Question

N forms $NCl_3$ whereas P can form both $PCl_3$ and $PCl_5$. Why ?

• A. P has low lying 3d-orbitals, which can be used for bonding but N does not have 3d-orbitals in its valence shell
• B. N atoms is larger than P in size
• C. P is more reactive towards Cl than N
• D. None of these

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

P has low lying 3d-orbitals, which can be used for bonding but N does not have 3d-orbitals in its valence shell

Answer 2

Nitrogen has no d-orbitals in its valence shell