State true or false : red phosphorus less reactive than white phosphorus

Answer

To determine whether the statement "red phosphorus is less reactive than white phosphorus" is true or false, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Properties of Phosphorus Allotropes
Phosphorus exists in several allotropes, with the most common being white phosphorus and red phosphorus. Each allotrope has distinct structural and chemical properties.

**Hint:** Research the different allotropes of phosphorus and their structures.

### Step 2: Analyze the Structure of White Phosphorus
White phosphorus (P4) has a tetrahedral structure where the phosphorus atoms are bonded to each other with single bonds. The bond angles in this structure are approximately 60 degrees, which creates significant angular strain.

**Hint:** Consider how the structure of white phosphorus contributes to its reactivity.

### Step 3: Analyze the Structure of Red Phosphorus
Red phosphorus has a polymeric structure, meaning it consists of long chains of phosphorus atoms. This structure is more stable and has less angular strain compared to the tetrahedral structure of white phosphorus.

**Hint:** Think about how the stability of a structure can affect its reactivity.

### Step 4: Compare Reactivity
Due to the high angular strain in white phosphorus, it is more reactive and more prone to undergo chemical reactions. In contrast, the polymeric structure of red phosphorus makes it less reactive.

**Hint:** Reflect on how strain in a molecule can influence its tendency to react with other substances.

### Conclusion
Based on the analysis, we conclude that the statement "red phosphorus is less reactive than white phosphorus" is **true**.

**Final Answer:** True