How many covalent bonds will be drawn to phosphorous in PO₄^3- for the dot structure that expands the octet to minimize formal charge and if necessary places negative formal charges on the most electronegative atom(s) A) 4 B) 5 C) 6 D) 7 E) 8

Question

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Phosphorus can expand its octet and accommodate more than 8 electrons. In the given molecular formula, to minimize formal charges and place negative charges on the most electronegative atoms (usually oxygen and sulfur in this context), phosphorus will form 5 covalent bonds. This allows for an expanded octet and a stable structure with minimized formal charges.

How Many Covalent Bonds Will Be Drawn to Phosphorous in PO43-

How Many Covalent Bonds Will Be Drawn to Phosphorous in PO₄^3-