What is the name of Pb(OH)2 ?
The correct answer and explanation is:
The compound Pb(OH)₂ is named lead(II) hydroxide.
Explanation:
Pb is the chemical symbol for lead. In this compound, lead is combined with hydroxide ions, OH⁻. The formula shows that there are two hydroxide groups attached to one lead ion.
The (II) in the name indicates the oxidation state of the lead ion. Lead can have multiple oxidation states, commonly +2 and +4. In Pb(OH)₂, lead has a +2 charge, balanced by two hydroxide ions each with a -1 charge, resulting in a neutral compound overall.
The name “hydroxide” refers to the OH⁻ ion, which consists of one oxygen atom bonded to one hydrogen atom carrying an overall negative charge.
Naming metal hydroxides typically follows this pattern:
- The metal name (lead)
- Its oxidation state in Roman numerals in parentheses (II) to indicate charge
- The word “hydroxide” to show the presence of OH groups
Therefore, Pb(OH)₂ is called lead(II) hydroxide because it contains lead in the +2 oxidation state and hydroxide ions.
This naming system helps distinguish this compound from others that might contain lead in a different oxidation state, such as lead(IV) hydroxide, which would have a different formula and properties.
In summary, Pb(OH)₂ is lead(II) hydroxide, a chemical compound consisting of lead ions with a +2 charge and two hydroxide ions bonded to it.