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GATE 2019 CY – Question 12

Inorganic Chemistry · Main Group Elements: Shapes and structures of molecules using VSEPR postulates, Hydrides, halides, oxides, oxoacids, nitrides, sulfides - shapes and reactivity. Structure and bonding of boranes, carboranes, silicones, silicates, boron nitride, borazine and phosphazenes: electron counting in polyhedral boranes, isolobal analogy. Allotropes of carbon, phosphorus and sulfur. Industrial synthesis of compounds of main group elements such as NH3, H2SO4 and HNO3. Chemistry of noble gases and interhalogen compounds. Acid-base concepts and principles (Lewis, Brønsted, HSAB and acid-base catalysis). · 1 mark · Multiple choice

Which statement about ICl₃ is INCORRECT?

  1. It exists as a dimer.
  2. The geometry around iodine is tetrahedral in the solid.
  3. In the gas phase it decomposes into ICl and Cl₂.
  4. Liquid ICl₃ conducts electricity.

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Correct answer: (B) The geometry around iodine is tetrahedral in the solid.

Explanation

Solid ICl₃ forms a chloride-bridged I₂Cl₆ dimer. The local coordination around iodine is approximately square planar rather than tetrahedral, accounting for the false statement B. The dimeric structure, gas-phase dissociation and conductivity of the liquid are consistent with the intended comparison.

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