Reason: The nature of bond depends on the electronegativity difference of constituent atoms. If difference in electronegativity of constituent atoms is more, it will result in ionic bonding. Alternatively, if difference in electronegativity of constituent atoms is less, it will prefer covalent bonding. Further, covalently bonded </span><span>elements are most likely to form polyatomic ions.
In present case, electronegativity difference of O and P is minimum. Hence, they </span><span>are most likely to form polyatomic ions.</span>
