Question:

Which one of the following elemental forms is not present in the enamel of the teeth?

Show Hint

Tooth enamel is (fluor)apatite, \(\mathrm{Ca_{10}(PO_4)_6F_2}\), containing \(\mathrm{Ca^{2+}}\), phosphate (P in +5 state) and \(\mathrm{F^-}\).
Updated On: Nov 4, 2026
  • \(\mathrm{Ca^{2+}}\)
  • \(\mathrm{P^{3+}}\)
  • \(\mathrm{F^{-}}\)
  • \(\mathrm{P^{5+}}\)
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Enamel of teeth is made of hydroxyapatite \(\mathrm{Ca_5(PO_4)_3OH}\), converted to fluorapatite in presence of fluoride.
Ions present: \(\mathrm{Ca^{2+}}\) (calcium), \(\mathrm{F^-}\) (fluoride) and phosphorus as \(\mathrm{PO_4^{3-}}\), in which P is in the +5 state (\(x + 4(-2) = -3 \Rightarrow x = +5\)).
Phosphorus in the +3 state is not present in the enamel.
Answer: (2) \(\mathrm{P^{3+}}\)
Was this answer helpful?
0
0