What is the Difference Between Binary and Ternary Acids?

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The main difference between binary and ternary acids lies in the number of elements present in their chemical composition and structure. Here are the key differences:

  • Binary Acids: These acids consist of only two elements, hydrogen and one other nonmetallic element. They have the general formula H-X, where X is a nonmetal. Examples of binary acids include hydrochloric acid (HCl) and hydrobromic acid (HBr).
  • Ternary Acids: These acids contain three different elements, including hydrogen, oxygen, and another nonmetallic element. They have the general formula H-O-X. Examples of ternary acids include nitric acid (HNO3) and sulfuric acid (H2SO4).

In summary, binary acids have two elements (hydrogen and a nonmetal), while ternary acids have three elements (hydrogen, oxygen, and a nonmetal).

Comparative Table: Binary vs Ternary Acids

The difference between binary and ternary acids lies in the number of chemical elements they contain and their chemical formulas. Here is a comparison table explaining the differences:

Feature Binary Acids Ternary Acids
Components Binary acids have two types of chemical elements, typically hydrogen bonded to a nonmetal. Ternary acids have more than two types of chemical elements, including hydrogen, oxygen, and a nonmetal.
Oxygen Binary acids have no oxygen atoms. Ternary acids essentially contain oxygen atoms.
General Formula Binary acids have the general formula H-X, where X represents a nonmetal. Ternary acids have the general formula H-O-X, where X represents a nonmetal.

Examples of binary acids include hydrochloric acid (HCl) and hydrobromic acid (HBr). Ternary acids, also known as oxyacids, include compounds such as sulfuric acid (H2SO4), nitric acid (HNO3), and phosphoric acid (H3PO4).