Discuss the nature of bonding of compounds of group 13 14 and 15 elements?

Question: Discuss the nature of bonding of compounds of group 13 14 and 15 elements?

The elements of group 13, 14 and 15 form different types of bonds with other atoms depending on their size, electronegativity and availability of d orbitals. The lighter elements in these groups have small atomic radii and high ionization enthalpy values. They form covalent bonds with other atoms by overlapping of valence shell orbitals. As we move down the group, the value of ionization enthalpy decreases. The atomic radius increases since the valence shell orbitals are more diffused. The heavier elements in these groups tend to form ionic bonds. The first member of these groups belongs to second period and do not have d orbitals and hence, B, C and N cannot expand their octet. The subsequent elements in the group possess vacant d orbital in their valence shell, which can expand their octet forming a variety of compounds. Some elements of group 13 and 15 can also form heteroatomic multiple bonds with each other, which are isoelectronic with C-C multiple bonds. However, these bonds have different character than C-C multiple bonds due to the difference of electronegativity between group 13 and 15. The elements of group 14 can act as electrical semiconductors when they are doped with group 13 or group 15 elements. This affects their electrical conductivity by creating excess or deficiency of electrons in their solid matrix.