MolSynapsequestion bank

MolSynapse / Question bank / Chemical Bonding / Fajans rules and ionic character

JEE Main levelSingle correct optionDifficulty 2 of 3cb183

$SnCl X_{4}$ is a volatile liquid whereas $SnCl X_{2}$ is a solid with a much higher melting point. The best reason is that

A $Sn X^{4 +}$ has a higher charge and smaller radius than $Sn X^{2 +}$ , so it polarises $Cl X^{-}$ more
B $SnCl X_{4}$ has a higher lattice energy than $SnCl X_{2}$
C $Sn X^{4 +}$ is larger than $Sn X^{2 +}$
D $Cl X^{-}$ is less polarisable in $SnCl X_{4}$

Answer: A

For the same element, the higher oxidation state gives a smaller cation of larger charge and so greater polarising power.

SnCl X_{4}

is therefore covalent and exists as discrete molecules with weak forces, hence it is volatile.

SnCl X_{2}

is more ionic and a solid.

Practice Chemical Bonding More on Fajans rules and ionic character

Previous questionNext question

More questions on Fajans rules and ionic character

The correct order of increasing covalent character of silver halides is JEE Main level
Which of the following carbonates decomposes at the lowest temperature? JEE Main level
Assertion (A): LiI is more covalent than LiF. Reason (R): I- is larger and more polarisable than F-. JEE Main level
Observed dipole moment and bond length of four gaseous diatomic molecules are: P (3.5 D, 100 pm), Q (9.2 D, 400 pm), R (1.80 D, 92 pm), S (0... JEE Main level
Which of the following statements are correct? JEE Main level
Covalent character of an ionic compound M+X- is favoured by JEE Main level