Variable covalency is typically exhibited by elements that have accessible empty d-orbitals. Which o — Chemical Bonding Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Phosphorus (P) and Sulfur (S) belong to the 3rd period and possess vacant 3d-orbitals, allowing them to expand their octet and show variable covalency (e.g., $PCl_3/PCl_5$, $SF_4/SF_6$). Nitrogen, Oxygen, and Fluorine lack d-orbitals.