Question:

The most stable trihalide of nitrogen is :

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Stability depends on bond strength and on matching of orbital size; the N-F bond is the strongest and F is similar in size to N.
Updated On: Nov 4, 2026
  • \(\mathrm{NF_3}\)
  • \(\mathrm{NCl_3}\)
  • \(\mathrm{NBr_3}\)
  • \(\mathrm{NI_3}\)
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Trihalides of nitrogen are \(\mathrm{NF_3}\), \(\mathrm{NCl_3}\), \(\mathrm{NBr_3}\) and \(\mathrm{NI_3}\).
\(\mathrm{NF_3}\) is the only one that is stable and unreactive (it is formed exothermically, \(\Delta_f H^\circ\) is negative), because the N-F bond is strong and F and N are of comparable size so overlap is good.
\(\mathrm{NCl_3}\) is explosive, \(\mathrm{NBr_3}\) is very unstable, and \(\mathrm{NI_3}\) is extremely shock-sensitive.
Answer: (1) \(\mathrm{NF_3}\)
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