Is K3PO4 Ionic or Covalent? (And Why?)

K₃PO₄ is an ionic compound because it is formed by two ions, K⁺ and PO₄^3-. These positive and negative ions produce the force of attraction between them which results in an ionic bond.
Moreover when the metal combines with nonmetal, it usually forms an ionic compound. Here, K is a metal and PO₄ is a group of nonmetals. So when they combine, it forms an ionic compound.

Well, now you have got to know that K₃PO₄ is an ionic compound, but let me explain the in-depth reason why K₃PO₄ is an ionic compound.

If you are a visual learner like me, then here is a short one minute video for you.

Why is K₃PO₄ an ionic compound?

As mentioned above, you can simply remember that when the metal combines with nonmetal, the bond between them is an ionic bond.

Here in K₃PO₄, the K atom is a metal and the PO₄ is a group of nonmetals.

Hence the bond between them is an ionic bond.

But how does the ionic bond form between K and PO₄?

When K and PO₄ combine with each other, the electron transfer takes place from K to PO₄.

In other words, all three K atoms lose 1 electron and the PO₄ gains these 3 electrons.

Due to this, the Potassium becomes a positive ion (K⁺) and PO₄ becomes a negative ion (PO₄)^3-.

Now because of the positive charge of Potassium ion and negative charge of PO₄ ion, the electrostatic force of attraction is produced between them.

This electrostatic force between K ion and PO₄ ion results in an ionic bond between them.

Hence, K₃PO₄ is an ionic compound.

I hope you have understood the reason why K₃PO₄ is an ionic compound.

Check out other compounds to see whether they are ionic or covalent;
Is CsCl Ionic or Covalent?
Is KNO3 Ionic or Covalent?
Is PH3 Ionic or Covalent?
Is NBr3 Ionic or Covalent?
Is NaCl (Sodium chloride) Ionic or Covalent?