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10 Examples of Polyatomic Ions

October 11, 2023
written by shahzad haider

Polyatomic ions are groups of atoms that carry a net electrical charge. These ions play a crucial role in chemistry, forming an integral part of various compounds and chemical reactions. In this article, weโ€™ll delve into 10 different examples of polyatomic ions, examining their structures, charges, and common occurrences.

Examples of Polyatomic Ions

Here are 10 Examples of Polyatomic Ions:

examples of polyatomic ions

1. Hydroxide Ion (OHโป)

Comprising one oxygen atom and one hydrogen atom, the hydroxide ion carries a charge of -1. It is a fundamental polyatomic ion found in hydroxides, contributing to the properties of bases and influencing pH levels in solutions.

2. Ammonium Ion (NHโ‚„โบ)

The ammonium ion is composed of four hydrogen atoms and one nitrogen atom, collectively carrying a charge of +1. Commonly encountered in salts like ammonium chloride, it contributes to the acidic properties of these compounds.

3. Nitrate Ion (NOโ‚ƒโป)

Consisting of one nitrogen atom and three oxygen atoms, the nitrate ion has a charge of -1. It is prevalent in nitrates, essential components of fertilizers and naturally occurring compounds in the nitrogen cycle.

4. Sulfate Ion (SOโ‚„ยฒโป)

With one sulfur atom and four oxygen atoms, the sulfate ion carries a charge of -2. Found in various sulfates like calcium sulfate (gypsum), it plays a role in industrial processes and environmental chemistry.

5. Carbonate Ion (COโ‚ƒยฒโป)

The carbonate ion, made up of one carbon atom and three oxygen atoms, has a charge of -2. It is a key component in carbonates, including calcium carbonate found in limestone and antacids.

6. Phosphate Ion (POโ‚„ยณโป)

Containing one phosphorus atom and four oxygen atoms, the phosphate ion carries a charge of -3. It is critical in biological systems, forming the backbone of DNA and RNA.

7. Acetate Ion (Cโ‚‚Hโ‚ƒOโ‚‚โป)

The acetate ion consists of two carbon atoms, three hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms, carrying a charge of -1. It is found in acetates, commonly used in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

8. Cyanide Ion (CNโป)

Comprising one carbon atom and one nitrogen atom, the cyanide ion carries a charge of -1. It is notorious for its toxicity and is encountered in certain industrial processes.

9. Permanganate Ion (MnOโ‚„โป)

The permanganate ion, with one manganese atom and four oxygen atoms, carries a charge of -1. It is used as an oxidizing agent in chemical reactions and is involved in redox processes.

10. Dihydrogen Phosphate Ion (Hโ‚‚POโ‚„โป)

The dihydrogen phosphate ion consists of one phosphorus atom, four oxygen atoms, and two hydrogen atoms, carrying a charge of -1. It is an essential component in the regulation of pH in biological systems.

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