Which statement correctly describes the phosphate ion?

• A. It has the formula SO_4^{2-} and carries a -2 charge.
• B. It has the formula PO_4^{3-} and carries a -3 charge.
• C. It has the formula PO_3^{2-} and carries a -2 charge.
• D. It has the formula NO_3^{-} and carries a -1 charge.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the phosphate ion by its chemical formula. The phosphate ion is composed of phosphorus (P) and oxygen (O) atoms.
2. Recall the correct chemical formula for the phosphate ion, which is \(\mathrm{PO_4^{3-}}\).
3. Understand the charge on the phosphate ion. The superscript \$3-$ indicates that the ion carries a negative three charge.
4. Compare the given options to the known formula and charge of the phosphate ion to determine which statement is correct.
5. Note that other ions mentioned, such as sulfate (\(\mathrm{SO_4^{2-}}\)) and nitrate (\(\mathrm{NO_3^-}\)), are different ions with distinct formulas and charges.