What is the correct name for the molecular compound XeBr2Cl2?

• A. xenon dibromide dichloride
• B. xenon bromide chloride
• C. xenon bromine chloride
• D. xenon dibromine dichlorine

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the elements present in the compound: xenon (Xe), bromine (Br), and chlorine (Cl).
2. Determine the number of atoms of each element in the compound: 1 xenon, 2 bromine, and 2 chlorine atoms.
3. Recall the naming rules for molecular (covalent) compounds: use prefixes to indicate the number of atoms (mono-, di-, tri-, etc.), and name the elements in order, with the more electropositive element first (here, xenon is a noble gas and named first).
4. Apply the prefixes to the halogen elements: 'di-' for two bromine atoms and 'di-' for two chlorine atoms, and use the root names 'bromide' and 'chloride' for the halogens.
5. Combine the parts to form the full name: 'xenon dibromide dichloride', ensuring correct use of prefixes and element names.