Fluorine () exhibits exceptionally low bond dissociation energy compared to Chlorine (). What is the primary physical reason for this specific anomaly?

Question

Fluorine ($F_2$) exhibits exceptionally low bond dissociation energy compared to Chlorine ($Cl_2$). What is the primary physical reason for this specific anomaly?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: C. Due to the extremely small atomic size of fluorine, the non-bonding lone pairs on the two adjacent atoms are brought very close together. This creates massive electrostatic repulsion that significantly weakens the F-F covalent bond.

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