Final answer:
P2O4 is a molecular compound because it consists of nonmetal elements phosphorus and oxygen forming discrete molecules. So the correct option is c.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the type of compound P2O4, we must analyze its composition. Phosphorus (P) and oxygen (O) are both nonmetals; therefore, compounds formed from nonmetals are typically molecular compounds. This eliminates options (a) fixed charge ionic compound and (b) variable charge ionic compound, as these involve metals typically forming cations. There are no metals present to form an ionic lattice, hence option (d) metallic compound is also not applicable.
The correct classification for P2O4 is (c) molecular compound as it is a compound formed from two nonmetal elements, creating a discrete molecule rather than an extended ionic lattice or a metallic structure.