Why are some ions called polyatomic ions?

Answer 1

Polyatomic means many atoms. Anions and cations may be polyatomic:-

• Polyatomic anions include sulfate ion, SO4-, and nitrate NO3-
• Polyatomic cations include ammonium ion, NH4+

Answer 2

It is because polyatomics are usually anions and have a negative charge (i.e. PO4-phosphate-has a charge of 3-) so they tend to attract metals which have positive charges. And as we know when a cation (+ charge) and an anion (- charge) react, they form an ionic compound.

Answer 3

Within a polyatomic ion, the bonds are usually covalent, since most of the "polys" are combinations of non-metals. When a positively charged poly bonds with a negatively charged poly, they actually bond ionically. For example: the compound ammonium hydroxide features two polys, ammonium (NH4) and hydroxide (OH). Within those polys, the bonds are covalent, meaning they share electrons. But when they bond together, electrons are transferred, like in an ionic bond. So, the compound ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH) actually features both ionic and covalent bonds.

Answer 4

Some ions are called polyatomic ions because they are made up of two or more atoms covalently bonded together, giving them a net charge. These ions behave as a single unit in chemical reactions and often have specific names and formulas. Examples include sulfate (SO4^2-), nitrate (NO3^-), and ammonium (NH4^+).

Answer 5

Polyatomic ions consist of a non-metal and non-metal so they share electrons - covalent bonds. A metal and a non-metal form ionic bonds because they lose and gain electrons.