Oxysalts: Nomenclature, Formation, and Types

Oxysalts: Nomenclature, Formation, and Types

Oxysalts are ionic compounds that form when a metal cation replaces the hydrogen in an oxyacid. They are named following the same rules as oxyacids, with some modifications. This article will delve into the nomenclature, formation, and types of oxysalts.

Nomenclature of Oxysalts

Oxysalts are named using common nomenclature. For low oxidation numbers, the suffix is "-ite," while for high oxidation numbers, the suffix is "-ate". For example, in the compound Na2SO4, "Na" is the metal, "2" is the oxidation number, "S" is the central element, and "O4" is the anion. In the compound Ca(NO3)2, "Ca" is the metal, "N" is the central element, "O3" is the anion, and "2" is the charge.

Formation of Oxysalts

Oxysalts are formed by the replacement of hydrogen in an oxyacid with metal cations. When all hydrogens are replaced, neutral salts are obtained. If some hydrogens are replaced, acid salts are produced. For example, when hydrochloric acid (HCl) reacts with sodium hydroxide (NaOH), the oxysalt sodium chloride (NaCl) is formed.

Types of Oxysalts

Neutral Oxysalts

When all hydrogens in an oxyacid are replaced by metal cations, the resulting oxysalt is a neutral salt. For example, sodium nitrate (NaNO3) is a neutral oxysalt.

Acid Oxysalts

When some hydrogens in an oxyacid are replaced by metal cations, the resulting oxysalt is an acid salt. For example, ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) is an acid oxysalt.

Stoichiometric and Additive Nomenclature

In addition to the common nomenclature, oxysalts can also be named using stoichiometric and additive nomenclature systems, such as Ewens-Bassett's system. These systems are based on the structure and oxidation numbers of the central element and the anion.

In conclusion, oxysalts are ionic compounds that form when a metal cation replaces the hydrogen in an oxyacid. They are named using common nomenclature, with modifications for low and high oxidation numbers. Oxysalts can be neutral or acidic, depending on the number of hydrogens replaced.

Explore the nomenclature, formation, and types of oxysalts, which are ionic compounds formed when a metal cation replaces the hydrogen in an oxyacid. Learn about the naming rules, formation process, and different types of oxysalts including neutral and acid salts.