How can I find out the names of the diatomic molecules and compounds just by reading them?

Question

I missed a seminar and I have to work on a worksheet. I'm in Grade 9 and I really have no clue. They don't tell us where to read in the textbook. I understand what a binary compound is... but maybe not completely. Sorry if this question confuses anyone or seems a bit stupid. They give us the name and we...

Answer 1

Ok,

If I understand your question correctly I think I have an answer.
If you are referring ONLY to diatomic then here it goes.

First -
Q: What is a diatomic?
A: A molecule that naturally exist with 2 elements - ex. O2 - the reason for this is the molecule is not stable enough to exist alone.

Second -
Q: How do you know its a diatomic?
A: On the periodic table the trick is it go to element 7 and make a 7, so N,O, F, Cl, Br, and I.

Third -
Q: How do I name diatomics?
A: Your example, O2, would be Oxygen. The reason you wouldn't say di-oxygen is because it is naturally in the diatomic state. If you know what elements are diatomic ("go to 7, make a 7") then you can write the structure easily.

ex. Iodine = I2
Bromine = Br2
N2 = Nitrogen

Hope this helps!