Chapter 22, Problem 22.163CP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

To compare and contrast the properties of ammonia and phosphine.

Concept Introduction:

• Both ammonia and hydride are group 15 hydrides.
• As the central atoms in both the compounds belong to the same group, they have to have some similarity in properties such as oxidation states of the central atoms, colour of the compounds, reactions with elements such as ${\text{Cl}}_{\text{2}}$ , ${\text{O}}_{\text{2}}$ , $\text{HCl}$ etc.
• Although the central atoms are of the same group, the structure and bond angles of the compounds differ.