What is the Chemical Name Generator?
Convert between chemical formulas and chemical names in both directions. Enter H2SO4 to get sulfuric acid, or sodium chloride to get NaCl. Handles ionic compounds with Stock notation (iron(III) oxide), common acids, polyatomic ions, hydrates, alkanes, and a built-in library of frequent compounds. Free, instant, and browser-based.
How to use the Chemical Name Generator
- Choose Formula → Name or Name → Formula.
- Enter a formula (H2SO4, Ca(OH)2, CuSO4·5H2O) or a name (nitric acid, ammonium chloride).
- For variable metals in names, use Roman numerals in parentheses: iron(III) oxide.
- Read the converted formula or name plus the naming type used.
- Copy the result for homework or lab notes.
Common use cases
- Converting H2SO4 to sulfuric acid for homework
- Getting NaCl from sodium chloride
- Finding Fe2O3 from iron(III) oxide
Frequently asked questions
- What naming system does this use?
- It follows common general-chemistry nomenclature: Stock notation for transition metals, -ide endings for monoatomic anions, -ate/-ite for oxoanions, and standard acid names (e.g. sulfuric acid for H2SO4).
- Can it name organic molecules?
- It covers simple alkanes (methane through decane) and common small organics in the lookup table. Complex IUPAC organic names are not supported.
- How do I enter hydrates?
- Use a middle dot: CuSO4·5H2O for formula mode, or names like copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate for name mode.
- Why does iron need (II) or (III) in the name?
- Transition metals with variable oxidation states use Roman numerals in Stock notation to show the charge. Fe2O3 is iron(III) oxide because iron is +3.
- What if my compound is not recognized?
- Try the lookup-friendly common name, simplify the formula, or use related tools like the molar mass or oxidation number calculators for further analysis.
