2007-06-22 13:43:53 · 3 answers · asked by .... 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
polyatomic ions are atoms stuck together that form molecules. And these molecules are special because no matter what they will always stick together, they basically form a new atom (in analogy) and they dont break up in a reaction ex. SO4 will not break up in a reaction.
2007-06-22 13:48:43 · answer #1 · answered by Manjinder N 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Polyatomic ions are bonded atoms that have an unbalance of electrons and protons, thus will have a + or - charge. The Sulfate ion is an example: S04=. There is one sulfur connected to four oxygens and inorder to satisfy the orbital filling of all 5 atoms, two additional electrons are needed, thus the -2 charge. If electrons are lost in completeing the orbital filling, a + charge will result.
2007-06-22 13:51:46 · answer #2 · answered by John R 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Simple ions are made of a single element. For example Cl- is a chloride anion.
A polyatomic ion is when a group of elements covalently bond together and then act as a single ion.
Examples would be SO4 = sulfate
NO3 = nitrate
2007-06-22 13:47:27 · answer #3 · answered by reb1240 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋