Question
Why does the reactivity of nitrogen differ from Phosphorus?

Answer

Nitrogen exists as a diatomic molecule $( N \equiv N )$. Due to the presence of a triple bond between the two $N$ - atoms the bond dissociation energy is large $\left(941.4 kJ mol ^{-1}\right)$. As a result nitrogen is said to be chemically inert in its elemental state. In contrast, P - P single bond is much weaker (213 $kJ mol ^{-1}$ ) than $N \equiv N$ triple bond Therefore, phosphorus is much more reactive than nitrogen.

Need a full question paper?

Generate a complete, print-ready paper with questions like this in minutes — across 16+ boards, with answer keys.

Start Generating Free