Question

The number of sigma bonds in $P_4{O}_{10}$ are:

• A. $6$
• B. $7$
• C. $17$
• D. $16$

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

$16$

$P_4{O}_{10}$ contains $16\sigma$ bonds. They are all $P-O$ bonds. $P-P$ bond is absent.

Each $P$ atom forms $4\sigma$ bonds with $4$ $O$ atoms. Thus, $4$ $P$ atoms form $16\sigma$ bonds.