Question

when you strike a match, the friction generates heat that converts a small amount of red phosphorus (p) to white phosphorus. white phosphorus ignites spontaneously in air. how many moles of phosphorus atoms are in 89.52 grams of phosphorus? refer to a periodic table. write your answer to the correct number of significant figures. round if necessary.

Explanation:

Step1: Find molar - mass of phosphorus

From the periodic table, the molar mass of phosphorus (P) is approximately 30.97 g/mol.

Step2: Calculate moles of phosphorus

Use the formula $n=\frac{m}{M}$, where $n$ is the number of moles, $m$ is the mass in grams, and $M$ is the molar mass in g/mol. Substitute $m = 89.52$ g and $M=30.97$ g/mol into the formula: $n=\frac{89.52}{30.97}\approx2.89$ mol.

Answer:

2.89