What is the correct name for LiNO2?

The compound LiNO2 is an ionic compound made up of lithium ions (Li+) and nitrite ions (NO2-). The correct naming of ionic compounds involves identifying both the cation (positive ion) and the anion (negative ion).

In this case, the lithium ion is derived from lithium, a Group 1 alkali metal, which typically has a +1 charge. The nitrite ion is a polyatomic anion consisting of one nitrogen atom and two oxygen atoms, with its overall charge being -1. Therefore, when these ions come together, they form lithium nitrite, indicated by the formula LiNO2.

The naming conventions used here are consistent with IUPAC guidelines, which specify that the cation is named first, followed by the anion. The suffix "-ite" in nitrite indicates the presence of fewer oxygen atoms than in the corresponding "-ate" anion, which would be nitrate (NO3-).

This is the reason “lithium nitrite” is the correct name for LiNO2. Understanding the components and the naming conventions provides clarity on how compounds are systematically named.