Question

Which chemical species can easily form an ionic bond with a cation?

Answer 1

Answer : Option D) $PO_{4}^{-3}$

Explanation : The chemical species which can easily form an ionic bond with a cation will be $PO_{4}^{-3}$.

As by the definition of ionic bond, it is a chemical bond that is formed between two ions which have opposite charges. An Ionic bond is formed when one atom gives up their one or more electrons to another atom. These bonds can easily form between a pair of atoms or between molecules.This kind of bonding is most widely seen in bonds present in salts.

Compared to other options given, $PO_{4}^{-3}$ is the best option as the total number of 32 valence electrons, which is highest amongst the given choices. Its tendency to form ionic bonds with the other cation is much higher as compared to others.

P has 5 electrons which combines with 4 O atoms which has 6 lone pairs and -3 charge on it, it means it is accepting 3 electrons so it will be (+3), so total valence electrons will be 5 + 6 (4) + 3 = 32.

Answer 2

The answer is D)PO43-