NEET-XII-Chemistry
07: The p-Block Elements
- #12Nitrogen exists as diatomic molecule and phosphorus as P4. Why?
Ans : Nitrogen owing to its small size has a tendency to form p``\pi``-p``\pi`` multiple bonds with itself. Nitrogen thus forms a very stable diatomic molecule, N2. On moving down a group, the tendency to form p``\pi``-p``\pi`` bonds decreases (because of the large size of heavier elements). Therefore, phosphorus (like other heavier metals) exists in the P4 state.