Question

Explain the meaning of P4→4P⁽³⁻⁾.

1) gain of electrons
2) loss of electrons
3) gain of hydrogen atoms
4) loss of hydrogen atoms

Answer 1

The equation P4→4P³⁻ signifies that phosphorus is gaining electrons to become phosphorus trianion, demonstrating a reduction process, which is a gain of electrons. Option 1

Step-by-step explanation:

The chemical equation P4→4P³⁻ represents the transformation of phosphorus into its trianion form. This process involves the gain of electron (e⁻), as indicated by the transition of neutral phosphorus atoms (P) to phosphorus ions with a three-negative charge (P³⁻).

When examining this change, we notice that each atom gains three electrons, resulting in a total gain of twelve electrons for the four phosphorus atoms.

The concept demonstrated here is reduction, which, in general, is characterized by a gain of electrons, loss of oxygen, or gain of hydrogen. Conversely, oxidation involves the loss of electrons, gain of oxygen, or loss of hydrogen. This is a key principle in redox reactions, where oxidation and reduction processes occur simultaneously. Option 1