Question

1. what is the correct formula for the compound formed between magnesium and the phosphate ion?

mgp₂o₅

mg₃(po₄)₂

mgpo₄

mgpo₂

Explanation:

Step1: Determine the charges

Magnesium (Mg) has a charge of +2. The phosphate ion (PO₄³⁻) has a charge of -3.

Step2: Use charge - balancing

To balance the charges, we need 3 Mg²⁺ ions (total charge \(3\times(+ 2)=+6\)) and 2 PO₄³⁻ ions (total charge \(2\times(-3)=-6\)).

Step3: Write the formula

The formula is \(Mg_3(PO_4)_2\) as we write the metal (Mg) first followed by the poly - atomic ion (PO₄³⁻) with subscripts indicating the number of each ion needed for charge balance.

Answer:

Mg₃(PO₄)₂