process you can use to figure out ionic formulas. (I also include the names of these compounds so that you will begin to become familiar with naming.) In sequence, each presents an additional factor or level of complexity. It will be handy to have a periodic table with you as you go through this. Note as you go through these examples that the metal or positive ion is always written first in the formulas. Study these examples (here or in your workbook) as needed, then move on to the section "Naming Ionic Compounds". After reading the comments there, try your hand at predicting ionic formulas ionic compounds in the "Practice" section included in "Naming Ionic Compounds".
E-mail instructor: Eden Francis Clackamas Community College |
