List of chemical compounds

Comprehensive list of chemical compounds

List of chemical compounds refers to a comprehensive enumeration of substances composed of two or more different chemical elements that are chemically bonded together. Chemical compounds can be classified into various categories based on their properties, structure, and the types of bonds that hold the atoms together. This article provides an overview of different types of chemical compounds, their characteristics, and examples.

Types of Chemical Compounds

Chemical compounds can be broadly categorized into several types based on their chemical bonding and properties:

Ionic Compounds

Ionic compounds are formed when electrons are transferred from one atom to another, resulting in the formation of ions. These compounds are typically formed between metals and non-metals. The electrostatic attraction between the positively charged cations and negatively charged anions holds the compound together.

• Example: Sodium chloride (NaCl), commonly known as table salt, is an ionic compound formed from sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl).

Covalent Compounds

Covalent compounds are formed when atoms share pairs of electrons. These compounds are typically formed between non-metal atoms. The shared electrons allow each atom to attain the electron configuration of a noble gas, resulting in a stable molecule.

• Example: Water (H₂O) is a covalent compound where each hydrogen atom shares an electron with the oxygen atom.

Metallic Compounds

Metallic compounds consist of metal atoms bonded together by a "sea" of delocalized electrons. This type of bonding gives rise to properties such as electrical conductivity and malleability.

• Example: Copper (Cu) is a metallic compound known for its excellent electrical conductivity.

Complex Compounds

Complex compounds, or coordination compounds, consist of a central metal atom or ion surrounded by molecules or anions, known as ligands. These compounds exhibit a wide range of chemical and physical properties.

• Example: Hemoglobin is a complex compound containing iron as the central metal ion.

Properties of Chemical Compounds

Chemical compounds exhibit a variety of properties that can be used to identify and classify them:

• Melting and Boiling Points: Ionic compounds generally have high melting and boiling points, while covalent compounds can have a wide range of melting and boiling points.
• Solubility: Ionic compounds are typically soluble in water, whereas covalent compounds may be soluble in organic solvents.
• Electrical Conductivity: Ionic compounds conduct electricity when dissolved in water, while covalent compounds do not.

Applications of Chemical Compounds

Chemical compounds are essential in various fields, including medicine, agriculture, and industry. They are used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, fertilizers, and materials such as plastics and metals.

Also see

• Chemical element
• Chemical bond
• Organic compound
• Inorganic compound
• Periodic table