Question

The structures of beryllium chloride in solid state and vapor phase, are

• A. Chain in both
• B. Chain and dimer, respectively
• C. Linear in both
• D. Dimer and Linear, respectively

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The question deals with the structure of beryllium chloride (BeCl₂) in different states. Beryllium chloride is an important compound in inorganic chemistry and its structure varies between the solid state and the vapor phase.

1. Structure in the Solid State:
   • In the solid state, beryllium chloride forms a polymeric chain structure. This structure is characterized by the continuous linkage of Be and Cl atoms, forming a chain-like arrangement.
   • This polymeric form arises due to the chloride bridging two beryllium atoms, with each Be atom connected to two Cl atoms, resulting in a chain structure. This arrangement helps stabilize the electropositive beryllium ions by minimizing the energy through maximum lattice formation.
2. Structure in the Vapor Phase:
   • When BeCl₂ is in the vapor phase, it forms a dimeric structure. In this phase, two beryllium chloride units come together, forming a stable dimer.
   • This occurs due to the inability of BeCl₂ to maintain its polymeric chain structure in the gaseous form as the energy levels and interactions change with state.
   • The dimeric form can be represented as Be₂Cl₄, where each Be atom is covalently bonded to Cl atoms and shares Cl atoms with the adjacent beryllium.

Thus, the correct answer is "Chain and dimer, respectively."

The option that matches this explanation is Chain and dimer, respectively.