Question:

The similarities between beryllium and aluminium are
• [I.] The chlorides of both have Cl bridged structure in vapour phase
• [II.] Both have strong tendency to form complexes
• [III.] Maximum covalency of both is 6 The correct answer is

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Diagonal relationship: Be \(\leftrightarrow\) Al Important similarities:
• Amphoteric nature
• Complex formation
• Covalent halides
• Bridged chlorides
Updated On: Jun 22, 2026
  • II, III only
  • I, III only
  • I, II only
  • I, II, III \bigskip
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Beryllium and aluminium exhibit a diagonal relationship in the periodic table. Due to similar charge density and polarising power, both show many common chemical properties.

Step 1:
Examine Statement I.
Both BeCl\(_2\) and AlCl\(_3\) exist as bridged dimers. \[ Be_2Cl_4,\qquad Al_2Cl_6 \] Therefore Statement I is correct.

Step 2:
Examine Statement II.
Both Be and Al readily form complexes such as \[ [BeF_4]^{2-} \] and \[ [AlF_6]^{3-} \] Hence Statement II is correct.

Step 3:
Examine Statement III.
Beryllium cannot expand its octet because it does not possess d-orbitals. Therefore maximum covalency of Be is not 6. Hence Statement III is incorrect. Thus only Statements I and II are correct. \[ \boxed{\text{Option (C)}} \]
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