Ternary Compound
Definition and meaning of Ternary Compound in chemistry.
A ternary compound is a chemical compound consisting of exactly three different elements. These compounds are typically composed of a metallic cation and a polyatomic anion containing two other distinct nonmetal elements.
In more detail
In inorganic chemistry, the most commonly encountered ternary compounds are ionic salts derived from an oxyacid, meaning they contain a metal atom, a nonmetal atom, and oxygen. The standard naming convention for these compounds generally involves stating the name of the cation first, followed immediately by the specific name of the polyatomic anion. Understanding how to identify and name ternary compounds is fundamental for writing chemical formulas and balancing complex chemical reactions.
Key facts
| Field | General Chemistry |
|---|---|
| Formula | CaCO3 |
| Composition | Composed of exactly three distinct elements |
| Common Types | A metal cation bonded to a polyatomic oxyanion |
Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) is a classic ternary compound containing exactly three elements: calcium, carbon, and oxygen.
Frequently asked questions
How do you name a ternary ionic compound?
You name the positively charged metal ion first, followed by the specific name of the polyatomic anion, such as sodium sulfate for Na2SO4.