Question

Why does nitrogen show catenation properties less than phosphorus?

Answer 1

Catenation is a common phenomenon in case of the phosphorous compounds rather than nitrogen compounds.

The more relative weakness of the N-N single bond than P-P single bond is responsible for this.

As N2 atom is smaller, a greater repulsion of the electron density of 2 nitrogen atoms is there. It weakens N-N single bond.

Answer 2

Hey !!

Nitrogen show catenation property is less than phosphorous because of N ---- N single bond is weaker than P ----- P single bond.

Good luck !!