In your own words, define or explain the following terms or symbols: (a) formula unit; (b) \(\mathrm{P}_{4} ;\) (c) molecular compound; (d) binary compound; (e) hydrate.

Short Answer

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Here are the definitions: (a) A formula unit is the simplest ratio of ions in an ionic compound. (b) \(\mathrm{P}_{4}\) is molecule of four phosphorus atoms. (c) A molecular compound is composed of two or more nonmetals bonded by sharing electrons. (d) A binary compound is composed of only two types of atoms or elements. (e) A hydrate is a compound with water molecules bound to its atoms.

Step by step solution

01

Define 'formula unit'

A formula unit in chemistry refers to the simplest ratio of ions represented in an ionic compound. It shows the proportion of atoms within a compound but not the actual number of atoms in a molecule. On the basic level, it can be compared to a blueprint of a molecule which shows only the ratio of atoms and not their actual number.
02

Explain '\(\mathrm{P}_{4}\)'

In chemistry, \(\mathrm{P}_{4}\) refers to a molecule that contains four phosphorus atoms. Phosphorus naturally exists as \(\mathrm{P}_{4}\) molecules, also known as white phosphorus. It is the simplest form of phosphorous.
03

Define 'molecular compound'

A molecular compound is made up of two or more nonmetals, and these nonmetals bond together by sharing electrons. This type of bond is referred to as a covalent bond. The resulting compound usually has lower melting and boiling points than ionic compounds.
04

Define 'binary compound'

A binary compound is a chemical compound that is composed of only two different elements. This term is often used to refer to compounds that are composed of just two types of atoms or elements.
05

Define 'hydrate'

A hydrate is a compound that has water molecules bound to its atoms. The water is often referred to as 'water of hydration.' Not all hydrates have the same number of water molecules bound to their atoms.

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