Calculate value of "x y" for "hypophosphoric acid", where x is total number of lone pair(s) and y is — p Block Elements Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: The reducing power of Group 15 hydrides (MH3) depends on the strength of the M-H bond (thermal stability). Step 2: As we move down the group from N to Sb, the size of the central atom increases, leading to a decrease in orbital overlap, which weakens the M-H bond and makes it easier to release hydrogen. Step 3: Since Sb-H is the weakest bond among the options, SbH3 is the strongest reducing agent, corresponding to option (d).