Question

A non-metallic element of group 13, used in making bullet proof vests is extremely hard solid of black colour. It can exist in many allotropic forms and has unusually high melting point. Its trifluride acts as Lewis acid towards ammonia.
The element exihibits maximum covalency of four. Identify the element and write the reaction of its trifluoride with ammonia Explain why does the trifluoride act as a Lewis acid ?

Answer 1

The only non-metallic element of group 13 is boron. It is an extremely hard substance and is used in making bullet proof vests. It exists in many allotropy forms and usually high melting point. Since B has only s and p-orbitals but no d-orbitals. The maximum covalency of boron is 4.
In trivalent state, the number of electrons around the central atom in a molecule will be six as in case of `BF_(3)`. Such electron deficient molecules have tendency to accept a pair of electron to achieve stable electronic configuration and behave as Lewis acid. `BF_(3)` easily accepts lone pair of electron from `NH_(3)`