What is the formula of tin(IV) phosphate?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
The formula of tin(IV) phosphate is Sn₃(PO₄)₄.
Explanation:
To determine the correct formula of tin(IV) phosphate, we first need to understand the charges of the ions involved.
1. Tin(IV) Ion (Sn⁴⁺):
The Roman numeral IV indicates that the tin ion has a +4 charge. This means that each tin ion will contribute four positive charges to the compound.
2. Phosphate Ion (PO₄³⁻):
The phosphate ion is a polyatomic ion with a −3 charge. It contains one phosphorus atom and four oxygen atoms, and as a group, it carries three negative charges.
3. Balancing Charges:
In an ionic compound, the total positive charge must balance the total negative charge. We need to find the smallest whole number ratio of Sn⁴⁺ and PO₄³⁻ ions so that the overall charge of the compound is zero.
To balance:
- Sn⁴⁺ has a +4 charge.
- PO₄³⁻ has a −3 charge.
Let us determine the least common multiple (LCM) of 4 and 3, which is 12. This means we need 12 positive charges and 12 negative charges to balance.
To get +12 charge:
We need 3 Sn⁴⁺ ions (3 × +4 = +12).
To get −12 charge:
We need 4 PO₄³⁻ ions (4 × −3 = −12).
4. Final Formula:
Combining 3 Sn⁴⁺ ions and 4 PO₄³⁻ ions gives the formula:
Sn₃(PO₄)₄
5. Naming:
This compound is named tin(IV) phosphate because tin is in the +4 oxidation state, and the anion is phosphate.
Understanding how to write chemical formulas requires knowledge of ion charges and how to balance them. This ensures the compound is electrically neutral, which is a fundamental principle in forming ionic compounds.
