The acidic strength of hydrides in Group 17 follows the order . Why does acidic strength increase down the group despite a decrease in electronegativity?

Question

The acidic strength of hydrides in Group 17 follows the order $HF < HCl < HBr < HI$. Why does acidic strength increase down the group despite a decrease in electronegativity?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: B. While high electronegativity favors acidity across a period, down a group, the increasing atomic radius causes the bond length to increase. The weaker bond easily releases an ion, dominating the acidity trend.

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