Question

Write a short note on the anomalous behavior of Oxygen.

Answer 1

Oxygen:

• Being the third most abundant element in the universe, Oxygen($O_2$) comprises about 21% of the atmosphere.
• It is the first element in Group 16(Chalcogen) of the periodic table.

Reasons for the anomalous behavior of Oxygen:

• Due to its small size, Oxygen exhibits high electronegativity, a high charge/ radius ratio, and no d-orbital.
• Oxygen exists as a diatomic molecule as $O_2$ comprising a double bond whereas all the other elements of Group 16 exist as polyatomic molecules.
• Oxygen is paramagnetic and exists in a gaseous state at room temperature which is completely opposite of the other Group 16 elements.
• The small size and high electronegativity of Oxygen enable it in the formation of $p\pi -p\pi$ multiple bonds.