MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #5379

Boron and Aluminum are both in Group 13, but their halides behave differently. Which statement correctly contrasts BCl3 and AlCl3?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #5379

  1. Question 1

    Q1. Boron and Aluminum are both in Group 13, but their halides behave differently. Which statement correctly contrasts BCl3 and AlCl3?

    • A) BCl3 forms a stable dimer
    • B) AlCl3 is always monomeric in the vapor phase
    • C) AlCl3 exists as a dimer (Al2Cl6) in the vapor phase
    • D) BCl3 has a higher boiling point than AlCl3

    Answer: AlCl3 exists as a dimer (Al2Cl6) in the vapor phase

    Explanation: Aluminum chloride forms a dimer (Al2Cl6) to complete its octet, whereas Boron trichloride remains a monomeric trigonal planar molecule.