Question

Arrange the statements from top to bottom to describe general process for naming binary molecular compounds when given the formula

1. write the name of the element that is the farthest to the left and nearest to the bottom of the periodic table
2. add a greek prefix that matches the subscript in the formula for the element if there is more than one atom present
3. write the root name of the second element present
4. add an -ide to the root name of the element
5. add a greek prefix that matches the subscript in the formula of the element ending in -ide

Answer 1

The process for naming binary molecular compounds involves starting with the first element's name on the left or bottom of the periodic table, using Greek prefixes for subscripts, and adding '-ide' to the second element's root name.

Step-by-step explanation:

To name binary molecular compounds, we must follow a systematic approach. This ensures that each compound has a unique and recognizable name. Here is the general process arranged in the correct order:

Write the name of the element that is farthest to the left and nearest to the bottom of the periodic table.

Add a Greek prefix that matches the subscript in the formula for the first element if there is more than one atom; do not use 'mono-' for a single atom.

Write the root name of the second element present.

Add an -ide to the root name of the second element.

Add a Greek prefix that matches the subscript in the formula of the second element; always use 'mono-' for a single atom here if applicable.

If the prefix ends with a vowel and the element name begins with a vowel, drop the ending vowel of the prefix.