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Phosphorus trichloride, PCl₃ is a liquid at room temperature.

Explain this observation in terms of the particles, structure and bonding of PCl₃.

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Answer:

Phosphorus trichloride, PCl₃ undergoes change in bonding and molecular force of attraction, causing it to be liquid at room temperature.

Step-by-step explanation:

Unlike other chlorides of Period 3 elements, Phosphorus trichloride, PCl₃ changes the structure of its molecular bonding from ionic to covalent bonds as it transitions to fluids (liquids or gases). The PCl₃ molecule also has the weak Van der Waals dispersion and dipole-dipole attraction, making it a fuming liquid at room temperature, with no electrical conductivity.

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