In which of the following arrangements the sequence is not strictly ac...
Explanation of Incorrect Sequence in Option C
In the provided options, the sequence in option C is identified as incorrect due to the increasing basic strength of hydrides of Group 15 elements (NH3, PH3, AsH3, SbH3).
Basic Strength of Hydrides
- NH3 (Ammonia): Strong base due to high electronegativity of nitrogen.
- PH3 (Phosphine): Weaker base compared to NH3, as phosphorus is less electronegative and does not effectively donate the lone pair.
- AsH3 (Arsine): Even weaker than PH3 due to the even lower electronegativity of arsenic.
- SbH3 (Stibine): The weakest base among these hydrides, as antimony is the least electronegative and least able to donate its lone pair.
Trends in Basic Strength
- The increasing atomic size and decreasing electronegativity from nitrogen to antimony lead to a decrease in basic strength. Hence, the sequence should be:
NH3 > PH3 > AsH3 > SbH3 (decreasing basic strength)
Conclusion
Therefore, option C is incorrect as it suggests an increasing trend in basic strength when the actual trend is a decreasing one. The other options (A, B, and D) align correctly with their respective trends, making option C the odd one out.