Why is Hg2O2 called Mercury peroxide and not Mercury dioxide?

Answer 1

Hg2O2 is called Mercury peroxide because it is composed of two mercury (Hg) atoms and two peroxide (O2) ions. The peroxide ion consists of two oxygen atoms bonded together with a single bond, giving it the -1 charge. Therefore, the correct chemical formula for this compound is Hg2O2, reflecting the presence of peroxide ions rather than dioxide ions.

Answer 2

Oh, dude, it's like this - so, Mercury peroxide is called that because of the way the atoms are all cozy together in the compound. It's like Mercury (Hg) is hanging out with two oxygen (O) atoms, so they're like, "Hey, let's be peroxide buddies." It's all about chemistry vibes, man.

Answer 3

Mercury peroxide contains a distinct peroxide ion, with the formula O2-2. An oxide ion, in contrast, has a single oxygen atom but also has a charge of -2. The term dioxide, with ionic compounds, is reserved for compounds containing two oxide ions per molecule.

Answer 4

Hg2O2 is commonly called Mercury(I) peroxide because it contains Mercury in the +1 oxidation state, not +2. If it were called Mercury dioxide, it would imply that Mercury is in the +2 oxidation state, which is not the case in this compound.