Question

question 4
10 pts
what is the name of the following compound: cu₂o

Explanation:

Copper can have multiple oxidation states. In \(Cu_2O\), the overall charge of the compound is zero. Oxygen has an oxidation state of \(- 2\). Let the oxidation state of copper be \(x\). Using the formula \(2x+(-2)=0\) (since there are 2 copper atoms and 1 oxygen atom in \(Cu_2O\)), we solve for \(x\):

$$
LATEXBLOCK0
$$

So copper has an oxidation state of \(+1\) in \(Cu_2O\). When naming ionic compounds with a metal that has multiple oxidation states, we use Roman numerals to indicate the oxidation state of the metal. The name of the compound is based on the metal (copper), its oxidation state (I), and the non - metal (oxide).

Answer:

Copper(I) oxide