Chemical Nomenclature and Analytical Methods for Anions
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Anions: Definition and Characteristics
An anion is an ion (an atom or molecule) that possesses a negative electrical charge, meaning it has an excess of electrons. Anions are typically described with a negative oxidation state. They are broadly classified into two main types: monatomic and polyatomic.
Monatomic Anions
Monatomic anions are typically formed when nonmetals gain electrons to complete their valence shell.
Traditional Nomenclature (Monatomic)
These are named using the word ion followed by the name of the nonmetal, ending in the suffix -ide. (Note: Amide and Cyanide are often included here for simplicity, though technically polyatomic.)
- Cl-: Chloride ion
- H-: Hydride ion
- S2-: Sulfide ion
- NH2-: Amide ion
- CN-: Cyanide ion