Question

The decreasing order of the repulsive interactions between various electron pairs is:

• A. lp-lp>lp-bp>bp-bp
• B. bp-bp>lp-lp>lp-bp
• C. lp-bp>lp-lp>bp-bp
• D. lp-bp>bp-bp=lp-lp

Answer 1

The correct option is A

lp-lp>lp-bp>bp-bp

The bond pair of electrons is shared by two atoms whereas the lone pair of electrons is only under the influence of central atom.

So the electron cloud of lone pair occupies more space as compared to the bond pair.

This causes greater repulsion between the lone pairs as compared to lone pair-bond pair and bond pair-bond pair interactions.