What is the empirical formula for the compound P4O6?

1 Answer
Nov 27, 2015

The empirical formula for #"P"_4"O"_6"# is #"P"_2"O"_3"#.

Explanation:

The empirical formula of a compound is the lowest whole number ratio of elements in the compound. To find the empirical formula for the compound #"P"_4"O"_6"#, divide the subscripts (which represent the ratio) by 2 to get #"P"_2"O"_3"#. This ratio cannot be further reduced as whole numbers.