NEETChemistryp Block Elements (Group 13 & 14)
Why does boron primarily form covalent compounds?
Options
- ABecause it has a high number of electrons
- BBecause of its small size and high ionization enthalpy
- CBecause it has a low melting point
- DBecause it has a high electrical conductivity
Correct answer
B. Because of its small size and high ionization enthalpy
Step-by-step solution
Due to the small size of boron, the sum of its first three ionization enthalpies is very high. This prevents it from forming +3 ions and forces it to form only covalent compounds.