10

The s-Block
Elements
GROUP 1 ELEMENTS : ALKALI METALS Chemical Properties:
(Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, Fr) (i) Reactivity towards air:
Li forms mono oxide (M2O) and Na forms peroxide (M2O2)
Atomic and Physical Properties and K, Rb and Cs form superoxide (MO2).
(i) General electronic configuration: General configuration of
® 2Li 2 O ( oxide )
4Li + O 2 ¾¾
alkali metals is ns1. They are highly electropositive metals,
thus not found in free state in nature. ® Na 2 O 2 ( peroxide )
2Na + O ¾¾
(ii) Atomic and ionic radii : These elements have the largest size
in a particular period. Down the group their atomic size ® MO 2 ( superoxide ) (M = K, Rb, Cs)
M + O 2 ¾¾
increases. Basic nature, ionic character and reactivity of these oxides
(iii) Ionization enthalpy: Alkali metals have low value of IE which increases from Li to Cs. Due to high reactivity towards air
decreases on moving down the group. As a result, Cs is the and water, they are normally kept in kerosene oil.
most electropositive element in the whole of periodic table. (ii) Reactivity towards water:
(iv) Hydration enthalpy: Hydration energy decreases on going
® 2M + + 2OH - + H 2 (M = alkali metal)
2M + 2H 2 O ¾¾
down in the group, due to increase in the size of metal ion
Li+ > Na+ > K+ > Rb+ > Cs+ Due to its small size and high HE, Li reacts less
\ Li+ has maximum degree of hydration. Due to high degree vigorously with water as compared to other alkali metals
of hydration, lithium salts are mostly hydrated, example : LiCl. which react explosively with water. Basic nature of these
2H2O hydroxides increases from Li to Cs.
(v) Density : The density of alkali metals are quite low as LiOH < NaOH < KOH < RbOH < CsOH
compared to other metals. Order of densities of alkali metals Ionic character, melting point, boiling point, reactivity , thermal
Li < K < Na < Rb < Cs stability and solubility in water increases from Li to Cs.
(vi) Flame test : Elements and their respective colours imparted (iii) Reactivity towards dihydrogen:
to the flame are given below.
® 2M+ + 2H-
2M + H2 ¾¾
Element Li Na K Rb Ca
These hydrides are ionic solids with high [Link].
Colour Crimson Golden Violet Red Blue
Thermal stability of LiH is highest. They are ionic hydrides
red yellow violet
and their stability depends on lattice energy.
(vii) Lustrous surface : Lustre is due to mobile electrons in the
LiH > NaH > KH > RbH > CsH
metallic lattice.
(iv) Reactivity towards halogens:
(viii) Tendency of forming complex compounds : These metals have
weak tendency of forming complex compounds due to large Alkali metals directly combine with halogen to form
size and low charge density. halides (MX)
(ix) Melting point and boiling point : Their melting and boiling ® 2M + + 2X -
2M + X 2 ¾¾
points are low due to weak metallic bonds. Strength of metallic Except lithium halides which are covalent, other alkali metal
bond decreases in the group from Li to Cs, due to which halides are ionic in nature.
hardness decreases from Li to Cs. The ionic compounds get dissolved in water, while the
Li > Na > K > Rb > Cs covalent compounds get hydrolysed.
(x) Photoelectric effect : Size of Cs and K is large and they LiCl gets hydrolysed due to its covalent nature. Decreasing
possess low I.E. Both contain one electron in outermost shell order of these halides in undergoing hydrolysis is as follows
which got emitted by absorption of visible light LiCl > NaCl > KCl > RbCl > CsCl
 EBD_7327
220 CHEMISTRY

(v) Reducing nature: They are strong reducing agents, Li being (ii) Halides: They are high melting, colourless crystalline solids.
the strongest and Na the weakest. Electrode potential They have high –ve enthalpies of formation. [Link] and [Link]
depends upon sublimation energy, ionization energy and follow the order: F– > Cl– > Br– > I–
hydration energy. Li due to its small size has the highest Note : The low solubility of LiF in water is due to its high
hydration energy which accounts for its high negative E° lattice enthalpy while the low solubility of CsI is due to small
value. HE of the two ions.
(vi) Solution in liquid ammonia: Alkali metals have low I.E. and (iii) Salts of Oxo-acids : Oxo acids are those in which the acidic
large size thus they dissolve in liquid ammonia to give deep proton is on a hydroxyl group with an oxo group attached to
blue solution which are conducting in nature. the same atom. Ex: H2CO3, H2SO4.
- Alkali metals form salts with all the oxo-acids. As
+
M + ( x + y ) NH3 ¾¾ ® éë M ( NH3 ) x ùû + éêe ( NH3 ) y ùú electropositive character increases down the group, stability
ë û of carbonates and hydrogencarbonates increases.
The ammoniated electrons is responsible for the blue colour Li2CO3 being unstable to heat, decomposes to form Li2O
of the solution. These solutions are paramagnetic. and CO2.
On standing or in presence of impurities or catalyst the blue
Anomalous Properties of Lithium
colour solution forms amide.
The anomalous behaviour of Li is due to:
2M + ( NH3 ) x + 2e - (NH3 ) y ¾¾
® (i) its exceptionally small size
2M + NH -2 + H 2 + (x + y - 2)NH3 (ii) high polarising power
In concentrated solution, blue colour changes to bronze This give rise to covalent character in Li compounds.
colour and solution becomes becomes diamagnetic. Points of difference between Li and other alkali metals
(vii) Salts of oxoacids : Metal carbonates : (i) Li is much harder. Its [Link] and [Link]. are higher than other
(a) All these metals form M2CO3 type carbonates. alkali metals.
(Li2CO3, Na2CO3, K2CO3, Rb2CO3, Cs2CO3) (ii) It is the least reactive and is the strongest reducing agent
(b) Li 2 CO3 is least stable out of all these carbonates, among all the alkali metals.
because it is covalent and decomposes to Li2O and CO2 (iii) LiCl is deliquescent and crystallises as a hydrate.
at low temperature. Order of their stability is as follows : (iv) LiHCO3 is not obtained in solid state while other elements
Li2CO3 < Na2CO3 < K2CO3 < Rb2CO3 < Cs2CO3 form solid hydrogencarbonates.
Sulphates : Li2SO4 < Na2SO4 < K2SO4 < RbSO3 < Cs2SO4 (v) Unlike other alkali metals, Li does not form ethynide with
Nitrates : LiNO3 decomposes to Li2O at low temperature, ethyne
whereas NaNO3 gets decomposed to NaNO2 (vi) LiNO3 on heating gives Li2O while others decompose to
Bicarbonates : These metals form MHCO3 type bicarbonates nitrite.
and thermal stability of these bicarbonates increases from Li 4LiNO3 ¾¾
® 2Li 2 O + 4NO 2 + O 2
to Cs.
(viii) Nitrides : Among all alkali metals, only lithium directly 2NaNO3 ¾¾ ® 2NaNO 2 + O 2
combines with nitrogen to form nitride. (vii) LiOH, Li2CO3, LiF and Li2O are less soluble in water compared
to corresponding compounds of other alkali metals.
General Characteristics of Compounds of Alkali
Metals Diagonal Relationship Between Lithium and
(i) Oxides and hydroxides: On combustion in excess of air, Li Magnesium
forms Li2O, Na forms Na2O2 and K, Rb, Cs form superoxides (i) Li and Mg both are hard metals due to the presence of strong
of the formula, MO2. metallic bonds in them.
As the size of the metal ion increases, stability of peroxide or (ii) Li and Mg both are hard, therefore, their melting and boiling
superoxide increases due to stabilisation of large anions by points are high.
larger cations through lattice energy effects. (iii) LiOH and Mg(OH)2 both are weak bases.
These oxides are easily hydrolysed by water to form (iv) LiCl and MgCl2 are insoluble in water due to their covalent
hydroxides: nature, but soluble in organic solvents.
® 2M+ + 2OH-
M2O + H2 O ¾¾ (v) LiCl and MgCl2 get hydrolysed due to their covalent nature.
(vi) Li and Mg directly combine with O2 to form normal oxides
M 2 O 2 + 2H 2O ¾¾ ® 2M + + 2OH - + H 2O 2 (Li2O and MgO) while other members of their groups form
2MO 2 + 2H 2 O ¾¾ ® 2M + + 2OH - + H 2 O2 + O2 peroxide and super oxide.
The pure, oxides and peroxides are colourless while (vii) Li and Mg directly combine with N2 to form Li3N and Mg3N2
superoxides are yellow or orange in colour. Superoxides are (viii) Carbonates and nitrates of Li and Mg are unstable and readily
paramagnetic in nature. The alkali metal hydroxides are the decompose to form oxides.
strongest of all bases. They dissolve in water to produce (ix) Hydration energies of Li+1 and Mg+2 ions are higher due to
large amount of heat due to intense hydration. small size.
 The-s-Block Elements 221

Some Important Compounds of Sodium (iii) Sodium Hydroxide, NaOH

(i) Sodium Carbonate (Washing soda); Na2CO3.10H2O Preparation:
Preparation: It is prepared by solvay process as follows: It is prepared by electrolysis of NaCl in castner-kellner cell.
® ( NH 4 ) 2CO3
2NH3 + H 2 O + CO 2 ¾¾ Brine solution is electrolysed using Hg cathode and C anode.

( NH 4 ) 2CO3 + H 2O + CO 2 ¾¾® 2NH 4 HCO 3 Hg

At cathode: Na + + e - ¾¾¾ ® Na - amalgam
NH 4 HCO3 + NaCl ¾¾
® NH 4 Cl + NaHCO3 1
-
D ® Cl2 + e-
At anode: Cl ¾¾
2NaHCO3 ¾¾® Na 2CO3 + CO 2 + H 2 O 2
Note : K2CO3 cannot be prepared by this method because
KHCO3 is too soluble to be precipitated by addition of 2Na - amalgam + 2H 2 O ¾¾
® 2NaOH + 2Hg + H 2
NH4HCO3 to saturated solution of KCl Properties:
Properties: (a) It is a white, translucent solid which melts at 591 K.
(a) It is white crystalline solid, existing as a decahydrate. (b) It dissolves in water to give an alkaline solution.
(b) It is readily soluble in water.
(c) Crystals of NaOH are deliquescent.
(c) On heating, it loses water of crystallisation to form
monohydrate. (d) It reacts with CO2 in the atmosphere to form Na2CO3.
Uses: It is used
D
Na 2CO3 .10H 2O ¾¾® Na 2CO3 .H 2O + 9H 2 O (a) in manufacture of soap, paper, artificial silk and chemicals.
Above 373 K, monohydrate becomes completely (b) in petroleum refining
anhydrous. (c) in purification of bauxite
>373K (d) for preparation of fats and oils
Na 2 CO3 .H 2 O ¾¾¾¾
® Na 2 CO 3 + H 2 O (e) as a laboratory reagent.
soda ash
(iv) Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate (Baking Soda), NaHCO3
(d) The carbonate part gets hydrolysed to form alkaline Preparation:
solution It is made by saturating a solution of Na2CO3 with CO2.
CO32 - + H 2 O ¾¾
® HCO 3- + OH -
Na 2CO3 + H 2O + CO2 ¾¾
® 2NaHCO3
Uses:
(a) It is used in water softening, laundering and cleaning. Properties:
(b) It is used in manufacture of glass, soap, borax and caustic It is known as baking soda because it decomposes on heating
soda. to generate bubbles of CO2.
(c) It is used in paper, paints and textile industries. Uses :
(d) It is an important laboratory reagent. (a) It is mild antiseptic for skin infections.
(ii) Sodium Chloride; NaCl (b) It is used in fire extinguishers.
Preparation : It is generally obtained by evaporation of sea
water. Crude NaCl, obtained by crystallisation of brine Biological Importance of Na and K
solution, contains Na2SO4, CaSO4, CaCl2 and MgCl2 as Importance of Na+ : Na+ ions are found on the outside of cells and
impurities. To obtain pure NaCl, crude salt is dissolved in participate in transmission of nerve signals, in regulating flow of
minimum amount of water and filtered to remove insoluble water across cell membranes and in transport of sugars and amino
impurities. The solution is then saturated with HCl gas, acids into cell.
crystals of pure NaCl separate out due to common ion effect, Importance of K+ : K+ ions are the most abundant cations within
leaving behind calcium chloride and magnesium chloride in cell fluids, where they activate many enzymes, participate in
solution.
oxidation of glucose to produce ATP and with sodium, are
ˆˆ† Na + + Cl –
NaCl ‡ˆˆ responsible for the transmission of nerve signals.
ˆˆ† H + + Cl –
HCl ‡ˆˆ GROUP 2 ELEMENTS: ALKALINE EARTH METALS
Properties: (Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Ra ® radioactive)
(a) It melts at 1081 K. It is white crystalline solid.
(b) Its solubility is 36 g in 100 g of water at 273 K and the Atomic and Physical Properties
solubility does not increase appreciably with increase in (i) Electronic Configuration :General electronic configuration
temperature. of alkaline earth metals is [noble gas] ns2. Their compounds
Uses are ionic in nature.
(a) It is used as common salt or table salt for domestic (ii) Atomic and Ionic radii: Their radii are smaller than alkali
purposes. metals due to increased nuclear charge. The radii increases
(b) It is used for preparation of Na2O2, NaOH and Na2CO3.
down the group with increase in atomic number.
 EBD_7327
222 CHEMISTRY

(iii) Ionization enthalpies: Basic nature (BeO < MgO < CaO < SrO < BaO), ionic character,
They have low IE due to large size and their IE decreases melting point, boiling point, thermal stability reactivity and
down the group. The first IE of group 2 elements are higher solubility in water of these oxides increases from Be to Ba,
than those of group 1 elements due to their smaller size than Ionic character, melting point, boiling point, reactivity, thermal
group 1 elements. Second IE’s of group 2 elements are smaller stability and solubility in water of hydroxides increases from
than those of group 1 elements. This is because removal of Be to Ba. Increasing order of basic character of these
second e– from group 2 elements results in stable noble gas hydroxides is as follows :
configuration. On other hand, second e– in group 1 has to be Be(OH)2 < Mg(OH)2 < Ca(OH)2 < Sr(OH)2 < Ba(OH)2
removed from noble gas core which needs large amount of (ii) Reactivity towards halogens:
energy. M + X 2 ¾¾ ® MX 2 (X = F, Cl, Br, I)
(iv) Hydration enthalpies BeF 2 is best prepared by thermal decomposition of
Their HE’s decreases with increase in ionic size, i.e., HE of (NH4)2BeF4 . BeCl2 is prepared by :
group 2 cations will be in following order : BeO + C + Cl 600-800K BeCl + CO
2 2
Be2+ > Mg2+ > Ca2+ > Sr2+ > Ba2+
Covalent character of these halides decreases from BeCl 2 to
Due to their smaller sizes than group 1 elements, HE’s of
BaCl2. Therefore, the amount of hydrolysis also decreases
group 2 elements are larger than those of group 1 elements.
from BeCl2 to BaCl2.
As a result, their compounds are more highly hydrated than
(iii) Reactivity towards hydrogen:
those of alkali metals.
Except Be, all elements combine with hydrogen to form
(v) Density : Atomic weight increases from Be to Ba in a group
hydride, MH2.
and volume also increases, but increase in atomic weight is BeH2 is prepared by:
more as compared to volume. Therefore, density increases
2BeCl2 + LiAlH 4 ¾¾ ® 2BeH 2 + LiCl + AlCl3
from Be to Ba.
Exception : These metals (except Be) combine with hydrogen to form
MH2 type hydrides. Thermal stability of these hydrides is as
Density of Mg is more as compared to Ca (Ca < Mg).
follows.
Density : Ca < Mg < Be < Sr < Ba
BeH2 < MgH2 > CaH2 > SrH2 > BaH2
(vi) Flame Test : Elements and their respective colour imparted
(iv) Reactivity towards acids:
to the flame are given below :
M + 2HCl ¾¾ ® MCl 2 + H 2
Element Be Mg Ca Sr Ba
(v) Reducing nature: They are strong reducing agents.
Flame – – Brick Blood Apple
(vi) Solutions in liquid ammonia:
green red red
2+ -
(vii) Photoelectric effect : Due to small size of these metals as ® éë M ( NH 3 ) x ùû
M + ( x + y ) NH 3 ¾¾ + 2 éêe ( NH 3 ) y ùú
ë û
compared to alkali metals, their ionisation potential is high.
Thus, electrons can be released only by high energy The solution is deep blue black in colour.
radiations. General Characteristics of Group 2 Compounds
(viii) Lustrous Surface : Lustre is due to mobile electron in the (i) Oxides and Hydroxides:
metallic lattice. They have high DH°f values and are thus very stable to heat.
BeO is amphoteric while other oxides are basic in nature.
(ix) Tendency of forming Complex Compounds : These metals
have higher tendency of forming complex compounds as ® M ( OH ) 2
MO + H 2 O ¾¾
compared to alkali metals, due to their relatively smaller size. BeO is covalent while other oxides are ionic in nature. The
This tendency decreases from Be to Ba. solubility, thermal stability and basic character of these
(x) Melting Point and Boiling Point : Melting and boiling points hydroxides increases down the group from Mg(OH)2 to
of these metals are low, but these metals are harder as Ba(OH)2
compared to metals of IA group. Be(OH)2 is amphoteric as shown below:
Hardness decreases from Be to Ba, due to which melting 2-
Be ( OH )2 + 2OH - ¾¾
® éë Be ( OH )4 ùû Berylate ion
and boiling points decrease.
Be > Ca > Sr > Ba > Mg Be ( OH )2 + 2HCl + 2H 2O ¾¾
® éë Be ( OH ) 4 ùû Cl 2
Chemical Properties: (ii) Halides
(i) Reactivity towards air and water : Be and Mg form normal Be-halides are covalent while other group 2 halides are ionic
MO type oxides, whereas, Ca, Sr and Ba form normal oxides in nature. In solid state, BeCl 2 has chain structure. In vapour
(MO) as well as peroxides MO2 . On burning in air they give phase, BeCl2 exists as a chloro-bridged dimer. Down the
corresponding oxides and nitrides. group, tendency to form halide hydrates decreases. Due to
They react with H2O (even in cold) to form hydroxides. high IE, fluorides are less soluble than chlorides.
 The-s-Block Elements 223

(iii) Salts of Oxo-acids : Some Important Compounds of Calcium

Metal carbonates : (i) Calcium Oxide or Quick lime, CaO
(1) All these metals form MCO3 type carbonates Preparation
By heating limestone at 1070-1270 K
(BeCO3, MgCO3, CaCO3, SrCO3, BaCO3)
CaCO3 heat CaO + CO
(2) BeCO3 is least stable out of all these carbonates because 2
it is covalent and decomposes to BeO and CO2 at low For the reaction to proceed, CO2 is removed as soon as it is
temperature. Order of their stability is as follows : formed.
BeCO3 < MgCO3 < CaCO3 < SrCO3 < BaCO3 Properties:
(a) It is a white amorphous solid with a melting point of
(3) Stability of carbonates of IA group metals > stability of 2870 K.
carbonates of IIA group metals. (b) On exposure to air, it absorbs moisture and CO2
Sulphates : CaO + H 2 O ¾¾ ® Ca ( OH )2
Solubility of Sulphates : CaO + CO 2 ¾¾ ® CaCO3
BeSO4 > MgSO4 > CaSO4 > SrSO4 > BaSO4 (c) Being basic, it combines with acidic oxides at high
Increasing order of thermal stability temperature.
BeSO4 < MgSO4 < CaSO4 < SrSO4 < BaSO4 CaO + SiO2 ¾¾ ® CaSiO3
Nitrates : These metals also form M(NO3)2 and all nitrates 6CaO + P4O10 ¾¾ ® 2Ca 3 (PO4 )2
give oxides on decomposition. (d) The process of breaking the lump of lime by addition of
Bicarbonates : These metals form M(HCO 3 ) 2 type limited amount of water is called slaking of lime. Quick
bicarbonates. The thermal stability of bicarbonates increases lime slaked with soda gives solid sodalime.
from Be to Ba. Uses: It is used
(a) for manufacturing cement.
Different Behaviour of Beryllium as Compared to (b) in the manufacture of Na2CO3 from caustic soda.
Other Elements of its Group (c) in the purification of sugar and manufacture of dye stuffs.
(i) Ionisation potential and electronegativity of Be are higher (d) in the preparation of mortar, a building material.
than those of other metals. (ii) Calcium Hydroxide (Slaked lime), Ca(OH)2
(ii) BeCl2 is insoluble in water, due to its covalent nature, but It is prepared by adding water to quick lime.
soluble in organic solvents. Other chlorides (CaCl2, SrCl2 CaO + H2O ¾¾ ® Ca(OH)2
and BaCl2) get dissolved in water. Properties:
(iii) BeO and Be(OH)2 are amphoteric in nature. Therefore they (a) It is a white amorphous powder.
react with acids as well as bases. Other oxides react only with (b) It is sparingly soluble in water.
acids due to their alkaline nature. (c) Its aqueous solution is known as lime water and a
(iv) Beryllium forms single type of oxide (MO), Ca Sr and Ba form suspension of slaked lime in water is called milk of lime.
peroxides also. (d) Ca ( OH )2 + CO 2 ¾¾
® CaCO3 ¯ + H 2 O
(v) Beryllium does not give flame test, Ca, Sr and Ba impart milky
characteristic colours to the flame. ® Ca ( HCO3 ) 2
CaCO 3 + CO 2 + H 2 O ¾¾
(vi) Due to small size, Be forms complex compounds.
(vii) Hydrides and halides of Be get polymerized. (e) 2Ca ( OH ) 2 + 2Cl2 ¾¾
® CaCl 2 + Ca ( OCl) 2 + 2H 2O
Diagonal Relationship between Be and Al Bleaching
powder
(i) Be and Al both are hard due to strong metallic bonds.
Therefore, their melting and boiling points are high. Uses. Calcium hydroxide is used: (i) in the manufacture of
(ii) BeCl2 and AlCl3 both are covalent compounds. Therefore, bleaching powder and caustic soda, (ii) for white washing
they are insoluble in water and soluble in organic solvents. buildings and for softening of water, and (iii) in the preparation
of soda-lime (mixture of cal. hydroxide and caustic soda)
(iii) Melting points of BeCl2 and AlCl3 are low due to their covalent
(iii) Calcium Carbonate, CaCO3
tendency.
Preparation:
(iv) Be and Al both have tendency of forming complex compounds
due to small size. (a) Ca(OH) 2 + CO 2 ¾¾ ® CaCO3 + H 2O
(v) Both BeCl2 and AlCl3 are strong Lewis acids and are used as (b) CaCl 2 + Na 2 CO3 ¾¾® CaCO3 + 2NaCl
Friedel Crafts catalysts.
Properties
(vi) Be(OH)[Link](OH)3, BeO and Al2O3 are amphoteric in nature.
(a) It is a white fluffy powder and is insoluble in water.
(vii) BeCl2 and AlCl3 from dimers, because both are electron
deficient compounds. 1200K
(b) Action of heat : CaCO3 ¾¾¾¾ ® CaO + CO2
 EBD_7327
224 CHEMISTRY

(c) Action of acids : Properties:

CaCO3 + 2HCl ¾¾
®CaCl2 + H2O + CO2 With adequate quantity of water, it forms a plastic mass that
CaCO3 + H2SO4 ¾¾
® CaSO4 + H2 O + CO2 sets into a hard solid.
Uses: It is used Uses: It is used
(a) as a building material in form of marble (a) in building industry and in plasters.
(b) in manufacture of quick lime. (b) in dentistry, ornamental work and for making casts of
(c) as an antacid, mild abrasive in toothpaste, in chewing statues and busts.
gum and a filler in cosmetics. Biological Importance of Ca and Mg
(iv) Calcium Sulphate (Plaster of Paris), CaSO4.1/2H2O Magnesium is used as a cofactor by enzymes that utilise ATP in
Preparation: phosphate transfer. Chlorophyll, the main pigment for the
393K absorption of light in plants, contains Mg. 99% of body Ca is
2 ( CaSO4 .2H 2 O ) ¾¾¾® 2 ( CaSO 4 ) .H 2O + 3H 2O
present in bones and teeth. Ca plays role in neuromuscular
Gypsum
function, interneuronal transmission, cell membrane integrity and
Above 393 K, anhydrous CaSO4 is formed which is called blood coagulation.
‘dead burnt plaster’.
The-s-Block Elements 225

CONCEPT MAP
 EBD_7327
226 CHEMISTRY

1. Which of the following represents a correct sequence of 13. Which of the following does not illustrate the anomalous
reducing power of the following elements? properties of lithium?
(a) Li > Cs > Rb (b) Rb > Cs > Li (a) The melting point and boiling point of Li are
(c) Cs > Li > Rb (d) Li > Rb > Cs comparatively high
2. Nitrolium is: (b) Li is much softer than the other group I metals
(a) CaC2 and graphite (b) CaCN2 and graphite (c) Li forms a nitride Li3N unlike group I metals
(c) Ca(CN)2 and graphite (d) CaCN2 + N2 (d) The ion of Li and its compounds are more heavily
3. The pair whose both species are used in ant- acid medicinal hydrated than those of the rest of the group
preparations is : 14. Which of the following statements is incorrect?
(a) NaHCO3 and Mg(OH)2 (a) Alkali metal hydroxide are hygroscopic
(b) Na2CO3 and Ca(HCO3)2 (b) Dissolution of Alkali metal hydroxide is endothermic
(c) Ca(HCO3)2 and Mg(OH)2 (c) Aqueous solution of alkali metal hydroxides are
(d) Ca(OH)2 and NaHCO3 strongly basic
4. Which one of the following properties of alkali metals (d) Alkali metal hydroxides form ionic crystals
increases in magnitude as the atomic number rises ? 15. Which property of sodium is being used in street lights ?
(a) Ionic radius (b) Melting point (a) It shows photoelectric effect
(c) Electronegativity (d) First ionization energy. (b) It has low melting point
5. Largest difference in radii is found in case of the pair (c) Sodium atom emits photons in the yellow region of
(a) Li, Na (b) Na, K visible spectrum, due to electrically stimulated transitions
(c) K, Rb (d) Rb, Cs. (d) Sodium vapours show golden colour
6. Which compound will show the highest lattice energy ? 16. Which is most basic in character ?
(a) RbF (b) CsF (a) CsOH (b) KOH
(c) NaF (d) KF (c) NaOH (d) LiOH
7. Strongest bond is in between 17. An inorganic compound which on heating first melts, then
(a) CsF (b) NaCl solidifies and liberates O2 gas, the inorganic compound is
(c) Both (a) and (b) (d) None of above
(a) Al2O3 (b) KMnO4
8. In crystals which one of the following ionic compounds
(c) MnO2 (d) KClO3
would you expect maximum distance between centres of
18. Which of the following has density greater than water?
cations and anions?
(a) Li (b) Na
(a) LiF (b) CsF
(c) K (d) Rb
(c) CsI (d) LiI
19. A metal salt solution forms a yellow precipitate with
9. Among the following components of cement which is present
potassium chromate in acetic acid, a white precipitate with
in highest amount?
(a) Ca2SiO4 (b) Ca3SiO5
dil H2SO4, but gives no precipitate with NaCl. The metal salt
(c) Al2O3 (d) Ca3Al2O6. solution will consist of
10. Which of the following is not correct ? (a) PbCO3 (b) BaCO3
heat (c) MgCO3 (d) CaCO3
(a) 2Li 2 O ¾¾ ¾® Li 2 O 2 + 2Li 20. When sulphur is heated with NaOH (aq)? The compounds
673k
heat formed are
(b) 2K 2O ¾¾¾® K 2 O2 + 2K
673k
heat (a) Na 2S + H 2O
(c) 2Na 2 O ¾¾ ¾® Na 2 O 2 + 2Na
673k
heat (b) Na 2SO 3 + H 2O
(d) 2Rb2 O ¾¾¾ 673k
® Rb2 O2 + 2Rb
11. When potassium dichromate crystals are heated with conc. (c) Na 2S + Na 2S2 O3 + H 2 O
HCl (d) Na 2S2 O3 + H 2O
(a) O2 is evolved
21. The first (IE1) and second (IE2) ionisation energies (kJ/mol)
(d) chromyl chloride vapours are evolved
of a few elements designated by Roman numerals are given
(c) Cl2 is evolved
below. Which of these would be an alkali metal?
(d) no reaction takes place
IE1 IE2
12. Which one of the alkaline earth metals shows some
anomalous behaviour and has same electronegativity as (a) I 2372 5251
aluminium? (b) II 520 7300
(a) Sr (b) Ca (c) III 900 1760
(c) Ba (d) Be (d) IV 16803 380
 The-s-Block Elements 227

22. Washing soda has formula 36. Baking powder contains :

(a) Na2CO3.7H2O (b) Na2CO3.10H2O (a) NaHCO3, Ca (H2PO2)2 and starch
(c) Na2CO3.3H2O (d) Na2CO3 (b) NaHCO3, Ca(H2PO2)2
23. Which of the following is known as fusion mixture ? (c) NaHCO3, starch
(a) Mixture of Na2CO3 + NaHCO3 (d) NaHCO3
(b) Na2CO3.10H2O 37. Which of the following is used widely in the manufacture of
(c) Mixture of K2CO3 + Na2CO3 storage battery?
(d) NaHCO3 (a) Arsenic (b) Lithium
24. Aqueous solution of sodium carbonate absorbs NO and (c) Bismuth (d) Antimony
NO2 to give 38. Alkaline earth's metals are denser than alkali metals, because
(a) CO2 + NaNO3 (b) CO2 + NaNO2 metallic bonding in alkaline earth's metal, is :
(c) NaNO2 + CO (d) NaNO3 + CO (a) stronger (b) weaker
(c) volatile (d) not present
25. Mg on heating to redness in an atmosphere of N2 and then
39. The order of solubility of sulphates of alkaline earth metals
on treating with H2O gives:
in water is
(a) NH3 (b) N2
(a) Be > Mg > Ca > Sr > Ba
(c) PH3 (d) MgO
(b) Mg > Be >> Ba > Ca > Sr
26. Molecular formula of Glauber’s salt is : (c) Be > Ca > Mg > Ba >> Sr
(a) MgSO4.7H2O (b) CuSO4.5H2O (d) Mg > Ca > Ba >> Be > Sr
(c) FeSO4.7H2O (d) Na2SO4.10H2O 40. Arrange the following compounds in order of increasing
27. A mixture of KCl and KF is added to sodium chloride solubility
(a) to increase the conductivity of NaCl (i) MgF2 (ii) CaF2, (iii) BaF2
(b) to decrease the melting point of NaCl (a) (i) < (ii) < (iii) (b) (ii) < (i) < (iii)
(c) to supress the melting of dissociation of NaCl (c) (ii) < (iii) < (ii) (d) (iii) < (ii) < (i)
(d) to decrease the volatility of NaCl 41. Potassium is kept in:
28. What happens when carbonates of group IA elements are (a) alcohol (b) water
heated? (c) kerosene (d) liquid ammonia
(a) CO2 is given out 42. Which of the following atoms will have the smallest size ?
(b) Water vapours are given out (a) Mg (b) Na
(c) Carbon dioxide and water vapours are evolved (c) Be (d) Li
(d) None of these 43. The solubilities of carbonates decrease down the magnesium
29. A well known reagent which contains copper sulphate, group due to a decrease in
sodium potassium tartarate and sodium hydroxide is (a) hydration energies of cations
(a) Fenton’s reagent (b) Schiff’s reagent (b) inter-ionic attraction
(c) Fehling’s solution (d) Nessler’s reagent (c) entropy of solution formation
30. Baking soda is : (d) lattice energies of solids
(a) NaHCO3 (b) K2CO3 44. Which of the following relations is correct with respect to
(c) Na2CO3 (d) NaOH first (I) and second (II) ionization potentials of sodium and
31. On strong heating sodium bicarbonate changes into: magnesium?
(a) sodium monoxide (b) sodium hydroxide (a) I Mg = II Na (b) I Mg < II Na
(c) sodium carbonate (d) sodium peroxide
32. Which of the following compounds transforms baking soda (c) I Na > I Mg (d) II Na > IIMg
into baking powder? 45. Epsom salt is
(a) KCl (b) KHCO3 (a) CaSO4. 2H2O (b) BaSO4. 2H2O
(c) NaHCO3 (d) KHC4H4O6 (c) MgSO4. 2H2O (d) MgSO4. 7H2O
33. A certain metal M is used to prepare an antacid, which is 46. Which of the following has maximum ionization energy
used as a medicine in acidity. This metal accidently catches (a) Ba ¾ ¾® Ba + + e - (b) Be ¾ ¾® Be + + e -
fire which cannot be put out by using CO 2 based (c) Ca ¾¾ ® Ca 2+ + 2e- (d) Mg ¾ ¾® Mg 2 + + 2e -
extinguishers. The metal M is
(a) Ca (b) Mg 47. The value of x is maximum for
(c) C (d) All of these (a) MgSO4.x H2O
(b) CaSO4.x H2O
34. Which of the following is commercially known as oxone ?
(c) BaSO4.x H2O
(a) Na2O2 + HCl (b) Na2O + HCl
(d) All have the same value of x.
(c) Na2O2 + Na2 (d) none of these
48. Of the metals Be, Mg, Ca and Sr of group II A. In the periodic
35. Which pair cannot exist together in solution ?
table the least ionic chloride would be formed by
(a) NaHCO3 and NaOH (b) NaHCO3 and NaCl (a) Be (b) Mg
(c) NaHCO3 and Na2CO3 (d) NaCl and Na2CO3 (c) Ca (d) Sr
 EBD_7327
228 CHEMISTRY

49. Which of the following is the component of most of the (a) Na+ (b) K+
kidney stones? (c) Ba 2+ (d) Ca2+
(a) (COO)2Ca (b) (COO)2Ba 63. Which one of the following is flourspar?
(c) (COONa)2 (d) (COO)2Mg (a) CaF2 (b) CaO
50. Which one is known as barytes? (c) H2F2 (d) CaCO3
(a) BaSO4 (b) BaCl2. 2H2O 64. Plaster of Paris is :
(c) BaO (d) BaCO3
51. Which one of the following salts does not impart colour to (a) CaSO 4 .2H 2 O (b) CaSO 4 .H 2 O
the flame ? 1
(a) Kl (b) LiCl (c) CaSO 4 . H 2 O (d) CaSO 4 .4H 2 O
2
(c) CaCl2 (d) MgCl2
65. Gypsum on heating at 120 – 130°C gives :
52. The Formula of Mohar’s Salt; FeSO4 (NH4)2 SO4×XH2O the
(a) anhydrous salt (b) hemihydrate
value of X :
(c) monohydrate (d) dihydrate
(a) 5 (b) 10
66. Plaster of Paris on making paste with little water sets to hard
(c) 6 (d) 8
mass due to formation of
53. Which of the following compounds is used in preparation
(a) CaSO4 (b) CaSO4.1/2H2O
of green fire ?
(a) K2SO4 (b) NaNO3 (c) CaSO4.H2O (d) CaSO4.2H2O
(c) Ba(NO3)2 (d) None of these 67. Which of the following compounds of cement sets at the
slowest rate ?
54. Amongst LiCl, RbCl, BeCl 2 and MgCl2 the compounds
(a) Dicalcium silicate
with the greatest and least ionic character respectively are : (b) Tricalcium silicate
(a) LiCl and RbCl (b) MgCl2 and BeCl 2 (c) Tricalcium aluminate
(d) Tetracalcium aluminoferrite.
(c) RbCl and BeCl 2 (d) RbCl and MgCl2
68. The chemical which is used for plastering the broken bones
55. Lithopone is is
(a) BaO + ZnSO4 (b) BaS + ZnSO4 (a) (CaSO4)2H2O (b) MgSO4.7H2O
(c) ZnS + BaSO4 (d) ZnO + BaSO4
(c) FeSO4. 7H2O (d) CuSO4. 5H2O
56. Mixture of MgCl2 and MgO is called :
(a) Portland cement (b) Sorel's cement 69. Colemanite is
(c) double salt (d) none of these (a) Ca[B3O4 (OH)2].2H2O (b) Ca2B6O11.5H2O
57. K2CS3 can be called potassium (c) Ca(OH)2 (d) Na2B4O7.2H2O
(a) Sulphocyanide (b) Thiocarbide 70. Dead burn plaster is
(c) Thiocarbonate (d) Thiocyanate (a) CaSO4.2H2O (b) MgSO4. 7H2O
58. Estimation of calcium and magnesium is done by (c) CaSO4.½ H2O (d) CaSO4
(a) EDTA (b) oxalate
71. Bone ash contains
(c) Phosphate (d) none of these
(a) CaO (b) CaSO4
59. Philosopher's wool on heating with BaO at 1100°C produces:
(a) Ba + ZnCl2 (b) BaCdO2 (c) Ca3 (PO4)2 (d) Ca(H2PO4)2
(c) BaZnO2 (d) BaO2+ Zn 72. The wire of flash bulb is made of
60. Which one of the following processes will produce hard (a) Mg (b) Cu
water? (c) Ba (d) Ag
(a) Saturation of water with MgCO3 73. Calcium cynamide is
(b) Saturation of water with CaSO4 (a) CaCHNH2 (b) CaCN2
(c) Addition of Na2SO4 to water (c) CaC2N2 (d) Ca(CN)2
(d) Saturation of water with CaCO3 74. Calcium is obtained by
61. In Solvay ammonia process, sodium bicarbonate is (a) roasting of lime stone
precipitate due to (b) reduction of CaCl2 with carbon
(a) presence of NH3 (c) electrolysis of a solution of CaCl2 in water
(b) reaction with CO2 (d) electrolysis of molten CaCl2
(c) reaction with brine solution 75. Mortar is a mixture of
(d) reaction with NaOH (a) CaCO3, sand and water
62. In India at the occasion of marriages, the fire works used (b) slaked lime and water
give green flame. Which one of the following radicals may (c) slaked lime, sand and water
be present? (d) CaCO3 and CaO
 The-s-Block Elements 229

1. Lithium can not be stored in kerosene oil because 10. If NaOH is added to an aqueous solution of Zn2+ ions, a
(a) it is an alkali metal white precipitate appears and on adding excess NaOH, the
(b) it reacts with kerosene oil precipitate dissolves. In this solution zinc exists in the :
(c) it floats to the surface of kerosene oil (a) cationic part
(d) none of the above is correct (b) anionic part
2. Which one out of the NaOH and KOH, is a better absorber (c) both in cationic and anionic parts
of CO2 ? (d) there is no zinc left in the solution
(a) NaOH 11. Among LiI, NaI, KI, the one which is more ionic and more
(b) KOH soluble in water is :
(c) both absorb CO2 equally (a) KI (b) NaI
(d) can not be predicted (c) LiI (d) None of these
3. Which one of the following has minimum value of cation/ 12. A metal M readily forms its sulphate MSO4 which is water-
anion ratio ? soluble. It forms its oxide MO which becomes inert on heating.
(a) NaCl (b) KCl It forms an insoluble hyroxide M(OH)2 which is soluble in
(c) MgCl2 (d) CaF2 NaOH solution. Then M is
4. All of the following substances react with water. The pair (a) Mg (b) Ba
that gives the same gaseous product is (c) Ca (d) Be
(a) K and KO2 (b) Na and Na2O2 13. In curing cement plasters water is sprinkled from time to
(c) Ca and CaH2 (d) Ba and BaO2 time. This helps in
5. Which of the following is neither deliquescent nor (a) developing interlocking needle-like crystals of hydrated
efflorescent and is used for wool washing ? silicates
(a) NaOH (b) KOH (b) hydrating sand and gravel mixed with cement
(c) NaHCO3 (d) Na2CO3.NaCO3.2H2O (c) converting sand into silicic acid
6. Among the following oxides, which one is most basic (d) keeping it cool
(a) ZnO (b) MgO 14. On heating anhydrous Na2CO3,.......is evolved
(c) Al2O3 (d) N2O5 (a) CO2 (b) Water vapour
7. Which of the following statement is false ? (c) CO (d) No gas
(a) Strontium decomposes water readily than beryllium
15. The metals A and B form oxide but B also forms nitride when
(b) Barium carbonate melts at a higher temperature than both burn in air. The A and B are
calcium carbonate
(a) Cs, K (b) Mg, Ca
(c) Barium hydroxide is more soluble in water than
(c) Li, Na (d) K, Mg
magnesium hydroxide
(d) Beryllium hydroxide is more basic than barium 16. Based on lattice energy and other considerations which one
hydroxide. of the following alkali metal chlorides is expected to have
8. The general formula of an alum is the highest melting point
(a) LiCl (b) NaCl
M 2SO 4 .M 2¢ (SO 4 ) 3 .24H 2 O
(c) KCl (d) RbCl
where M is univalent and M¢ is a trivalent metal which of 17. An aqueous solution of salt ‘R’ when treated with dil HCl, a
the following does not form alum ? colourless gas is given out. The gas so evolved when passed
(a) Li (b) Na through acidified KMnO4 decolourises KMnO4 solution.
(c) K (d) all of these form alum The salt ‘R’ is
9. What is the function of potassium nitrate in gun powder ? (a) Na2CO3 (b) NaClO3
(a) It is a sublime substance (c) NaNO2 (d) Na2SO3
(b) It is added to act as instant explosive 18. Which of the following sulphates have the highest solubility
(c) It is added to provide oxygen in water?
(d) It reacts with sulphur to form another compound that (a) MgSO4 (b) BaSO4
is highly explosive in nature
(c) CaSO4 (d) BeSO4
 EBD_7327
230 CHEMISTRY

19. On being placed in water, sodium peroxide not only produces 27. On being placed in water, sodium peroxide not only produces
an alkaline solution but also some bubbles. If we assume an alkaline solution but also some bubbles. If we assume
that the peroxide ion picks up two protons from water to that the peroxide ion picks up two protons from water to
produce a compound that can be seen as the dibasic produce a compound that can be seen as the dibasic
conjugate acid of peroxide ion and then this compound conjugate acid of peroxide ion and then this compound
undergoes a redox disproportion. undergoes a redox disproportion.
Using the above information complete the following Using the above information complete the following
equation. equation.
Na 2 O 2 (s) + H 2 O(l) ¾¾®( A) + ( B)
Na 2 O 2 (s) + H 2 O(l) ¾¾
®( A) + ( B)
(A) and (B) are
(A) and (B) are
(a) H2O2 and NaOH (b) H2O and O2
(c) NaOH and O2 (d) Na2O and NaOH (a) H2O2 and NaOH (b) H2O and O2
(c) NaOH and O2 (d) Na2O and NaOH
20. The metal X is prepared by the electrolysis of fused chloride.
28. BaSO4 is used in the X-ray investigation of intestinal track
It reacts with hydrogen to form a colourless solid from which
because it is opaque to X-rays. For this, one adds solid
hydrogen is released on treatment with water. The metal is :
BaSO4 in water to obtain a saturated solution with BaSO4 (s)
(a) Ca (b) Al (c) Zn (d) Cu
suspended in saturated solution.
21. The correct order of radii is –
BaSO4(solid) ¾¾ ® BaSO4(Soln.)
(a) Li < Be < Mg (b) H+ < Li+ < H–
3+
(c) Mn < Mn < Mn 2+ +7 (d) K+ > Cl– > S2– ¾¾ ® Ba+ ++ SO42–
However one patient is allergic to Ba2+ ions and one has to
22. Select the correct statements :
reduce the concentration of Ba2+ ions from the saturated
I. Cs+ is more highly hydrated that the other alkali metal
solution. The method adopted for this is :
ions
(a) Heat the system because ionization reaction
II. Among the alkali metals Li, Na, K and Rb, lithium has
BaSO4 = Ba+ + + SO42– is endothermic
the highest melting point
(b) Add more BaSO4 solid to the solution
III. Among the alkali metals only lithium forms a stable
(c) reduce the volume of saturated solution over
nitride by direct combination with nitrogen
the solid BaSO4
(a) I, II and III (b) I and II
(d) Add enough Na2SO4 to solution so that Ba2+ ion can
(c) I and III (d) II and III
be precipitate due to excess SO42–ions.
23. The melting point of lithium (181°C) is just double the melting 29. In which of the following the hydration energy is higher
point of sodium (98°C) because – than the lattice energy?
(a) down the group, the hydration energy decreases (a) MgSO4 (b) RaSO4
(b) down the group, the ionization energy decreases (c) SrSO4 (d) BaSO4
(c) down the group the cohesive energy decreases 30. The alkali metals form salt-like hydrides by the direct
(d) None of these synthesis at elevated temperature. The thermal stability of
+ these hydrides decreases in which of the following orders ?
24. Magnesium form Mg 2+ and Mg because :
(a) CsH > RbH > KH > NaH > LiH
(a) ionic radius of Mg(II) is smaller than of Mg(I). (b) KH > NaH > LiH > CsH > RbH
(b) hydration energy of divalent magnesium ion is higher. (c) NaH > LiH > KH > RbH > CsH
(c) magnesium (II) carbonate is insoluble in water. (d) LiH > NaH > KH > RbH > CsH
(d) generally higher oxidation states are preferred by metals. 31. Which of the following oxides is not expected to react with
25. A metal ‘M’ reacts with N2 to give a compound ‘A’ (M3N). sodium hydroxide?
‘A’ on heating at high temperature gives back ‘M’ and ‘A’; (a) CaO (b) SiO2
on reacting with H2O gives a gas B. ‘B’ turns CuSO4 solution (c) BeO (d) B2O3
blue on passing through it. M and B can be 32. Which of the following alkaline earth metal sulphates has
(a) Al and NH3 (b) Li and NH3 hydration enthalpy higher than the lattice enthalpy?
(c) Na and NH3 (d) Mg and NH3
(a) CaSO 4 (b) BeSO 4
26. Which is not correctly matched
(1) Basic strength Cs2O < Rb2O < K2O < Na2O < Li2O of (c) BaSO 4 (d) SrSO 4
oxides 33. The compound A on heating gives a colourless gas and a
(2) Stability of Na2O2 < K2O2 < Rb2O2 < Cs2O2 peroxides residue that is dissolved in water to obtain B. Excess of CO2
(3) Stability of LiHCO3 < NaHCO3 < KHCO3 bicarbonates is bubbled through aqueous solution of B, C is formed which
< RbHCO3 < CsHCO3 is recovered in the solid form. Solid C on gentle heating
(4) Melting point NaF < NaCl < NaBr < NaI gives back A. The compound is
(a) 1 and 4 (b) 1 and 3 (a) CaSO4.2H2O (b) CaCO3
(c) 1 and 2 (d) 2 and 3 (c) Na2CO3 (d) K2CO3
 The-s-Block Elements 231

34. Which of the following compounds has the lowest melting 41. The products obtained on heating LiNO2 will be :
point ?
(a) Li 2 O + NO2 + O2 (b) Li 3 N + O 2
(a) CaCl2 (b) CaBr2
(c) CaI2 (d) CaF2 (c) Li 2 O + NO + O 2 (d) LiNO3 + O2
35. Which one of the following is present as an active ingredient in 42. What is the best description of the change that occurs when
bleaching powder for bleaching action ? Na2O(s) is dissolved in water ?
(a) CaOCl2 (b) Ca(OCl)2 (a) Oxide ion accepts sharing in a pair of electrons
(c) CaO2Cl (d) CaCl2 (b) Oxide ion donates a pair of electrons
36. Which of the following statements is incorrect? (c) Oxidation number of oxygen increases
(d) Oxidation number of sodium decreases
(a) Pure sodium metal dissolves in liquid ammonia to give
blue solution. 43. Which of the following on thermal decomposition yields a
basic as well as acidic oxide ?
(b) NaOH reacts with glass to give sodium silicate
(a) NaNO3 (b) KClO3
(c) Aluminium reacts with excess NaOH to give Al(OH)3
(c) CaCO3 (d) NH4NO3
(d) NaHCO3 on heating gives Na2CO3
44. The sequence of ionic mobility in aqueous solution is :
37. Match List – I with List –II for the compositions of
(a) K+ > Na+ > Rb+ > Cs+ (b) Cs+ > Rb+ > K+ > Na+
substances and select the correct answer using the code
given below the lists : (c) Rb+ > K+ > Cs+ > Na+ (d) Na+ > K+ > Rb+ > Cs+
List - I List - II 45. Property of the alkaline earth metals that increases with their
atomic number is
Substances Composition
(a) solubility of their hydroxides in water
(A) Plaster of paris (i) CaSO4.2H2O
(b) solubility of their sulphates in water
(B) Epsomite (ii) CaSO4.½ H2O
(c) ionization energy
(C) Kieserite (iii) MaSO4.7 H2O
(d) electronegativity
(D) Gypsum (iv) MgSO4. H2O
DIRECTIONS for Qs. 46 to 50 : These are Assertion-Reason
(v) CaSO4 type questions. Each of these question contains two statements:
Code : Statement-1 (Assertion) and Statement-2 (Reason). Answer these
(A) (B) (C) (D) questions from the following four options.
(a) (iii) (iv) (i) (ii) (a) Statement-1 is True, Statement-2 is True, Statement-2 is a
correct explanation for Statement -1
(b) (ii) (iii) (iv) (i)
(b) Statement-1 is True, Statement-2 is True ; Statement-2 is
(c) (i) (ii) (iii) (v) NOT a correct explanation for Statement-1
(d) (iv) (iii) (ii) (i) (c) Statement-1 is True, Statement-2 is False
38. Equimolar solutions of the following substances were (d) Statement-1 is False, Statement-2 is True
prepared separately. Which one of these will record the
46. Statement-1 : Potassium and caesium are used in
highest pH value ?
photoelectric cells.
(a) BaCl2 (b) AlCl3 Statement-2 : Potassium and caesium emit electrons on
(c) LiCl (d) BeCl2 exposure to light.
39. The ease of adsorption of the hydrated alkali metal ions on 47. Statement-1 : LiCl is predominantly a covalent compound.
an ion-exchange resins follows the order : Statement-2 : Electronegativity difference between Li and
(a) Li+ < K+ < Na+ < Rb+ Cl is too small.
(b) Rb+ < K+ <Na+ < Li+ 48. Statement-1 : Sulphate is estimated as BaSO4 and not as
(c) K+ < Na+ < Rb+ < Li+ MgSO4.
(d) Na+ < Li+ < K+ < Rb+ Statement-2 : Ionic radius of Mg2+ is smaller than that of
Ba2+.
40. KO2 (potassium super oxide) is used in oxygen cylinders in
49. Statement-1 : Mg continue to burn in nitric oxide
space and submarines because it
Statement-2 : During burning, heat evolved do not
(a) absorbs CO2 and increases O2 content
decompose NO.
(b) eliminates moisture 50. Statement-1 : Superoxides of alkali metals are paramagnetic.
(c) absorbs CO2 Statement-2 : Superoxides contain the ion O2– which has
(d) produces ozone. one unpaired electron.
 EBD_7327
232 CHEMISTRY

Exemplar Questions (a) Be(OH)2 (b) Mg(OH)2

1. The alkali metals are low melting. Which of the following (c) Ca(OH)2 (d) Ba(OH)2
alkali metal is expected to melt if the room temperature rises 11. In the synthesis of sodium carbonate, the recovery of
to 30°C? ammonia is done by treating NH4Cl with Ca(OH)2. The
(a) Na (b) K by – product obtained in this process is
(c) Rb (d) Cs (a) CaCl2 (b) NaCl
2. Alkali metals react with water vigorously to form hydroxides (c) NaOH (d) NaHCO3
and dihydrogen. Which of the following alkali metals reacts 12. When sodium is dissolved in liquid ammonia, a solution of
with water least vigorously? deep blue colour is obtained. The colour of the solution is
(a) Li (b) Na due to
(c) K (d) Cs (a) ammoniated electron (b) sodium ion
3. The reducing power of a metal depends on various factors. (c) sodium amide (d) ammoniated sodium ion
Suggest the factor which makes Li, the strongest reducing 13. By adding gypsum to cement
agent in aqueous solution. (a) setting time of cement becomes less
(a) Sublimation enthalpy
(b) setting time of cement increases
(b) lonisation enthalpy
(c) colour of cement becomes light
(c) Hydration enthalpy
(d) shining surface is obtained
(d) Electron–gain enthalpy
4. Metal carbonates decompose on heating to give metal oxide 14. Dead burnt plaster is
1
and carbon dioxide. Which of the metal carbonates is most (a) CaSO4 (b) CaSO4 . H 2 O
2
stable thermally? (c) CaSO4.H2O (d) CaSO4.2H2O
(a) MgCO3 (b) CaCO3
15. Suspension of slaked lime in water is known as
(c) SrCO3 (d) BaCO3
(a) lime water
5. Which of the following carbonates given below is unstable
in air and is kept in CO2 atmosphere to avoid decomposition? (b) quick lime
(a) BeCO3 (b) MgCO3 (c) milk of lime
(c) CaCO3 (d) BaCO3 (d) aqueous solution of slaked lime
6. Metals form basic hydroxides. Which of the following metal 16. Which of the following elements does not form hydride
hydroxide is the least basic? by direct heating with dihydrogen?
(a) Mg(OH)2 (b) Ca(OH)2 (a) Be (b) Mg
(c) Sr(OH)2 (d) Ba(OH)2 (c) Sr (d) Ba
7. Some of the Group 2 metal halides are covalent and soluble 17. The formula of soda ash is
in organic solvents. Among the following metal halides, the (a) Na2CO3.10H2O (b) Na2CO3.2H2O
one which is soluble in ethanol is (c) Na2CO3.H2O (d) Na2CO3
(a) BeCl2 (b) MgCl2 18. A substance which gives brick red flame and breaks down
(c) CaCl2 (d) SrCl2 on heating to give oxygen and a brown gas is
8. The order of decreasing ionisation enthalpy in alkali metals (a) magnesium nitrate (b) calcium nitrate
is (c) barium nitrate (d) strontium nitrate
(a) Na > Li > K > Rb (b) Rb < Na < K < Li
19. Which of the following statements is true about Ca(OH)2?
(c) Li > Na > K > Rb (d) K < Li < Na < Rb
(a) It is used in the preparation of bleaching powder.
9. The solubility of metal halides depends on their nature, lattice
enthalpy and hydration enthalpy of the individual ions. (b) It is a light blue solid.
Amongst fluorides of alkali metals, the lowest solubility of (c) It does not possess disinfectant property.
Li in water is due to (d) It is used in the manufacture of cement.
(a) ionic nature of lithium fluoride 20. A chemical ‘A’ is used for the preparation of washing soda
(b) high lattice enthalpy to recover [Link] CO2 is bubbled through an
(c) high hydration enthalpy for lithium ion aqueous solution of ‘A’, the solution turns milky. It is used
(d) low ionisation enthapy of lithium atom in white washing due to disinfectant nature. What is the
10. Amphoteric hydroxides react with both alkalies and acids. chemical formula of ‘A’?
Which of the following Group 2 metal hydroxides is soluble (a) Ca(HCO3)2 (b) CaO
in sodium hydroxide? (c) Ca(OH)2 (d) CaCO3
 The-s-Block Elements 233

21. Dehydration of hydrates of halides of calcium, barium and 23. Solubility of the alkaline earth's metal sulphates in water
strontium i.e., CaCl2. 6H2O, BaCl2.2H2O, SrCl2.2H2O can be decreases in the sequence :- [2015]
achieved by heating. These become wet on keeping in air. (a) Ca > Sr > Ba > Mg (b) Sr > Ca > Mg > Ba
Which of the following statements is correct about these (c) Ba > Mg > Sr > Ca (d) Mg > Ca > Sr > Ba
halides? 24. The function of "Sodium pump" is a biological process
(a) Act as dehydrating agent operating in each and every cell of all animals. Which of the
(b) Can absorb moisture from air following biologically important ions is also a consituent of
(c) Tendency to form hydrate decreases form calcium to this pump : [2015]
barium (a) Mg2+ (b) K+
(d) All of the above (c) Fe2+ (d) Ca2+
25. On heating which of the following releases CO2 most
NEET/AIPMT (2013-2017) Questions easily ? [2015 RS]
22. In Castner-Kellner cell for production of sodium hydroxide: (a) K2CO3 (b) Na2CO3
[NEET Kar. 2013] (c) MgCO3 (d) CaCO3
(a) Brine is electrolyzed with Pt electrodes 26. Which of the following statements is false ? [2016]
(b) Brine is electrolyzed using graphite electrodes (a) Mg2+ ions form a complex with ATP
(c) Molten sodium chloride is electrolysed (b) Ca2+ ions are important in blood clotting
(d) Sodium amalgam is formed at mercury cathode (c) Ca2+ ions are not important in maintaining the regular
beating of the heart.
(d) Mg2+ ions are important in the green parts of plants.
 EBD_7327
234 CHEMISTRY

Hints & Solutions

EXERCISE - 1 14. (b) During the dissolution of alkali metal hydrides energy
is released in large amount, i.e., it is exothermic in nature.
1. (a) A reducing agent is a substance which can loose 15. (c) The property of sodium atom to emit photons in yellow
electron and hence a reducing agent should have low region of visible spectrum, due to electrically stimulated
ionisation energy. Now since ionisation energy electron transitions is used in street lights.
decreases from Li to Cs, the reducing property should 16. (a) Since the ionization energies of alkali metals decrease
increase from Li to Cs. The only exception to this is down the group, the ionic character and consequently
lithium. This is because the net process of converting basic property of their hydroxides increases in the same
an atom to an ion takes place in 3 steps. order, i.e. from LiOH to CsOH.
(i) M(s) ® M(g) DH = Sublimation energy
heat
(ii) M(g) ® M+(g) + e– DH = Ionisation energy 17. (d) 2KClO 3 ¾¾¾® 2 KCl + 3O 2
melts
(iii) M+(g)+H2O ® M+ (aq) DH = Hydration energy solid solid
The large amount of energy liberated in hydration of Li 18. (d) Li, Na, K are lighter than water but Rb is heavier than
(because of its small size) makes the overall DH negative. water.
This accounts for the higher oxidation potential of 19. (b) BaCO3 forms a yellow ppt of barium chromate. BaCO3
lithium i.e., its high reducing power. forms a white precipitate of BaSO4. BaCl2 is soluble in
2. (b) Nitrolim is CaCN2 + C. It is used as fertilizer since it water.
reacts with H2O to form NH3. 20. (c) 4S + 6 NaOH ® Na 2S 2O 3 + 2 Na 2S + 3H 2 O
CaCN 2 + 3H 2 O ¾¾ ® CaCO 3 + 2NH 3 . 21. (b) As outermost electronic configuration of alkali metals is
3. (a) NaHCO3 is used in medicine to neutralise the acidicty ns1 and also their size are largest in their respective
in the stomach. Mg(OH)2 is basic in nature and periods so their 1st I.E will be lowest among the given
dissolves in acids forming corresponding salts. So both options. As second electron is to be removed from
are used in antacid medicinal preparations. complete shell or noble gas core, so the IInd I.E. must be
4. (a) Within a group, ionic radius increases with increase in highest among the given options. So, option (b) is correct
atomic number. The melting points decrease down the choice.
group due to weakening of metallic bond. The 22. (b) Washing soda is Na2 CO3. 10 H2O.
electronegativity and the 1st ionization energy also 23. (c) Mixture of K2CO3 and Na2 CO3 is called fusion mixture
decreases down the group. 24. (b) Na 2CO3 ∗ NO ∗ NO 2 ↑ 2 NaNO 2 ∗ CO 2
5. (b) Radii of atoms increase as we go down the group due 25. (a) Magnesium on heating to redness in an atmosphere of
to the addition of extra energy shell. Nuclear charge N2 gives magnesium nitride.
also increases on moving down the group but the 3Mg + N2 ¾¾® D
Mg3N2
influence of addition of energy shell predominates. This
predomination is larger in case when we move from Na Then magnesium nitride is rapidly hydrolysed by water
to K among all the options given. to give magnesium hydroxide and ammonia.
6. (c) With the same anion, smaller the size of the cation, Mg3N2 + 6H2O ¾ ¾® 3Mg(OH)2 + 2NH3
higher is the lattice energy. The correct order of size of 26. (d) Glauber’s salt is Na2SO4.10 H2O.
cations is – 27. (b)
Na+ < K+ < Rb+ < Cs+ 28. (d) Carbonates of group IA are fairly stable and will melt
Hence, the lattice energy of NaF will be maximum. before they eventually decompose into oxides at
i.e., NaF. temperature above 1000°C. Li2CO3 is considerably less
7. (a) According to Fajan rules, ionic character increases with stable than other carbonates of group 1A and on
increase in size of the cation and decrease in size of the decomposition by heating, it gives CO2.
anion. Thus, CsF has higher ionic character than NaCl Li2CO3 ¾ ¾® Li2O + CO2
and hence bond in CsF is stronger than in NaCl. So, option (d) is more probable.
8. (c) As Cs+ ion has larger size than Li+ and I– has larger size 29. (c) Fehling’s solution is a mixture of Alk. CuSO4 + Na – K
than F–, therefore maximum distance between centres tartarate (Rochelle salt)
of cations and anions is in CsI. 30. (a) NaHCO3 (baking soda) is one of the major constituents
9. (b) Composition of cement depends upon its type. Portland of baking powder.
cement is most common kind and contains 51% 31. (c) Sodium bicarbonate on heating changes into sodium
tricalcium silicate, 24% of dicalcium silicate and 6% of carbonate by the loss of CO2 and H2O.
tricalcium aluminate.
10. (a) Lithium does not form peroxide. 2NaHCO3 D Na 2CO3 + H 2O + CO 2
Sodium ¾¾® Sodium
11. (c) bicarbonate carbonate
12. (d) Be shows diagonal relationship with Al 32. (d)
13. (b) Li is much softer than the other group I metals. Actually 33. (b) Magnesium hydroxide is used to prepare an antacid
Li is harder then other alkali metals which is used as medicine. Hence, the metal M is Mg.
 The-s-Block Elements 235

34. (a) (Na2O2 + HCl) is commercially known as oxone and is 55. (c) ZnS + BaSO4 is lithopone. It is used as white pigment.
used for bleaching of delicate fibres. 56. (b) Mixture of MgO and MgCl2 is called Sorel’s cement. It
35. (a) NaHCO3 and NaOH cannot exist together. NaHCO3 is used for making magnesia cement.
being acid salt will react with alkali to from normal salt. 57. (c) In K2CO3 replacement of O by S gives K2CS3 which is
36. (a) Baking powder has starch, NaHCO3 and Ca(H2PO2)2. called potassium thiocarbonate.
37. (d) Lithium is widely used in the manufacture of storage 58. (a) Calcium and magnesium are estimated by EDTA.
battery. 59. (c) Philosopher’s wool is ZnO
38. (a) Metallic bonding in alkaline earth’s metals is stronger 1100°C
because of larger number of electrons in the outer shell ZnO + BaO ¾¾¾¾ ® BaZnO2
in alkaline earth’s metal atoms. 60. (b) Permanent hardness of water is due to chlorides and
39. (a) sulphates of calcium and magnesium i.e CaCl2, CaSO4,
40. (b) BaF2 > MgF2 > CaF2 MgCl2 and MgSO4.
41. (c) Potassium is kept in kerosene as it is highly reactive 61. (c) NH 4 HCO3 + NaCl ¾
¾® NaHCO3 ¯ + NH 4 Cl
and reacts with all other options given above namely Brine Sod. bicarbonat e ppt .
alcohol forming alkoxide, water forming hydroxide and 62. (c) 63. (a)
ammonia forming a complex but does not react with 64. (c) Chemically plaster of Paris is CaSO4.1/2H2O.
kerosene.
42. (c) Within a period, the size decreases from left to right, i.e., 120°C 1
65. (b) CaSO 4 × 2H 2 O ¾¾¾¾ ® CaSO4 × H 2O
Na > Mg > Li > Be. Atomic size increases down the 2
group. Plaster of Paris is hemihydrate.
43. (a) As we move down the group, the lattice energies of 1
carbonates remain approximately the same. However the 66. (d) Plaster of Paris (CaSO4 . H O) on making paste with
hydration energies of the metal cation decreases from 2 2
Be++ to Ba++, hence the solubilities of carbonates of little water sets to a hard mass due to formation of
the alkaline earth metal decrease down the group mainly gypsum (CaSO4.2H2O).
due to decreasing hydration energies of the cations from 1 3
Be++ to Ba++. CaSO4 . H2O + H2O ® CaSO4.2H2O + Heat
2 2
44. (d) The IInd ionisation potential of Na is higher than Mg Plaster of Paris Gypsum
because it requires more energy to remove an electron 67. (a) Dicalcium silicate 2CaO.SiO2 contains more SiO2 as
from a saturated shell or stable (fully filled) orbital. compared to tricalcium silicate 3CaO.SiO2. Therefore, it
I
11 Na ¾® 1s 2 , 2s 2 2p 6 , 3s1 ¾
¾ ¾® has slow setting rate.
68. (a) (CaSO4)2.H2O – Plaster of paris is used for plastering
II
1s 2 , 2s 2 2p 6 , 3s 0 ¾¾® 1s 2 , 2s 2 2p5 , 3s 0 the broken bones.
I 69. (b) Colemanite is a mineral of boron having composition
12 Mg ¾® 1s 2 , 2s 2 2p 6 , 3s 2 ¾
¾ ¾® as Ca2B6O11.5H2O
II 70. (d) 71. (c) 72. (a) Mg. 73. (b)
1s 2 , 2s 2 2p 6 , 3s1 ¾¾® 1s 2 , 2s 2 2p 6 , 3s 0
Here Na-I < Mg-I and Na-II > Mg-II. 74. (d) CaCl 2 ® Ca +2 + 2Cl -
Cathode Anode
Option (d) is correct.
45. (d) 46. (d) Cathode : Ca+2 + 2e– ® Ca
47. (a) Because of smaller size, Mg2+ ions are extensively Anode : 2Cl– ® 2e– + Cl2
hydrated. 75. (c)
48. (a) Because of small atomic size and high I.E. Be forms EXERCISE - 2
covalent chloride.
49. (a) 50. (a) 1. (c) Because of its very low density lithium floats to the
51. (d) Halides of group I and II impart characteristic colour to surface of kerosene oil.
the flame due to low IE of the central atom. However, 2. (b) KOH is better absorber of CO2 because K2CO3 formed
ionization energy of Be and Mg atoms is high due to is more soluble and does not separate out.
their small size, hence they can't be excited to higher 3. (c) Atomic size of K+ > Ca2+ > Mg2+ and that of Cl– > F–.
levels by Bunsen burner flame. Thus, their halides don't Therefore, Mg2+/Cl– ratio has the minimum value.
impart colour to flame. 4. (c) Ca and CaH2 both react with H2O to form H2 gas,
52. (c) The Mohr’s salt is represented by the molecular formula
Ca + 2H 2 O ¾
¾® Ca (OH ) 2 + H 2
FeSO 4 ( NH 4 ) 2 SO 4 .6H 2O .
Hence, it has six molecules of water. CaH 2 + 2H 2 O ¾
¾® Ca ( OH ) 2 + 2 H 2
53. (c) Ba(NO3)2 is used in preparation of green fire. whereas K gives H2 while KO2 gives O2 and H2O2
54. (c) According to Fajan's rule, 2K + 2 H2O ¾ ¾® 2KOH + H2
Size of cation µ Ionic character.. 2KO2 + 2H 2O ¾¾
® 2KOH + O2 + H 2O2
Recall that size of metal (ion) increases while going
Similarly, Na gives H2 while Na2 O2 gives H2O2
down the group, and decreases on crossing the periods
from left to right. Thus Rb+ (group I) is largest and 2 Na + 2 H 2 O ¾
¾® 2 NaOH + H 2
Be2+ (group II) is smallest in size. Hence RbCl has Na 2 O 2 + 2H 2 O ¾
¾® 2 NaOH + H 2 O 2
greatest, and BeCl2 has lowest ionic character.
 EBD_7327
236 CHEMISTRY

Likewise Ba gives H2 while BaO2 gives H2O2 1

Na 2 O2 ( s) + H2 O(l) ¾¾
® 2NaOH(aq) + O2 ( g )
Ba + 2 H2O ¾ ¾® Ba (OH)2 + H2 2
BaO2 + 2H2O ¾ ¾® Ba (OH)2 + H2 O2
5. (d) Sodium sesquicarbonate (Na2CO3.NaCO3.2H2O) is 20. (a) Ca + H 2 ¾ ¾® CaH 2 + 2H 2 O ¾ ¾® Ca (OH) 2 + H 2
neither deliquescent nor efflorescent and is used for 21. (b) H cation is smaller than parent H-atom. H– and Li+ are
+

wool washing. isoelectronic species so Li+ with higher nuclear charge

6. (b) MgO. N2O5 is strongly acidic, ZnO and Al2O3 are (i.e. 3) will be smaller than H– having smaller nuclear
amphoteric, therefore, MgO is most basic. charge (i.e. 1).
7. (d) Be(OH)2 is amphoteric, but the hydroxides of other 22. (d) Amongst alkali metal Li ions are highly hydrated.
alkaline earth metals are basic. The basic strength 23. (c) The atom becomes larger on descending the group, so
increases gradually. the bonds becomes weaker (metallic bond), the cohe-
8. (a) Li does not form alum because of its small size. sive force/energy decreases and accordingly melting
9. (c) KNO3 is included in gun powder to provide a supply point also decreases.
of oxygen. 24. (b) Statement (b) is correct.
25. (b) From the given data ‘M’ is a metal from group 1 as it
10. (b) Zn 2∗ ∗ 2NaOH ¾¾ ↑ 2Na ∗ ∗ Zn(OH) 2 forms M3N. Since on heating to high temperature, M3N
Zn(OH) 2 ∗ 2NaOH ¾¾ ↑ Na 2 ZnO 2 ∗ 2H 2 O gives back the metal ‘M’ the metal is most likely to be
Thus Na2ZnO2 forms 2Na+ and [ZnO2]2– ions. Li.
11. (a) Larger cation (K+) develops less polarisation in anion Writing various reactions
and thus KI has more ionic nature and more soluble in 6Li + N2 ® 2Li3N ¾Heat ¾¾® 6 Li
water. ‘M’ ‘A’
12. (d) Sulphate of alkaline earth metal are sparingly soluble Li3N + 3H2O ® 3LiOH + NH3(g)
or almost not soluble in water whereas BeSO4 is ‘B’
soluble in water due to high degree of solvation. CuSO4 + 4NH3(g) ® [Cu(NH3)4]SO4
Be(OH)2 is insoluble in water but soluble in NaOH. Blue solution
13. (a) Setting of cement is exothermic process which develops Thus M is Li and B is NH3(g).
interlocking crystals of hydrated silicates 26. (a) Basic strength of the oxides increase in the order
14. (d) Anhydrous form of Na2CO3 does not decompose on Li2O < Na2O < K2O < Rb2O < Cs2O. The increase in
heating even to redness. It is a amorphous powder basic strength is due to the decrease in I.E. and increase
called soda ash. in electropositive character.
15. (d) K and Mg, both form oxides The melting points of the halides decrease in the order
NaF > NaCl > NaBr > NaI, as the size of the halide ion
K + O 2 ® KO 2 ;2Mg + O 2 ® 2MgO increases. The decrease in melting point is due to
Mg form nitride also 3Mg + N 2 ® Mg 3 N 2 increase in the covalent character with increase in the
K does not form nitride. size of anion according to Fajan's rule.
27. (c) From the given information, we can see that the reaction
16. (b) Although lattice energy of LiCl is higher than NaCl but
proceeds via formation of H2O2 (which is diabasic
LiCl is covalent in nature and NaCl ionic there after, the conjugate acid of peroxide ion), H 2 O 2 then
melting point decreases as we move towards NaCl disproportionates into water and oxygen.
because the lattice energy decreases as a size of alkali
metal atom increases (lattice energy a melting point of Na 2 O 2 (s) + H 2 O(l) ¾¾
® 2NaOH(aq) + H 2O 2 (aq)
alkali metal halide) 1
17. (d) Since ‘R’ gives a colourless gas on reaction with dil H 2O2 (aq) ¾¾ ® H 2O ( l) + O 2 (g)
HCl, so it contains CO32– or SO32– as anion (i.e., CO2 2
or SO2 is evolved) Thus over all reaction is
Since the gas decolourises acidified KMnO4 solution 1
so it is SO2 and thus the anion present is SO32– i.e., the Na 2O2 (s) + H 2O(l) ¾¾ ® 2NaOH(aq) + O 2 (g)
2
salt ‘R’ is Na2SO3. 28. (d) To reduce the concentration of Ba +2 ions, add enough
18. (d) BeSO4 is most soluble because hydration energy is
more than lattice energy. Na2SO4 to solution. As the concentration of SO -4 -
BeSO > MgSO > CaSO > SrSO > BaSO
¾¾ ¾ ¾4¾ ¾ ¾4¾ ¾ ¾
4 ¾ ¾4¾ ¾ ¾4 ¾¾
® increases, Ba +2 combine with SO -4 - and are
Hydration energy decreases hence,solubility decreases.
19. (c) From the given information, we can see that the reaction precipitated.
proceeds via formation of H2O2 (which is diabasic 29. (a) In alkaline earth metals ionic size increases down the
conjugate acid of peroxide ion), H 2 O 2 then group. The lattice energy remains constant because
disproportionates into water and oxygen. sulphate ion is so large, so that small change in cationic
Na 2 O 2 ( s ) + H 2 O( l ) ¾¾
® 2NaOH( aq ) + H 2 O 2 ( aq ) sizes do not make any difference. On moving down the
1 group the degree of hydration of metal ions decreases
H 2 O 2 (aq ) ¾¾ ® H 2 O ( l) + O 2 ( g ) very much leading to decrease in solubility
2
Thus over all reaction is \ BeSO4 > MgSO 4 > CaSO 4 > SrSO 4 > BaSO4
 The-s-Block Elements 237

30. (d) The stability of alkali metal hydrides decreases from Li 44. (b) Smaller the ion more is its ionic mobility in aqueous
to Cs. It is due to the fact that M–H bonds become solution. Ionic radii of the given alkali metals is in the
weaker with increase in size of alkali metals as we move order Na+ < K+ < Rb+ < Cs+ and thus expected ionic
down the group from Li to Cs. Thus the order of stability mobility will be in the order Cs+ < Rb+ < K+ < Na+.
of hydrides is However due to high degree of solvation (or hydration)
LiH > NaH > KH > RbH > CsH because of lower size or high charge density, the
i.e. option (d) is correct answer. hydrated ion size follows the order Cs+ < Rb+ < K+ <
31. (a) NaOH is a strong alkali. It combines with acidic and Na+ and thus conductivity order is Cs+ > Rb+ > K+ >
amphoteric oxides to form salts. Since CaO is a basic Na+ i.e. option (b) is correct answer.
oxide hence does not reacts with NaOH. 45. (a) Lattice energy decreases more rapidly than hydration
energy for alkaline earth metal hydroxides. On moving
32. (b) Be 2+ is very small, hence its hydration enthalpy is
down a group\ solubility of their hydroxides increases.
greater than its lattice enthalpy
Sol. For Qs. 46-50
D
33. (b) CaCO3( s ) ¾¾® CO 2( g ) ­ + CaO ( s ) The thermal stabilities of carbonates increase down the group
A colourless B due to increase in metallic character i.e. electropositive character.
Further bigger cation stabilises bigger anion through crystal lattice
CaO(s) + H 2 O ¾¾ ® Ca (OH )2(aq) energy effect.
B Solution of alkali in liquid ammonia has high electrical conductivity
Ca (OH )2 + 2CO2 ¾¾ ® Ca (HCO3 )2(aq) due to the presence of ammoniated electrons.
C M + (x + y) NH3 ––––® [M (NH3)x]+ + [e (NH3)y]–
Ca (HCO3 )2(s) ¾¾ ® CaCO3(s) + CO2(g) + H 2 O(g) Ammoniated electrons
A Sodium carbonate is prepared by solvay process not potassium
\ Correct choice : (b) carbonate, as KHCO3 is quite soluble in water.
34. (c) Melting points of halides decreases as the size of the 46. (a) K and Cs emit electrons on exposure of light due to low
halogen increases. The correct order is ionisation potential.
CaF2 > CaCl2 > CaBr2 > CaI2 47. (c) Statement-1 is true but statement-2 is false.
35. (b) Active ingredient in bleaching powder for bleaching Due to high polarizing power of Li +, LiCl is a covalent
action is Ca (OCl)2 compound.
36. (c) 2Al(s) + 2NaOH (aq) + 2H2O (l) ¾¾ ® 2NaAlO2 + 3H2 48. (b) Sulphate is estimated as BaSO4 because Ba2+ being
sod. meta aluminate larger ion is hydrated to a lesser extent hence it has
1 high lattice energy group.
37. (b) (A) Plaster of paris = CaSO4. H 2 O
2 49. (c) When Mg is burnt in nitric oxide, it continue to burn
(B) Epsomite = MgSO4.7H2O because during burning the heat evolved decompose
(C) Kieserite = MgSO4.H2O NO to N2 and O2. Oxygen thus, produced helps Mg to
(D) Gypsum = CaSO4.2H2O burn.
38. (a) (AlCl 3, LiCl & BeCl2) ) all these solutions are acidic due 50. (a) Presence of unpaired electrons in superoxides of alkali
to cationic hydrolysis, whereas BaCl2, is salt of strong metals make them paramagnetic.
base and strong acid, hence its solution will almost neutral
i.e., pH » 7. EXERCISE - 3
39. (b) All alkali metal salts are ionic (except Lithium) and soluble Exemplar Questions
in water due to the fact that cations get hydrated by
water molecules. The degree of hydration depends upon 1. (d) Alkali metals have low melting and boiling points. The
the size of the cation. Smaller the size of a cation, greater melting point of alkali metals decreases from Li to Cs
is its hydration energy. as cohesive force decreases with increase in atomic
Relative ionic radii : Cs+ > Rb+ > K + > Na + > Li + size.
Relative degree of hydration: 2. (a) The reactivity of alkali metals with water increases on
moving down the group from Li to Cs due to increase
Li + > Na + > K + > Rb + > Cs +
in electropositive character.
40. (a) 4KO2 + 2 CO2 ® 2 K2CO3 + 3O2 .
3. (c) Reducing character is measured by tendency of an
KO2 is used as an oxidising agent. It is used as air purifier
element to lose electron in aqueous solution. Higher
in space capsules. Submarines and breathing masks as
it produces oxygen and remove carbon dioxide. the negative E°RP value, greater is the ability to lose
41. (a) 4LiNO3 ® 2Li 2 O + 4NO 2 + O 2 electrons.
42. (b) E°RP depends on:
43. (c) Calcium carbonate on thermal decomposition gives CaO (i) enthalpy of sublimation
(Basic oxide) and CO2 (Acidic oxide) (ii) ionisation of enthalpy
D (iii) enthalpy of hydration
CaCO 3 CaO + CO 2­ Thus, in aqueous medium, order of reactivity of alkali
Basic oxide Acidic oxide metals is Na < K < Rb < Cs < Li. E°RP value of Li is least
(–3.04 V) among all alkali metals.
 EBD_7327
238 CHEMISTRY

The formation of Li+ (aq) from Li involves following

NaCl + NH 4 HCO3 ¾¾
® NaHCO3 ¯ + NH 4Cl
steps: Sodium bicarbonate
Sublimation D
(i) Li(s) ¾¾¾¾¾® Li(g); 2NaHCO3 ¾¾
® Na 2 CO3 + H 2O + CO 2
DHs = Enthalpy of sublimation Sodium carbonate
NH3 is recovered from NH4 HCO3 and NH4Cl
® Li + (s); IE1 = Ionisation enthalpy
(ii) Li(g) ¾¾
D
NH 4 HCO3 ¾¾® NH 3 + H 2 O + CO 2
+ +
(iii) Li (g) ¾¾ ® Li (aq); DHn = Enthalpy of hydration 2NH 4 Cl + Ca ( OH ) 2 ® 2NH3 + CaCl 2 + 2H 2O
For alkali metals, enthalpies of sublimation are almost Ammonium chloride Ammonia Calcium chloride
same. IE1 value of Li is positive & highest and 12. (a) Alkali metals dissolve in liquid NH3 giving deep blue
hydration enthalpy is negative and maximum for coloured solution.
smallest Li+ which makes it strongest reducing agent. +
4. (d) BaCO3 is thermally most stable due to the small size of ® éë Na ( NH3 ) x ùû +
Na + ( x + y) NH3 ¾¾ e- ( NH3 ) y
resulting oxide ion. As the atomic number increases Ammoniated cation Ammoniated electron
the stability of the metal ion decreases hence, stability When light fall on the solution, the ammoniated
of carbonates increases. electrons get excite to higher energy level by absorbing
5. (a) BeCO3 is unstable due to high polarising power of certain wavelength and transmit blue colour.
smallest Be2+ ion. Also, it shows reversible reaction, 13. (b) Gypsum (CaSO4.2H2O) is added to cement to increase
because of more stability of oxide formed. Hence, its setting time so that it gets sufficiently hardened.
BeCO3 has least stability and it is stable only in CO2 Setting of cement is an exothermic process and involves
atmosphere. hydration of calcium aluminates and silicates.
6. (a) The basic character of the given hydroxides increases 14. (a) On heating plaster of Paris at certain temperature, it
down the group due to decrease in ionization enthalpies. forms anhydrous calcium sulphate which is known to
On moving down the group, the ionic size increases, be dead burnt plaster and has no setting property as it
so M–O bond in metal hydroxides gets weaker and absorbs water very slowly.
easily gives OH– in the solution and I.E. further 1 200°C 1100° C
CaSO 4 . H 2O ¾¾¾¾ ® CaSO4 ¾¾¾¾ ® CaO + SO3
decreases. Hence, Mg(OH)2 will be least basic. The 2 ( Anhydrous)
order of basicity will be:
15. (c) Slaked lime [Ca(OH)2] is sparingly soluble in water and
Mg(OH)2 < Ca(OH)2 < Sr(OH)2 < Ba(OH)2
it forms a suspension of slaked lime in water which is
7. (a) Ethanol is a covalent compound and only a compound
called milk of lime and a clear solution obtained after
which has more covalent character can be dissolved in
the suspension settles is known as lime water.
it. Also the group ionic character increases and
16. (a) Except Be, all alkaline earth metals form hydrides (MH2)
beryllium halide have covalent character due to its small
on directly heating with H2. BeH2 can't be prepared by
size and high effective nuclear charge. Hence, among
direct heating but it can be prepared by the action of
the given halides, BeCl2 can be soluble in ethanol.
LiAlH4 on BeCl2.
8. (c) On moving down the group from Li to Rb increased
screening effect makes the removal of electron easier. 2BeCl2 + LiAlH 4 ® 2BeH 2 + LiCl + AlCl3
Thus, the order of decreasing ionization enthalpy will 17. (d) On heating washing soda, it loses its water of
be: Li > Na > K > Rb crystallisation. Above 373 K, it becomes completely
9. (b) Among fluorides, the order of solubility is LiF < NaF anhydrous white powder called soda ash.
< KF < RbF < CsF. On moving down the group solubility Above 373K
Na 2CO3.10H 2O ¾¾¾¾¾¾
® Na 2CO3
increases because lattice energy decreases. Washing soda Soda ash
Also, LiF exhibit very high lattice energy. ( Anhydrous form)
10. (a) Be(OH)2 is an amphoteric hydroxide thus gets dissolve 18. (b) Calcium gives brick red coloured flame. Also, calcium
both in acids and alkalies. nitrate on heating decomposes into calcium oxide and
Basic nature : evolution of a mixture of NO2 and O2 takes place.
Be ( OH ) 2 + 2HCl ¾¾ ® BeCl 2 + 2H 2 O 2Ca(NO3)2 ® 2CaO + 4NO2 + O2
brown coloured gas
Acidic nature: 19. (a) Ca(OH)2 is used in the manufacture of bleaching
Be ( OH ) 2 + 2NaOH ¾¾
® Na 2 BeO 2 + 2H 2 O powder.
Sodium beryllate
Cold
11. (a) Sodium carbonate can be synthesised by Solvay 2Ca ( OH ) 2 + 2Cl2 ¾¾¾
® CaCl2 + Ca(OCl) 2 + 2H 2 O
Slaked Bleaching
ammonia soda process. lime powder
The reactions involved in the process are : 20. (c) To recover NH3 in Solvay process Ca(OH)2 is used.
NH3 + H 2O + CO2 ¾¾
® NH 4 HCO3 On passing CO2 through Ca(OH)2, it turns milky due
Ammonium bicarbonate to the formation of CaCO3. Also, Ca(OH)2 is used for
white washing due to its disinfectant nature.
Ca(OH)2 + CO2 ® CaCO3¯+ H2O
 The-s-Block Elements 239

21. (d) Chlorides of alkaline earth metals are hydrated salts. MgSO 4 > CaSO4 > SrSO 4 > BaSO 4
Due to their hygroscopic nature, they can be used as a Hydration Solubility
dehydrating agent and can absorb moisture from air. energy
Extent of hydration decreases from Ca to Ba. 24. (b) K+ ion is a constituent of sodium pump.
NEET/AIPMT (2013-2017) Questions 25. (c) Carbonates becomes more thermally stable down the
22. (d) In Castner Kellner cell, sodium amalgam is formed at group, therefore MgCO3 will leave CO2 easily.
mercury cathode. 26. (c)
23. (d) Solubility of alkaline earth metal sulphates decreases
down the group due decrease in hydration energy.