Question
Chemistry Question on p -Block Elements
The reaction of white phosphorus with aqueous NaOH gives phosphine along with another phosphorus containing compound. The reaction type; the oxidation state of phosphorus in phosphine and the other product are respectively
A
Redox reaction; +3 and +5
B
Redox reaction; -3 and - 5
C
Disproportionation reaction; - 3 and +3
D
Disproportionation reaction; - 3 and +1
Answer
Disproportionation reaction; - 3 and +3
Explanation
Solution
The reaction of white phosphorus with aqueous NaOH gives phosphine along with sodium hydrogen phosphite. It is Disproportionation reaction in which oxidation number of phosphorus is changing from 0 to -3 and +3 as follows (P)40+NaOH(aq)→(PH)3−3+(Na)2(HPO)3+3