Question:

Out of N, P, As, Sb and Bi, the number of elements that form pentahalides are

Show Hint

Nitrogen never forms pentahalides due to absence of d-orbitals in its valence shell.
Updated On: Apr 22, 2026
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Group 15 elements form pentahalides if they can expand their octet by using available d-orbitals.

Step 1:
Check each element.
N (Nitrogen) $\longrightarrow$ No d-orbitals in valence shell, cannot expand octet
P (Phosphorus) $\longrightarrow$ Has 3d-orbitals, forms \( PCl_5 \)
As (Arsenic) $\longrightarrow$ Has 4d-orbitals, forms \( AsCl_5 \)
Sb (Antimony) $\longrightarrow$ Has 5d-orbitals, forms \( SbCl_5 \)
Bi (Bismuth) $\longrightarrow$ Has 6d-orbitals, forms \( BiCl_5 \)

Step 2:
Count.
\[ \text{P, As, Sb, Bi} = 4 \text{ elements} \]

Step 3:
Conclusion.
Thus, number of elements that form pentahalides = 4.
Was this answer helpful?
0
0