Question

Considering electronegativity and bond length versus bond strength, give a rationale for
greater catenation exhibited by the silicon halides as compared to the silicon hydrides

Answer 1

Catenation is the ability of an atom to form bonds with other atoms of the same element. It is exhibited by both carbon and silicon. This is true because they have 4 valence electrons in their valence shell. They cannot lose 4 electrons because it would require lot of energy. Also they cannot gain 4 electrons because it would be difficult for nucleus to hold the electrons.

Reason is also true but it is not the correct explanation for Assertion.