03.08 Naming Compounds: Naming Compounds Overview Chart—Text Version

1. Is the first element in the formula a metal?
1. Yes. It is an ionic compound. Does the ionic compound contain a polyatomic ion?
1. Yes. No change to ending. Name the first ion followed by the name of the second ion. Do not change the endings of the polyatomic ions.
2. No. Change ending of second element. Name the metal then name the nonmetal with its ending changed to -ide.
2. No. It is a covalent compound. Does the first element in the compound hydrogen (H)?
1. No. It is a binary covalent compound. Use prefixes to identify the number of atoms of each element. (prefix if more than one) first element (prefix always) second element with ending changed to -ide.
2. Yes. It is an acid. Is there a polyatomic ion following the hydrogen in the formula?
1. Yes. It is an oxyacid. If the polyatomic ion ended in -ate, the acid will be named by changing the end of the polyatomic's name to -ic acid. If the ending on the polyatomic ion is -ite, change it to -ous acid.
2. No. It is a binary acid. Name it following this pattern: hydro_______ic acid Fill in the blank with the name of the second element.