Question

$P$ in $PC{l}_5$ has $s{p}^{3}d$ hybridization. Which one of the following statements is wrong about $PC{l}_5$ structure?

• A. Two $P-Cl$ bonds are stronger and three $P-Cl$ bonds are weaker.
• B. Two $P-Cl$ bonds are axial and larger than three $P-Cl$ equatorial bonds.
• C. $PC{l}_5$ has trigonal bipyramidal geometry with non-polar nature.
• D. All the above statements are wrong.

Answer 1

The correct option is A Two $P-Cl$ bonds are stronger and three $P-Cl$ bonds are weaker.

In $PC{l}_5$ molecule, the $P$ atom is $s{p}^{3}d$ hybridized. This results in trigonal bipyraqmidal geometry with three $P-Cl$ bonds in equatorial plane and $2$ axial $P-Cl$ bonds.
Due to bond pair bond pair repulsion, two axial bonds are longer (and weaker) than three equatorial bonds.
Thus, the statement A is incorrect.