A binary compound of oxygen with another element is referred to as?

1. Analyze the question

The question asks for the specific chemical term used to describe a compound formed when oxygen combines with only one other element.

2. Explain the concept

In chemistry, nomenclature (the naming of compounds) often follows specific rules based on the elements involved:

• Binary Compound: This is a chemical compound containing exactly two different elements.
• Oxygen's Role: When oxygen is one of the two elements in a binary compound, the resulting substance is classified as an oxide.
• Examples: • $MgO$ (Magnesium + Oxygen) = Magnesium oxide • $CO_2$ (Carbon + Oxygen) = Carbon dioxide • $H_2O$ (Hydrogen + Oxygen) = Hydrogen oxide (commonly known as water)

3. Show the solution

• Option A (Oxide): By definition, an oxide is a binary compound of oxygen with another element. This fits the description perfectly.
• Option B (Element): An element is a pure substance consisting of only one type of atom. Since the question specifies a "compound," this is incorrect.
• Option C (Carbon): Carbon is an element, not a class of compounds. While carbon can form an oxide (like $CO_2$), it is not the general term for all such compounds.
• Option D (Nitrogen): Similar to carbon, nitrogen is an element. It can form oxides (like $NO_2$), but it is not the name for the category of compounds.

4. Identify the answer

The correct term for a binary compound of oxygen with another element is an Oxide. This matches option A.

5. Exam Tip

Whenever you see the suffix "-ide" in inorganic chemistry, it usually indicates a binary compound (e.g., Chloride, Sulfide, Nitride). If you see the prefix "Ox-", it is a strong indicator that the compound contains oxygen.