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How do you find the molar mass of potassium phosphate?

Published in Chemistry 2 mins read

To find the molar mass of potassium phosphate (K3PO4), you need to sum the atomic masses of each element in the compound, multiplied by the number of atoms of that element present in one molecule of potassium phosphate.

Here's a breakdown:

  1. Identify the chemical formula: The chemical formula for potassium phosphate is K3PO4. This indicates there are 3 potassium (K) atoms, 1 phosphorus (P) atom, and 4 oxygen (O) atoms in each molecule.

  2. Find the atomic masses of each element: You can find the atomic masses on the periodic table.

    • Potassium (K): Approximately 39.10 g/mol
    • Phosphorus (P): Approximately 30.97 g/mol
    • Oxygen (O): Approximately 16.00 g/mol
  3. Calculate the molar mass: Multiply the number of atoms of each element by its atomic mass, and then sum the results.

    Molar mass of K3PO4 = (3 x Atomic mass of K) + (1 x Atomic mass of P) + (4 x Atomic mass of O)

    Molar mass of K3PO4 = (3 x 39.10 g/mol) + (1 x 30.97 g/mol) + (4 x 16.00 g/mol)

    Molar mass of K3PO4 = 117.30 g/mol + 30.97 g/mol + 64.00 g/mol

    Molar mass of K3PO4 = 212.27 g/mol

Therefore, the molar mass of potassium phosphate (K3PO4) is approximately 212.27 g/mol.

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