Question

Identify the incorrect statements about group 15 elements:
(A) Dinitrogen is a diatomic gas which acts like an inert gas at room temperature.
(B) The common oxidation states of these elements are −3, +3 and +5.
(C) Nitrogen has unique ability to form p$\pi$-p$\pi$ multiple bonds.
(D) The stability of +5 oxidation states increases down the group.
(E) Nitrogen shows a maximum covalency of 6.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below.

• A. (A), (B), (D) only
• B. (A), (C), (E) only
• C. (B), (D), (E) only
• D. (D) and (E) only

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

(D) and (E) only

Answer 2

• Statement (D) : The stability of the +5 oxidation state decreases down the group due to the inert pair effect.
• Statement (E) : Nitrogen belongs to the second period and cannot expand its octet, hence it cannot show a maximum covalency of 6.
Corrected Statements: - +5 oxidation state stability decreases down the group. - Nitrogen shows a maximum covalency of 4.