Question

The P-P-P bond angle in white phosphorus is

• A. 90\(^\circ\)
• B. 109\(^\circ\) 28'
• C. 120\(^\circ\)
• D. 60\(^\circ\)

Hint:

In white phosphorus (P\(_4\)), the P-P-P bond angle is 60\(^\circ\) due to the tetrahedral geometry of the molecule.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding White Phosphorus Structure.
White phosphorus (P\(_4\)) has a tetrahedral structure, where each phosphorus atom is bonded to three others. The P-P-P bond angle in the tetrahedral structure is 60\(^\circ\).

Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) 90\(^\circ\): Incorrect. This is not the bond angle in white phosphorus.
(B) 109\(^\circ\) 28': Incorrect. This bond angle is more associated with sp\(^3\) hybridized atoms, like in methane, not white phosphorus.
(C) 120\(^\circ\): Incorrect. This bond angle is characteristic of sp\(^2\) hybridization, not the tetrahedral structure of white phosphorus.
(D) 60\(^\circ\): Correct. White phosphorus has a P\(_4\) tetrahedral structure with a bond angle of 60\(^\circ\).

Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (D) 60\(^\circ\), as it correctly describes the bond angle in white phosphorus.