define inert pair effect
Answers
Explanation:
The definition of inert pair effect is the non-participation of the two s electrons in bonding due to the high energy needed for unpairing them. The inert pair theory was proposed by Sidgwick. He along with Powell accounted for the shapes of several molecules and correlated the shapes with some of their physical properties.
For example, the inert pair effect among group 4 and group 5 elements. Sn2+ and Pb2+ and Sb3+ and Bi3+ which are the lower oxidation states of the elements are formed because of the inert pair effect. When the s electrons remain paired the oxidation state is lower than the characteristic oxidation state of the group.
Answer:
The inert pair affect is the tendency of the two electrons in the outermost atomic s-orbital to remain unionized or unshared in compounds of post transition metals.