How many atoms are present in a (i) H₂S molecule and (ii) PO₄^3-ion.

Let us learn about the given molecules.

(i) H₂S

The structure of Hydrogen sulfide is similar to that of water. In an H₂S molecule, three atoms are present in total. Amongst the three, two are hydrogen and one of sulphur.

About H₂S

• Hydrogen sulfide is a chemical compound with H₂S as its chemical formula.
• The gas is colourless with the repellant odour of rotten eggs.
• It is a highly corrosive, flammable and poisonous gas.
• Hydrogen sulfide gas is mainly used in industrial areas.

(ii) PO₄^3-

PO₄^3- is a chemical derivative of phosphoric acid with the chemical name Phosphate. In a PO₄^3-ion, five atoms are present in total. Amongst five, one is of phosphorus, and four atoms are of oxygen.

About PO₄^3-

• Phosphate is also called Phosphate ion or Orthophosphate.
• It is a trivalent inorganic anion and a conjugate base of hydrogen phosphate.
• It is composed of salts containing the phosphate ion, the dihydrogen phosphate ion, or the hydrogen phosphate ion.
• Positively charged ions such as calcium or sodium; another group composed of esters.
• It is naturally found in food, human bodies, and water.
• Phosphorus is an essential nutrient in plants, and its main use – through phosphate compounds – is in fertilizer production.