Question

$(HPO_3)_n \xrightarrow{+xH_2O}$ 'Y' (Poly phosphoric acid)

If only 'Y' is from in above reaction and 'Y' have three P-O-P linkage then value of (x) will be :-

Answer 1

1

Answer 2

The product 'Y' is a linear polyphosphoric acid with 3 P-O-P linkages, so it is tetrapolyphosphoric acid, $H_6P_4O_{13}$. Since 'Y' has 4 P atoms, the starting material $(HPO_3)_n$ must also have 4 P atoms, meaning $n=4$. The starting material is $(HPO_3)_4$, which is cyclic tetrametaphosphoric acid, $H_4P_4O_{12}$. The reaction is $H_4P_4O_{12} + x H_2O \rightarrow H_6P_4O_{13}$. Balancing this equation gives $x=1$.