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Question
A nonmetallic element of group 13, used in making bullet proof vests is extremely hard solid of black colour. It can exist in many allotropic forms and has unusually high melting point. Its trifluoride acts as Lewis acid towards ammonia. The element exihibits maximum covalency of four. Identify the element and write the reaction of its trifluoride with ammonia. Explain why does the trifluoride act as a Lewis acid.
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Solution
Boron is the only non-metallic and extremely hard element in group 13, and it is also used to make bulletproof vests. Boron exists in a variety of allotropic forms. It usually has a high melting point and no d orbital.
Using 2s and 2p orbitals, it can achieve a maximum covalency of 4. Because the octet of boron is not completed in trivalent halides of boron, it acts as Lewis acid. It forms an adduct when it reacts with Lewis base.
\[\ce{BF3 + NH3 -> H3N - B - F3}\]
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