Question

what is the correct formula for aluminum phosphide?
al₃p₃
alp
al₅p₃
pai

Explanation:

Step1: Determine ion charges

Aluminum (Al) typically forms a \(+3\) ion (\(Al^{3+}\)), and phosphide (P) typically forms a \(-3\) ion (\(P^{3-}\)).

Step2: Balance charges

To form a neutral compound, the positive and negative charges must balance. The charge of Al is \(+3\) and P is \(-3\). The ratio of \(Al^{3+}\) to \(P^{3-}\) needed to balance charge is \(1:1\) (since \(+3 + (-3)=0\)). So the formula is \(AlP\).

Answer:

B. AlP (assuming the second option is labeled B, with text "AlP")