1. Carbonates (CO3^2-)
- These are salts containing the carbonate anion (CO3^2-). Examples include:
- Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) - found in limestone and seashells
- Sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) - used in detergents and glassmaking
2. Bicarbonates (HCO3-)
- These are salts containing the bicarbonate anion (HCO3-) - also known as hydrogen carbonate. Examples include:
- Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) - commonly known as baking soda
- Potassium bicarbonate (KHCO3) - used as a leavening agent and dietary supplement
3. Cyanides (CN-)
- These are salts containing the cyanide anion (CN-). Cyanides are highly toxic and should be handled with extreme care. Examples include:
- Potassium cyanide (KCN) - used in gold mining and electroplating
- Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) - a colorless, highly poisonous gas
While these compounds contain carbon, they are generally considered inorganic because they don't form the complex structures typical of organic compounds.