How to Properly Name K2C204 for Scientists

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the proper naming of the chemical compound K2C2O4, with participants exploring nomenclature related to chemistry, particularly focusing on ionic and covalent bonds.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Conceptual clarification, Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant initially suggests the name "Potassium Perchlorate," but acknowledges it is incorrect due to confusion with a different formula.
  • Another participant points out that carbon is present in the compound, indicating that names involving chlorate or perchlorate cannot be correct.
  • A participant expresses frustration about their chemistry class and the nomenclature being taught, indicating a lack of familiarity with carbon-containing acids.
  • There is a proposal of the name "dipotassium dicarbon tetraoxide," but a participant questions the reduction of this name to "potassium carbon dioxide."
  • A participant asserts that the compound is a carboxylic acid and encourages others to look up its definition.
  • Another participant suggests "potassium carboxylic," but this is met with skepticism.
  • Clarification is provided that K(+) and C2O4(2-) indicates the compound is potassium oxalate, with a participant confirming this name.
  • A later reply reiterates that K2C2O4 corresponds to oxalate, affirming the name "Potassium oxalate."

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the naming until the final posts, where participants agree that the correct name is "Potassium oxalate." However, earlier posts reflect confusion and disagreement regarding the initial naming attempts.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about nomenclature rules and the implications of carbon-containing compounds, indicating a potential gap in foundational knowledge.

Who May Find This Useful

Students studying chemistry, particularly those learning about chemical nomenclature and ionic compounds.

Dynamite
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Homework Statement



It is simply naming K2C204, but I can't seem to name it..

Homework Equations



None

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm thinking Potassium Perchlorate, but it isn't right, because then that would be K2C206..!
 
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C is carbon, so no way for chlorate or perchlorate to be right.

What carbon containing acids do you know?
 
... None? I'm in Phys 11(Unfortunately Higher Level) and my teacher's just thrown this nomenclature at us...(ionic/covalent bonds)

Should I know?!
aaargh!
 
and by Phys 11, I really meant Chem
 
hold on..dipotassium dicarbon tetraoxide?!
but can't you reduce that to..
KCO2
which is.. potassium carbon dioxide?!or.
 
No. This is a carboxylic acid. Google what that means.
 
so... potassium carboxylic??
 
Stop guessing, check what they are.
 
K(+) and C2O4(2-)
That makes K2C2O4. C2O4 is oxalate. That means this compound is named Potassium oxalate...
 
  • #10
kingtoot said:
K(+) and C2O4(2-)
That makes K2C2O4. C2O4 is oxalate. That means this compound is named Potassium oxalate...

Yaaay! Welcome to the Forum!
 

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