The formula for copper(II) phosphate is

The formula for copper(II) phosphate is A. CuPO4. B. Cu2(PO4)3. C. Cu2(PO4)3. D. Cu3(PO4)2. E. Cu3(PO4)2.

The Correct Answer and Explanation is:

The correct formula for copper(II) phosphate is D. Cu3(PO4)2.

Here’s an explanation of how to derive this:

1. Copper(II) ion: The “(II)” in copper(II) indicates that the copper ion has a +2 charge. This is essential when balancing the charge in the formula.
2. Phosphate ion: The phosphate ion is denoted as PO4^3-, which carries a -3 charge.
3. Balancing the charges: To form a neutral compound, the total positive charge must balance the total negative charge. Therefore, the number of copper(II) ions (Cu^2+) and phosphate ions (PO4^3-) must be chosen so that the total positive charge equals the total negative charge.
   • Each Cu^2+ has a +2 charge.
   • Each PO4^3- has a -3 charge.
   If we use 3 copper ions (Cu^2+), their combined charge will be 3 × (+2) = +6. To balance this, we need 2 phosphate ions (PO4^3-), as their combined charge will be 2 × (-3) = -6.
4. Writing the formula: Therefore, the formula for copper(II) phosphate will be Cu3(PO4)2, where 3 copper ions balance the charge of 2 phosphate ions.

This is the neutral compound’s simplest formula, ensuring the charges are perfectly balanced, and hence, the correct option is D. Cu3(PO4)2.