Chapter 4, Problem 9STP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: Incorrect nomenclature for the given acids has to be identified.

Concept introduction: Acids are substances that furnish ${\text{H}}^{+}$ ions in an aqueous medium. Their nomenclature is derived from anion’s name which they usually form when dissolute in ${\text{H}}_2\text{O}$ . Their names vary depending on what anion the hydrogen is attached with. Binary acids are named starting with the prefix “hydro-,” followed by name of anion and suffix “-ic.”

Some acids have oxygen in the compound. The rule for naming these acids is:

If the polyatomic ion of the acid ends with ‘ate’ then the name of acid is ended with ‘ic’.

Answer to Problem 9STP

Option A.

Explanation of Solution

In the case of ${\text{HNO}}_3$ , the polyatomic anion is nitrate ${\text{NO}}_3{}^{-}.$ So, while naming ${\text{HNO}}_3$ , the nitrate becomes “nitric”.

So, the correct nomenclature is Nitric acid.

Conclusion

  ${\text{C}}_2{\text{H}}_3{\text{O}}_2{}^{-}$ is called acetate anion so ${\text{HC}}_2{\text{H}}_3{\text{O}}_2$ is named acetic acid.

  ${\text{PO}}_4{}^{3-}$ is called phosphate anion so ${\text{H}}_3{\text{PO}}_4$ is named phosphoric acid.