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QuestionChemistry

What is the formula for hydrophosphoric acid?
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Answer

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Step 1:
: Identify the Components

Hydrophosphoric acid is composed of hydrogen and phosphorus. To determine its chemical formula, we need to consider the bonding and valence electrons of these elements.

Step 2:
: Determine the Valence of Phosphorus and Hydrogen

- Phosphorus (P) typically has a valence of - 3 in its compounds - Hydrogen (H) has a valence of + 1

Step 3:
: Balance the Charges

To create a neutral compound, we need to balance the charges: - Phosphorus has a - 3 charge - Hydrogen has a + 1 charge - We'll need 3 hydrogen atoms to balance the phosphorus charge

Step 4:
: Write the Chemical Formula

The chemical formula for hydrophosphoric acid is $$H_{3}P

Final Answer

Note: This is the simplest representation of the compound. In aqueous solution, it would typically be written as phosphine (PH_{3}), which is a weak acid when dissolved in water.