Question

Identify the correct formula for Beryllium Phosphate.

Question options:

Be3(PO4)2

Be2(PO4)3

Be(PO4)2

BePO4

Answer 1

It is the first one. Be is an alkali earth metal, so its charge is 2+, while phosphate has a 3- charge, making it answer 1. 

Answer 2

The correct formula for Beryllium phosphate is Be3(PO4)2 Beryllium has a charge of +2 and phosphate has a charge of -3. So to make the charge equal to zero, 3x +2 = 6, and 2 x-3 = -6 -6 + +6 = 0