Question

2. Write the formula for the following covalent compound. pentaphosphorus tetraoxide. Explain how you determined the formula. No credit without and explanation. (5 points)

Answer 1

The formula of pentaphosphorus tetraoxide is P₅O₄

As per the convention of naming chemical compounds - the Prefix names are used for naming covalent compounds.

The prefix 'penta' means '5', so we use 5 as subscript for P.

The prefix 'tetra' means '4', so we use 4 as subscript for O.

Therefore the formula of pentaphosphorus tetraoxide is P₅O₄