What is the correct name for the molecular compound N_2O_3?

• A. Nitrogen trioxide
• B. Nitrogen dioxide
• C. Dinitrogen pentoxide
• D. Dinitrogen trioxide

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the elements and their quantities in the molecular formula N_2O_3: there are 2 nitrogen (N) atoms and 3 oxygen (O) atoms.
2. Recall the naming rules for molecular (covalent) compounds: use prefixes to indicate the number of atoms of each element (mono-, di-, tri-, tetra-, penta-, etc.). The first element keeps its full name, and the second element is named as if it were an anion, ending with '-ide'.
3. Apply the prefixes to the elements: 'di-' for 2 nitrogens and 'tri-' for 3 oxygens, so the name becomes 'dinitrogen trioxide'.
4. Note that the prefix 'mono-' is usually omitted for the first element if there is only one atom, but here we have two nitrogens, so 'di-' is necessary.
5. Confirm that the name 'dinitrogen trioxide' correctly reflects the formula N_2O_3, matching the number of atoms and following the molecular compound naming conventions.