Name Mg3(PO4)2 • 4H2O and write the formula for calcium nitrate trihydrate.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Magnesium phosphate tetrahydrate is the name for the compound with the formula Mg₃(PO₄)₂ • 4H₂O. The “• 4H₂O” represents four molecules of water of crystallization, also known as water of hydration, that are part of the crystal structure of the compound.
Explanation:
Magnesium phosphate tetrahydrate consists of:
- Magnesium ions (Mg²⁺), which combine with phosphate ions (PO₄³⁻) to form magnesium phosphate.
- The notation • 4H₂O indicates that the compound contains four water molecules in its crystalline form. These water molecules are not chemically bonded to the compound but are physically embedded in the crystal structure and contribute to its stability.
Thus, Mg₃(PO₄)₂ • 4H₂O refers to magnesium phosphate with four water molecules bound in its crystalline lattice. This compound is commonly used in fertilizers and various chemical processes.
Calcium nitrate trihydrate refers to a compound with the formula Ca(NO₃)₂ • 3H₂O. The Ca(NO₃)₂ part represents calcium nitrate, where calcium (Ca²⁺) is bonded to two nitrate (NO₃⁻) ions. The • 3H₂O indicates that the calcium nitrate crystal structure contains three water molecules of crystallization.
Explanation:
Calcium nitrate is commonly used in fertilizers and wastewater treatment. The trihydrate form of calcium nitrate means that each formula unit of calcium nitrate is associated with three water molecules. These molecules are not part of the chemical formula but are essential for the physical structure of the solid compound. When the trihydrate form of calcium nitrate is heated, the water of hydration is typically lost.
In summary:
- Magnesium phosphate tetrahydrate: Mg₃(PO₄)₂ • 4H₂O
- Calcium nitrate trihydrate: Ca(NO₃)₂ • 3H₂O