Ionic Compounds Chemistry: Polyatomic Ions Quiz

Reviewed by Zohra Sattar Waxali
Zohra Sattar Waxali, PhD (Chemistry) |
Chemistry
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Dr. Zohra Sattar Waxali earned her doctorate in chemistry and biochemistry from Northwestern University, specializing in the metallomes of cardiac cells and stem cells, and their impact on biological function. Her research encompasses the development of arsenoplatin chemotherapeutics, stapled peptide estrogen receptor inhibitors, and antimicrobial natural products.
, PhD (Chemistry)
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Ionic Compounds Chemistry: Polyatomic Ions Quiz - Quiz

This Polyatomic Ions Quiz is designed to test your knowledge of polyatomic ions, essential components in chemistry. Polyatomic ions are groups of atoms with an overall electrical charge, forming an integral part of numerous chemical compounds.

A polyatomic ion is seen as a molecule that has been ionized by gaining or losing electrons. In a polyatomic ion, the group of covalently bonded atoms carries a net charge because the total number of electrons in the molecule is not equal to the total number of protons in the molecule. This Common Polyatomic Ions Test offers an opportunity to enhance your Read moreknowledge and proficiency in handling polyatomic ions.

Get ready to explore the world of chemical compounds and molecular formulas in this engaging and educational Polyatomic Ions Practice quiz on polyatomic ions! Test your understanding and improve your skills as you navigate through a variety of questions related to these fundamental ions


Polyatomic Ions Questions and Answers

  • 1. 

    What is the chemical name of NH4+?

    • A.

      Ammonium

    • B.

      Nitrite

    • C.

      Hydroxide

    • D.

      Acetate

    • E.

      Nitrate

    Correct Answer
    A. Ammonium
    Explanation
    NH₄⁺ is known as the ammonium ion. In chemistry, it's a positively charged polyatomic ion (ion with more than one atom). It's formed by the protonation of ammonia (NH₃). The other options in the list—nitrite (NO₂⁻), nitrate (NO₃⁻), hydroxide (OH⁻), and acetate (CH₃COO⁻)—are names of different ions and don't correspond to the given chemical formula, NH₄⁺.

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  • 2. 

    What is the chemical name of CrO42-?

    • A.

      Phosphate

    • B.

      Carbonate

    • C.

      Chromate

    • D.

      Sulfite

    • E.

      Sulfate

    Correct Answer
    C. Chromate
    Explanation
    CrO42- is a polyatomic ion composed of one chromium atom and four oxygen atoms. The name of this ion is chromate. The other options are incorrect as they represent different polyatomic ions: phosphate (PO43-), carbonate (CO32-), sulfite (SO32-), and sulfate (SO42-).

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  • 3. 

    What is the chemical name of NO₂?

    • A.

      Nitric oxide

    • B.

      Nitrogen dioxide

    • C.

      Dinitrogen tetroxide

    • D.

      Nitrogen trioxide

    Correct Answer
    B. Nitrogen dioxide
    Explanation
    Nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) is a chemical compound consisting of one nitrogen atom and two oxygen atoms. It is a significant pollutant produced by vehicles, industrial processes, and the combustion of fossil fuels. NO₂ is known for its reddish-brown color and strong, acrid smell. It plays a crucial role in the formation of smog and acid rain, making it an important compound in environmental chemistry and air quality management.

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  • 4. 

    Acetate can be shown as C2H3O2- or CH3COO-.

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Acetate can indeed be represented as C₂H₃O₂⁻ or CH₃COO⁻. These are both valid chemical formulas for the acetate ion, which is a negatively charged ion. The formula C₂H₃O₂⁻ shows the molecular composition of acetate, with two carbon atoms, three hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms. The formula CH₃COO⁻ represents the structural formula of acetate, showing the arrangement of atoms in the molecule. Both formulas are commonly used to represent acetate in chemical reactions and equations. Therefore, the statement is true.

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  • 5. 

    What is the chemical name of CO32-?

    • A.

      Chromate

    • B.

      Phosphate

    • C.

      Nitrite

    • D.

      Carbonate

    • E.

      Sulfate

    Correct Answer
    D. Carbonate
    Explanation
    The chemical formula CO₃²⁻ corresponds to the carbonate ion. Carbonate is a polyatomic ion composed of one carbon atom bonded to three oxygen atoms, carrying a charge of -2. It is a versatile ion found in various compounds, including common substances like calcium carbonate, which is a key component of limestone and chalk.

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  • 6. 

    OH- can be described as which polyatomic ion?

    • A.

      Hydroxite

    • B.

      Phosphate

    • C.

      Hydroxide

    • D.

      Helium

    • E.

      Deoxyribose

    Correct Answer
    C. Hydroxide
    Explanation
    OH- is the chemical formula for the hydroxide ion. It consists of one oxygen atom bonded to one hydrogen atom and carries a negative charge. The hydroxide ion is commonly found in bases and plays a crucial role in many chemical reactions. Therefore, the correct description for OH- is hydroxide.

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  • 7. 

    Is NO3- nitrite or nitrate?

    Correct Answer
    nitrate, Nitrate
    Explanation
    NO₃⁻ is the chemical formula for nitrate. Nitrate is an ion that consists of one nitrogen atom bonded to three oxygen atoms. It has a -1 charge, which is indicated by the negative sign. Nitrite, on the other hand, has the chemical formula NO₂⁻ and consists of one nitrogen atom bonded to two oxygen atoms. Therefore, the correct answer is nitrate, not nitrite.

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  • 8. 

    What elements are contained in the ion phosphate?

    • A.

      1 phosphorus, 4 oxygen, and a 3- charge 

    • B.

      1 phosphorus, 4 oxygen, and a 2- charge 

    • C.

      2 phosphorus, 4 oxygen, and a 3- charge

    • D.

      1 phosphorus, 5 oxygen, and a 2- charge 

    • E.

      2 phosphorus, 4 oxygen, and a 3- charge 

    Correct Answer
    A. 1 pHospHorus, 4 oxygen, and a 3- charge 
    Explanation
    The ion phosphate (PO₄³⁻) contains 1 phosphorus atom and 4 oxygen atoms, each carrying a charge of 2⁻, resulting in a total charge of 3⁻ for the phosphate ion. So, the correct representation is: 1 phosphorus, 4 oxygen, to the third power negative.

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  • 9. 

    Does SO32- represent sulfate or sulfite?

    • A.

      Sulfite

    • B.

      Sulfate

    • C.

      Both

    • D.

      Neither

    Correct Answer
    A. Sulfite
    Explanation
    The correct answer is sulfite. SO₃²⁻ represents sulfite because it has a 2⁻ charge, indicating that it has gained two electrons. Sulfite is a polyatomic ion composed of one sulfur atom and three oxygen atoms. It is commonly used as a preservative in food and beverages. Sulfate, on the other hand, is represented by SO₄²⁻ and has a 2⁻ charge. It is also a polyatomic ion but consists of four oxygen atoms bonded to a sulfur atom.

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  • 10. 

    What is the chemical difference between sulfate and sulfite?

    • A.

      There is no difference, they are the same thing.

    • B.

      Sulfate has one more oxygen than sulfite.

    • C.

      Sulfate has a positive charge while sulfite has a negative charge.

    • D.

      Sulfite has one less sulfur than sulfate.

    • E.

      Sulfate goes to the third power, while sulfite goes to the second.

    Correct Answer
    B. Sulfate has one more oxygen than sulfite.
    Explanation
    Sulfate and sulfite are both chemical compounds that contain sulfur and oxygen. The main difference between them is the number of oxygen atoms present. Sulfate has one more oxygen atom than sulfite. This difference in oxygen atoms affects their chemical properties and reactivity. Sulfate ions have a negative charge, while sulfite ions have a charge of -2. Therefore, the correct answer is that sulfate has one more oxygen than sulfite.

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  • 11. 

    What is the chemical name of ClO⁻?

    • A.

      Hypochlorite

    • B.

      Chlorite

    • C.

      Chlorate

    • D.

      Perchlorate

    Correct Answer
    A. Hypochlorite
    Explanation
    Hypochlorite is the simplest oxyanion of chlorine, containing one chlorine atom bonded to one oxygen atom. This ion is commonly found in various household bleach products and disinfectants due to its effective oxidizing properties. Its ability to release chlorine gas upon decomposition makes it useful for sanitization. Hypochlorite's role in water treatment processes is significant, as it helps eliminate bacteria and viruses, contributing to public health safety.

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  • 12. 

    What is the chemical name of MnO₄⁻?

    • A.

      Manganate

    • B.

      Permanganate

    • C.

      Manganese oxide

    • D.

      Manganese dioxide

    Correct Answer
    B. Permanganate
    Explanation
    Permanganate is a manganese oxyanion characterized by its distinctive deep purple color, attributed to the high oxidation state of manganese in the ion. This compound is known for its strong oxidizing capabilities, making it essential in various applications such as redox reactions in analytical chemistry, disinfection processes, and as a powerful stain remover. Permanganate can react with a wide range of substances, often leading to the oxidation of organic materials and even some metals.

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  • 13. 

    Which of the following is the correct formula for the cyanide ion?

    • A.

      CN⁻

    • B.

      CO₃²⁻

    • C.

      OH⁻

    • D.

      NO₃⁻

    Correct Answer
    A. CN⁻
    Explanation
    Cyanide is a highly toxic polyatomic ion formed by a carbon atom triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom. Despite its toxicity, cyanide is utilized in several industrial processes, including gold mining, where it helps in extracting gold from ores, and in electroplating, where it is used for depositing metals onto surfaces. The danger associated with cyanide stems from its ability to inhibit cellular respiration by binding to cytochrome c oxidase in mitochondria, preventing oxygen utilization.

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  • 14. 

    What is the charge of the phosphate ion?

    • A.

      -1

    • B.

      -2

    • C.

      -3

    • D.

      +1

    Correct Answer
    C. -3
    Explanation
    Phosphate is an essential polyatomic ion with a charge of -3, resulting from the phosphorus atom forming five covalent bonds. This ion plays a critical role in biological systems, as it is a key component of DNA, RNA, and ATP—the energy currency of cells. Phosphate ions are vital for cellular metabolism, energy transfer, and genetic information storage. Additionally, they are commonly found in fertilizers to enhance plant growth and development.

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  • 15. 

    Which polyatomic ion is commonly found in baking soda?

    • A.

      Bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻)

    • B.

      Hydroxide (OH⁻)

    • C.

      Nitrate (NO₃⁻)

    • D.

      Sulfate (SO₄²⁻)

    Correct Answer
    A. Bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻)
    Explanation
    Bicarbonate is a crucial polyatomic ion that acts as a buffer in biological systems, particularly in maintaining the pH balance of blood and other fluids. In baking, bicarbonate reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas, causing dough to rise. This property makes it a key ingredient in recipes requiring leavening agents. Furthermore, bicarbonate ions play a significant role in regulating acid-base homeostasis in the human body.

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  • 16. 

    What is the chemical name for the ion with the formula C₂O₄²⁻?

    • A.

      Oxalate

    • B.

      Acetate

    • C.

      Carbonate

    • D.

      Chromate

    Correct Answer
    A. Oxalate
    Explanation
    Oxalate is an organic ion derived from oxalic acid and consists of two carbon atoms and four oxygen atoms. It is naturally found in many plants, including spinach and rhubarb, and is known for its ability to bind calcium, potentially leading to kidney stone formation in susceptible individuals. While oxalate has some health implications, it also serves as an important metabolic intermediate in various biological processes.

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  • 17. 

    Which of the following polyatomic ions contains a halogen?

    • A.

      Ammonium (NH₄⁺)

    • B.

      Cyanide (CN⁻)

    • C.

      Sulfate (SO₄²⁻)

    • D.

      Perchlorate (ClO₄⁻)

    Correct Answer
    D. Perchlorate (ClO₄⁻)
    Explanation
    Perchlorate is the most oxygen-rich oxyanion of chlorine, comprising one chlorine atom bonded to four oxygen atoms. This ion is a strong oxidizing agent, widely used in rocket propellants, fireworks, and explosives. However, perchlorate is also an environmental contaminant that poses risks to human health, particularly regarding thyroid function, as it can inhibit the uptake of iodide necessary for thyroid hormone production.

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  • 18. 

    What is the name of the polyatomic ion with the formula OH⁻?

    • A.

      Hydroxide

    • B.

      Hydride

    • C.

      Oxyhydride

    • D.

      Hydrogen oxide

    Correct Answer
    A. Hydroxide
    Explanation
    Hydroxide is a fundamental polyatomic ion formed by one oxygen atom covalently bonded to one hydrogen atom. It is a key component of bases, providing their alkaline properties. Hydroxide ions participate in various chemical reactions, especially neutralization reactions with acids, resulting in the formation of water and salts. Its presence is critical in many biological and chemical processes, including the regulation of pH in biological systems.

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  • 19. 

    Which polyatomic ion is a major component of many fertilizers?

    • A.

      Nitrate (NO₃⁻)

    • B.

      Sulfite (SO₃²⁻)

    • C.

      Chromate (CrO₄²⁻)

    • D.

      Phosphate (PO₄³⁻)

    Correct Answer
    D. pHospHate (PO₄³⁻)
    Explanation
    Ammonium is formed when ammonia (NH₃) accepts a proton (H⁺), resulting in a positively charged polyatomic ion. Its tetrahedral structure consists of a nitrogen atom at the center bonded to four hydrogen atoms. Ammonium is significant in agriculture, as it serves as a nitrogen source in fertilizers, promoting plant growth. Additionally, ammonium compounds are utilized in cleaning products and various industrial processes due to their solubility in water.

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  • 20. 

    What is the chemical formula for the sulfate ion

    • A.

      SO₄²⁻

    • B.

      SO₃²⁻

    • C.

      S₂O₈²⁻

    • D.

      SO₂²⁻

    Correct Answer
    A. SO₄²⁻
    Explanation
    The sulfate ion is represented by the chemical formula SO₄²⁻. It consists of one sulfur atom (S) centrally bonded to four oxygen atoms (O) arranged in a tetrahedral shape. The sulfate ion carries a -2 charge due to the presence of four oxygen atoms, which collectively contribute to two additional negative charges. Sulfate is an essential component in various biological and environmental processes, including cellular respiration and the formation of acid rain. It's commonly found in fertilizers and is crucial for plant growth.

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Zohra Sattar Waxali |PhD (Chemistry) |
Chemistry
Dr. Zohra Sattar Waxali earned her doctorate in chemistry and biochemistry from Northwestern University, specializing in the metallomes of cardiac cells and stem cells, and their impact on biological function. Her research encompasses the development of arsenoplatin chemotherapeutics, stapled peptide estrogen receptor inhibitors, and antimicrobial natural products.

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  • Sep 15, 2009
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