Oxyanions

Definition

Oxyanions are polyatomic ions that contain one or more oxygen atoms bonded to another element, typically a non-metal. They often carry a negative charge due to the presence of extra electrons.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oxyanions typically end in '-ate' or '-ite', with '-ate' indicating more oxygen atoms than '-ite'.
2. The central atom in an oxyanion can vary, but common examples include sulfur (sulfate), nitrogen (nitrate), and phosphorus (phosphate).
3. Oxyanions can form acids when combined with hydrogen ions; for example, sulfate ($SO_4^{2-}$) forms sulfuric acid ($H_2SO_4$).
4. Some oxyanions can have multiple oxidation states, leading to different names and formulas (e.g., hypochlorite $ClO^-$ vs. perchlorate $ClO_4^-$).
5. The charge on an oxyanion is determined by the total number of electrons lost or gained compared to the neutral atoms involved.

Review Questions

Related terms

Polyatomic Ion:

An ion composed of two or more atoms covalently bonded, that functions as a single charged entity.

Sulfate:

$SO_4^{2-}$, a common oxyanion consisting of one sulfur atom surrounded by four oxygen atoms.

Nitrate:

$NO_3^-$, an oxyanion featuring one nitrogen atom bonded to three oxygen atoms.