Question

If $N{H}_3$ reacts with $HCl$, the $H-N-H$ bond angle in the product species will:

• A. Decrease
• B. Remain the same
• C. Depend upon the temperature
• D. Increase

Answer 1

The correct option is D Increase

We know that, $N{H}_3$ is $s{p}^3$ hybridized having a lone pair. Due to lone pair- bond pair repulsions, the bond angle is less than the tetrahedral angle and the bond angle is approximately ${107}^{\circ }$. When $N{H}_3$ reacts with $HCl$ it forms $N{H}_{4}Cl$, which is also a $s{p}^3$ hybridized species. In $N{H}_{4}Cl$, $N{H}_4^{+}$ does not have any lone pairs on nitrogen. It has a perfect tetrahedral shape like $C{H}_4$ and the bond angle is ${109.5}^{\circ }$.