Polyatomic Ions
Definition: Polyatomic ions are ions that consist of more than one atom, which are covalently bonded together, carrying an overall charge (either positive or negative). These ions act as a single unit in chemical reactions and can participate in ionic bonding with other ions.
Examples of Polyatomic Ions:
- Ammonium ion (NH₄⁺): A positively charged ion consisting of one nitrogen atom and four hydrogen atoms.
- Nitrate ion (NO₃⁻): A negatively charged ion consisting of one nitrogen atom and three oxygen atoms.
- Hydroxide ion (OH⁻): A negatively charged ion consisting of one oxygen atom and one hydrogen atom.
- Sulfate ion (SO₄²⁻): A negatively charged ion consisting of one sulfur atom and four oxygen atoms.
- Carbonate ion (CO₃²⁻): A negatively charged ion consisting of one carbon atom and three oxygen atoms.
- Phosphate ion (PO₄³⁻): A negatively charged ion consisting of one phosphorus atom and four oxygen atoms.