In solid state, nitrogen exists in two different allotropic forms ($\alpha$ and $\beta$). Give an idea regarding their shapes and stability.
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The stability of allotropes depends on their crystal structure and the strength of interactions between the molecules. Hexagonal forms tend to be more stable due to efficient packing.
\(\alpha\) (hexagonal) is more stable than \(\beta\) (cubic)
\(\alpha\) (hexagonal) is less stable than \(\beta\) (cubic)
\(\alpha\) (cubic) is more stable than \(\beta\) (hexagonal)
\(\alpha\) (cubic) is less stable than \(\beta\) (hexagonal)
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The Correct Option isA
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understanding the allotropes. Nitrogen exists in two allotropic forms in the solid state: the \(\alpha\)-form (hexagonal) and the \(\beta\)-form (cubic). These allotropes differ in their molecular arrangements in the crystal lattice.
Step 2: Stability comparison. The \(\alpha\)-form, which is hexagonal, is more stable than the \(\beta\)-form, which is cubic. This is due to the packing and the strength of bonds between nitrogen molecules in the respective lattice structures.
Step 3: Conclusion. The hexagonal \(\alpha\)-form of nitrogen is more stable in the solid state than the cubic \(\beta\)-form because the molecular packing in the hexagonal structure is more efficient, leading to greater stability.