Question

Account for the following:
(i) $Bi\left(V\right)$ is a stronger oxidizing agent than $Sb\left(V\right)$.
(ii) $N-N$ single bond is weaker than $P-P$ single bond.
(iii) Noble gases have very low boiling points.

Answer 1

(i) Bi has larger size than Sb. So the outer most electron are held less strongly, so they interact with other atom more easily. Hence, Bi(V) is stronger oxidizing agent than Sb(V).

(Ii) N has smaller size so lone pair is more concentrated over N hence repulsion take place and bond becomes weak but P has large size therefore, no repulsion takes place. Hence, bond become strong.

(iii) Noble gas are monoatomic with weak vander wall's force of attraction. Hence, noble gas has very low boiling point.