Chemistry: Principles and Practice (3rd Edition)

Published by Cengage Learning
ISBN 10: 0534420125
ISBN 13: 978-0-53442-012-3

Chapter 2 - Atoms, Molecules, and Ions - Questions and Exercises - Questions - Page 82: 2.12

Answer

The number 4 behind P indicates that there are 4 individual atoms of Phosphorus. $P_{4}$ implies that it is a phosphorus molecule with 4 phosphorus atoms bonded together.

Work Step by Step

The number 4 behind P indicates that there are 4 individual atoms of Phosphorus. $P_{4}$ implies that it is a phosphorus molecule with 4 phosphorus atoms bonded together.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.

GradeSaver will pay $15 for your literature essays
GradeSaver will pay $25 for your college application essays
GradeSaver will pay $50 for your graduate school essays – Law, Business, or Medical
GradeSaver will pay $10 for your Community Note contributions
GradeSaver will pay $500 for your Textbook Answer contributions