The correct order of boiling points of the hydrides of group 16 is

A $H X_{2} Te > H X_{2} O > H X_{2} Se > H X_{2} S$
B $H X_{2} O > H X_{2} Te > H X_{2} Se > H X_{2} S$
C $H X_{2} Te > H X_{2} Se > H X_{2} S > H X_{2} O$
D $H X_{2} O > H X_{2} S > H X_{2} Se > H X_{2} Te$

Answer: B

H2O is exceptionally high because of extensive hydrogen bonding. Among the rest, van der Waals forces increase with molar mass, so H2Te > H2Se > H2S. The full order is H2O > H2Te > H2Se > H2S.

Practice p-Block Elements: Groups 15 and 16 More on Trends in groups 15 and 16

Previous questionNext question

The correct order of boiling points of the hydrides of group 16 is

Answer: B

More questions on Trends in groups 15 and 16