Question

Why nh4 is a stronger base than phosphine?

Answer 1

The basic character of an element is defined as its ability to donate electrons. NH3 is more basic than PH3 because-

- Both N and P have electron lone pairs on them but the size of N is smaller than that of P.

-So, there is increased electron density on N which makes it more basic.

On the other hand, the P atom has larger and diffused orbitals which makes bonding difficult.