Question

Nitrogenexists as diatomic molecule and phosphorus as P₄.Why?

Answer 1

Nitrogenowing to its small size has a tendency toform pπ−pπmultiple bonds with itself. Nitrogen thus forms a very stablediatomic molecule, N₂.On moving down a group, the tendency to form pπ−pπbonds decreases (because of the large size of heavier elements).Therefore, phosphorus (like other heavier metals) exists in the P₄state.