What is the correct formula for the ionic compound that would result from the combination of sodium and phosphorus?
A. $Na _3 Ph$
B. $S _3 P$
C. $NaP _3$
D. $Na _3 P$
Answer (1)
Sodium (Na) forms a +1 ion ( N a + ), and phosphorus (P) forms a -3 ion ( P 3 − ).
Balance the charges by using three sodium ions for every phosphorus ion.
Write the chemical formula with the correct subscripts: N a 3 P .
The correct formula for the ionic compound is N a 3 P .
Explanation
Determine the Charges of Ions Sodium (Na) is in Group 1 of the periodic table, so it forms a +1 ion ( N a + ). Phosphorus (P) is in Group 15, so it forms a -3 ion ( P 3 − ). To form a neutral compound, the total positive charge must equal the total negative charge.
Determine the Ratio of Ions To balance the charges, we need three sodium ions ( N a + ) for every one phosphorus ion ( P 3 − ). This gives a total positive charge of +3 and a total negative charge of -3, resulting in a neutral compound.
Write the Chemical Formula The chemical formula is written as N a 3 P , where the subscript 3 indicates that there are three sodium ions for every one phosphorus ion.
Final Answer Therefore, the correct formula for the ionic compound formed from sodium and phosphorus is N a 3 P .
Examples
Understanding ionic compound formation is crucial in various fields. For instance, in materials science, knowing how elements combine helps in designing new materials with specific properties. In agriculture, understanding the composition of fertilizers like sodium phosphate ( N a 3 P ) ensures plants receive the necessary nutrients for growth. Similarly, in medicine, understanding ionic compounds aids in drug development and delivery.
