Question

If 'Cu' forms two mono atomic cations with oxidation number +1 and +2, then it will respectively be called as:

• A. Cupric and Cuprous
• B. Cuprous and cupric
• C. Copper halide
• D. Copper

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Cuprous and cupric

When an element forms two monoatomic cations (representing different oxidation states), the two ions are distinguished by using the ending 'ous' and 'ic'. The suffix 'ous' is used for the cation with lower oxidation state while the suffix 'ic' is used for the cation with higher oxidation state.

For example:
$C{u}^{+}$ (oxidation number +1) cuprous
$C{u}^{2+}$ (oxidation number +2) cupric

$CuCl$ is called Cuprous Chloride
$CuC{l}_2$ is called Cupric Chloride