Which of the elements listed below is most likely to exhibit an expanded octet in its compounds
A) O
B) S
C) Na
D) C
E) N

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sulfur (S) is located in the third row of the periodic table, which means it can use the 3d orbitals for bonding in addition to the 3p orbitals. This allows sulfur to form compounds with an expanded octet, where it can have more than eight valence electrons around it. The other elements listed (O, Na, C, N) do not have d orbitals available for bonding and are less likely to form compounds with expanded octets.

Which of the Elements Listed Below Is Most Likely to Exhibit