What is the name of the polyatomic ion with the formula PO_4^{3-}?

• A. Hypophosphite
• B. Perphosphate
• C. Phosphite
• D. Phosphate

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the given polyatomic ion formula: \(\mathrm{PO_4^{3-}}\).
2. Recall the naming conventions for phosphorus-oxygen polyatomic ions based on the number of oxygen atoms and charge.
3. Recognize that \(\mathrm{PO_4^{3-}}\) corresponds to the ion with four oxygen atoms and a 3- charge, which is known as phosphate.
4. Differentiate phosphate from similar ions such as phosphite (\(\mathrm{PO_3^{3-}}\)), hypophosphite (\(\mathrm{PO_2^{2-}}\)), and perphosphate (less common and different formula).
5. Conclude that the correct name for \(\mathrm{PO_4^{3-}}\) is phosphate.