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.

Properties of inter halogen compounds are:

They are co-valent compounds

The correct answer is option 1. They are co-valent compounds.

Interhalogen compounds are a fascinating group of molecules formed when elements from the halogen group (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine) forms compound. Here is a detailed look into why they are covalent:

Halogens like chlorine \((Cl)\) or bromine \((Br)\) have seven electrons in their outermost shell. To achieve a stable configuration similar to the noble gases (eight electrons in the outer shell), they need to gain one electron. Instead of a full-fledged electron transfer like in ionic compounds (think of sodium and chlorine in table salt), halogens in interhalogen compounds share their electrons. This electron sharing forms covalent bonds between the halogen atoms. For example, in chlorine monofluoride (ClF), chlorine shares one electron with fluorine, and fluorine shares one with chlorine, forming a strong covalent bond (Cl-F).

The Lewis structure of interhalogen compounds shows these shared electron pairs surrounding the central halogen atom. VSEPR theory (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion) then comes into play to predict the molecule's 3D geometry based on the repulsion between these electron pairs.

Let us look at why other options are incorrect:

Paramagnetic: Paramagnetism arises from unpaired electrons. Most interhalogen compounds have all electrons paired, making them diamagnetic (not magnetic).

Ionic: Ionic compounds involve complete electron transfer, which isn't the case here.

Ferromagnetic: This property involves a strong inherent attraction to magnets, not commonly observed in interhalogen compounds.

So, the key takeaway is that interhalogen compounds are covalent due to the electron-sharing strategy halogens employ to achieve electronic stability. They form strong covalent bonds, giving them unique properties that differ from ionic or magnetic materials.