In the phosphate ion (), what is the calculated formal charge on each oxygen atom and the fractional bond order, respectively, considering its resonance hybrid?

Question

In the phosphate ion ($PO_4^{3-}$), what is the calculated formal charge on each oxygen atom and the fractional $P-O$ bond order, respectively, considering its resonance hybrid?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: B. The ion forms 5 total bonds (one double, three single) resonating over 4 equivalent oxygen atoms. Average Bond Order = . The total charge of -3 is distributed over 4 oxygens, giving an average formal charge of .

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