Polyatomic Ion
| Formula / Notation | Polyatomic ion: charged species of ≥2 atoms; e.g., SO₄²⁻, NH₄⁺, CO₃²⁻ |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Polyatomic ion, compound ion, molecular ion (solid-state), radical ion |
What is Polyatomic Ion?
An ion consisting of two or more atoms covalently bonded together and carrying a net electric charge. Common examples include hydroxide (OH⁻), sulfate (SO₄²⁻), nitrate (NO₃⁻), and ammonium (NH₄⁺). Polyatomic ions behave as single units in ionic compounds.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Polyatomic ion, compound ion, molecular ion (solid-state), radical ion
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
An ion consisting of two or more atoms covalently bonded together and carrying a net electric charge. Common examples include hydroxide (OH⁻), sulfate (SO₄²⁻), nitrate (NO₃⁻), and ammonium (NH₄⁺). Polyatomic ions behave as single units in ionic compounds.
Polyatomic ions are fundamental in inorganic nomenclature, in ionic compound formulae, in acid-base chemistry (polyprotic acids give polyatomic conjugate bases), in biochemistry (phosphate groups in ATP and DNA, acetyl groups in acetyl-CoA), and in analytical chemistry (gravimetric and titrimetric d…
Toxicity of polyatomic ions varies: cyanide (CN⁻) is acutely lethal, chromate (CrO₄²⁻) is carcinogenic, azide (N₃⁻) is acutely toxic and explosive in the acid form (HN₃). Polyatomic anions of strong acids (ClO₄⁻, NO₃⁻) are oxidising agents that can ignite organic material. Always identify the specif…
The formula or notation for Polyatomic Ion is: Polyatomic ion: charged species of ≥2 atoms; e.g., SO₄²⁻, NH₄⁺, CO₃²⁻