Identify the incorrect statement for PCl5 from the following:
Chemical Bonding · Class 11 · JEE Main Previous Year Question
Identify the incorrect statement for from the following:
- a
In this molecule, orbitals of phosphorus are assumed to undergo hybridization
- b
The geometry of is trigonal bipyramidal
- c✓
has two axial bonds stronger than three equatorial bonds
- d
The three equatorial bonds of lie in a plane
has two axial bonds stronger than three equatorial bonds
🧠 In (trigonal bipyramidal), there are two types of bonds: 3 equatorial (shorter, ~202 pm) and 2 axial (longer, ~214 pm). The question asks for the incorrect statement.
(a) P uses sp³d hybridisation → Correct ✓
(b) Trigonal bipyramidal geometry → Correct ✓
(c) "Axial bonds stronger than equatorial bonds" → Incorrect ✗. Axial P–Cl bonds are longer and weaker than equatorial bonds. Equatorial bonds experience only 2 axial neighbours at 90°, while axial bonds experience 3 equatorial neighbours at 90°, increasing LP-type repulsions and weakening the axial bond. Shorter = stronger.
(d) Three equatorial bonds lie in a plane → Correct ✓
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