How do we name simple binary compounds?

There are three sets of rules; one set of rules for ionic compounds, and another set of rules for covalent compounds. Acids are covalent compounds, but their names are based on the names of the anions that are formed when the acid ionizes.

First Step: determine if compound is and ionic compound, a covalently bonded compound, or an acid.

I. Ionic Compounds

Binary Ionic Compounds

Type I cations

Type II cations

Polyatomic Ions with

Type I cations

Type II cations

II. Binary Covalent Compounds

III. Acids

Acids containing monoatomic anions

Acids containing polyatomic anions

IV. Strategies

strategies for naming compounds
strategies for determining formulae from names.