What is the correct formula for diphosphorus pentoxide?
A P204
B P205
C P305
D 2PO5
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct formula for diphosphorus pentoxide is B. P₄O₁₀.
Explanation:
Diphosphorus pentoxide, commonly known as phosphorus pentoxide, is a chemical compound consisting of phosphorus and oxygen. The formula P₄O₁₀ represents four phosphorus (P) atoms and ten oxygen (O) atoms. However, it is often referred to as “P₂O₅” in terms of its molecular empirical formula, due to its simple stoichiometry that represents two phosphorus atoms for every five oxygen atoms. It is crucial to note that while “P₂O₅” is the empirical formula, the actual molecular structure involves four phosphorus atoms and ten oxygen atoms.
Phosphorus pentoxide is a highly reactive and powerful desiccant, typically used as a dehydrating agent in chemical reactions. It can absorb water from its surroundings and convert into phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄). When phosphorus pentoxide comes into contact with water, it forms phosphoric acid:
[
P₄O₁₀ + 6H₂O \rightarrow 4H₃PO₄
]
The structure of phosphorus pentoxide features a network of phosphorus atoms connected by oxygen atoms in a highly symmetrical arrangement, where each phosphorus atom is bonded to four oxygen atoms, with a bridging oxygen atom linking adjacent phosphorus atoms.
Phosphorus pentoxide has various uses in industrial processes, such as the manufacture of phosphoric acid, and in the production of fertilizers. Additionally, it is employed in the synthesis of certain organic compounds and in the laboratory as a dehydrating reagent.
Now, I’ll generate an image illustrating the molecular structure of phosphorus pentoxide (P₄O₁₀) for further clarity.
Here is a visual representation of the molecular structure of diphosphorus pentoxide (P₄O₁₀). It shows the arrangement of the phosphorus (P) atoms connected by oxygen (O) atoms, forming a symmetrical structure. Let me know if you need further clarification!
