Question

Identify the incorrect statement for PCl₅ from the following.

Options

• In this molecule, orbitals of phosphorous are assumed to undergo sp³d hybridization.

• The geometry of PCl₅ is trigonal bipyramidal.

• PCl₅ has two axial bonds stronger than three equatorial bonds.

• The three equatorial bonds of PCl₅ lie in a plane.

Answer 1

PCl₅ has two axial bonds stronger than three equatorial bonds.

Explanation:

In PCl₅, sp³d hybridization results from [sp² + pd] mixing.

Equatorial bonds are formed by sp²-hybrid orbitals, while axial bonds are formed by pd-hybrid orbitals. As a result, axial bonds are both longer and weaker than equatorial bonds.