Chapter 9.2, Problem 24LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The use of parentheses in writing a chemical formula is to be stated.

Concept Introduction : Polyatomic ions are composed of more than two types of atoms and ionic compounds contain polyatomic ions.

Answer to Problem 24LC

Parentheses are common in ionic compounds when polyatomic ions are present in them.

Explanation of Solution

Parentheses are common in ionic compounds when polyatomic ions are present in them. It is used in the chemical formula when a compound has multiple elements.

For the compounds having polyatomic ions:

• ${\left({\text{NH}}_{\text{4}}\right)}_{\text{3}}{\text{PO}}_{\text{4}}$ is an ionic compound that is composed of two polyatomic ions $\left({\text{NH}}_{\text{4}}{}^{+},{\text{PO}}_{\text{4}}{}^{3-}\right)$ .