Give the systematic name for the following polyatomic ion.
NO₂^–

• A. nitrate
• B. nitrite
• C. nitrous
• D. pernitrate

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the chemical formula given: NO2–.
2. Recognize that NO2– is a polyatomic ion, which is a charged species composed of two or more atoms covalently bonded.
3. Recall the common names of polyatomic ions containing nitrogen and oxygen. NO3– is known as nitrate, while NO2– is known as nitrite.
4. Understand that the suffix '-ate' is typically used for the ion with more oxygen atoms, while '-ite' is used for the ion with fewer oxygen atoms.
5. Conclude that the systematic name for NO2– is nitrite, as it has one less oxygen atom than nitrate (NO3–).