Which of the following is a polyatomic ion?

Study for the Georgia High School Physical Science Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, detailed hints and explanations included. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is a polyatomic ion?

Explanation:
Polyatomic ions are charged units made of two or more atoms bonded together. Ammonium, NH4+, is a polyatomic ion because it has four hydrogens attached to one nitrogen and, as a whole, carries a +1 charge. The other options are monatomic ions, meaning they are single atoms with a charge: sodium in Na+ is just one sodium atom with a +1 charge; chlorine in Cl- is a single chlorine atom with a -1 charge; iron in Fe2+ is a single iron atom with a +2 charge. So the correct example of a polyatomic ion is ammonium.

Polyatomic ions are charged units made of two or more atoms bonded together. Ammonium, NH4+, is a polyatomic ion because it has four hydrogens attached to one nitrogen and, as a whole, carries a +1 charge. The other options are monatomic ions, meaning they are single atoms with a charge: sodium in Na+ is just one sodium atom with a +1 charge; chlorine in Cl- is a single chlorine atom with a -1 charge; iron in Fe2+ is a single iron atom with a +2 charge. So the correct example of a polyatomic ion is ammonium.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy