Question

Which one of the following represents the correct number of types of $P-O$ bonds in $P_4{O}_{10}$?

• A. 1
• B. 2
• C. 3
• D. 4

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

2

In $P_4{O}_{10}$ molecule, the phosphorus atoms lie at tetrahedral positions with respect to each other. Each $P$ is covalently bonded to three $O$ atoms and each $O$ atom is bonded to two $P$ atoms. Also, each $P$ forms a double bond (or coordinate bond) by sharing or donating its lone pair of electrons with an $O$ atom.