Question

1 multiple choice 15 points what is the formula for mercury (i) phosphide? hg₃p hg₃po₃ hg₃po₄ hgp

Explanation:

Step1: Determine the charge of mercury (I) ion

Mercury (I) ion is \(Hg_2^{2 +}\), which can be considered as having an equivalent charge of \(+ 1\) per \(Hg\) in terms of formula - writing (since \(Hg_2^{2+}\) dissociates as \(Hg_2^{2+}\to2Hg^+\)).

Step2: Determine the charge of phosphide ion

Phosphide ion is \(P^{3 -}\).

Step3: Use the criss - cross method

To form a neutral compound, we need to balance the charges. Let the number of \(Hg^+\) ions be \(x\) and the number of \(P^{3 -}\) ions be \(y\). Using the charge balance equation \(x\times(+1)+y\times(- 3)=0\). We find \(x = 3\) and \(y = 1\). So the formula is \(Hg_3P\).

Answer:

\(Hg_3P\) (the first option)