Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Chemistry

Chapter

Inorganic: P Block Elements

Question:

On the basis if above passage, answer the questions

When tow different halogens react with each other, interhalogen compounds are formed. They can be assigned general compositions as \(XX'\), \(XX'_3\), \(XX'_5\); and \(XX'_7\), where \(X'\) is a halogen of larger size and \(X\) of smaller size and X is more electropositive than X increases, the number of atoms per molecule also increases.

Interhalogen compounds are:

Options:

Inert in nature

Less reactive than halogens

More reactive than halogens except fluorine.

Product formed depends on the reaction conditions.

Correct Answer:

More reactive than halogens except fluorine.

Explanation:

The correct answer is option 3. More reactive than halogens except fluorine.

Interhalogen compounds are formed by the combination of two different halogen atoms. These compounds are generally more reactive than the individual halogens involved, with the exception of fluorine.

Here is why interhalogen compounds are more reactive than halogens:

Bonding Nature: Interhalogen compounds contain a combination of different halogen atoms, leading to the formation of polar covalent bonds. These bonds have partially positive and partially negative regions, making them more susceptible to reactions with other substances compared to the nonpolar diatomic halogen molecules.

Electronegativity Difference: In interhalogen compounds, there is usually an electronegativity difference between the two halogen atoms. This difference results in polarization of the bond, with the more electronegative halogen acquiring a partial negative charge and the less electronegative one acquiring a partial positive charge. This polarization enhances the reactivity of interhalogen compounds compared to the individual halogens.

Higher Reactivity due to Less Electronegative Halogen: In many interhalogen compounds, the less electronegative halogen contributes to the compound's reactivity. For example, in compounds where iodine or bromine is combined with fluorine, the less electronegative iodine or bromine atom contributes to the compound's reactivity, making interhalogen compounds more reactive than individual halogens.

However, it's important to note that fluorine itself is exceptionally reactive, even more so than most interhalogen compounds. This is due to its high electronegativity and small atomic size, which lead to strong bonds and high reactivity. As a result, while interhalogen compounds are generally more reactive than halogens other than fluorine, fluorine remains the most reactive of all the halogens.