Account for the following: (i) Bi(V) is a stronger oxidizing agent than Sb(V). (ii) N-N single bond is weaker than P-P single bond. (iii) Noble gases have very low boiling points.

(i) Bi has larger size than Sb. So the outermost electrons are held less strongly, so they interact with other atoms more easily. Hence, Bi(V) is a stronger oxidizing agent than Sb(V). (ii) N has smaller size so the lone pair is more concentrated over N, hence repulsion takes place and the bond becomes weak, but P has a large size, therefore, no repulsion takes place. Hence, the bond becomes strong. (iii) Noble gases are monoatomic with weak van der Waals forces of attraction. Hence, noble gases have very low boiling points.