Chemistry / Unit 2 Chem 0303 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Polyatomic Ion
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The idea
A polyatomic ion is a group of covalently bonded atoms that carry an overall electric charge and act as one unit.
In practice
The sulfate ion, SO4 2−, moves through a formula and a reaction as a bonded unit, never splitting into loose oxygen atoms.
Where people slip
Parentheses around a polyatomic ion multiply the whole bonded group, not merely the atom closest to the subscript.
Your place on the trail
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