Explain why $NH_3$ is basic while $BiH_3$ is only feebly basic.

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) $NH_3$ is distinctly basic,whereas $BiH_3$ is only feebly basic.
Nitrogen has a small atomic size,which causes the lone pair of electrons to be concentrated in a small region,resulting in high electron density.
As we move down the group from $N$ to $Bi$,the size of the central atom increases.
This increase in size causes the lone pair of electrons to be distributed over a larger volume,which significantly decreases the electron density.
Consequently,the electron-donating capacity (Lewis basicity) of the group $15$ hydrides decreases as we move down the group.

Explore More

Similar Questions

The basicity of orthophosphoric acid $(H_3PO_4)$ is:

$NH_3$ gas is not liberated by which of the following combinations?

Which one of the following reactions is incorrect?

Which gas is evolved when ammonium dichromate is heated?

Which of the following is the anhydride of nitrous acid?

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo