Naming Compounds?

Question

How do you know if a compound has only one name when working with multiple charged cations?

Answer 1

In the systematic naming of compounds, certain conventions were adopted such that the name completely describes the compound, including its oxidation state (hence its charge). One name, one compound, there's no other way to avoid confusion. Multiple names for a compounds arise when the systematic name is too cumbersome. Many natural products are thus named. Also, some compounds are still known by their old/historic names. This does get confusing, especially to us young modern chemists. Try not to think about it.

Answer 2

If there is Cu+ and Cu++, then CuCl is called cuprous chloride or copper(I) chloride. CuCl2 is called cupric chloride or copper(II) chloride. The name with the Roman numerals is called the Stock systerm. In this case, if your teacher wants to know about the Stock names, then there are two names for each compound.