Chapter 20, Problem 41E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The differences in terms of the bonding in the four given anions are to be accounted for.

Concept introduction: Nitrogen cannot hold more than eight electrons due to absence of $d$ orbitals whereas phosphorus can expand its valence shell to hold more than eight electrons. Due to difference in their size, their corresponding oxyanion also exhibits different properties.

To determine: The differences in terms of the bonding in the four given anions.