Refer to the nomenclature flowchart (Figure 3.11) to name each compound. c. P2S5

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the type of compound: P2S5 is a binary compound composed of two nonmetals, phosphorus (P) and sulfur (S).
2. Use the appropriate prefix for the number of each type of atom: 'di-' for two phosphorus atoms and 'penta-' for five sulfur atoms.
3. Name the first element: The first element, phosphorus, retains its elemental name.
4. Name the second element: The second element, sulfur, is named as 'sulfide' to indicate it is part of a compound.
5. Combine the names with prefixes: Combine the prefixes and names to form the compound name 'diphosphorus pentasulfide'.

Key Concepts

Chemical Nomenclature

Chemical nomenclature is the system of naming chemical compounds based on their composition and structure. It follows specific rules set by organizations like the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC). Understanding nomenclature is essential for accurately identifying and communicating about chemical substances.

Binary Compounds

Binary compounds consist of two different elements. In the case of P2S5, it is a binary compound made of phosphorus (P) and sulfur (S). The naming convention for binary compounds typically involves using prefixes to indicate the number of atoms of each element, which is crucial for correctly naming compounds with multiple atoms.

Prefixes in Chemical Names

Prefixes are used in chemical nomenclature to denote the number of atoms of each element in a compound. For example, 'di-' indicates two, 'tri-' indicates three, and 'penta-' indicates five. In the compound P2S5, the prefix 'di-' is used for phosphorus and 'penta-' for sulfur, leading to the name diphosphorus pentasulfide.