Silicon tetrachloride's molecular structure and hydrolysis

Steps:

• Silicon heated in excess chlorine forms SiCl₄ (compound J).
• SiCl₄ consists of discrete tetrahedral molecules held by weak van der Waals forces, making it simple molecular.
• Adding excess water hydrolyzes SiCl₄: SiCl₄ + 4H₂O → Si(OH)₄ + 4HCl, confirming it reacts.
• Thus, J is simple molecular and reacts with water (yes).

Why D is correct:

• SiCl₄ is a covalent simple molecular compound that undergoes hydrolysis with water, matching the "simple molecular yes" description.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: SiCl₄ is simple molecular, not giant molecular.
• B: SiCl₄ reacts with water, so "no" is incorrect.
• C: SiCl₄ lacks an extended lattice, so it is not giant molecular.

Final answer: D