Question

Boron does not form $B^{3+}$ ions whereas Al forms $Al^{3+}$ ions. This is because

• A. the size of B atom is smaller than that of Al
• B. the sum of $IE_1 + IE_2 + IE_3$ of B is much higher than that of Al
• C. the sum of $IE_1 + IE_2 + IE_3$ of Al is much higher than that of B
• D. both (a) and (b).

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

both (a) and (b).

Answer 2

Boron atom is smaller in size and therefore, the sum of $IE_1 + IE_2 + IE_3 (3659\, kJ\, mol^{-1})$ for B is much higher than that of $Al\, (2744\, kJ\, mol^{-1})$. Hence B does not form $B^{3+}$ ions.