Why ionic conductance of alkali metal ions in aqueous solution are in the order:
Li+ < Mg + < K+ < Rb+ < Cs+ Explain ?
Why are lithium salts commonly hydrated and those of the other alkali metal ions usually anhydrous?
Lithium salts are commonly hydrated like LiCl.2H2O whereas other alkali ions are usually anhydrous. The hydration enthalpy of Li+ ion is maximum hydrated and therefore, the effective size of Li+ in aqueous solution is the largest. The hydration enthalpy decreases with increase in ionic size.
Li+ >Na+>K+> Rb+>Cs+
Therefore, the ions of other alkali metals are usually anhydrous.
Comment on each of the following observations:
The mobilities of the alkali metal ions in aqueous solution are Li+ < Na+ < K+ < Rb+ < Cs+
Comment on each of the following observations:
Lithium is the only alkali metal which forms nitride directly.
Lithium forms normal oxide, sodium forms peroxides while K, Rb and Cs form superoxides. Explain.