Which of the following statements are correct? I. $\quad \mathrm{P}$ is having least negative electron gain…

Which of the following statements are correct? I. $\quad \mathrm{P}$ is having least negative electron gain enthalpy among $\mathrm{P}, \mathrm{S}, \mathrm{Cl}$, and $\mathrm{F}$ II. In $\mathrm{Eu}, \mathrm{Yb}$ Lanthanoid contraction is not observed III. $\mathrm{Ce}(\mathrm{OH})_3$ is most basic among lanthanoid hydroxides IV. The radii of $\mathrm{Na}$ and $\mathrm{Na}^{+}$are $95 \mathrm{pm}, 186 \mathrm{pm}$ respectively
  1. I, III, IV only
  2. II, IV only
  3. I, III only
  4. I, II, III only

Solution

Europium $(\mathrm{Eu})=[\mathrm{Xe}] 4 \mathrm{f}^7 5 \mathrm{~d}^0 6 \mathrm{~s}^2, 185 \mathrm{pm}$ Ytterbium $(\mathrm{Yb})=[\mathrm{Xe}] 4 \mathrm{f}^{14} 5 \mathrm{~d}^0 6 \mathrm{~s}^2, 170 \mathrm{pm}$ In these two elements, the atomic radii do not show expected decrease due to lanthanoid contraction but instead show an increased value. This is due to an electron entering into the $4 \mathrm{f}$-orbital(inner shell) and giving rise to very stable half-filled and fullyfilled configurations that results in greater screening of the valence electrons (higher screening constant $\sigma$ ) Thus, Statement II is correct. The value of electron gain enthalpy is more negative for more electronegative elements. The electronegativity follows the order :$\mathrm{P} < \mathrm{S} < \mathrm{Cl} < \mathrm{F}$. Thus, $\mathrm{P}$ has the least negative electron gain enthalpy and therefore Statement I is correct. $\mathrm{Ce}(\mathrm{OH})_3$ is most basic hydroxide due to largest cation size which results in $\mathrm{Ce}(\mathrm{OH})_3$ being most ionic. Thus, III is also correct. The cation formed is always smaller than the parent atom or ion and thus $\mathrm{Na}^{+}$will be smaller than $\mathrm{Na}$. Thus, IV is incorrect.

Asked in: AP EAMCET 2023 (17 May Shift 1)

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