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Ch.2 - Atoms, Molecules & Ions

Chapter 2, Problem 14

What is the correct formula for sodium phosphate? (LO 2.24) (a) Na3PO4 (b) Na3P (c) NaPO4 (d) Na(PO4)2

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Hey everyone. We're asked to provide the correct formulas for potassium phosphate and potassium phosphate. Starting with our first one, we know that potassium has a charge of plus one and we have our phosphate ion which has a formula of P 043 minus. Now. To determine the correct formula, we're going to use our criss cross method where we take one ion and we multiply it by the oxidation number of the other ion and vice versa. So looking at our potassium, this will have a subscript of three, since our phosphate ion has an oxidation number of three and our phosphate Will have a subscript of one and this will be our final formula for potassium phosphate. Next looking at potassium phosphate Again, potassium has a charge of plus one and the ending of I. D. In foss fight tells us we have our phosphorus ion. So this will have a charge of -3. Taking the same steps for our criss cross method. Our potassium will have a subscript of three since we're multiplying potassium by the oxidation number of our phosphorus and our phosphorus will have a subscript of one. And we do not need to write the subscript of one explicitly. And this will be our final answers. Now, I hope this made sense. And let us know if you have any questions