Question

When writing the name for a compound containing a transition metal, a roman numeral is placed in between the two elements. What does the roman numeral signify?

A. The number of protons in the transition metal
B. The number of transition metal atoms in the compound
C. The number of non-metal atoms in the compound
D. The oxidation number of the transition metal

Answer 1

The roman numeral placed in between the two elements in the name of a compound containing a transition metal signifies the oxidation number of the transition metal. The correct answer is D. The oxidation number of the transition metal.

Step-by-step explanation:

The roman numeral placed in between the two elements in the name of a compound containing a transition metal signifies the oxidation number of the transition metal. The oxidation number represents the charge that the transition metal has in the compound.

This is important because many transition metals can form multiple cations with different charges, and the roman numeral helps to indicate the specific charge of the metal ion in the compound. Therefore, the correct answer is D. The oxidation number of the transition metal.