Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for phosphorus trichloride?

• A. PCl_5
• B. PCl_3
• C. PH_3
• D. POCl_3

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the name of the compound: 'phosphorus trichloride' indicates a compound made of phosphorus (P) and chlorine (Cl) atoms.
2. The prefix 'tri-' means three, so 'trichloride' means there are three chlorine atoms bonded to phosphorus.
3. Write the chemical symbol for phosphorus, which is 'P'.
4. Write the chemical symbol for chlorine, which is 'Cl', and attach the subscript '3' to indicate three chlorine atoms.
5. Combine these to form the chemical formula: \(PCl_3\), which correctly represents phosphorus trichloride.