- #1
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With the Polyatomic ions, how do you tell an "ate" from an "ite" when choosing the suffix? I didn't quite catch what the teacher was saying but there was something about the charge compared with the subscript, I think? 
Polyatomic ions, -ate and -ite suffixes
- Thread starter Math Is Hard
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SUMMARY
The discussion clarifies the distinction between polyatomic ions with -ate and -ite suffixes, emphasizing that -ate ions possess a higher oxidation state compared to their -ite counterparts. For instance, sulfate (SO4) has one more oxygen than sulfite (SO3), while nitrate (NO3) has one more oxygen than nitrite (NO2). Memorization of these ions is essential, as there is no fixed number of oxygens associated with each suffix. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurately identifying and using polyatomic ions in chemical contexts.
PREREQUISITES- Familiarity with chemical nomenclature
- Basic understanding of oxidation states
- Knowledge of polyatomic ion structures
- Ability to read and interpret chemical formulas
- Study the list of common polyatomic ions and their charges
- Learn about oxidation states and their significance in chemical reactions
- Practice writing chemical formulas for compounds containing polyatomic ions
- Explore the role of polyatomic ions in acid-base chemistry
Chemistry students, educators, and anyone involved in chemical education or laboratory work who needs to understand and utilize polyatomic ions effectively.
- #2
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er.. maybe this actually belongs in science education area. I just saw the restructuring. Feel free to move this if needed. 
- #3
Concorde
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You generally have to memorize the polyatomic ions, since an -ate won't have a set number and neither will an -ite, it will depend on what the poly. ion is.
Such as sulfite (SO3) and sulfate (S04) vs. Nitrite (NO2) and Nitrate (NO3)
However, you only need to memroize the -ite one, since you know the -ate one is always just going to have one more.
Such as sulfite (SO3) and sulfate (S04) vs. Nitrite (NO2) and Nitrate (NO3)
However, you only need to memroize the -ite one, since you know the -ate one is always just going to have one more.
- #4
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OK, thanks very much!
- #5
renerob
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Ite refers to the lower state of oxidation and ate to the higher state. Example: copper sulfite and copper sulfate.
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