Order of atoms in chemical formulas

In summary, the order of atoms in a chemical formula is crucial as it determines the arrangement of atoms within a molecule and ultimately affects its physical and chemical properties. This order can greatly impact a molecule's behavior and can change through chemical reactions or physical changes. The order is determined by the type and strength of chemical bonds between atoms and it is important to accurately write it to ensure the correct representation of a molecule and avoid potential safety hazards.
  • #1
Mu naught
208
2
what determines what order the atoms in a formula are written?

for example, why is it CO2 and not O2C?

It doesn't appear to be ordered by atomic weight, place on the peridoic table or alphabetically so what is it?
 
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  • #2
Consult IUPAC Red Book.

http://www.iupac.org/publications/books/rbook/Red_Book_2005.pdf [Broken]

Be ready. That's not a reading for lighthearted.

You may start with section IR-2.15
 
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1. What is the significance of the order of atoms in a chemical formula?

The order of atoms in a chemical formula represents the arrangement of atoms within a molecule. This arrangement is important because it determines the physical and chemical properties of the molecule.

2. Does the order of atoms in a chemical formula affect its chemical formula?

Yes, the order of atoms in a chemical formula can greatly impact its chemical properties. For example, the same atoms arranged in a different order can result in a completely different molecule with different properties.

3. How is the order of atoms determined in a chemical formula?

The order of atoms in a chemical formula is determined by the chemical bonding between the atoms. The type and strength of these bonds dictate the arrangement of atoms in a molecule.

4. Can the order of atoms in a chemical formula change?

Yes, the order of atoms in a chemical formula can change if the chemical bonds between the atoms are broken and new bonds are formed. This can occur through chemical reactions or physical changes, such as melting or vaporization.

5. Why is it important to correctly write the order of atoms in a chemical formula?

Correctly writing the order of atoms in a chemical formula is important because it ensures the accurate representation of a molecule's structure and properties. Inaccurate ordering of atoms can result in incorrect predictions of a substance's behavior and can lead to potential safety hazards.

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