N_2 is a stable molecule and the N_4 molecule is unknown. P_4 is much more stabl
ID: 1068261 • Letter: N
Question
N_2 is a stable molecule and the N_4 molecule is unknown. P_4 is much more stable than molecular P_2. Which is the best explanation for this difference? N_2 has valence electrons only in bonding and nonbonding orbitals, while P_2 has some valence electrons in antibonding orbitals. The greater electronegativity of N compared to P stabilizes compounds with lower molar masses. The greater size of P compared to N results in decreased overlap in pi bonds. The preference of P to adopt smaller bond angles than N favors formation of tetrahedral P_4 molecules.Explanation / Answer
N2 is a stable molecule and N4 molecules is unknown. P4 is much more stable than the molecules of P2
The correct answer is (C).
The grater size of P compared to N results in decreases overlap in pi bonds.
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