Stepwise hydrolysis of `P_(4)O_(10)` takes place via formation of :

Options

A. tetrametaphosphoric acid
B. tetrapolyphosphoric acid
C. pyrophosphoric acid
D. Orthophosphoric acid

Explanation

To solve the question regarding the stepwise hydrolysis of \( P_4O_{10} \), we will break down the process into clear steps, identifying the intermediates formed during the hydrolysis.

### Step 1: Understanding the Structure of \( P_4O_{10} \)
- The molecular structure of \( P_4O_{10} \) consists of phosphorus (P) atoms connected by oxygen (O) atoms, forming a cyclic structure with peroxy linkages (O-O bonds) and double bonds between phosphorus and oxygen (P=O).

### Step 2: First Hydrolysis Step
- When \( P_4O_{10} \) undergoes hydrolysis, water (\( H_2O \)) is added. The water molecules provide \( H^+ \) and \( OH^- \) ions.
- The first step involves breaking the peroxy linkages. This results in the formation of **metaphosphoric acid** (\( HPO_3 \)).

### Step 3: Second Hydrolysis Step
- Continuing the hydrolysis, the metaphosphoric acid can further react with water. This breaks down the structure further, leading to the formation of **polyphosphoric acid**.

### Step 4: Third Hydrolysis Step
- The polyphosphoric acid can undergo another hydrolysis step, resulting in the formation of **pyrophosphoric acid** (\( H_2P_2O_7 \)).

### Step 5: Fourth Hydrolysis Step
- Finally, the pyrophosphoric acid can be hydrolyzed to yield **orthophosphoric acid** (\( H_3PO_4 \)), which is a triprotic acid.

### Summary of the Intermediates Formed
1. **Metaphosphoric Acid** (\( HPO_3 \))
2. **Polyphosphoric Acid** (\( H_2P_2O_7 \))
3. **Pyrophosphoric Acid** (\( H_3PO_4 \))
4. **Orthophosphoric Acid** (\( H_3PO_4 \))

### Final Answer
The stepwise hydrolysis of \( P_4O_{10} \) takes place via the formation of:
- Metaphosphoric Acid
- Polyphosphoric Acid
- Pyrophosphoric Acid
- Orthophosphoric Acid

Thus, the answer is **A, B, C, D** (all of the above).

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