Question

Phosphorus forms oxides such that there are several (two or more) P:O ratios possible - True or false?

• A. True
• B. False

Answer 1

The correct option is A True

White phosphorus readily reacts with Oxygen to form $P_2{O}_6$, $P_2{O}_8$ and $P_2{O}_{10}$ among other oxides. Which product is formed is dependent on the ratio of the reactants and to a small extent on the conditions.
$P_4\left(s\right)+3O_2\left(g\right)\to P_4{O}_6\left(s\right)$
$P_4\left(s\right)+4O_2\left(g\right)\to P_4{O}_8\left(s\right)$
$P_4\left(s\right)+5O_2\left(g\right)\to P_4{O}_{10}\left(s\right)$