The formation of PH4+ is difficult compared to NH4+ because: — p Block Elements Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: Nitrogen trifluoride (NF3) lacks vacant d-orbitals on both nitrogen and fluorine atoms, preventing the coordinate attack of water (S_N2 pathway). Step 2: Under forcing conditions, if hydrolysis occurs, it is proposed to proceed via a unimolecular S_N1 pathway involving the slow dissociation of a fluoride ion. Step 3: Therefore, among the given halides, NF3 is the one that is considered to undergo hydrolysis via an S_N1 mechanism. Thus, the correct option is (b).