Question:medium

$P_2O_5$ is heated with water to give

Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • hypophosphorous acid
  • phosphorous acid
  • hypophosphoric acid
  • orthophosphoric acid
Show Solution

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

To determine the product formed when P_2O_5 is heated with water, we need to look at the chemical reaction involved. P_2O_5, also known as phosphorus pentoxide, is an anhydride of phosphoric acid. Its reaction with water is as follows:

P_2O_5 + 3H_2O \rightarrow 2H_3PO_4

In this reaction, phosphorus pentoxide reacts with water to form orthophosphoric acid, which is also known as phosphoric acid and has the chemical formula H_3PO_4.

To justify the answer:

  • Hypophosphorous acid (H_3PO_2): This is not formed in the reaction as its formation involves different reactants and conditions.
  • Phosphorous acid (H_3PO_3): This is a product of the reaction between phosphorus trichloride (PCl_3) and water, not P_2O_5.
  • Hypophosphoric acid (H_4P_2O_6): This compound requires different precursors to form.
  • Orthophosphoric acid (H_3PO_4): As shown, this is the correct product formed when P_2O_5 is reacted with water.

Thus, the correct answer is orthophosphoric acid.

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