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Multiple Choice
What is the correct name for the ionic compound KP?
A
potassium phosphide
B
potassium peroxide
C
potassium phosphate
D
potassium phosphite
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the ions present in the compound KP. 'K' stands for potassium, which forms a cation with a charge of +1 (K\u207a), and 'P' stands for phosphorus, which can form several anions depending on its oxidation state.
Determine the charge and name of the phosphorus ion in this compound. Since the formula is KP, it suggests a 1:1 ratio, meaning phosphorus must have a charge of -1 to balance potassium's +1 charge. However, phosphorus typically forms polyatomic ions like phosphide (P\u2073\u2212), phosphite (PO\u2083\u20323\u2212), or phosphate (PO\u20443\u22123).
Recognize that the simplest phosphorus anion with a -3 charge is phosphide (P\u2073\u2212), which pairs with potassium ions to form potassium phosphide. The formula KP corresponds to potassium phosphide, where potassium (K\u207a) and phosphide (P\u2073\u2212) combine in a 3:1 ratio, but the formula KP suggests a simplified empirical formula.
Eliminate other options: potassium peroxide contains O\u2082\u2212 ions, potassium phosphate contains PO\u20443\u22123 ions, and potassium phosphite contains PO\u2083\u20323 ions. None of these match the formula KP.
Conclude that the correct name for KP is potassium phosphide, as it correctly reflects the ions present and their charges.