For molecules of the general formula AB_n,n can be greater than four ________. A)for any element A B)only when A is an element from the third period or below the third period C)only when A is boron or beryllium D)only when A is carbon E)only when A is Xe

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The general formula AB_n,n represents a molecule with one atom of element A, one atom of element B (which can be repeated n times), one atom of sulfur, and one atom of an unspecified element represented by U. The maximum number of bonds an atom can form is determined by its electron configuration and its position in the periodic table. Atoms from the third period or below can have more than four bonds because they have d orbitals available for bonding, which allows them to form additional bonds. Therefore, choice B is the best answer as it correctly identifies the conditions under which n can be greater than four.

For Molecules of the General Formula ABn,n Can Be Greater

For Molecules of the General Formula AB_n,n Can Be Greater