K3PO4 is an ionic compound because it is formed by two ions, K+ and PO43-. 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?
Jay is an educator and has helped more than 100,000 students in their studies by providing simple and easy explanations on different science-related topics. With a desire to make learning accessible for everyone, he founded Knords Learning, an online learning platform that provides students with easily understandable explanations.
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