Identifying Element 'E' In Chemical Transformations

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Hey guys! Let's dive into a cool chemistry problem. We're trying to figure out which element, represented by 'E,' undergoes a series of transformations: E → E₂O₅ → H₃EO₄. This means the element 'E' reacts to form a pentoxide (E₂O₅), and that pentoxide then reacts to create an oxoacid (H₃EO₄). So, let's break down this chemical puzzle and see which element fits the bill from the options provided. It's like a fun treasure hunt, but instead of gold, we're looking for the right atom! We need to understand the chemical properties, reactions, and how elements behave when they bond with oxygen and hydrogen to solve this problem. Ready to crack the code? Let's go!

Understanding the Chemical Transformations

Alright, let's get our chemistry hats on! The transformations show us a few key things about element 'E'. First, the creation of E₂O₅ suggests that 'E' is capable of forming a pentoxide. This means it can combine with oxygen in a 2:5 ratio, showcasing a specific valence state. Then, the reaction of E₂O₅ to form H₃EO₄ (an oxoacid) indicates that the resulting oxide is acidic when it interacts with water. The presence of three hydrogen atoms in the acid formula tells us about the number of acidic hydrogens that the acid can donate. Understanding this is key to figuring out which element fits this pattern. These steps give us clues about the element's position on the periodic table, and how it likes to react with other elements. We're basically playing detective, using the evidence of chemical reactions to identify the mystery element! Also, we will use the concept of oxidation states to identify the correct answer.

Now, let's consider each element provided in the choices and analyze its chemical behavior in these kinds of reactions to determine which one fits the transformations:

Analyzing the Options

  1. Nitrogen (N): Nitrogen can form oxides, including N₂O₅, but N₂O₅ reacts with water to form nitric acid (HNO₃), not H₃EO₄. The oxoacid formed by nitrogen is not the same as the formula given. So, nitrogen is not our guy.
  2. Sulfur (S): Sulfur forms sulfur trioxide (SO₃) which reacts with water to give sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄). This is close but not the correct acid formula required in our case, and sulfur usually forms the trioxide rather than the pentoxide. So, sulfur is unlikely.
  3. Carbon (C): Carbon forms carbon dioxide (CO₂), but CO₂ reacts with water to form carbonic acid (H₂CO₃). The acid formula differs from H₃EO₄. Therefore, we can rule out carbon.
  4. Phosphorus (P): Phosphorus reacts with oxygen to form diphosphorus pentoxide (P₂O₅). P₂O₅ reacts with water to produce phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄). Bingo! The formula aligns perfectly with H₃EO₄, confirming that phosphorus is the correct answer. The number of hydrogen atoms matches the structure as well. This reaction is the defining feature.

Step-by-Step Explanation

Let's break down why phosphorus is the correct answer step-by-step to clarify our conclusion and reinforce the key concepts. We will explore each of the reaction steps and the chemistry involved to build a solid foundation of understanding. In this section, we will delve deeper into each step and why phosphorus (P) is the element that fits this chemical transformation puzzle perfectly.

Step 1: Phosphorus Reacts with Oxygen

The first step in our transformation is the reaction of the element 'E' with oxygen to produce an oxide. Phosphorus (P) reacts with oxygen (Oâ‚‚) to form diphosphorus pentoxide (Pâ‚‚Oâ‚…). This is an exothermic reaction, meaning it releases heat. The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is:

4P (s) + 5O₂ (g) → 2P₂O₅ (s)

In this equation, solid phosphorus (P) reacts with gaseous oxygen (O₂) to produce solid diphosphorus pentoxide (P₂O₅). This clearly fits the first part of the transformation: E → E₂O₅ (P → P₂O₅). The pentoxide is a white, crystalline solid that is the anhydride of phosphoric acid.

Step 2: Diphosphorus Pentoxide Reacts with Water

The second step involves the reaction of the pentoxide with water. Diphosphorus pentoxide (P₂O₅) reacts with water (H₂O) to form phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄). This is a highly exothermic reaction, and it's also a classic example of an acid anhydride reacting with water to produce an acid. The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is:

P₂O₅ (s) + 3H₂O (l) → 2H₃PO₄ (aq)

Here, the solid diphosphorus pentoxide (P₂O₅) reacts with liquid water (H₂O) to form aqueous phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄). The phosphoric acid is the final product in our transformation, and the formula matches our desired H₃EO₄. This equation seals the deal, confirming that phosphorus is indeed the element we're looking for.

Conclusion: The Answer is Phosphorus

So, after analyzing all the options and diving deep into the chemical transformations, the correct answer is indeed phosphorus (P). Phosphorus forms the pentoxide (P₂O₅), which then reacts with water to yield phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄). This aligns perfectly with the series of transformations we were given: E → E₂O₅ → H₃EO₄. Phosphorus, therefore, is the element 'E' in this case. We have successfully solved the chemical mystery, proving that phosphorus fits the bill perfectly! Great job, everyone! We've successfully navigated the chemical pathways and identified the element based on its reactions.

Keep in mind, understanding these types of chemical transformations helps you understand how elements interact and form compounds, which is fundamental to a lot of chemical processes.

If you have any further questions or want to explore other chemistry problems, feel free to ask! And remember, practice makes perfect. Keep studying, and you'll become a chemistry pro in no time!