This worksheet answer key provides detailed explanations to help you master the art of naming acids. Understanding acid nomenclature is crucial in chemistry, and this guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you not only get the right answers but also understand the underlying principles.
Understanding Acid Nomenclature
Before diving into the answers, let's briefly review the rules for naming acids. Acids are compounds that release hydrogen ions (H⁺) when dissolved in water. Their names depend on the anion (negatively charged ion) they contain.
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Binary Acids: These acids contain only hydrogen and a nonmetal. Their names start with the prefix "hydro-" followed by the root name of the nonmetal, and end with "-ic acid." For example, HCl is hydrochloric acid.
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Oxoacids (Oxyacids): These acids contain hydrogen, oxygen, and a nonmetal. Their naming is slightly more complex:
- If the anion ends in "-ite," the acid name ends in "-ous acid." For example, SO₃²⁻ (sulfite) forms H₂SO₃ (sulfurous acid).
- If the anion ends in "-ate," the acid name ends in "-ic acid." For example, SO₄²⁻ (sulfate) forms H₂SO₄ (sulfuric acid).
Worksheet Answer Key (Example - Adapt this framework to your specific worksheet):
(Note: This section requires the original worksheet questions. I will provide examples to demonstrate how to format the answers. Replace these examples with the actual questions and answers from your worksheet.)
1. Name the following acid: HCl
Answer: Hydrochloric acid. This is a binary acid; therefore, we use the "hydro-" prefix, the root name of the nonmetal (chlor-), and the "-ic acid" suffix.
2. Name the following acid: HNO₃
Answer: Nitric acid. This is an oxoacid. The anion is nitrate (NO₃⁻), which ends in "-ate," so the acid name ends in "-ic acid."
3. What is the chemical formula for sulfuric acid?
Answer: H₂SO₄. Sulfuric acid is an oxoacid derived from the sulfate anion (SO₄²⁻).
4. Name the following acid: H₂SO₃
Answer: Sulfurous acid. This is an oxoacid. The anion is sulfite (SO₃²⁻), which ends in "-ite," so the acid name ends in "-ous acid."
5. Name the following acid: HBr
Answer: Hydrobromic acid. This is a binary acid, following the "hydro- [nonmetal root] -ic acid" naming convention.
Tips and Tricks for Mastering Acid Nomenclature:
- Memorize common polyatomic ions: Knowing the names and formulas of common polyatomic ions (like sulfate, nitrate, phosphate) is essential for naming oxoacids.
- Practice: The best way to master acid nomenclature is through consistent practice. Work through numerous examples and test yourself regularly.
- Use flashcards: Create flashcards with the formulas and names of acids to aid memorization.
- Consult a periodic table: The periodic table can be a helpful resource for identifying nonmetals and determining their root names.
By understanding these rules and practicing diligently, you will become proficient in naming acids. Remember, the key is to break down the process step-by-step and identify whether you are dealing with a binary acid or an oxoacid. This answer key, combined with focused practice, will equip you to confidently tackle any acid nomenclature challenge.
