Enter a name for Ba3(PO4)2. Spell out the full name of the compound.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The full name of the compound Ba3(PO4)2 is barium phosphate.
Explanation:
Barium phosphate is an inorganic compound formed from barium and phosphate ions. To understand its name and structure, it’s essential to break down its components. The chemical formula Ba3(PO4)2 indicates that there are three barium ions (Ba²⁺) and two phosphate ions (PO₄³⁻) in the compound.
- Barium Ions (Ba²⁺): Barium is an alkaline earth metal located in Group 2 of the periodic table. It has an atomic number of 56 and typically forms a divalent cation (Ba²⁺) by losing two electrons. In compounds, barium is often associated with higher electronegativities and forms ionic bonds.
- Phosphate Ions (PO₄³⁻): The phosphate ion is a polyatomic ion consisting of one phosphorus atom (P) bonded to four oxygen atoms (O) in a tetrahedral arrangement. Phosphate carries a -3 charge (PO₄³⁻), which means it can combine with positively charged ions to form neutral compounds.
- Combining Ions: In barium phosphate, the total positive charge from the three barium ions (3 × +2 = +6) balances the total negative charge from the two phosphate ions (2 × -3 = -6). This charge neutrality is critical for the stability of the compound. Thus, the formula Ba3(PO4)2 accurately represents the ratio of barium to phosphate in the compound.
- Applications: Barium phosphate is utilized in various applications, including as a reagent in chemical analysis and in ceramics. It is also studied for its potential use in phosphor materials for LED technology.
Overall, the name “barium phosphate” reflects the identity of the cations and anions present in the compound, adhering to the conventions of naming inorganic compounds where the metal cation is named first, followed by the non-metal anion or polyatomic ion.