Question

How does $PC{l}_5$ exist in its solid state?

• A. $\left[PC{l}_4{]}^{+}\right[PC{l}_6{]}^{-}$
• B. $\left[PC{l}_3{]}^{2+}\right[PC{l}_7{]}^{2-}$
• C. $\left[PC{l}_2{]}^{3+}\right[PC{l}_8{]}^{3-}$
• D. $\left[PC{l}_5\right]\left[PC{l}_5\right]$

Answer 1

The correct option is A $\left[PC{l}_4{]}^{+}\right[PC{l}_6{]}^{-}$

In the solid state, $PC{l}_5$ exists as an ionic solid, $\left[PC{l}_4{]}^{+}\right[PC{l}_6{]}^{-}$ in which the cation $[PC{l}_4{]}^{+}$ is tetrahedral while the anion $[PC{l}_6{]}^{-}$ is octahedral.