Chemistry: The Molecular Science (5th Edition)

Published by Cengage Learning
ISBN 10: 1285199049
ISBN 13: 978-1-28519-904-7

Chapter 6 - Covalent Bonding - Questions for Review and Thought - Topical Questions - Page 283b: 29a

Answer

B-Cl is shorter

Work Step by Step

Since Boron has a higher electronegativity than Gallium, it will pull on the electrons harder than Gallium will. Since this means that it will be hard for Chlorine to hog the electrons, it follows that the bond length for B-Cl is shorter.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.