* Nitrite: NO₂⁻
* Nitrate: NO₃⁻
Let me break down why:
* Nitrogen: Both nitrite and nitrate contain nitrogen (N).
* Oxygen: The difference lies in the number of oxygen atoms:
* Nitrite: Has two oxygen atoms (O₂).
* Nitrate: Has three oxygen atoms (O₃).
* Charge: Both nitrite and nitrate ions carry a negative charge (1-).
Key Differences:
Nitrite and nitrate are important in various chemical processes and play roles in environmental and biological systems. They can be distinguished by their different chemical properties and reactions.