3
QuizMultiple Choice

Nomenclature of Covalent Compounds — Quiz

Question 3 • Chemistry

Which is the correct formula for phosphorus pentachloride?

Answer
A
PCl sub 4 because a subscript of 4 indicates four Cl atoms
B
cap p sub 5 Cl sub 3 because a subscript of 5 indicates five cap p atoms
C
PCl sub 5 because a subscript of 5 indicates five Cl atoms
D
cap p sub 5 Cl because a subscript of 5 indicates five cap p atoms

Explanation

In the name phosphorus pentachloride, “penta-” means five and applies to chlorine, while phosphorus has no prefix and therefore one atom. The formula is PCl₅: one P atom and five Cl atoms. Choice C correctly represents this formula.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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