MCQ practice · SSC Chemistry Board questions · Chapter 5: Chemical Bond
What is the valency of the phosphate radical?
Think it through first, then pick an option.
- a 4
- b 3
- c 2
- d 1
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: b 3
Phosphate, PO₄³⁻, has charge −3, so its valency is 3.
Why the other options are wrong
- a 4: 4 is the number of O atoms in PO₄; the valency is the charge number, 3.
- c 2: 2 is the valency of sulfate or carbonate; phosphate's is 3.
- d 1: 1 is the valency of nitrate or hydroxide; phosphate's is 3.
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