Question

Covalent bond length gives the inter-nuclear distance between the atoms covalently bonded. These can be measured from the X-ray studies of the crystals and for gases, these are done by diffraction and spectroscopic method.

The $As-Cl$ bond distance in $AsC{l}_3$ is $2.20\dot{A}$. Estimate the single-bonded covalent radius of $As$, if radius of chlorine atom is $0.99\dot{A}$.

• A. $1.21\dot{A}$
• B. $12.1\dot{A}$
• C. $1.12\dot{A}$
• D. $11.2\dot{A}$

Answer 1

The correct option is A $1.21\dot{A}$

Bond distance = cation radius + anion radius

$2.20=0.99+$ cation radius

$⟹$ cation radius$=1.21\dot{A}$

This is the single bonded covalent radius of $As$.