Answer: Three-centre two-electron (banana) bonds.
- A Normal two-centre two-electron bonds
- B Ionic bonds between B<sup>3+</sup> and H<sup>-</sup>
- C Three-centre two-electron (banana) bonds
- D Three-centre four-electron bonds
Correct answer: C. Three-centre two-electron (banana) bonds
Explanation: In B<sub>2</sub>H<sub>6</sub> the four terminal B–H bonds are normal 2c-2e bonds, while the two bridges are three-centre two-electron (banana) bonds, explaining its electron deficiency.
Diamond's rigid 3D tetrahedral network makes it the hardest natural material, while graphite's flat hexagonal sheets are held together only by weak forces, letting them slide past each other (used as a lubricant and in pencils).
Concept context
Covers the Boron family (Group 13: B, Al) and the Carbon family (Group 14: C, Si, Ge, Sn, Pb). Key topics include Lewis acid behaviour of BF₃, borax bead test, silicates, silicones, allotropes of carbon, and trends in properties down the group.