Question #d16a3

1 Answer
Apgt512
Nov 9, 2015

#Mg_3(PO_4)_2#

Explanation:

Magnesium is in the group 2 of the periodic table that means that it's number of oxidation is 2+. Phosphate formula is #PO_4^(3-)#, also we can see in the lewis structure that it has a charge of 3-.
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So to balance the charges Mg +2, and #PO_4# -3, the easiest way is to multiply between them, that is #+2*3=+6#, and #-3*2=-6#, and now the charges are equal. Meaning you need 3 atoms of #Mg^(2+)# and 2 molecules of #PO_4^(3-)#, for charges to be equal.

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