Question

The incorrect statement among the following is

• A. Reducing character of hydrides of group 15 increases down the group
• B. Basicity of hydrides of group 15 increases down the group
• C. Phosphorus and arsenic can form $p \pi -d \pi$ bond but not nitrogen
• D. $NCl_5$ does not exist

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Hydrides of group 15 are basic due to their ability to donate lone pair of electrons. On moving down the group, the size of atom increases and consequently charge density decreases. Therefore the lone pair is less available for donation. Hence basicity decreases down the group.