Which of the following is the correct chemical formula for magnesium phosphate?

• A. Mg(PO4)2
• B. Mg3(PO4)2
• C. MgPO4
• D. Mg2(PO4)3

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the ions involved: magnesium ion is Mg^{2+} and phosphate ion is PO_4^{3-}.
2. Determine the ratio of ions needed to balance the charges so the compound is electrically neutral.
3. Set up the charge balance equation: 3 \(\times\) (+2) from Mg^{2+} ions and 2 \(\times\) (-3) from PO_4^{3-} ions, ensuring total charge equals zero.
4. Write the formula using the correct subscripts based on the ratio found: Mg_3(PO_4)_2.
5. Verify that the total positive charge equals the total negative charge to confirm the formula is correct.