Question

Give reasons for the following :
(i) N 2 is less reactive at room temperature.
(ii) H 2Te is the strongest reducing agent amongst all the hydrides of Group 16 elements.
(iii) Helium is used in diving apparatus as a diluent for oxygen.

Answer 1

(i) The bond dissociation energy of N2 is very high because of the triple bond present between the two nitrogen atoms. Therefore, N2 is less reactive at room temperature.

(ii) As the size of the elements increases in the order O < S < Se < Te, the X−H bond strength decreases from H2O to H2Te and therefore, the bond dissociation enthalpy decreases. Hence, due to the increase in the tendency to release proton, the element's reducing tendency also increases. Therefore, H2Te is the strongest reducing agent amongst all the hydrides of Group 16 elements.

(iii) Helium is used in diving apparatus as a diluent for oxygen because of its very low solubility in blood.



hope it helps♡♡♡♡