How to Properly Name K2C204 for Scientists

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K2C2O4 is correctly named Potassium oxalate, as the C2O4 ion is the oxalate ion. The initial confusion arose from incorrectly associating the compound with chlorate or perchlorate. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding ionic and covalent bonds in chemical nomenclature. The participant initially struggled with naming due to a lack of familiarity with carbon-containing acids. Ultimately, the correct identification of the oxalate ion clarified the naming process.
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Homework Statement



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

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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...

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