Question

Which of the following is an incorrect statement ?

• A. Hydrogen bonding is stronger than dispersion forces
• B. Sigma bonds are stronger than π-bonds
• C. Ionic bonding is non-directional
• D. σ-electrons are referred to as mobile electrons

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Let's evaluate each statement:

• Hydrogen bonding is stronger than dispersion forces: This is correct. Hydrogen bonds are stronger than dispersion forces, as hydrogen bonds involve strong electrostatic interactions between a hydrogen atom and highly electronegative atoms like oxygen, nitrogen, or fluorine.
• Sigma bonds are stronger than pi-bonds: This is correct. Sigma bonds, formed by head-on overlap of atomic orbitals, are stronger than pi-bonds, which are formed by side-by-side overlap.
• Ionic bonding is non-directional: This is correct. Ionic bonds are formed between oppositely charged ions, and the force of attraction is the same in all directions around the ion, making it non-directional.
• σ-electrons are referred to as mobile electrons: This is incorrect. π-electrons are referred to as mobile electrons in metals, not σ-electrons. π-electrons are free to move within the electron cloud, contributing to conductivity. σ-electrons are localized and involved in bonding.

Therefore, the incorrect statement is (D): σ-electrons are referred to as mobile electrons