Radicals A Radical is a charged group of atoms.
Radicals often remain grouped together during chemical reactions.
Radicals have a valency in the same way that ions have a valency. Some of the common Radicals are listed below. When working out the formula of compounds containing radicals just think of the radical as a single unit as if it is an ordinary ion. The Nitrate radical is treated as if it is a single ion. The 'bracket' is placed around the radical for clarity.