Question

Identify the incorrect statement related to $PC{l}_5$ from the following:
(NEET 2019)

• A. Three equatorial $P-Cl$ bonds make an angle of ${120}^o$ with each other
• B. Axial $P-Cl$ bonds are longer than equatorial $P-Cl$ bonds
• C. Two axial $P-Cl$ bonds make an angle of ${180}^o$ with each other
• D. $PC{l}_5$ molecule is non-reactive

Answer 1

The correct option is D $PC{l}_5$ molecule is non-reactive

$PC{l}_5$ molecule shows trigonal bipyramidal shape.

Thus, three equatorial $P-Cl$ bonds make an angle of ${120}^o$ with each other.
And the two axial $P-Cl$ bonds make an angle of ${180}^o$ with each other.
The length of the axial bonds are $240pm$ and the length of the equatorial bonds are $202pm$.

The axial bonds of $PC{l}_5$ are longer than the equatorial bonds. Thus, axial bonds are weaker so, $PC{l}_5$ is a reactive molecule.

Hence, option (d) is the correct answer.