Is (NH4)3PO4 Ionic or Covalent?

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In summary, ionic bonds involve the transfer of electrons between atoms, while covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons. The electronegativity difference between atoms can determine if a compound is ionic or covalent. Examples of compounds with ionic bonds include NaCl and MgO, while examples of compounds with covalent bonds include H2O and CO2. Compounds can have both ionic and covalent bonds, known as polar covalent bonds. These bonds can affect the properties of a compound, such as melting and boiling points, solubility, and conductivity."
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jewilki1
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Indicate whether the following compounds are ionic or covalent?
(NH4) 3 PO4
I put this one as covalent. Is this correct. Thanks a lot.
 
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Whats your reasoning, what's the difference between both?
 
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Yes, you are correct. (NH4)3PO4 is a covalent compound. This is because it is composed of nonmetals (N, H, and P) bonded together by sharing electrons, rather than transferring them to form ions as in ionic compounds. The prefix "ammonium" in the compound's name also indicates that it is a covalent compound.
 

FAQ: Is (NH4)3PO4 Ionic or Covalent?

1. What is the difference between ionic and covalent bonds?

Ionic bonds involve the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, resulting in the formation of charged ions. Covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons between atoms.

2. How do you determine if a compound is ionic or covalent?

You can determine if a compound is ionic or covalent by looking at the electronegativity difference between the atoms. If the difference is greater than 1.7, it is considered ionic, and if it is less than 1.7, it is considered covalent.

3. What are some examples of compounds that have ionic and covalent bonds?

Some examples of compounds with ionic bonds include sodium chloride (NaCl) and magnesium oxide (MgO). Some examples of compounds with covalent bonds include water (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2).

4. Can compounds have both ionic and covalent bonds?

Yes, compounds can have both ionic and covalent bonds. This is known as a polar covalent bond, where the electrons are not shared equally between the atoms, resulting in a partial positive and partial negative charge.

5. How do ionic and covalent bonds affect the properties of a compound?

Ionic bonds tend to result in compounds that are crystalline and have high melting and boiling points. Covalent bonds, on the other hand, result in compounds that are typically gases, liquids, or low-melting solids. Additionally, the type of bond can affect the solubility and conductivity of a compound.

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