Final answer:
A molecule containing one atom of phosphorus bound to four oxygen residues is called a phosphate. Phosphates are important components of nucleic acids and ATP.
Step-by-step explanation:
A molecule containing one atom of phosphorus bound to four oxygen residues is called a phosphate. Phosphates are commonly found in biological systems and are essential for many biological processes. They are important components of nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, as well as ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary energy source for cells.