If NH4+ is the cation, then what is the anion of it?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around identifying an appropriate anion that can combine with the cation NH4+ to form a neutral molecule. Participants explore various possibilities and clarify the conditions under which different anions may be applicable.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks for an anion that pairs with NH4+ to form a neutral molecule, referencing HNO3 as an example.
  • Another participant suggests OH- as a possible anion in the context of NH3 and water.
  • Some participants propose that any anion could theoretically work, depending on the specific molecule being formed.
  • A later reply emphasizes that the choice of anion is contingent on the specific molecule of interest, reiterating the need for context similar to the HNO3 example provided.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on a specific anion for NH4+, indicating that multiple views remain regarding the conditions necessary for pairing with different anions.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the dependence on the specific molecule being referenced, suggesting that the answer is not universally applicable without additional context.

HCverma
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If NH4+ is the cation, then what is the anion of it so that the cation and anion combine and make a molecule? as in HNO3, where the cation is H+ and the anion is HNO3- and these cation and anion combine, make a neutral molecule HNO3.
 
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OH- (for the case of NH3 and water)
 
In general any anion will do.
 
HCverma said:
If NH4+ is the cation, then what is the anion of it so that the cation and anion combine and make a molecule?

It depends on the molecule. You need to tell us which molecule you are interested in, just like you did in the example you gave:

HCverma said:
as in HNO3, where the cation is H+ and the anion is HNO3- and these cation and anion combine, make a neutral molecule HNO3.

Here we know the cation and anion because you told us the molecule. We can't know the anion that goes with NH4+ unless you tell us what molecule you are interested in.
 

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