Question

In which of the following, the number of valence electrons is maximum?

• A. \(\mathrm{PO_4^{3-}}\)
• B. \(\mathrm{SO_3^{2-}}\)
• C. \(\mathrm{CO_3^{2-}}\)
• D. \(\mathrm{CNO^-}\) \bigskip

Hint:

Total valence electrons are calculated as: \[ \boxed{\text{Sum of valence electrons of all atoms } \pm \text{ionic charge}} \] (Add electrons for negative charge and subtract for positive charge.)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Count valence electrons: PO₄³⁻ = 5+24+3=32; SO₃²⁻ = 6+18+2=26; CO₃²⁻ = 4+18+2=24; CNO⁻ = 4+5+6+1=16. Maximum in PO₄³⁻.

Step 2: Write the final answer. \(\boxed{\mathrm{PO_4^{3-}}}\)