polyatom

A polyatom, also known as a polyatomic ion, is an ion composed of two or more atoms covalently bonded together, functioning as a single charged entity. These ions carry a net electric charge, which can be positive (cation) or negative (anion). Polyatomics are common in various chemical compounds and play a significant role in inorganic chemistry, especially in salts and acids.

Polyatomic ions are often formed through the loss or gain of electrons from neutral molecules, resulting in charged entities. For example, the sulfate ion (SO₄²⁻) consists of one sulfur atom bonded to four oxygen atoms and carries a 2- charge. Another example is the ammonium ion (NH₄⁺), where nitrogen is bonded to four hydrogen atoms and has a positive charge.

These ions participate in numerous chemical reactions, including acid-base reactions, redox processes, and the formation of various salts. They are typically represented by their chemical formulas, with the charge indicated as a superscript—for example, nitrate (NO₃⁻) or carbonate (CO₃²⁻).

Polyatomic ions are essential for understanding chemical formulas, nomenclature, and reactions in inorganic chemistry. They often appear in table salts such as sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄), where the polyatomic sulfate ion combines with sodium cations, and in acids like sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), which contains the sulfate ion.

In summary, polyatomics are multi-atom ions that serve as key components in a wide variety of chemical compounds and reactions, illustrating the diversity and complexity of ionic chemistry.