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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Polyatomic Ions and Compounds?

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The main difference between polyatomic ions and compounds lies in the bonding and electrical charge. Here is a comparison of their characteristics:

Polyatomic Ions:

  1. Composed of two or more atoms bonded together by covalent or coordination bonds.
  2. Have a net electrical charge, either positive or negative.
  3. Can form ionic compounds when combined with counterions of opposite charge.

Compounds:

  1. Can be composed of atoms, ions, molecules, or molecular ions.
  2. Do not have a net electrical charge, as they are electrically neutral.
  3. Can have covalent, ionic, metallic, or coordination bonds between atoms.

In summary, polyatomic ions are charged species with two or more atoms bonded together by covalent or coordination bonds, while compounds can be composed of various types of bonding and do not have a net electrical charge.

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  • What is the Difference Between Polyatomic Ions and Compounds?
  • Comparative Table: Polyatomic Ions vs Compounds

    • Comparative Table: Polyatomic Ions vs Compounds

    Here is a table summarizing the difference between polyatomic ions and compounds:

    Polyatomic Ions Compounds
    Contain more than one atom Can be made up of ions, molecules, molecular ions, zwitterions, or metal atoms
    Carry a net charge due to gaining or losing electrons Ionic compounds consist of cations and anions, which can be polyatomic ions
    Examples include sulfate (SO42-), nitrate (NO3-), and ammonium (NH4+) Examples include sodium chloride (NaCl), potassium nitrate (KNO3), and calcium nitrate (Ca(NO3)2)
    Named using the same rules as naming ionic compounds, with slight modifications The overall charge of the compound must be neutral

    Polyatomic ions are groups of covalently bonded atoms that carry a net charge, while compounds can consist of various entities, including ions, molecules, and atomic particles. Ionic compounds are formed when cations and anions, which can be polyatomic ions, come together and neutralize each other's charges.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.