Question
Nitrogn exists as diatomic molecule but phosphorus as P4, Why?
Solution
Nitrogen complete its octet via p-p bond formation and N2 is a discrete molecule. In N2, the intermolecular attraction are weak Vander Waal's forces and hence N2 is a gas. On other hand phosphorus is large size dueto this phosphorus has less tendency to form p-p bonds. So in order to gain stability, it polymerizes and exist as P4 solid.
