The chemical formula for tetraphosphorus hexasulfide is __. a) P4(SO4)6 b)PS c) P4S6 d)P5S6 e) P5S7
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: c) P₄S₆
Explanation:
Tetraphosphorus hexasulfide is a chemical compound composed of phosphorus and sulfur. Its formula, P₄S₆, can be understood by analyzing the name and structure of the compound.
Breaking Down the Name:
- Tetraphosphorus (P₄):
- The prefix “tetra-” indicates four atoms of phosphorus (P).
- This part of the formula is straightforward: P₄.
- Hexasulfide (S₆):
- The prefix “hexa-” indicates six atoms of sulfur (S).
- Combined with phosphorus, this gives the sulfur component of the formula: S₆.
Thus, the chemical formula becomes P₄S₆, meaning four phosphorus atoms are chemically bonded to six sulfur atoms.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
- Option a) P₄(SO₄)₆:
- This represents a phosphorus compound with sulfate groups (SO₄). It is not the correct representation of tetraphosphorus hexasulfide, which does not contain oxygen.
- Option b) PS:
- This is an incorrect simplification. The correct compound involves multiple atoms, not just one phosphorus and one sulfur atom.
- Option d) P₅S₆:
- While it has sulfur, the number of phosphorus atoms is incorrect. The compound specifically has four phosphorus atoms.
- Option e) P₅S₇:
- This formula has an extra phosphorus and sulfur atom that do not match the name “tetraphosphorus hexasulfide.”
Structure of P₄S₆:
The molecular structure of P₄S₆ is based on a tetrahedral arrangement. It consists of a cage-like structure where phosphorus and sulfur atoms are covalently bonded. This compound is part of the family of phosphorus sulfides and is used in various chemical applications, such as in the synthesis of other compounds.
Summary:
The name tetraphosphorus hexasulfide directly translates to the chemical formula P₄S₆. This formula accurately represents the composition and structure of the compound.