Question

The ratio of metal atoms to total number of constituents in magnesium phosphate is :
(A) $3:13$
(B) $3:7$
(C) $2:7$
(D) $2:11$

Answer 1

Hint: A chemical formula is an expression that shows the elements in a compound and the relative proportions of those elements. If only one atom of a specific type is present, no subscript is used. Magnesium phosphate is a salt formed by magnesium cation and phosphate anion.

Complete step by step answer:
Chemical compound formulas provide a shorthand communication for the structure of molecules and compounds. Compounds form when atoms are combined chemically. When metals react with non-metals, they tend to form ionic compounds via ionic bonding. When non-metals are combined, they tend to form covalent compounds via covalent bonding. The chemical composition of the compound is represented by its chemical formula. The formula of Magnesium Phosphate is $M{g_3}{(P{O_4})_2}$. In the formula, the metal is Magnesium $(Mg)$. It is an element that readily forms positive ions known as cations and forms metallic bonds. Most elements on this line are metalloids, sometimes called semi-metals; elements to the lower left are metals; elements to the upper right are called non-metals. The other constituent ions are ${(P{O_4})_2}$.
So the number of metal ions in this formula is $3$ that is the total no of magnesium ions.
And the total number of all the constituent ions present in this formula $M{g_3}{(P{O_4})_2}$ is $13$.
Therefore, the ratio of metal atoms to total number of constituents in magnesium phosphate will be $3:13$.
So, the correct answer is “Option A”.

Note:
When magnesium phosphate is treated with water, it gets converted to phosphoric acid. It is used in the prevention of vitamin E deficiency. It is also used as a nutrient, a pH control, and stabilizer. You can also use it in medication for the relaxation of muscles.