Question

True or false the si in sih4 does not follow the octet rule because hydrogen is in an unusual oxidation stat

Answer 1

The statement is true. The octet rule refers to the general rule of thumb wherein atoms of main-group elements tend to bond with other atoms in such a way that each atom possesses eight electrons (octet) in their valence shell. They tend to form the same electronic configuration as the noble gases. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. One of which is silane, SiH₄. A hydrogen atom only has 1 valence electron and needs another electron to complete its energy level. This is unlike other atoms, for example, carbon which has 4 valence electrons and needs to form 4 covalent bonds to fill its energy levels. Thus, 4 hydrogen atoms need only 4 more electrons. This is given by the silicon atom which has 4 valence electrons. Therefore, when a silicon atom is bonded to 4 hydrogen atoms, the resulting molecule, SiH₄, is a stable one.