Question

The maxium covalency of aluminium is:

• A. 4
• B. 6
• C. 8
• D. 3

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

6

The maximum covalency of Aluminium is 6. Since Aluminium belongs to the 3rd period, it possesses a 3d subshell as well. As a cation it can use $s{p}^3{d}^2$ hybrid orbitals for a covalency of 6.