Question

The CORRECT order of increasing thermal stability of the hydrides of group 16 elements is:

Options

• H₂S < H₂Se < H₂Te

• H₂Te < H₂Se < H₂S

• H₂S < H₂Te < H₂Se

• H₂Se < H₂S < H₂Te

Answer 1

H₂Te < H₂Se < H₂S

Explanation:

As you progress through group 16, the size of the central atom grows larger, and its potential to make stable covalent bonds with hydrogen diminishes. Thermal stability suffers as a result.