Home/
Competitive Exams/
JEE Main & Advanced/
Chemistry/
Chemical Bonding/
Question 600323
JEE Chemistry · Hard

Chemical Bonding: Expanded Octet MCQ

Solve this quality-checked JEE multiple-choice question, then review the correct answer and explanation.

Timer-based practiceDetailed answer reviewMobile-friendly flow
Expanded OctetHardQuestion 600323

Question

In PCl₅, the phosphorus forms an expanded octet because:
  1. A
    P has high electronegativity
  2. B
    P has available empty 3d orbitals
    Correct
  3. C
    P has small atomic radius
  4. D
    The octet rule does not apply to period 2 elements

Correct answer

P has available empty 3d orbitals

Explanation

Period 3 and beyond elements (P, S, Cl, etc.) can expand their octet by involving empty d-orbitals in bonding. Period 2 elements (N, O, F) cannot because they lack accessible d-orbitals.

Review Chemical Bonding notesStart timed chapter practice