Question

In which of the following the inert pair effect is most prominent?

• A. $C$
• B. $Ge$
• C. $Si$
• D. $Pb$

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

$Pb$

Answer 2

Due to poor or ineffective shielding of the $ns^{2}$ electrons of the valence shell by intervening $d$- and $f$-electrons, the $s$-electrons are reluctant to participate in bond formation.