What is the chemical name for dinitrogen pentoxide?

The chemical name "dinitrogen pentoxide" refers to a compound composed of nitrogen and oxygen. The prefix "di-" signifies that there are two nitrogen atoms, while "penta-" indicates that there are five oxygen atoms in the molecule. In chemical nomenclature, the naming convention aligns with the empirical formula, which quantitatively describes the number of each type of atom present.

In this case, the formula for dinitrogen pentoxide can be broken down as follows:

• The "di-" indicates there are 2 nitrogen (N) atoms.

• The "penta-" indicates there are 5 oxygen (O) atoms.

Thus, when combined, these give the molecular formula N2O5. This formula corresponds directly to the name given, as it reflects both the quantity and type of atoms present in the molecule.

The other options do not reflect this correct composition: N2O4 indicates 2 nitrogen and 4 oxygen, N3O5 suggests 3 nitrogen and 5 oxygen, and N2O2 represents 2 nitrogen and 2 oxygen. Therefore, only N2O5 correctly corresponds to its name, dinitrogen pentoxide.