Question

Assertion (A): ICl is more reactive than I₂
Reason(R): I-Cl bond is weak than I-I bond
Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
• B. Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
• C. (A) is correct but (R) is not correct
• D. (A) is not correct but (R) is correct

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Interhalogen compounds ($XX'$) are generally more reactive than the corresponding pure halogens ($X_2$). This reactivity is linked to the strength of the chemical bonds involved.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Analysis of Assertion (A): Interhalogen compounds like $ICl$ are significantly more reactive than pure halogens like $I_2$ (except fluorine). This is a well-observed chemical property. Thus, (A) is correct.

Analysis of Reason (R): In $I_2$, the bond is between two identical atoms (non-polar). In $ICl$, the bond is between atoms of different electronegativity, making it polar. Due to the mismatch in orbital overlapping between atoms of different sizes, the $I-Cl$ bond is weaker than the $I-I$ bond. A weaker bond is easier to break, which directly results in higher reactivity. Thus, (R) is correct and explains (A).
Step 3: Final Answer:
Both Assertion and Reason are correct, and the Reason provides the correct scientific basis for the Assertion.