Consider the thermal stability and basic reducing character of Group 15 and 16 covalent hydrides. As you move down the group (e.g., from to , or to ), what is the correct trend?

Question

Consider the thermal stability and basic reducing character of Group 15 and 16 covalent hydrides. As you move down the group (e.g., from $H_2O$ to $H_2Te$, or $NH_3$ to $BiH_3$), what is the correct trend?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: B. As you move down a p-block group, the atomic size of the central atom increases, causing the bond length (e.g., ) to increase and the bond dissociation enthalpy to decrease. This makes the heavier hydrides thermally less stable and much more eager to donate hydrogen, thus acting as stronger reducing agents.

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