Question

The P – O bond order in \( \text{PO}_4^{3-} \) is

• A. 1
• B. 1.5
• C. 1.45
• D. 1.25

Hint:

Bond order can be calculated using the resonance model, where the total bonding electrons are divided by the number of bonds formed.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The bond order can be calculated using the resonance model. In the \( \text{PO}_4^{3-} \) ion, there are four equivalent P-O bonds. The charge on the ion is \(3-\), which spreads over all four bonds. The bond order is calculated as: \[ \text{Bond Order} = \frac{\text{Total bonding electrons}}{\text{Number of bonds}} = \frac{8}{4} = 1.25 \] Thus, the bond order for P-O in \( \text{PO}_4^{3-} \) is 1.25.