Question

Among the hydrides of group 15, predict the hydride having maximum reducing power.

Answer 1

1. Among group 15 hydrides, BiH₃ has the maximum reducing power.
2. This is because Bi is the heaviest and least electronegative element in the group.
3. BiH₃ has the weakest M-H bond, making it easier to lose hydrogen atoms and act as a reducing agent.
4. Reducing power increases down the group due to decreasing bond strength and increasing metallic character.

Hence, BiH₃ shows the highest reducing power among group 15 hydrides.