Ionic Compounds: Formulas and Naming SNC2D – Academic Science
Determining the Chemical Formula without using a drawing The Criss-Cross Rule!
The Criss-Cross Rule Al Cl AlCl Example: What is the formula for the ionic compound formed by aluminum and chlorine? First determine the ionic charge for each element. Record the charge on the top right hand corner of the element symbol. Criss-cross the charges into subscripts (without the + or -) Record the chemical formula. -1 Al +3 Cl AlCl 3 1 The formula is AlCl3.
The Criss-Cross Rule Example: What is the formula for the ionic compound formed by sodium and oxygen?
Summary: Steps to Writing Formulas for Ionic Compounds Write the symbols of the element with the metal first and their ionic charges above each symbol (in superscript). Determine how many ions of each type you need to balance the charges using the criss-cross rule. i.e. Criss-cross the ionic charges. Write the formula using subscripts and if necessary, reduce to lowest terms.
Naming Ionic Compounds
How to Name Ionic Compounds The name of metal is written first, followed by the name of the non- metal. The ending of the non-metal changes from “ine” to “ide”. Examples: calcium + chlorine, CaCl2 = Calcium chloride copper + iodine, CuI = Copper iodide copper + chlorine, CuCl2 = Copper chloride