Question

what is the formula for triphosphorous tetrasulfide?
○ p₄s₃
○ p₃s₄
○ k₃s₄
○ p₃(so₄)₄

Explanation:

To determine the formula for triphosphorous tetrasulfide, we analyze the prefixes: "tri-" means 3, so there are 3 phosphorus (P) atoms; "tetra-" means 4, so there are 4 sulfur (S) atoms. Checking the options, \( \text{P}_3\text{S}_4 \) matches this composition. Other options have incorrect elements (like K in \( \text{K}_3\text{S}_4 \)) or incorrect subscripts (e.g., \( \text{P}_4\text{S}_3 \) has reversed subscripts, and \( \text{P}_3(\text{SO}_4)_4 \) includes sulfate ions which are not present in a simple sulfide).

Answer:

B. \( \text{P}_3\text{S}_4 \)