Question

predict the chemical formula for the ionic compound formed by cu²⁺ and p³⁻

Explanation:

Step1: Determine charge balance

For an ionic compound, the total positive charge equals the total negative charge. Let the number of \(Cu^{2 +}\) ions be \(x\) and \(P^{3-}\) ions be \(y\). Then \(2x=3y\).

Step2: Find smallest whole - number ratio

The smallest whole - number values for \(x\) and \(y\) that satisfy \(2x = 3y\) are \(x = 3\) and \(y = 2\) (by cross - multiplying \(x/y=3/2\)).

Answer:

\(Cu_3P_2\)