question_answer

Account for the following : (i) \[Pb{{X}_{2}}\] is more stable than \[Pb{{X}_{4}}\,(X=Cl,\,Br)\] (ii) \[PbC{{l}_{4}}\] is less stable than \[SnC{{l}_{4}}\] but\[PbC{{l}_{2}}\]  is more stable than \[SnC{{l}_{2}}\]. (iii) \[PbC{{l}_{4}}\] is less stable than \[SnC{{l}_{4}}\]?

Answer:

                (i) Due to inert pair effect, the +2 oxidation state of Pb is more stable than +4. Hence, \[Pb{{X}_{2}}\] is more stable than \[Pb{{X}_{4}}\]. (ii) Stability of +4 oxidation state decreases down the group while that of +2 oxidation state increases due to inert pair effect. (iii) Same as (ii).