Question Detail

CHM 102 P block elements Objective Question
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Question

Which Group 14 tetrachloride is an exception to the general rule of hydrolysis by water and why?
Options
A SiCl₄; because silicon lacks empty d-orbitals to accept electrons from water.
B CCl₄; because carbon lacks empty d-orbitals to expand its octet.
Correct Answer
C GeCl₄; due to the inert pair effect making it less reactive.
D PbCl₄; due to its metallic character and ionic bonding.
Correct Answer

Option B is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

Page 16 states: 'All compounds except CCl₄ are readily hydrolysed by water.' and 'Carbon does not undergo the reaction due to its inability to expand its octet.' This means carbon, lacking d-orbitals, cannot accommodate additional electrons from water molecules to form an intermediate, unlike other Group 14 elements.

Hint

Consider the electronic structure of carbon and its ability (or inability) to expand its valence shell.

Question Info

Course: CHM 102
Topic: P block elements
Type: Objective
Difficulty: Not specified
Question 1929 of 1999
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