Question

Which of the following elements is the example of Tetra-atomic molecules ?
1. Cl₂
2. P₄
3. Na₃
4. S₈

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : P₄

The correct answer is Option(2).i.e.P4.

• Tetra-atomic: The element which is consists of four atoms. Example: P₄
• Molecule: 
  • It is the collection of various atoms that chemically combine with each other.
  • Through certain forces of attraction, atoms of same or different elements, are bound together to form molecules.
  • Therefore, the smallest particle of a substance is the molecule which can exist independently. 
• Molecules of Elements : 
  • Through combinations of similar types of atoms, the molecules of an element are created.
  • For example, Oxygen is made up of two atoms whereas helium (He) is made up of only one atom 
• Atomicity: 
  • the present number of atoms in any molecule of an element is called its atomicity.
  • For example, oxygen is diatomic & helium is monoatomic. 
• Types of Atomicity: 
  • Monoatomic – when an element consists of a single atom. Example – all kinds of metals in nature.
  • Diatomic – The element which consists of two atoms. Example – all types of gases.
  • Triatomic – The element which consists of three atoms.
  • Tetra-atomic – The element, consists of four atoms.
  • Poly-atomic – The element consists of more than two atoms.