$BCl_3$ exists as a monomer,whereas $AlCl_3$ is dimerized through halogen bridging. Give reason. Explain the structure of the dimer of $AlCl_3$ also.

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
$BCl_3$ does not dimerize because of the small size of the boron atom. Boron cannot accommodate four large-sized chloride ions around it due to steric hindrance.
$AlCl_3$ exists as a dimer in which $Al$ uses its vacant $3p$-orbital to coordinate with a $Cl$ atom from another $AlCl_3$ unit to complete its octet.
$AlCl_3$ achieves stability by forming a dimer,$Al_2Cl_6$,where two $Al$ atoms are bridged by two $Cl$ atoms. The structure consists of two $AlCl_4$ tetrahedra sharing a common edge.

Explore More

Similar Questions

Which of the following is not associated with water molecules?

Name the metals with which $Al$ can form alloys.

Mention the isotopes of boron.

In the following reaction,assign the nature of the product formed by the complete hydrolysis of the underlined atom at $R.T.$:
$H_4\underline{P}_2O_5 + H_2O \longrightarrow \text{Products}$

Difficult
View Solution

Aluminum dissolves in mineral acids and aqueous alkalis and thus shows amphoteric character. $A$ piece of aluminum foil is treated with dilute hydrochloric acid or dilute sodium hydroxide solution in a test tube and on bringing a burning match stick near the mouth of the test tube,a pop sound indicates the evolution of hydrogen gas. The same activity when performed with concentrated nitric acid,the reaction does not proceed. Explain the reason.

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