What is Tetrabasic? Definition, Examples, and Significance

Tetrabasic refers to a chemical compound that contains four basal units or molecules. In the context of inorganic chemistry, tetrabasic anions are typically found in the structure of some polyatomic ions, such as the sulfate ion (SO42-), the carbonate ion (CO32-), and the hydroxide ion (OH-). These ions have a central atom surrounded by four oxygen atoms, which are the basal units or molecules.

In general, the term "tetrabasic" is used to describe any compound that contains four basic functional groups or units, regardless of whether they are derived from a single molecule or multiple molecules. For example, some organic compounds may be described as tetrabasic if they contain four basic functional groups, such as four hydroxyl (-OH) groups.

Overall, the term "tetrabasic" is used to describe a chemical compound that contains four basal units or molecules, and it is commonly used in inorganic chemistry to describe polyatomic ions with four oxygen atoms.