As an analog of graphite, a material composed of boron and nitrogen (B-N) has been prepared. Why do these elements make a good substitute for the element in graphite?
I.They are all elements with electrons in the 2p subshell.
II.The sum of the valence electrons of one boron atom and one nitrogen atom is the same as the number of valence electrons on two carbon atoms.
III.Boron and nitrogen have suitable 2p orbital overlap.
A)I only
B)II only
C)III only
D)I and II only
E)I, II, and III

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All three options are correct.

I) Graphite is composed of carbon atoms with electrons in the 2p subshell, and boron and nitrogen also have electrons in the same subshell.

II) Graphite is made of carbon atoms with four valence electrons and the B-N pair also has a sum of four valence electrons.

III) Boron and nitrogen have suitable 2p orbital overlap because they are both non-metals with small atomic radii, and their electronegativities are close to each other.

As an Analog of Graphite, a Material Composed of Boron