What will be the atomicity of oxygen and phosphorous?

Question

Examoogle · Accepted Answer

The correct answer is Option C: Diatomic and tetra-atomic. The atomicity of an element is defined as the number of atoms present in one molecule of that element. Oxygen ($O_2$) is a diatomic gas because its molecules contain two atoms, while phosphorus ($P_4$) is tetra-atomic as its stable form consists of four atoms linked in a tetrahedral structure.

Step-by-Step Solution & Concepts:
The atomicity of an element is defined as the number of atoms present in one molecule of that element. Oxygen ($O_2$) is a diatomic gas because its molecules contain two atoms, while phosphorus ($P_4$) is tetra-atomic as its stable form consists of four atoms linked in a tetrahedral structure.

Working Principle: Atomicity depends on the chemical bonding and valency of the element. Oxygen exists as a stable diatomic molecule where two oxygen atoms share two electron pairs ($O=O$). Elemental phosphorus ($P_4$) exists as a white phosphorus allotrope where each atom is bonded to three others, resulting in a stable cluster of four atoms.

Key Formulas: $O_2$ — Molecule of oxygen; $P_4$ — Molecule of white phosphorus

Key Points: Atomicity = number of atoms in a single molecule.; Oxygen exists as a diatomic gas in the atmosphere.; White phosphorus ($P_4$) is the most reactive and standard elemental form for atomicity calculations.; Noble gases like Helium are monoatomic (atomicity = 1).

Applications: Breathing (Oxygen); Fertilizer production (Phosphorus)

Additional Info: Atomicity is determined by the physical state of the element at standard temperature and pressure.. Option A is incorrect because Phosphorus is not monoatomic.. Option B is incorrect because Phosphorus is not diatomic.. Option D is incorrect because Phosphorus is not triatomic.

Answer: C is correct — Oxygen is diatomic ($O_2$) and phosphorus is tetra-atomic ($P_4$).

Exam Tip: Always remember the standard allotropic forms: $O_2$ (Diatomic), $O_3$ (Triatomic/Ozone), $P_4$ (Tetra-atomic), and $S_8$ (Octa-atomic).

Examoogle · Answer

Option A: Diatomic and monoatomic

Examoogle · Answer

Option B: Diatomic and diatomic

Examoogle · Answer

Option D: Diatomic and triatomic

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