PCl₅

Definition

PCl₅ refers to phosphorus pentachloride, which is an ionic compound composed of one phosphorus cation (positive ion) and five chloride anions (negative ions). It exists as a solid at room temperature but can sublime into a gas under certain conditions.

Related terms

Ionic Bond:

A type of chemical bond formed by the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions.

Sublimation:

The process in which a solid directly converts into a gas without passing through the liquid phase.

Anion:

A negatively charged ion that gained one or more electrons.