Final answer:
The formula for a compound with 3 sodium atoms, 1 phosphorus atom, and 4 oxygen atoms is Na₃PO₄, which is option d.
Step-by-step explanation:
The formula for a compound consisting of 3 sodium atoms, 1 phosphorus atom, and 4 oxygen atoms is Na₃PO₄. Therefore, the correct answer is option d. Na₃PO₄.
This compound is known as sodium phosphate, which is an ionic compound. When writing formulas for ionic compounds, we combine the ions in a ratio that results in a neutral compound.
Sodium (Na) has a +1 charge, and the phosphate ion (PO₄) has a -3 charge. Three sodium ions are needed to balance the -3 charge of one phosphate ion.