Multiple Choice
What is the name of the polyatomic ion with the formula PO_4^{3-}?
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3. Chemical Reactions
Polyatomic Ions
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Which of the following polyatomic ions has a positive charge?
A
Phosphate, PO_4^{3-}
B
Nitrate, NO_3^-
C
Ammonium, NH_4^+
D
Sulfate, SO_4^{2-}
Verified step by step guidance1
Review the charges on each polyatomic ion given in the problem: Phosphate (PO_4^{3-}), Nitrate (NO_3^-), Ammonium (NH_4^+), and Sulfate (SO_4^{2-}).
Recall that most common polyatomic ions carry a negative charge, which is indicated by the superscript minus signs (e.g., 3-, 2-, or 1-).
Identify the ion with a positive charge by looking for a superscript plus sign (+) in its formula.
Note that Ammonium (NH_4^+) is the only polyatomic ion listed with a positive charge, as indicated by the superscript plus sign.
Conclude that Ammonium is the polyatomic ion with a positive charge, while the others are negatively charged ions.
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