Question

What is a radical? Give examples.

Answer 1

Radical: A group of atoms of different elements functioning together as a single unit and carrying a charge (positive or negative) is known as a radical.

• A radical is not capable of independent existence.
• It always combines with another radical or element.

Positive radical: An atom or group of atoms carrying a unit of Positive charge is known as a Positive radical.

Example:- Ammonium - ${{\mathbf{NH}}_{\mathbf{4}}}^{\mathbf{+}}$ carrying one unit of Positive charge.

Negative radical: An atom or group of atoms carrying a unit of negative charge is known as a negative radical.

Example :- Sulphate ion${{\mathbf{SO}}_{\mathbf{4}}}^{\mathbf{-}\mathbf{2}}$ carrying two unit of Negative charge.