The reaction of $\mathrm{P}_4$ with X leads selectively to $\mathrm{P}_4\mathrm{O}_6$. The X is

(B) A mixture of $\mathrm{O}_2$ and $\mathrm{N}_2$

(D) $\mathrm{O}_2$ in the presence of aqueous NaOH

JEE Advanced · 2009 · 12 Apr 2009 · Paper 1 · p-Block Elements

The reaction of

P_{4}

with X leads selectively to

P_{4} O_{6}

. The X is

Answer: (B)

White phosphorus (

P_{4}

) reacts with oxygen to form phosphorus oxides. The selective formation of

P_{4} O_{6}

(instead of

P_{4} O_{10}

) requires controlled oxidation.

The reaction is:

P_{4} + 3 O_{2} N_{2} P_{4} O_{6}

Nitrogen (

N_{2}

) acts as a diluent to retard further oxidation to

P_{4} O_{10}

, ensuring selective formation of

P_{4} O_{6}

.

Therefore, the answer is **(B) A mixture of

O_{2}

and

N_{2}

**.

JEE Advanced · 2009 · 12 Apr 2009 · Paper 1 · Single correct option