Question

Given below are two statements:
Statement I: $N(CH_3)_3$ and $P(CH_3)_3$ can act as ligands to form transition metal complexes.
Statement II: As $N$ and $P$ are from the same group, the nature of bonding of $N(CH_3)_3$ and $P(CH_3)_3$ is always the same with transition metals.
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct
• B. Both Statement I and Statement II are correct
• C. Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect
• D. Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect

Answer 2

N(CH$_3$)$_3$ and P(CH$_3$)$_3$ both act as Lewis bases and can act as ligands. However, P(CH$_3$)$_3$ has a stronger $\pi$-acceptor character compared to N(CH$_3$)$_3$ due to the availability of d-orbitals in phosphorus, leading to differences in their bonding with transition metals.