NEET-XII-Chemistry
07: The p-Block Elements
- #18Why is dioxygen a gas but sulphur a solid?
Ans : Oxygen is smaller in size as compared to sulphur. Due to its smaller size, it can effectively form p``\pi``-p``\pi`` bonds and form O2 (O==O) molecule. Also, the intermolecular forces in oxygen are weak van der Wall’s, which cause it to exist as gas. On the other hand, sulphur does not form M2 molecule but exists as a puckered structure held together by strong covalent bonds. Hence, it is a solid.