The compound magnesium phosphate has the chemical formula Mg sub 3 open paren PO sub 4 close paren sub 2 In this compound, phosphorous and oxygen act together as one charged particle, which is connected to magnesium, the other charged particle. What does the 2 mean in the formula 5 Mg sub 3 open paren PO sub 4 close paren sub 2 ?
Answer
A
There are two molecules of magnesium phosphate.
B
There are two phosphate ions in a molecule of magnesium phosphate.
C
There are two elements in magnesium phosphate.
D
There are two magnesium ions in a molecule of magnesium phosphate.