Carbonite (polyatomic ion)
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Chemistry
Chemistry is the science of matter, especially its chemical reactions, but also its composition, structure and properties. Chemistry is concerned with atoms and their interactions with other atoms, and particularly with the properties of chemical bonds....

, carbonite (CO22-) would be a diradical polyatomic anion
Polyatomic ion
A polyatomic ion, also known as a molecular ion, is a charged species composed of two or more atoms covalently bonded or of a metal complex that can be considered as acting as a single unit in the context of acid and base chemistry or in the formation of salts. The prefix "poly-" means "many," in...

, with the IUPAC name dioxidomethylidene. Because it is a diradical, it is unlikely to exist in solution as it will be oxidised on contact with water to carbonic acid. The heat from the reaction will likely decompose the carbonic acid to water and carbon dioxide. The hypothetical presence of carbonite ions can be used to explain the mechanics of carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide , also called carbonous oxide, is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is slightly lighter than air. It is highly toxic to humans and animals in higher quantities, although it is also produced in normal animal metabolism in low quantities, and is thought to have some normal...

 absorption on ceria.
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