The non-metal that usually occupies tetrahedral voids in the formation of interstetial compounds

Options

A. Hydrogen
B. Boron
C. Carbon
D. Sulphur

Answer

To solve the question regarding which non-metal usually occupies tetrahedral voids in the formation of interstitial compounds, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand Tetrahedral Voids**:
Tetrahedral voids are spaces in a crystal lattice where smaller atoms can fit. These voids are formed when four atoms are arranged at the corners of a tetrahedron.

2. **Identify the Options**:
The options provided are:
- Hydrogen
- Boron
- Carbon
- Sulfur

3. **Consider the Size of the Atoms**:
In interstitial compounds, smaller atoms are more likely to occupy tetrahedral voids. Therefore, we need to compare the atomic sizes of the given non-metals.

4. **Compare the Atomic Radii**:
- Hydrogen has the smallest atomic radius (approximately 0.53 Å).
- Boron has a larger atomic radius (approximately 0.88 Å).
- Carbon has a larger atomic radius (approximately 0.77 Å).
- Sulfur has the largest atomic radius (approximately 1.04 Å).

5. **Determine the Smallest Atom**:
Since hydrogen has the smallest atomic radius among the options, it is the most suitable candidate to occupy tetrahedral voids.

6. **Conclusion**:
Therefore, the non-metal that usually occupies tetrahedral voids in the formation of interstitial compounds is **Hydrogen**.

### Final Answer:
The non-metal that usually occupies tetrahedral voids in the formation of interstitial compounds is **Hydrogen**.