(a) What are polyatomic ions? Give two examples.
(b) Name the fundamental law that is involved in every equation.
(a) A polyatomic ion is a group of atoms carrying the positive or negative charge.
e.g.
Polyatomic ions Symbol
Ammonium (NH4)+
Hydroxide OH−
Nitrate NO−3
Hydrogen carbonate HCO−3
Sulphate (SO4)2−
Sulphite (SO3)2−
Phosphate (PO4)3−
Carbonate (CO3)2−
(b) The law of conservation of mass is involved in every equation. The amount of reactant must be equal to the amount of product, there is no demolishing of quantities