In a `P_(4)` molecule, the P – P – P bond angle is :

Options

A. `120^(@)`
B. `109^(@)`
C. `60^(@)`
D. between `60^(@) and 90^(@)`

Explanation

To determine the P-P-P bond angle in a P₄ molecule (white phosphorus), we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Structure of P₄
White phosphorus consists of P₄ tetrahedral units. Each phosphorus atom is bonded to three other phosphorus atoms, forming a tetrahedral shape.

**Hint:** Recall that the geometry of a molecule often influences the bond angles between atoms.

### Step 2: Identify the Bonding and Lone Pairs
In the P₄ molecule, each phosphorus atom forms single bonds with three other phosphorus atoms. This results in a total of six bonds and four lone pairs of electrons.

**Hint:** Consider how lone pairs can affect the shape and angles in a molecule.

### Step 3: Determine the Bond Angle
In a tetrahedral arrangement, the bond angles between the atoms are typically 109.5 degrees. However, due to the specific arrangement of the phosphorus atoms in P₄, the bond angle between the P-P-P atoms is actually 60 degrees.

**Hint:** Think about how the arrangement of atoms can lead to deviations from typical bond angles.

### Step 4: Conclusion
Thus, the P-P-P bond angle in a P₄ molecule is 60 degrees.

**Final Answer:** The P-P-P bond angle in a P₄ molecule is 60 degrees.