The chemical formula for copper mono oxide, which is systematically known as Copper(II) Oxide, is CuO.
Copper mono oxide is often used as a descriptive term for the compound where copper is in its +2 oxidation state and combines with oxygen in a 1:1 ratio. In formal chemical nomenclature, this compound is referred to as Copper(II) oxide or cupric oxide. The "mono" prefix implies a single oxygen atom relative to a single copper atom in its simplest ratio.
Understanding Copper Oxides
Copper can form different oxides depending on its oxidation state. The two most common forms are Copper(I) oxide and Copper(II) oxide. The distinction between them is crucial for understanding their properties and uses.
Here's a comparison of these two significant copper oxides:
| Parameter | Copper(I) Oxide (Cu2O) | Copper(II) Oxide (CuO) |
|---|---|---|
| Ions | Cu$^{+1}$, O$^{-2}$ | Cu$^{+2}$, O$^{-2}$ |
| Chemical Formula | Cu2O | CuO |
| Molar Mass | 143 g/mol | 79.545 g/mol |
| Odor | No odor | No odor |
| Common Name | Cuprous Oxide | Cupric Oxide |
| Color | Red/Orange | Black |
Copper(II) Oxide (CuO) - The "Mono Oxide"
Copper(II) oxide is a black, inorganic compound that plays a significant role in various industrial and scientific applications. It is formed when copper is in its higher oxidation state (+2).
- Formation: Typically produced by heating copper metal in air, or by the thermal decomposition of copper(II) nitrate, copper(II) hydroxide, or copper(II) carbonate.
- Properties:
- It is a stable solid at room temperature.
- Insoluble in water but soluble in acids (forming copper(II) salts) and ammonium hydroxide.
- It acts as a p-type semiconductor.
- Often found as the mineral tenorite.
- Applications:
- Used as a pigment in ceramics and glass.
- A precursor for other copper compounds.
- Catalyst in various chemical reactions.
- Used in batteries and as a fungicide.
For more detailed information on its properties and structure, you can refer to Copper(II) Oxide on PubChem.
Copper(I) Oxide (Cu2O) - Cuprous Oxide
In contrast, Copper(I) oxide, also known as cuprous oxide, is a red or orange-red compound. In this oxide, copper is in its +1 oxidation state.
- Formation: Often formed by the reduction of copper(II) compounds or by the oxidation of copper metal under specific conditions.
- Properties:
- It is a stable solid, typically reddish-brown.
- Insoluble in water.
- It is also a semiconductor.
- Often found as the mineral cuprite.
- Applications:
- Used as a pigment for anti-fouling paints (on ship hulls).
- Fungicide and insecticide.
- Used in some types of glass to impart a red color.
The distinction between CuO and Cu2O highlights the importance of copper's oxidation state in determining the compound's structure, properties, and applications. When referring to "copper mono oxide," the 1:1 copper-to-oxygen ratio of Copper(II) oxide (CuO) is generally implied.
