Question

Phosphorus forms two oxides $P_2{O}_3$ and $P_2{O}_5$. Which law can be proved by the weights of $P$ and $O?$

• A. Constant proportion
• B. Multiple proportion
• C. Reciprocal proportion
• D. Definite proportion

Answer 1

The correct option is B Multiple proportion

Law of Multiple Proportion: When two elements combine to form two or more chemical compounds then weights of one of the element which combines with the fixed weight of the other, bear a simple whole number ratio.

In $P_2{O}_3$ and $P_2{O}_5$, $62g$ of P combines with $48g$ $O$ and $80g$ $O$. Ratio comes out to be $48:80$ which can be written as $3:5$ which is a simple whole number ratio.