Here's how to determine the order:
* Metals are generally written first, followed by nonmetals.
* Within a group, elements higher up are more metallic.
* Within a period, elements to the left are more metallic.
Examples:
* NaCl: Sodium (Na) is a metal, chlorine (Cl) is a nonmetal. So, the compound is named sodium chloride.
* H₂O: Oxygen (O) is more electronegative (nonmetallic) than hydrogen (H). So, the compound is named dihydrogen oxide (although commonly called water).
* FeO: Iron (Fe) is a metal, oxygen (O) is a nonmetal. So, the compound is named iron oxide.
Remember, there are some exceptions and special cases, but this general rule will help you understand the naming convention for most inorganic compounds.
