Question

The molecular formula P₃N₅ cannot be reduced further, so the empirical formula is simply the same: P₃N₅

Select one:
a. True
b. False

Answer 1

The statement that the molecular formula P₃N₅ cannot be reduced and is the same as the empirical formula is true, as it already represents the smallest whole-number ratio of phosphorus and nitrogen atoms in the compound.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that the molecular formula P₃N₅ cannot be reduced further, so the empirical formula is simply the same is true. An empirical formula is the simplest whole-number ratio of elements in a compound.

In some cases, like water (H₂O) or diphosphorus pentoxide (P₂O₅), the molecular formula is already in its simplest ratio, making the empirical formula identical to the molecular formula. The given molecular formula P₃N₅ represents the smallest whole numbers of atoms for phosphorus and nitrogen in that compound, hence, it is also its empirical formula.