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The property of self-linking of atoms of an element through covalent bonds to form straight or branched chains and rings of different sizes is called catenation. The tendency of an element to form chains depends on upon the strength of the element-element bond. Amongst the group 14 elements, C-C bond strength (355 kJ mol 1 ) is maximum, therefore, carbon shows maximum tendency for catenation. As we move down the group, the element-element bond strength decreases very rapidly i.e. C-C (355 kJ mol -1 ), Si-Si (215 kJ mor 1 ), Ge-Ge (165 kJ mol –1 ), therefore, the tendency for catenation decreases in the order C > Si > Ge. In fact, tin and lead do not show catenation.

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The p-Block Elements

Short Answer Type

121.
Define catenation. How will you explain the tendency for catenation decreases in the order C > Si > Ge > Sn > Pb?

The property of self-linking of atoms of an element through covalent bonds to form straight or branched chains and rings of different sizes is called catenation. The tendency of an element to form chains depends on upon the strength of the element-element bond. Amongst the group 14 elements, C-C bond strength (355 kJ mol¹) is maximum, therefore, carbon shows maximum tendency for catenation. As we move down the group, the element-element bond strength decreases very rapidly i.e. C-C (355 kJ mol^-1), Si-Si (215 kJ mor¹), Ge-Ge (165 kJ mol^–1), therefore, the tendency for catenation decreases in the order C > Si > Ge. In fact, tin and lead do not show catenation.

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122.

Explain inert pair effect with reference to carbon family.
Or
Explain C and Si are tetravalent, but Ge, Sn and Pb show divalent.

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123.

Discuss the pattern of variation in the oxidation state of C to Pb.

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124.

Explain why silicon shows a higher covalency than carbon.

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125.

Why silicon does not form an analogue of graphite?
Or
Why elemental silicon does not form graphite like structure as carbon does?

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126.

Select the member of group 14 that:
(i) forms the most acidic dioxide
(ii) is commonly found in +2 oxidation state
(iii) is used as semiconductor.

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127.

[SiF₆]^2- is known whereas [SiCl₆]^2- or not. Give possible reasons.

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128.

SiF subscript 6 superscript 2 minus end superscript comma space space space open square brackets GeCl subscript 6 close square brackets to the power of 2 minus end exponent space space and space open square brackets Sn left parenthesis OH right parenthesis subscript 6 close square brackets to the power of 2 minus end exponent

are known to exist. Give possible reason.

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129.

What is allotropy? Enlist the various allotropic forms of carbon.

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130.

Give the name of allotrope of carbon which:
(i) is the hardest substance known
(ii) is used by artists in pencils
(iii) has the property of adsorbing gases
(iv) is used for making electrodes
(v) is used for absorbing organic colouring matter.
(vi) is used in the manufacturing of boot polishes.

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Short Answer Type

121. Define catenation. How will you explain the tendency for catenation decreases in the order C > Si > Ge > Sn > Pb?

121.
Define catenation. How will you explain the tendency for catenation decreases in the order C > Si > Ge > Sn > Pb?