To determine the number of atoms of each element in the chemical formula [tex]\(P_2O_5\)[/tex], we need to analyze the subscripts in the formula. The subscripts in a chemical formula indicate the number of atoms of each element present in one molecule of the compound.
1. The subscript next to the element symbol [tex]\(P\)[/tex] (phosphorus) is 2. This means there are 2 atoms of phosphorus in one molecule of [tex]\(P_2O_5\)[/tex].
2. The subscript next to the element symbol [tex]\(O\)[/tex] (oxygen) is 5. This indicates there are 5 atoms of oxygen in one molecule of [tex]\(P_2O_5\)[/tex].
Based on this analysis:
- There are 2 atoms of phosphorus ([tex]\(P\)[/tex]) in [tex]\(P_2O_5\)[/tex].
- There are 5 atoms of oxygen ([tex]\(O\)[/tex]) in [tex]\(P_2O_5\)[/tex].
Therefore, the correct answer is:
- 2 phosphorus and 5 oxygen
