Westonci.ca is the ultimate Q&A platform, offering detailed and reliable answers from a knowledgeable community. Join our Q&A platform and get accurate answers to all your questions from professionals across multiple disciplines. Explore comprehensive solutions to your questions from knowledgeable professionals across various fields on our platform.

What is the formula for diphosphorus pentoxide?

A. [tex]PO_5[/tex]

B. [tex]P_2O_5[/tex]

C. [tex]P_5O[/tex]

D. [tex]P_5O_2[/tex]


Sagot :

To determine the correct chemical formula for diphosphorus pentoxide, let's break down the name:

1. "Diphosphorus" indicates the presence of two phosphorus (P) atoms. The prefix "di-" means two.
2. "Pentoxide" indicates the presence of five oxygen (O) atoms. The prefix "penta-" means five.

Combining these insights:

- We have two phosphorus atoms: \( \text{P}_2 \)
- We have five oxygen atoms: \( \text{O}_5 \)

Therefore, the chemical formula for diphosphorus pentoxide is \( \text{P}_2\text{O}_5 \).

Now, let's match this formula to the given choices:

A. \( \text{PO}_5 \) – This is incorrect because it specifies one phosphorus atom and five oxygen atoms.

B. \( \text{P}_2\text{O}_5 \) – This is correct as it specifies two phosphorus atoms and five oxygen atoms.

C. \( \text{P}_5\text{O} \) – This is incorrect because it specifies five phosphorus atoms and one oxygen atom.

D. \( \text{P}_5\text{O}_2 \) – This is incorrect because it specifies five phosphorus atoms and two oxygen atoms.

Thus, the correct choice is:
B. [tex]\( \text{P}_2\text{O}_5 \)[/tex]