Chapter 8, Problem 91A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The formula for silicon dioxide needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

A binary compound comprises of two nonmetal atoms. For naming this compound, first write the name of first element, then second element formula is named by using its root and adding suffix-ide. Prefix is used to identify the number of atoms in each element.

Answer to Problem 91A

Formula of Silicon dioxide is ${\text{SiO}}_{\text{2}}$.

Explanation of Solution

The first element of silicon dioxide is Si, hence, according to the naming rule of the binary compound, its name is written first. The symbol Si represents silicon. Second element is oxygen and it is named by its root by adding −ide. In this molecule, number of Si is one and O is 2. So, prefix di is used in oxygen. Hence, the formula of the molecule is ${\text{SiO}}_{\text{2}}$.

Conclusion

Mono- prefix is never used in the name of first element.