Question

The HNH angle value is higher than HPH, HAsH and HSbH angles. Why? [Hint: Can be
explained on the basis of sp³ hybridisation in NH₃ and only s−p bonding between hydrogen
and other elements of the group].

Answer 1

Hydride NH₃ PH₃ AsH₃ SbH₃
H−M−H angle 107° 92° 91° 90°
The above trend in the H−M−H bond angle can be explained on the basis of the electronegativity of the central atom. Since nitrogen is highly electronegative, there is high electron density around nitrogen. This causes greater repulsion between the electron pairs around nitrogen, resulting in maximum bond angle. We know that electronegativity decreases on moving down a group. Consequently, the repulsive interactions between the electron pairs decrease, thereby decreasing the H−M−H bond angle.