S Block

ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 1
s-BLOCK
The elements in which the last electron enters the outermost s-orbital are called s - block elements. The
group 1 and 2 of periodic table belong to the s-block.
ALKALI METALS
ALKALI METAL AND THEIR COMPOUNDS
(i) The Elements : are Li , Na, K, Rb, Cs, Fr (Radioactive : t1/2 of Fr233 = 21 minutes)

group - I elements are called alkali metals because they from hydroxides on reaction with water, which
are alkaline in nature.
Outer Electronic configuration : ns1
(ii) Atomic Radii. The atomic radii of alkali metals are largest in their respective periods. The atomic

radii increase on moving down the group from top to bottom.
Li < Na < K < Rb < Cs < Fr
(iii) Ionic Radii. Alkali metals change into positively charged ions by losing their outermost electron.

These ions are considerably smaller than the parent atoms. Ionic radii increase on moving down the
group.
(iv) Density. Alkali metals have low densities due to their large atomic size. Densities increase on

going down the group from top to bottom. Potassium is, however lighter than sodium.
Li < K < Na < Rb < Cs
Exception : Density of K < Na due to abnormal increment in size of K.
(v) Ionization Energy. The first ionization energies of alkali metals are very low as compared with

the other elements of the same period.
Li > Na > K > Rb > Cs
(vi) Electropositive Character. On account of their low ionization energies, these metals have a strong

tendency to lose their valence electrons and thus change into positive ions. Consequently, alkali
metals are strongly electropositive or metallic in character. As this tendency for losing electrons
increases down the group, the electropositive character increases.
Li < Na < K < Rb < Cs
(vii) Oxidation State. Alkali metals exhibit an oxidation state of +1.
(viii) Reducing Character : All the alkali metals are good reducing agents due to their low ionization energies.

Their reducing character, however, follows the order :
Na < K < Rb < Cs < Li
BANSAL CLASSES Private Ltd. ‘Gaurav Tower’, A-10, Road No.-1, I.P.I.A., Kota-05
2 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
The reducing character of any metal is best measured in terms of its electrode potential which among
other things depends upon its (i) heat of vaporization (ii) ionization energy and (iii) heat of hydration.
Since Li+ ion has the smaller size, its heat of hydration has the highest value. Therefore, among the alkali
 
metals Li has the highest negative electrode potential E 0Li  / Li  3.05 volts and hence is the strongest
reducing agent.
Element Li Na K Rb Cs Fr
E 0M  / M (V) at 298 K for –3.05 –2.71 –2.93 –2.93 –2.92 –
M+ (aq.) + e¯  M(s)
(ix) Melting and Boiling point. The generally low values for cohesive energy are reflected in the very

low values of melting and boiling points in the group. The cohesive energy decreases down the
group, and the melting points decreases correspondingly.
Melting point (ºC) Boiling point (ºC)
Li 181 1347
Na 98 881
K 63 766
Rb 39 688
Cs 28.5 705
(x) Softness: These metals are soft and Malleable and have metallic lusture when they are freshly cut
due to oscillation of loosely binded electrons.
1
(xi) Ionic Mobility: Ionic mobility 
Size of hydrated ion
Size of the hydrated ion is = Li+(aq) > Na+(aq) > K+(aq) > Rb+(aq) > Cs+(aq)
Order of ionic mobility
Li+(aq) < Na+(aq) < K+(aq) < Rb+(aq) < Cs+(aq)
(xii) Crystal Structure : All the Alkali metals have their body centre cubic (BCC) structure with

coordination Number 8.
(xiii) Flame Colouration. Alkali metals impart characteristic colours to the flame when they are heated

in a Bunsen burner flame.
Li–Carmine Red, Na–Golden Yellow, K– violet (Lilac), Rb–Reddish Violet; Cs–Blue violet
(xiv) Colour - The compounds of alkali metals are typically white
(xv) Magnetic behaviour - The compounds of alkali metals are diamagnetic. Superoxides of alkali

metals are, however, paramagnetic.
(xvi) Hydration. Most of alkali metal salts dissolve in water. In solution alkali metal ions are hydrated.

Since Li+ ion is smallest in size it is most heavily hydrated. Salts of lithium such as LiF, Li2CO3,
Li3PO4 are insoluble in water.
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 3
Illustration
1. The first three elements of Group 1 have the following atomic structures
(a) Lithium : 3p, 4n; 2, 1 electrons
(b) Sodium : 11p, 12n; 2, 8, 1 electrons
(c) Potassium : 19p, 20n; 2, 8, 8, 1 electrons
Which of the following features causes them to have similar properties ?
(A) The same number of protons (B) More protons than electrons
(C) Two electrons in the first shell (D) One electron in the outermost shell.
Ans. (D)
Sol. One electron in the outermost shell.
2. Considering greater polarization in LiCl compared to that in NaCl, which of the following statements you
would expect to be wrong ?
(A) LiCl has lower melting point than that of NaCl
(B) LiCl dissolves more in organic solvents
(C) LiCl will ionize in water more than NaCl
(D) Fused LiCl would be less conducting than fused NaCl.
Ans. (C)
Sol. According to Fajan’s rules, higher the polarization, higher is the covalent character. Thus, LiCl is covalent
while NaCl is ionic. As a result, LiCl will not ionize in water more than NaCl.
Exercise
1. Sodium ordinarily does not show an oxidation state of +2, because of its
(A) High first ionization potential (B) High second ionization potential
(C) Large ionic radius (D) High electronegativity
Ans. (B)
2. Mark the false statement ?
(A) The electropositive character of alkali metals decreases with increase in atomic number
(B) Lithium is a hard metal and cannot be cut with a knife
(C) Alkali metals are strong reducing agents
(D) Electronegativities of all alkali metals lie between 1.0 to 0.7.
Ans. (A)
4 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
 The alkali metals are highly reactive elements. The reactivity of alkali metals is due to low

value of ionization energy; and low heat of atomisation.
 The reactivity of alkali metals increases from Li to Cs
(i) Reaction with hydrogen. Alkali metals react with dry hydrogen to form hydrides.

Heat
2M  H 2  2 M H
 These hydrides are ionic in nature and exist as crystalline solids.
 The hydrides of alkali metals react with water to form corresponding hydroxides and hydrogen gas
LiH + H2O  LiOH + H2
NaH + H2O  NaOH + H2
 These hydrides are strong reducing agents and their reducing nature increases down the group.
 Alkali metals also from complex hydrides such as LiAlH4 and NaBH4, which are also good reducing
agents. Alkali metal hydrides donot exist in water and this reaction with any other reagent is carried
out in protic solvent.
Dry ether
4LiH + AlCl3    LiAlH4 + 3LiCl
500 550K
4NaH + B(OCH3 ) 3    Na[BH4] + 3NaOCH3
Trimethylb orate
 Fused alkali metal hydrides on electrolysis produces H2 gas at anode
(ii) Formation of oxides and hydroxides :

(a) These are most reactive metals and have strong affinity for O2 quickly tarnish in air due to the formation
of a film of their oxides on the surface. These are, therefore, kept under kerosene or paraffin oil to
protect them from air.
M + O2 M2O M2O2
Oxide Peroxide
(b) When burnt in air (O2), lithium forms lithium oxide (Li2O) sodium forms sodium peroxide (Na2O2) and
other alkali metals form super oxide (MO2 i.e. KO2, RbO2 or CsO2)
1
2Li + O2 Li2O; 2Na + O2 Na2O2
2
Lithium oxide
K + O2 KO2
Potassium super oxide
The reactivity of alkali metals towards oxygen to form different oxides is due to strong positive field and
thus combines with small anion O2– to form stable Li2O compound. The Na+ and K+ being relatively
larger thus exert less strong positive field around them and thus reacts with larger oxygen anion
i.e., O22– and O21– to form stable oxides. The monoxide, peroxides and superoxides have O2 and
O22– and O21– ions respectively. The structures of each are,
2– 1–
:O: : :O: [xO..Ox] [:O O:]
2–
Monoxide (O2) Peroxide (O2 ) Superoxide (O2¯)
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 5
The O2– ion has one three electron covalent bond and has one electron unpaired. It is therefore superoxides
are paramagnetic and coloured. KO2 is light yellow and paramagnetic substance.
The oxides of alkali metals and metal itself give strongly alkaline solution in water with evolution of heat
1
M + H2O  MOH + H2 H = – ve
2
Li2O + H2O  2LiOH; H = – ve
Na2O2 + 2H2O  2NaOH + H2O2(l); H = – ve
2KO2 + 2H2O  2KOH + H2O2(l) + O2(g); H = – ve
(iii) Reaction with nitrogen. Lithium is the only element in the group that reacts with dinitrogen to

form a nitride. Lithium nitride, Li3N, is ionic (3Li+ and N3–), and is ruby red. Two reactions of the
nitride are of interest. First, on heating to a high temperature it decomposes to the elements, and
second, it reacts with water, giving ammonia.
heat
2Li3N   6Li + N2
Li3N + 3H2O  3LiOH + NH3
(iv) Reaction with water. The hydroxides of alkali meals are strong bases, all of which are highly

soluble in water as well as in alcohol and are stable towards heat. Lithium hydroxide, however, is
an exception. It is slightly soluble in water and loses a water molecule on heating.
2LiOH   Li2O + H2O
Heat
The basic character of alkali metal hydroxides increases in going down the group. This can be
explained in terms of decreasing polarising power of alkali metal ions.
LiOH is relatively covalent. As moving down the group ionic nature of hydroxides increases. More
the ionic nature of hydroxide; basic nature of hydroxide will increase.
Thus, the basic character of alkali metal hydroxides is in the order:
LiOH < NaOH < KOH < RbOH < CsOH
(v) Reaction with Water. Alkali metals react with water and other compounds containing acidic hydrogen
atoms such as hydrogen halides (HX) and acetylene (C2H2) and liberate hydrogen gas.
2Na + 2H2O  2NaOH + H2
2Na + 2C2H5OH  2C2H5ONa + H2
2Na + 2HX  2NaX + H2
2Na + 2HC  CH  2NaC  CH + H2
On descending the group from lithium to caesium, the vigour of the reaction increases.
All the alkali metals when exposed to atmosphere react with oxygen and moisture to form oxides
and hydroxides and therefore their surface gets tarnished. In order to protect from atmospheric
oxygen and water, these metals are stored under kerosene oil.
(vi) Reaction with Halogens - Alkali metals react with halogens to form metal halides, which are ionic
crystalline solids having general formula M+X–.
2M + X2  2MX
All the halides of alkali metals except lithium fluoride are freely soluble in water. The low solubility
of lithium fluoride is attributed to greater force of attraction between lithium ions and fluoride ions in
the crystal lattice.
6 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
(vii) Reaction with Non Metals - Alkali metals, on heating react with non – metals such as sulphur

and phosphorus to form sulphides and phosphides respectively.
2M + S  M2S ; 3M + P  M3P
(viii) Solubility in Liquid Ammonia.

Alkali metals dissolve in liquid ammonia (high conc. 5 M) and give blue solution which is conducting,
reducing and paramagnetic in nature.
Reason
On dissolving Metal in NH3
M(s) NH 3
M+ + e–
M+ + x(NH3)  [M(NH3)X ]+ Ammoniated cation
e– + y(NH3)  [e(NH3)y ]– Ammoniated electron
The blue colour is due to  Ammoniated electron
The paramagnetic nature is due to  Ammoniated electron
The conducting nature is due to  Ammoniated M+ + Ammoniated electron
* On standing the colour fades due to formation of amide
1
M+ + e– + NH3  MNH2 (amide) + H
2 2 (g)
In the absence of impurities like. Fe, Pt, Zn etc, the solutions are stable.
* In concentrated solution, the blue colour changes to bronze colour and diamagnetic due to the formation
of metal clusters and ammoniated electrons also associate to form electron pairs
2 e– + (NH3)y  [ e– (NH3)y]2
(ix) Complex Compounds. The alkali metal ions form fewer complex compounds than any other group
of metal ions. This is due to their large atomic size and weak effective nuclear charge. The complex
forming ability decreases in the order :
Li > Na > K > Rb > Cs
(x) Nature of carbonate and Bicorbonate salts: Except Li2CO3 other metal carbonates do not
decompose even at high temperature due to their high ionic character.
Order of Solubility in water : Li2CO3 < Na2CO3 < K2CO3 < Rb2CO3 < Cs2CO3
Except LiHCO3, all the alkali metal bicorbonate exist.
NaHCO3 exist in polymeric form and KHCO3 exist in dimeric form due to the presence of
intermolecular hydrogen bonding.
Order of solubility
NaHCO3 < KHCO3 < RbHCO3 < CsHCO3
(xi) Nature of Nitrate Salt:

MNO3   MNO2 + ½O2 (Where M = Na, K, Rb, Cs)
 1
2LiNO3   Li2O + 2NO2  + O 
2 2
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 7
(xii) Nature of sulphate Salts:

Except Li2SO4 other alkali metal sulphate salts do not decompose even at high temperature
Li2O + SO3 High temp.
Li2SO4 SO2 + ½O2
Order of solubility:
Li2SO4 < Na2SO4 < K2SO4 < Rb2SO4 < Cs2SO4
(xiii) Crown Ethers and Cryptands:
O
O O O
M
+
O O N
N
O
O O O
O
Cryptand - 222
Dibenzo-18-Grown-6
[Na (Cryptand 222)]+ Na– [Contains Na– (sodide ion)]
[Cs+(Cryptand - 222)] [(Cyrptand-222)e–] [electride]
DIAGONAL RELATIONSHIP
Lithium shows diagonal relationship with magnesium since they have almost the same polarizing power,
i.e., charge/size ratio.
Lithium resembles magnesium in the following respects :
(i) atomic size of Li (1.34 Å) and Mg (1.36 Å) are not much different.
(ii) ionic size of Li+ (0.60 Å) and Mg2+ (0.65 Å) are almost identical.
(iii) polarizing power (i.e., ionic charge to ionic radius ratio) of Li+ and Mg2+ are about the same
(iv) electronegativities of Li (1.00) and Mg (1.20) are not much different
(v) both Li and Mg and hard metals
(vi) both decompose water only on heating
(vii) both combine with oxygen to form monoxides,
(viii) both LiOH and Mg(OH)2 are weak bases
(ix) both LiCl and MgCl2 are predominantly covalent and hence are soluble in organic solvents, such as
alcohol and pyridine
(x) both Li and Mg combine with nitrogen to form their respectively nitrides, Li3N and Mg3N2
8 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
(xi) carbonates, fluorides, oxalates and phosphates of both Li and Mg are sparingly soluble in H2O
(xii) the hydroxides and carbonates of both Li and Mg decompose on heating forming their respective oxides
(xiii) both lithium and magnesium nitrates on heating evolve NO2 and O2 leaving behind their oxides.
ORES OF ALKALI METALS
Since alkali metals are highly reactive metals, they do not occur in free state in nature. Sodium and
potassium are quite abundant in the earth’s crust with 7th and 8th position in the order of
abundance of elements.
(A) Ores of Lithium

(i) Spodumene, LiAlSi2O6 (ii) Lepidolite, (Li)2 Al2(SiO3)3. (FOH)2
(B) Ores of Sodium

(i) Common salt or rock salt, NaCl (ii) Chile salt patre, NaNO3
(iii) Albite (Soda Feldspar), NaAlSi3O8 (iv) Glauber’s salt, Na2SO4. 10H2O
(v) Borax, Na2B4O7. 10H2O
(C) Ores of Potassium

(i) Carnallite, KCl. MgCl2. 6H2O (ii) Feldspar, KAlSi3O8
(iii) Sylvine, KCl
EXTRACTION OF ALKALI METALS
(i) Lithium : Extraction of lithium involves two steps

1. Preparation of LiCl form the ore 2. Electrolysis of LiCl
During electrolysis the electrolyte used is 55% LiCl and 45% KCl. The electrolyte is maintained in
molten state by heating to about 723 K.
(ii) Sodium :
Down’s Process
In this method, sodium is obtained by the electrolysis of a mixture of sodium chloride (40%) and
calcium chloride (60%) in fused state. The function of calcium chloride is to lower the operating
temperature from 1080 K (m.pt. of NaCl) to about 850 K.
The following reactions take place:
NaCl  Na+ + Cl– (Ionization)
At cathode : Na+ + e–  Na
At anode : Cl–  Cl + e–
Cl + Cl  Cl2 
The sodium metal obtained by this method is about 99% pure. Chlorine is the by – product in
this process.
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 9
(iii) Potassium : Potassium is obtained by electrolysis of fused potassium hydroxide (KOH)

KOH  K+ + OH–
At cathode : K+ + e–  K
At anode : 4OH–  O2 + 2H2O + 4e–
Illustration
1. Alkali metals readily dissolve in liquid ammonia to give blue coloured solutions. The blue colour is
believed to be due to
(A) Ammoniated cations (B) Ammoniated anions
(C) Ammoniated electrons (D) Ammoniated cations and ammoniated electrons
Ans. (C)
Sol. Ammoniated electrons, i.e.
Na(s) + (x + y) NH3 Na+ (NH3)x + e¯ (NH3)y
Blue colour
2. Choose the compound which does not possess a peroxide group
(A) Na2O2 (B) CrO5 (C) Fe2O3 (D) BaO2
Ans. (C)
Sol. Na2O2 is Na+ ¯O – O¯ Na+; CrO5 is
O
||
O Cr O
O O
BaO2 is Ba2+ (¯O—O¯) while Fe2O3 consists of only Fe3+ and O2– ions. Thus, Fe2O3 does not contain
a peroxide [¯O—O¯] linkage.
Exercise
1. The addition of Na2CO3, to the aqueous solution of an oxide produces CO2. This reaction indicates that
(A) Oxide is basic (B) Oxide is amphoteric
(C) Oxide is that of a metal (D) Oxide is that of a non-metal
Ans. (D)
2. Alkali metals when exposed to air tarnish quickly due to the
(A) Formation of their hydroxides (B) Formation of their carbonates
(C) Formation of their oxides (D) All the above
Ans. (D)
10 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
COMPOUND OF ALKALI METALS
SODIUM
(1) Sodium Monoxide (Na2O)

Preparation: It is obtained by burning sodium at 180°C in a limited supply of air or oxygen and
distilling off the excess of Na in vacuum or by heating Na2O2 (sodium peroxide), sodium nitrate
(NaNO3) with sodium.
2Na  12 O2 
 Na 2 O
Na 2 O2  2Na 
 2Na 2 O
2NaNO3  10Na 
 6Na 2 O  N 2
Properties:
(i) It is a white amorphous substance.
(ii) It reacts with water violently forming NaOH.
Na 2O  H 2 O 
 2NaOH
(iii) On heating above 400°C, it disproportionate to give peroxide and metallic sodium.
400 C
2Na 2 O   Na 2 O 2 2Na
(iv) It reacts with liquid ammonia forming sodamide and NaOH.
Na 2 O  NH3 
 NaOH  NaNH 2
(2) Sodium Peroxide (Na2O2)
Preparation: It is formed by heating the metal in excess of air or oxygen at 300°, which is free
from moisture and CO2.
2Na + O2  Na2O2
Properties:
(i) It is a pale yellow solid, becoming white in air from the formation of a film of NaOH and Na2CO3.
(ii) In cold water (~0°C) produces H2O2 but at room temperature produces O2. In ice-cold mineral acids
also produces H2O2.
~ 0C
Na2O2 + 2H2O  2NaOH + H2O2
2Na2O2 + 2H2O 25C
 4NaOH + O2
~ 0C
Na2O2 + H2SO4  Na2SO4 + H2O2
(iii) It reacts with CO2, giving sodium carbonate and oxygen and hence its use for purifying air in a confined
space e.g. submarine, ill-ventilated room,
2Na2O2 + 2CO2  2Na2CO3 + O2
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 11
(iv) It is an oxidising agent and oxidises charcoal, CO, NH3, SO2.
3Na2O2 + 2C  2Na2CO3 + 2Na [deposition of metallic Na]
CO + Na2O2  Na2CO3
SO2 + Na2O2  Na2SO4
2NH3 + 3Na2O2  6NaOH + N2
(v) It contains peroxide ion [–O–O–]–2
Uses:
(i) For preparing H2O2, O2
(ii) Oxygenating the air in submarines
(iii) Oxidising agent in the laboratory.
(3) Sodium Hydroxide (Caustic Soda), NaOH

Preparation: Sodium hydroxide is commonly called caustic soda therefore used for air purify and
it is prepared by electrolytic process. There are two electrolytic methods commonly used for preparing
sodium hydroxide.
(a) Castner Kellner cell:
NaCl(aq) Na   Cl –
At cathode (mercury) : 2Na   2e – 
 2Na
Na  Hg 
 NaHg (sodium amalgam)
At anode (graphite): 2Cl – 
 Cl2  2e –
Sodium amalgam is removed from the cell. It is then decomposed in a separate cell by water giving
NaOH, hydrogen and mercury. Mercury is recirculated to the cell.
(b) Nelson cell (or Diaphragm cell)
NaCl (aq) Na   Cl –
H 2O H   OH –
At cathode (perforated steel) : 2H   2e – 
 H2
At anode (carbon rod) : 2Cl – 
 Cl2  2e –
Note: This cell is used for the industrial production of Cl2. As well as this cell can be used for
production of Na2CO3, for which CO2 is mixed with steam.
Properties:
NaOH is stable towards heat but is reduced to metal when heated with carbon
2NaOH + 2C  2Na +2CO + H2
(4) Sodium Carbonate (Na2CO3) : It exists in various forms, namely anhydrous sodium carbonate

Na2CO3 (soda-ash); monohydrate, Na2CO3.H2O (crystal carbonate); heptahydrate, Na2CO3. 7H2O
and decahydrate, Na2CO3. 10H2O (washing soda). It occurs in the form of reh and sajji matti in
U.P. and Bihar.
12 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
Manufacture: (Solvay or ammonia soda process). In this process, brine (NaCl), ammonia and

carbon dioxide are the raw materials. The chemical reactions involved are as below.
NH3  CO 2  H 2 O 
 NH 4 HCO3
30 C
NH 4 HCO3  NaCl   NaHCO3   NH 4 Cl
Sod. bicarbonate
250 C
2NaHCO3 
 Na 2CO3  H 2 O  CO 2
Sod. bicarbonate (used again )
2NH 4 Cl  Ca(OH) 2 
 CaCl2  2H 2 O  2NH 3
Amm. chloride Slaked lime (used again )
Note: Solvay process can not be used for the production of K2CO3, since KHCO3 has much
greater solubility than NaHCO3. So, KHCO3 cannot be precipitated.
Properties:
(i) Sodium carbonate crystallizes from water as decahydrate. It is a white solid which efflorescence on
exposure to dry air forming the monohydrate.
dry
Na 2CO3 .10H 2O 
air
 Na 2 CO3 . H 2 O  9H 2O
On heating, the monohydrate changes to anhydrous salt (m.p. 853°C) which does not decompose
on further heating even to redness.
(ii) It is soluble in water with considerable evolution of heat. The resulting solution is alkaline due to
hydrolysis.
Na CO  2H 2O
2 3 H 2CO3  2NaOH
Sod. carbonate (weak acid) (Strongalkali)
(iii) It is readily decomposed by acids with the evolution of CO2 gas.
(iv) It reacts with metal salts to form insoluble normal or basic carbonate.
CaCl2 Na 2 CO3 
 CaCO3   2NaCl
2MgCl2  2Na 2 CO3  H 2 O 

 MgCO3 . Mg(OH) 2   4NaCl  CO 2
Carbonates of metals like Al, Fe, Sn, etc. When formed are immediately hydrolysed to hydroxides.
3H 2 O
Fe2 (SO4 )3  3Na 2 CO3 
 Fe2 (CO3 )3   2Fe(OH)3  3CO 2
(v) When CO2 gas is passed through aqueous solution of sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate is
formed.
Na 2CO3  H 2O  CO 2 
 2NaHCO3
Sod. bicarbonate
(5) Sodium Sulphate (Na2SO4. 10 H2O) (Glauber’s salt)

Preparation - By heating a mixture of common salt & conc. H2SO4 (Le blanc process )
2NaCl + H2SO4 Na2SO4 + 2HCl
Properties
Physical properties :
(i) Crystalline solid, which is soluble in water.
(ii) Crystaillizes as decahydrate & on heating becomes anhydrous.
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 13
Chemical Properties
With acids Na2SO4(aq.) + H2SO4 2NaHSO4
conc. sodium bisulphate
Na2SO4
With insoluble salt solution
Pb (NO3)2 (aq.) + Na2SO4 (aq.) 2NaNO3 + PbSO4 
white ppt
(6) Sodium Chloride (NaCl)
Preparation:
It is also called common salt occurs abundantly in nature as rock salt or halite. The most abundant
source is sea-water where sodium chloride occurs to the extent of 2.6 – 2.9 percent. The sea
water is exposed to the sun and air in large shallow pits. The gradual evaporation of water lead to
the crystallization of the salt. The purification is done by dissolving the salt in minimum volume of
water and filtering, if necessary, to remove insoluble impurities. The solution is then saturated with a
current of dry hydrogen chloride whereby crystals of pure sodium chloride separate out.
Properties:
(i) NaCl is a colourless crystalline salt, almost insoluble in alcohol and highly soluble in water.
(ii) It gives rise to HCl when heated with conc. H2SO4 and Cl2, with MnO2 plus H2SO4.
NaCl + H2SO4  NaHSO4 + HCl
NaHSO4 + NaCl  Na2SO4 + HCl
2NaCl + MnO2 + 2H2SO4  MnSO4 + Na2SO4+ 2H2O + Cl2 
Illustration
Give reason for decreasing order of conductivity of following
Cs+  Rb+  K+  Na+  Li+
Sol. Ions are hydrated in solution. Since Li is very small it is heavily hydrated. This make the radius of
the hydrated ions large and hence it moves only slowly (although Li+ is very small) and the radius of
hydrated Cs+ ion is smaller than the radius of hydrated Li+.
(7) Sodium Thiosulfate (Na2S2O3)·5H2O

Sodium thiosulfate is a salt of an unstable acid H2S2O3 (thiosulphuric acid)
Preparation
(i) sodium sulfite and flowers of S
Na2SO3 + S  Na2S2O3
soluble insoluble
(ii) Spring’s Reaction
Na2S + I2 + Na2SO3  Na2S2O3 + 2NaI
(iii) sodium carbonate solution with SO2
Na2S + Na2CO3 + SO2  Na2S2O3 + CO2
14 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
(iv) sulfur and caustic soda
4S + 6NaOH   Na2S2O3 + 2Na2S + 3H2O
with excess pentasulfide forms
Na2S + 4S  Na2S5
Chemical Properties
(i) Heating effect - Na2S2O3·5H2O  2150 C
 Na2S2O3 + 5H2O
0
223 C
4Na2S2O3  3Na2SO4 + Na2S5
(ii) Acidification - liberates SO2 and S ppt.
Na2S2O3 + dil. 2HCl  2NaCl + SO2 + S + H2O
Na2S2O3 + dil. H2SO4   Na2SO4 + SO2 + S + H2O
(iii) Reduction - Na2S2O3 + Cl2 + H2O  Na2SO4 + 2HCl + S
chlorine
water
2Na2S2O3 + 2FeCl3  Na [Fe(S2O3)2] + 3NaCl
(Purple)
FeCl2 (green)
(iv) Oxidation - (oxidises by I2 quantitatively)
2Na2S2O3 + I2  2NaI + Na2S4O6
sodium
tetrathionate
(v) AgNO3 action - 2AgNO3 + Na2S2O3  Ag2S2O3 + 2NaNO3
Ag2S2O3 + H2O  Ag2S + H2SO4
Thus white ppt. of silver thiosulfate changes as
White  yellow  brown  black
(vi) Silver halide action
AgBr + 2Na2S2O3  Na3 [Ag(S2O3)2] + NaBr
sodium argento
thiosulfate(colourless)
this property is used in photography fixing.
(vii) Action on CuSO4
CuSO4 + Na2S2O3  CuS2O3 + Na2SO4
cupric
thiosulfate
CuS2O3 + Na2S2O3   Cu2S2O3 + Na2S4O6
cuprous sodium tetra
thiosulfate thionate
on excess
Cu2S2O3 + Na2S2O3 only  Na [Cu (S O ) ]
4 6 2 3 5
sodium cupro thiosulfate(sol)
(8) Sodium Bicarbonate (NaHCO3)

Preparation : Sodium bicarbonate is prepared by the Solvay Process. It is infact formed in
between the manufacture of washing soda.
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 15
* Aqueous solution gives no colour with phenolphthalein but yellow colour with
Methyl orange and hence is weakly basic.
* 2NaHCO3   Na2CO3 + CO2 + H2O
* Salts which give basic carbonates with washing soda give normal salts with the bicarbonate.
ZnSO4 + 2NaHCO3  ZnCO3 + Na2SO4 + H2O + 2CO2
* It is used as “SODA BICARB” to neutralise stomach acidity.
* Sodium/Potassium salt of tartaric acid and NaHCO3 mixture is used as Baking Soda.
Illustration
1. Based on lattice energy and other considerations which one of the following alkali metal chlorides is
expected to have the highest melting point
(A) LiCl (B) NaCl (C) KCl (D) RbCl
Ans. (B)
Sol. Although lattice energy of LiCl higher than NaCl but LiCl is covalent in nature and NaCl ionic there,
after, the melting point decreases as we move NaCl because the lattice energy decreases as a size of
alkali metal atom increases (lattice energy melting point of alkali metal halide)
2. NaOH is prepared by the method
(A) Down’s cell (B) Castner cell (C) Solvay process (D) Castner Kellner cell
Ans. (D)
Sol. The cell involves the following reaction,
NaCl Na+ + Cl¯
At anode : 2Cl¯ 2Cl + 2e Cl2
At cathode : Na+ + e Na
Na + Hg amalgam
At anode : Na — amalgam Na+ + Hg + e
At cathode : 2H2O + 2e H2+ 2OH¯
Exercise
1. Sodium thiosulphate (Na2S2O3.5H2O) is used in photography to
(A) Reduce silver bromide to metallic silver
(B) Convert metallic silver to silver salt
(C) Remove undecomposed AgBr as a soluble silver thiosulphate complex
(D) Remove unreduced silver
Ans. (C)
2. Which of the following pair can’t exist in solution
(A) NaHCO3and NaOH (B) Na2CO3 and NaOH
(C) Na2CO3 and NaCl (D) NaHCO3 and NaCl
Ans. (A)
16 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
POTASSIUM
POTASSIUM AND ITS COMPOUNDS
1. Atomic Number : 19
2. Electronic Configuration : 2, 8, 8, 1
3. Valency and Oxidation state : + 1
4. Occurrence : Potassium is highly reactive metal. It does not occur in nature in free form. It important
minerals are :
(a) Pearl ash, K2CO3 (b) Sylvine, KCl. (c) Indian Salt petre, KNO3 (d) Carnallite, KCl MgCl2.6H2O
5. Extraction : It may be prepared by any of the following methods :
(a) By electrolysis of fused potassium cyanide.
(b) By heating potassium fluoride with calcium.
(c) By heating potassium carbonate with carbon (coke).
(d) By electrolysis of molten KCl containing a little KF.
6. Properties :
(a) Potassium is a silvery white metal (M.P. 65º).
(b) It is lighter and softer than sodium. It resembles sodium in its chemical properties, but is more
reactive than it.
(c) Potassium decomposes cold water more vigorously than sodium. The heat of reaction is so high that
the hydrogen gas evolved catches fire. When excess of metal is burnt in air or oxygen under reduced
pressure, K2O is formed. When heated in excess of air, potassium forms superoxide (KO2).
(d) Potassium (40) is feebly radioactive. It is a -emitter. It has 3 isotopes of mass 39, 40 and 41 of
which the first one is present in larger proportions. The radioactivity is due to the presence of isotope
of mass number 40 which makes up about 0.012% of the metal.
7. Uses :
(a) Potassium is used in photoelectric cells.
(b) An alloy of sodium and potassium which is liquid is used in high temperature thermometers.
(i) Oxides of Potassium:

K2O, K2 O 2 , K2 O 3 , KO 2 and KO 3
Colours: White White Red Bright Yellow Orange Solid
Preparation:
(i) 2KNO3 + 10K heating
  6K2O + N2
** K2O heating
  K2O
(White) (Yellow)
** K2O + H2O  2KOH
Controlled
(ii) 2K + O2    K2O2 [Props: Similar with Na2O2]
air at 300C
(iii) Passage of O2 through a blue solution of K in liquid NH3 yields oxides K2O2 (white), K2O3 (red) and
KO2 (deep yellow) i.e
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 17
O
K in liq. NH3  2 K2O2  K2O3  KO2
white red yellow
** KO2 reacts with H2O and produces H2O2 and O2 both
~ 0C
2KO2 + 2H2O  2KOH + H2O2 + O2
KO3 : KOH + O3 (ozonised oxygen) 
10 to 15C
  KO 3
(Dry powdered) (orange solid)
(ii) Potassium hydroxide (Caustic Potash), KOH
Preparation: It may be prepared like that of NaOH, i.e., by the electrolysis of KCl solution and
by the action of lime on potassium carbonate. It may also be obtained by the action of baryta,
Ba(OH)2 on potassium sulphate.
K 2SO4  Ba(OH) 2 
 BaSO4   2KOH
Properties: Its properties are similar to those of sodium hydroxide. However, it is a stronger alkali
and more soluble in alcohol and is therefore, used in organic reactions instead of caustic soda.
Moreover, it is a better absorber of CO2 than NaOH because potassium carbonate is more soluble
and does not separate out. Its aqueous solution is known as potash lye.
(iii) Potassium carbonate (K2CO3): It is also known as pearl ash.

Preparation: It is made by passing CO2 into a conc. solution of the chloride, containing hydrated
magnesium carbonate in suspension at 20C when an insoluble potassium hydrogen magnesium
carbonate is precipitated.
2KCl + 3(MgCO3.3H2O) + CO2  2(MgCO3.KHCO34H2O) + MgCl2
The precipitate is separated by filtration, and then decomposed either by heating with water under
pressure at 140C or by the action of magnesium oxide below 20C.
2(MgCO3 KHCO3 4H2O)  2MgCO3 + K2CO3 + 9H2O + CO2
2(MgCO3KHCO34H2O) + MgO  3(MgCO3.3H2O) + K2CO3
Properties:
(i) It is white, deliquescent solid
(ii) K2CO3 resembles Na2CO3 in properties, but is more alkaline and more soluble than Na2CO3.
(iv) Potassium Bicarbonate (KHCO3)

Preparation: It is prepared by passing CO2 through a cold saturated solution of potassium
carbonate.
K 2 CO3  H 2 O  CO2 
 2KHCO3
Properties: It resembles sodium bicarbonate in all respects except that it is more soluble in
water. It is used in medicine and in baking powders.
(v) Potassium Sulphate (K2SO4)

Preparation:
(i) By treating KCl or KOH with H2SO4
2KCl  H 2SO4 
 K 2SO4  2HCl
2KOH  H 2SO4 
 K 2SO4  2H 2 O
18 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
(ii) By treating naturally occurring mineral, schonite (K2SO4. MgSO4. 6H2O) with sylvine (KCl).
K 2SO4 .MgSO 4 .6H 2 O  2KCl 

 2K 2SO4  MgCl2  6H 2 O
Properties:
(i) It is a white crystalline (m.p. 1050°C) solid, not very soluble in water.
(ii) Unlike sodium sulphate, its crystals do not contain water of crystallisation.
(iii) When heated with carbon, it is reduced to potassium sulphide.
(iv) It forms a series of double salts with the sulphates of trivalent metals, e.g. potash alum,
K2SO4. Al2 (SO4)3. 24H2O.
(vi) Potassium Chloride (KCl)
Preparation: KCl is prepared from fused carnallite. Nearly pure KCl separates from the melt,
leaving fused MgCl2 behind.
KCl . MgCl2 . 6H 2 O 
 KCl  MgCl2 . 6H 2 O
Properties: It is a colourless cubic crystal soluble in water. Its solubility increases almost linearly
with temperature.
Illustration
1. Which is an ore of potassium
(A) Carnallite (B) Cryolite (C) Bauxite (D) Dolomite
Ans. (A)
Sol. Carnallite - KCl, MgCl2, 6H2O Cryolite - Na3AlF6
Bauxite - (Al2O3.2H2O) Dolomite - MgCO3.CaCO3
2. KF combination with HF to form KHF2. The compound contains the species
(A) K+, F¯ and H+ (B) K+, F¯ and HF (C) K+ and [HF2]¯ (D) [KHF]+ and F¯
Ans. (C)
KF + HF KHF2 K+ + HF2¯
Exercise
1. When potassium dichromate crystal are heated with conc. HCl
(A) O2 is evolved (B) Chromyl chloride vapours are evolved
(C) Cl2 is evolved (D) No reaction takes place
Ans. (C)
2. When potassium ferrocyanide crystals are heated with concentrated sulphuric acid, the gas evolved is
(A) Ammonia (B) Sulphur dioxide (C) Carbon dioxide (D) Carbon monoxide
Ans. (D)
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 19
ALKALINE EARTH METALS
ALKALI EARTH METAL & THEIR COMPOUNDS
(a) The group IIA consists of six elements - Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Ra.
Collectively called alkali earth metals.
(b) Ra was discovered in the ore pitch blende by madam curie, it is radioactive in nature.
(c) The first member Beryllium is less active than other members and shows abnormal properties like lithium
in IA group.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
(i) Electronic configuration : The Elements are Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba Ra,

Outermost Electronic configuration : - ns2
(ii) Atomic Radii. The atomic radii of alkaline earth metals are quite larger but are smaller than those
of alkali metals.
Be < Mg < Ca < Sr < Ba < Ra
(iii) Density. The densities of alkaline earth metals are larger than those of alkali metals. This is due to
stronger metallic bond. Density of alkaline earth metals first decreases from Be to Ca and then
increases from Ca to Ra.
Be > Mg > Ca < Sr < Ba
(iv) Cohesive Forces. Cohesive forces in alkaline earth metals are stronger than alkali metals due to
smaller atomic radii and greater nuclear charge. Alkaline earth metals are harder than alkali metals
due to stronger metallic bond.
(v) Melting and Boiling points
The have low m.p. and b.p. but are higher than corresponding value of group I.
Reason : They have two valency electrons which may participate in metallic bonding compared with
only one electron in AM. Consequently group II elements are harder and have higher cohesive energy
and  have much higher m.p./ b.p. than A.M.
M.P. Be > Ca > Sr >Ba > Mg
B.P. Be > Mg > Ca > Ba > Sr
(vi) Ionization energy. The alkaline earth metals owing to their large size of atoms have fairly low
values of ionization energies as compared to the p block elements. However, within the group,
the ionization energy, decreases as the atomic number increases.
(vii) Electropositive character. These are less electropositive than alkali metals.
(viii) Oxidation Number : The tendency of these metals to exist as divalent cation as IE1 is much lower than
IE2 so they should be form univalent in rather than divalent ion but actually these give bivalent ions.
(ix) This is due the fact that M2+ ion possesses a higher degree of hydration or M2+ ions are extensively
hydrated form [M(H2O)x]2+ a hydrated ion.
M M2+; H = IE1 + IE2
2+ 2+
M + xH2O [M(H2O)x] ; H = –hydratation energy
20 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
(x) Reducing properties. The members of this group are weaker reducing agents than the alkali metals.

Be < Mg < Ca < Sr < Ba
(xi) Flame colouration. Among the members of this group except Be and Mg all other members give
characteristic colouration to the flame. Beryllium and magnesium do not impart any colour to the
flame because of their small size and higher ionization energies. Due to this, the energy of flame is
insufficient to cause the excitation of their valence electrons to higher shells.
Ca – Brick Red, Sr – Crimson Red, Ba – Apple green
(xii) Solubility of Liquid Ammonia. All these metals dissolve in liquid NH3.
Illustration
1. In alkaline earth metals, the electrons are more firmly held to the nucleus and hence
(A) Ionization energy of alkaline earth metals is greater than that of alkali metals
(B) Alkaline earths are less abundant in nature
(C) Reactivity of alkaline earth metals is greater than that of alkali metals
(D) Atoms of alkaline earth metals are bigger in size than alkali metals.
Ans. (A)
Sol. Ionization energies of alkaline earth metals are greater than those of alkali metals due to increased
nuclear charge.
2. The ion having highest mobility in aqueous solution is
(A) Be2+ (B) Mg2+ (C) Ca2+ (D) Ba2+
Ans. (D)
Sol. Though Ba2+ is the heaviest ion but it is least hydrated. As a result, its size becomes lesser than any other
hydrated alkaline earth metal cation and hence has the highest ionic mobility.
Exercise
1. Alkaline earth metal show typical characterics of
(A) Inner transition elements (B) Noble gases
(C) Representative elements (D) Transition elements
Ans. (C)
2. Which of the following is true for magnesium ?
(A) It is more electropositive than sodium
(B) It is manufactured by electrolysis of aqueous magnesium chloride
(C) It is a strong reducing agent
(D) It resembles, in chemical properties, with its diagonally placed element Boron in 13 group of the
Periodic Table.
Ans. (C)
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 21
CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
 Alkaline earth metals are quite reactive elements due to their low ionization energies and high

electropositive character. The reactivity of these elements increases with increase in atomic number.
 Alkaline earth metals are less reactive than alkali metals.
(i) Hydrides :
(a) Except be, all alkaline earth metals from hydrides (MH2) on heating directly with H2.
M + H2 MH2
(b) BeH2 is prepared by the action of LiAlH4 on BeCl2
2BeCl2 + LiAlH4 2BeH2 + LiCl + AlCl3
(c) BeH2 and MgH2 are covalent while other hydrides are ionic.
(d) The ionic hydrides of Ca, Sr, Ba liberated H2 at anode and metal t cathode.
CaH2 Fusion Ca2+ + 2H¯
(e) The stability of hydrides decreases from Be to Ba.
(f) The hydrides having higher reactivity for water, dissolves readily and produce hydrogen gas.
(g) The hydrides having higher reactivity for water, dissolves readily and produce hydrogen gas.
CaH2(s) + 2H2O Va(OH)2 + 2H2
(ii) Reaction with water. Ca, Sr and Ba react with cold water, liberating hydrogen gas
Ca + 2H2O  Ca(OH)2 + H2
Sr + 2H2O  Sr (OH)2 + H2
Magnesium decomposes hot water
Mg + H2O  MgO + H2
Or Mg + 2H2O  Mg(OH)2 + H2
Beryllium does not react with water.
Ordinary of Reactivity : Ba > Sr > Ca > Mg
(iii) Reaction with Oxygen. All the alkaline earth meals burn in oxygen to form oxides Be, Mg and
Ca form oxides whereas Ba and Sr form peroxides.
2Mg + O2  2MgO
Ba + O2  BaO2
(iv) Hydroxides. The hydroxides of these elements can be formed either by dissolving metal oxides in
water or by reaction of these elements with water.
Be(OH)2 is amphoteric. The hydroxides of magnesium, calcium, strontium and barium are bases
and their strength increases from magnesium to barium.
These hydroxides are less soluble in water as compared to the alkali metal hydroxides.
The solubility of the hydroxides in water increases with the increase in atomic number. Be(OH)2
and Mg(OH)2 are almost insoluble, Ca(OH)2, is sparingly soluble while Sr(OH)2 and Ba(OH)2 are
increasingly more soluble.
(v) Halides. Alkaline earth metals react with halogens directly to form halides having general formula,
MX2.
M + X2  MX2
22 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
These halides can also be obtained by the action of halogen acids on metals, their oxides,
carbonates and hydroxides.
M(OH)2 + 2HX  MX2 + 2H2O
Beryllium chloride is prepared indirectly, from its oxide as follows:
BeO + C + Cl2    BeCl2 + CO
870 1070 K
Beryllium chloride exists as monomer or dimer in vapour state but exists as polymer in solid state.
(vii) Carbonates. Carbonates of alkaline earth metals are insoluble in water. These can be precipitated
by addition of sodium or ammonium carbonate solution to the solution of salts of these metals. For
example,
CaCl2 + NaCO3  CaCO 3 +2NaCl
ppt.
All the carbonates decompose on heating to give carbon dioxide and meals oxide.

MCO 3  MO + CO2
However, as the atomic number increases, the stability of the carbonates towards heat increases.
Beryllium carbonate is unstable and can be kept only in an atmosphere of CO2.
(viii) Sulphates. Sulphates of alkaline earth metals can be prepared by the reaction of H2SO4 with the
metals, their oxides, hydroxides or carbonates.
Ca + H2SO4  CaSO4 + H2
CaCO3 + H2SO4  CaSO4 + CO2 + H2O
The sulphates of alkaline earth metals are less soluble than the corresponding salts of alkali metals.
Their solubilities decrease on going down the group.
All these sulphates decompose on heating
MgSO4   MgO + SO
3
The thermal stability of sulphates increases on moving down the group from top to bottom.
Lithopone: Mixture of BaSO4 and ZnS is known as lithopone.
(ix) Nitrides. Alkaline earth meals burn in nitrogen to form nitrides, M3N2 which are ionic in nature.
3M + N2  M3N2
Nitrides on reactions with eater are hydrolyzed and ammonia is released.
M3N2 + 6H2O  3M(OH)2 + 2NH3
(x) Carbides. BeO when heated with C at about 2000oC, Be2C is formed. The metals Mg, Ca, Sr
and Ba form carbides of the formula MC2. These carbides are formed when the metal or the metal
oxide is heated with carbon in an electric furnace.
These carbides are ionic in nature.
Be2C yields methane on hydrolysis whereas carbides of other metals yield acetylene
Be2C + 4H2O  2Be(OH)2 + CH4
CaC2 + 2H2O  Ca(OH)2 + C2H2
(xi) Complex Compounds. Alkaline earth metals have a tendency to form state complexes. Their ability
to form complexes is more as compared to alkali meals. This is because of the smaller size and
higher charge of the alkaline earth metal ions as compared to alkali metal ions. Among the elements
of group-2, beryllium and magnesium, have greater tendency of complexation.
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 23
EXTRACTION OF ALKALINE METALS
(1) Beryllium
Occurrence : (1) Beryl–3BeO, Al2O3, 6 SiO2 (2) Chrysoberyl – BeO, Al2O3.
Extraction :
The powered beryl is treated with sulphuric acid when sulphates of beryllium and aluminium are
formed from which aluminium sulphate is removed double sulphate by the addition of (NH4)2SO4.
Beryllium sulphate remaining solution is separated and calcined at high temperature to give BeO.
The oxide is finally reduced to the metal y heating with carbon.
Uses : (1) In making alloys – a very small quantity of Be added to Mg increases casting power.
(2) It is highly permeable to X-rays and hence used for windows of X-ray tubes.
(3) In nuclear reactions as a source of neutrons, Bombarded with -particles, Beryllium gives
neutrons.
4
Be9 + 2He4  6C12 + 0n1
(2) Magnesium
Importance ores of magnesium are
(i) Magnesite, MgCO3 (ii) Dolomite, MaCO3. CaCO3
(iii) Carnallite, KCl. MgCl. 6H2O (iv) Kieserite, MgSO4. H2O
Sea water also contains magnesium salts. Magnesium content in sea – water is about 0.13%.
Magnesium is extracted by electrolysis of a molten mixture of anhydrous MgCl2, NaCl and CaCl2.
Anhydrous MgCl2 may be obtained from sea water or from carnallite.
Anhydrous MgCl2 is prepared from hydrated MgCl2 (MgCl2. 6H2O) by passing a current of dry
HCl gas over it. Anhydrous MgCl2 cannot be prepared by direct heating because it results in
formation of MgO which is refractory
 MgO + 2HCl + 5H O
MgCl2.6H2O  2
During electrolysis, the following reactions take place.
MgCl2 ? Mg2+ + 2Cl–
At cathode : Mg2+ + 2e–  Mg
At anode : 2Cl–  Cl2 + 2e–
(3) Calcium
Ores of Calcium
(i) Gypsum, CaSO4. 2H2O (ii) Lime stone, CaCO3 (iii) Marble, CaCO3
(iv) Fluorspar, CaF2 (v) Anhydrite, CaSO4 (vi) Dolomite, CaCO3, MgCO3
Calcium is prepared by the electrolysis of a fused mixture of anhydrous calcium chloride and calcium
fluoride On passing electric current, calcium is liberated at the cathode.
CaCl2  Ca2+ + 2Cl– ………(Ionization)
At cathode : Ca2+ + 2e–  Ca
At anode : Cl–  Cl + e–
2Cl  Cl2–
24 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
Anomalous behaviour of Be and its diagonal relationship with Al

Anamalous behaviour of Be and its diagonal relationship with Al is illustrated by the following points:
 Unlike group –2 elements but like aluminium, beryllium forms covalent compounds.
 The hydroxides of beryllium, [Be(OH)2] and aluminium, [Al(OH)3] are amphoteric in nature, whereas
those of other elements of group –2 are basic in nature.
 Beryllium and aluminium forms fluoro complexes in solution.
 The oxides of both Be and Al, i.e., BeO and Al2O3 are high melting insoluble solids.
 BeCl2 like Al2Cl6 has a bridged polymeric structure.
 The salts of beryllium as well as aluminium are extensively hydrolyzed.
 Be, like Al, is rendered passive by concentrated HNO3.
 Be forms many complex like Al
 Be and Al react with NaOH solution liberating H2.
 Be2C and Al4C3 react with water to give methane.
 Halides of the two elements have similar solubilities.
 The two metals do not impart colour to the Bunsen flame.
Illustration
1. Which of the following elements will form a compound with oxygen in which one atom of the element
is combined with one atom of oxygen to form an oxide of formula MO ?
(A) Be (B) Ne (C) Al (D) Cl
Ans. (A)
Sol. Be forms BeO, Al forms Al2O3, Cl forms Cl2O7, Cl2O, ClO2 etc. while Ne does not react.
2. The cation which gives a yellow precipitate with potassium chromate is
(A) SrCO3 (B) BaCO3 (C) CaCO3 (D) MgCO3
Ans. (B)
Sol. Barium gives a yellow ppt. of barium chromate with pot. chromate.
K2CrO4 + Ba2+ BaCrO4 + 2K+
Exercise
1. The atom with atomic number 12 will most likely combine chemically with the atom whose atomic
number is
(A) 3 (B) 10 (C) 11 (D) 16
Ans. (D)
2. A piece of magnesium ribbon was heated to redness in an atmosphere of nitrogen and then cooled with
water. The gas evolved is
(A) Ammonia (B) Hydrogen (C) Nitrogen (D) Oxygen
Ans. (A)
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 25
COMPOUND OF ALKALINE EARTH METALS
(1) Berylium
(i) Oxides and hydroxides : Be forms only the monoxides: all others form monoxide and peroxide
(eg.BaO, BaO2). The basic nature of the oxides and hydroxides of the metals increases down the
group. BeO is amphoteric, CaO, SrO and BaO are basic. All these oxides dissolve in H2O giving
the hydroxide (BeO is nearly insoluble). BeO dissolves in acids and alkalies to give salts.
(BeO) + 2HCl BeCl2 + H2O: BeO + 2NaOH Na2BeO2 + H2O.) The solubility of the
hydroxides increase from Be to Ba. Ba(OH)2 (Baryta) is moderately soluble in water.
(ii) Hydrides : BeH2 is covalent. MgH2 is partially covalent and the remaining hydrides are largely

ionic. BeH2 is a polymeric solid, involving hydrogen bridging.
sp2 sp2
H H
(3 centre-2e– Bond)
Dimer form of BeH2 in vapour phase
sp3 sp3 sp3 sp3 sp3
(3 centre-2e– Bond)
Polymeric Form of BeH2, in solid state
(iii) Halides : II group metals when heated with halogens, give the halides. Beryllium halides (eg. BeF2

and BeCl2) are covalent due to the small size of Be2+ (see Fajan's rules) and hence have comparatively
low melting points and boiling points. The chlorides and fluorides of the other metals of the group
are ionic solids. BeCl2 in the solid state is polymeric containing chains of the form.
In the vapour state at high temperature BeCl2 is a monomer.
The halides are deliquescent and they form hydrated salts. The solubility of halides in water decrease
down the group from Ca to Ba.
(iv) Sulphates : BeSO4 is slightly soluble in water. The solubility of the sulphates of the metals decreases

down the group. BaSO4 and RaSO4 are practically insoluble.
26 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
[Note : The solubility of an ionic solid in water depends on the lattice energy of the solid and the
hydration energy for the ions of the solid. A large value of the former would lower the solubility,
while a large value of the latter would increase the solubility. In the case of II group sulphates, the
hydration energy factor has a dominant role. Since the hydration of ion decreases from, Be2+, to
Ba2+, the solubility of the II group sulphates decreases down the group. For the fluorides and
hydroxides of this group, the lattice energy has a dominant role and hence the solubility of these
salts increases down the group.]
(v) Carbonates and bicarbonates : The carbonates of alkaline earth metals are insoluble in water: the

bicarbonates are soluble. The carbonates and bicarbonates decompose on heating to give CO2 gas.
(vi) Carbides of II group metal are ionic carbides, which may be in a methanide or acetylide or allylide.

Beryllium Carbide :
Be2C (methanide) reacts with water to give methane.
Be2C + 2H2O  2 BeO + CH4
Calcium Carbide :
CaC2 (acetylide) is decomposed by H2O to give acetylene.
CaC2 + 2H2O  Ca(OH)2 + C2H2.
Magnesium Carbide :
Mg2C3 (allylide) reacts with water to give allylene (methyl acetylene).
Mg2C3 + 4H2O  2Mg(OH)2 + CH3C  CH
(vii) Nitrides :
Example : Mg3N2 – decomposed by H2O, liberating NH3.
[Mg3N2 + 6H2O 3Mg(OH)2 +2NH3] Similarly Ca3N2.
Complexes : Be is the best complexing agent in this group. The complexing tendency decrease
down the group. Mg (Oxine)2 is the complex formed by Mg2+ with 8 hydroxy quinoline(Oxine) and
this forms the basis of quantitative estimation of Mg.
Illustration
1. A metal M readily forms water soluble sulphate MSO4, water insoluble hydroxide M (OH)2 and oxide
MO which becomes inert on heating. The hydroxide is soluble in NaOH. The M is
(A) Be (B) Mg (C) Ca (D) Sr
Ans. (A)
Sol. Be(OH)2 is amphoteric in nature so it is soluble in NaOH.
Exercise
1. Amongst the following hydroxides, the one which has the lowest value of Ksp at ordinary temperature is:
(A) Mg(OH)2 (B) Ca(OH)2 (C) Ba(OH)2 (D*) Be(OH)2
Ans. (D)
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 27
(2) Magnesium
(i). Magnesium Sulphate (MgSO4. 7H2O) epsum salt
Preparation :
From magnesite or dolomite (Epsom salt)
MgCO3 + H2SO4 MgSO4 + H2O + CO2
MgCO3.CaCO3 + 2H2SO4 MgSO4 + CaSO4+ 2H2O + 2CO2
Physical properties :
Colourless , efflorescent crystalline substance which forms a number of hydrate
Chemical properties :
On heating 160ºC 200ºC

MgSO4. 7H2O MgSO4.H2O MgSO4 + H2O
(–6H2O)
It is reduced by lamp black
300ºC
2MgSO4 + C 2 MgO + 2SO2 + CO2
USES :
1. MgSO4 is manufactured by dissolving keiserite (MgSO4. H2O) in boiling water & then crystallising the
solution.
2. MgSO4.7H2O is called as Eposm salt & shows deliquesecence efflorescence & has purgative action.
3. Platinized MgSO4 is used as catalyst in Grillo’s process for manufacture of H2SO4.
(ii) Magnesium Chloride MgCl2. 6H2O

Magnesium chloride can be prepared by fractional crystallization of carnallite, KCl. MgCl2. 6H2O.
It can also be obtained from sea water. Magnesium salts present in sea-water are precipitated as
Mg(OH)2 by adding lime. The precipitate is filtered and dissolved in HCl solution. The solution on
crystallization yields crystals of MgCl2. 6H2O.
Mg 2  Ca(OH) 2  Mg(OH) 2  Ca 2 
Mg(OH) 2  2HCl  MgCl 2  2H 2 O
A mixture of magnesium chloride and magnesium oxide is known as Sorel cement or magnesium

cement. This mixture reacts with water and sets into a solid mass having composition
MgCl2.5MgO.xH2O
(iii) Magnesium Oxide (MgO)

Preparation: It is prepared by burning Mg in air, by heating hydroxide, nitrate, sulphate or
carbonate. Oxide prepared by heating magnesite (MgCO3) is called calcined magnesia.
2Mg(NO3 )2 
 2MgO  4NO 2  O 2
2MgSO 4 
 2MgO  2SO 2  O 2
28 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
Properties:
(i) Magnesium oxide is a light white powder, which is highly infusible (m.p. 2800°C), and only
slightly soluble in water.
(ii) It is a basic oxide and hence reacts with acids to form salts.
MgO  2HCl 
 MgCl2  H 2 O
(iii) It is reduced by carbon at very high temperature to form magnesium carbide.
MgO  3C 
 MgC2  CO
(iv) It dissolves in aqueous solution of magnesium chloride or bromide forming basic salts such
as MgCl2. 9Mg(OH)2 . 5H2O.
(iv) Magnesium Hydroxide (Mg(OH)2)

Preparation: It is obtained by adding caustic soda solution to a solution of magnesium sulphate
or chloride.
MgSO4 + 2NaOH  Na2SO4 + Mg(OH)2
Properties:
(i) It is converted into its oxide on heating.
Mg(OH)2  MgO + H2O
(ii) It dissolves in NH4Cl solution easily.
Mg(OH)2 + 2NH4Cl  MgCl2 + 2NH4OH
(v) Magnesium Carbonate, (MgCO3): It occurs in nature as magnesite, MgCO3 and dolomite,
MgCO3.CaCO3.
Preparation:
(i) By adding sodium bicarbonate solution to a hot solution of magnesium salt.
MgSO 4  2NaHCO3 
 MgCO3   Na 2SO 4  H 2 O  CO2
In case Na2CO3 is used in place of NaHCO3, a basic carbonate is obtained.
2MgSO 4  2Na 2 CO3  H 2 O 
 MgCO3 .Mg(OH)2  2Na 2SO4  CO 2
When CO2 gas is passed through the suspension of basic carbonate, magnesium bicarbonate is
formed which on heating forms MgCO3.
MgCO3 .Mg(OH) 2  3CO2  H 2 O 
 2Mg(HCO3 )2
heat
Mg(HCO3 ) 2  MgCO3  H 2 O  CO2 
(ii) Pure magnesium bicarbonate and hence carbonate can be prepared by passing CO2 through
suspension of magnesium oxide in water.
MgO  H 2 O  2CO2 
 Mg(HCO3 )2
Mg(HCO3 ) 2  MgO 
 2MgCO3  H 2 O
Properties:
(i) Magnesium carbonate is a white powder, insoluble in water.
(ii) It dissolves in acids forming salts.
MgCO3  2HCl 
 MgCl2  H 2 O  CO 2 
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 29
(iii) Its aqueous solution also dissolves on passing a current of carbon dioxide because of the
formation of Mg(HCO3)2, a temporary hardness causing substance.
MgCO3  H 2 O  CO2 
 Mg(HCO)3 ) 2
A solution of magnesium bicarbonate containing 12 gm. of the salt per 100 ml is known as
fluid magnesia.
(iv) It decomposes on heating to form magnesium oxide.
heat
MgCO3  MgO  CO2
6. Sorel cement.
Magnesium oxide when mixed with a saturated solution of magnesium chloride sets to a hard mass
like cement known as magnesia cement or Soral cement. The composition is
MgCl2.5MgO.xH2O
* Mg(ClO4)2 is known as anhydrone
Illustration
1. Magnesium burns in CO2 to form
(A) MgO + C (B) MgO + CO (C) MgCO3 (D) MgO
Ans. (A)
Sol. Mg burns in CO2 to give MgO and C.
2. Which of the following is incorrect ?
(A) Mg burns in air releasing dazzing light rich in UV rays
(B) CaCl2.6H2O when mixed with ice gives freezing mixture
(C) Mg cannot form complexes
(D) Be can form complexes due to its very small.
Ans. (C)
Sol. Mg can form complexes and chlorophyll is one of such examples.
Exercise
1. Flame test is not given by
(A) Be (B) Mg (C) Ca (D) Sr
Ans. (A, B)
2. Pure anhydrous MgCl2 can be prepared from the hydrated salt by
(A) Heating the hydrate with coke (B) Heating the hydrate with Mg ribbon
(C) Melting the hydrate
(D) Heating the hydrate to red heat in an atmosphere of HCl gas
Ans. (D)
30 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
(3) Calcium
(i) Calcium oxide Quick lime, Burnt lime (CaO).
Preparation
It is prepared by heating lime stone (CaCO3) at 800°C
CaCO3 CaO + CO2 H = 179.9 KJ
Condition for Good Yield :

(i) Since the reaction is reversible, therefore the carbon dioxide formed must be removed as soon as it is
formed so that the reaction remain in the forward direction.
(ii) Temperature should not be allowed to rise above 1270K otherwise silica (SiO2) present as impurity in
limestone will react with CaO to form CaSiO3.
Properties
(i) Action of water :
CaO + H2O  Ca(OH)2 + 15000 Caloric
(quick lime) (Slaked lime)
Paste of lime in water is called milk of lime, while its hydrate is known as lime water.
(ii) With moist chlorine :
CaO + Cl2  CaOCl2 (Bleaching powder)
(iii) When heated with carbon, it forms calcium carbide.

CaO + 3C 2000 C
 CaC2 + CO
Uses
(i) In purification of sugar
(ii) As basic lining in furnances.
(ii) Calcium hydroxide, Slaked lime Ca(OH)2.
Preparation
By the action of water on quick lime.
CaO + H2O  Ca(OH)2 + Heat
means it is an exothermic reaction.
Properties
(i) Sparingly soluble in water and its solubility decreases with increases in temperature.
(ii) Action of CO2 : Lime water turns milky on passing CO2 gas
Ca(OH)2 + CO2  CaCO3 + H2O
(Milkiness)
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 31
(iii) Action of chlorine :
(a) Cold Condition :
2Ca(OH)2 + 2Cl2  Cold
 CaCl2 + Ca(OCl)2 + 2H2O
(Cal. Hypochlorite)
(b) Below 35°C : 3Ca(OH)2 + 2Cl2 below
 
 CaOCl2 + H2O
35 C
(c) On gentle Heating : 6Ca(OH)2 + 6Cl2 Heat

 5CaCl2 + Ca(ClO3)2 + 6H2O
(d) On Red Hot :
2Ca(OH)2 + 2Cl2 Re

d Heat
 2CaCl2 + 2H2O + O2
(iv) Action of Ammonia :
Ca(OH)2 + 2NH4Cl  CaCl2 + 2NH3 + 2H2O
Uses
(i) For softening of hard water.
(ii) For purification of sugar and coal gas.
(iii) In preparation of bleaching powder, white wash, plaster etc.
(iii) Calcium Carbonate, (CaCO3): Calcium carbonate is found in nature as limestone, marble, coral,

ice land spar, calcite, chalk, dolomite, etc.
Preparation: It is prepared as a white powder, known as precipitated chalk by dissolving marble
or limestone in hydrochloric acid followed by precipitation with sod. or ammonium carbonate.
CaCO3  2HCl 
 CaCl2  H 2 O  CO2
CaCl2  (NH 4 )2 CO3 

 CaCO3  2NH 4 Cl
In the laboratory, it is prepared by passing CO2 through lime-water or by adding sod. or ammo.
carbonate solution to CaCl2.
Ca(OH)2  CO 2 
 CaCO3   H 2 O
Properties:
(i) It is a white powder and exists in two crystalline forms: calcite and aragonite.
(ii) It is insoluble in water but dissolves in the presence of CO2 due to the formation of calcium
bicarbonate.
CaCO3  H 2 O  CO 2 
 Ca(HCO3 ) 2
(iv) Calcium Bicarbonate, (Ca(HCO3)2): It does not exist in solid state. However, its solution can be
prepared by passing CO2 gas through a suspension of calcium carbonate in water. On warming, it
decomposes to calcium carbonate along with the evolution of carbon dioxide gas.
(v) Calcium Sulphate, (CaSO4): It occurs in nature as anhydride (CaSO4) and gypsum (CaSO4.
2H2O).
Preparation: It may be prepared by adding dilute sulphuric acid or soluble sulphate (e.g. Na2SO4)
to the solution of a calcium salt.
CaCl2  H 2SO 4 
 CaSO4  2HCl
32 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
Properties:
(i) It is a white crystalline solid. Like slaked lime, it is sparingly soluble in cold water and its solubility
decreases further with the increase in temperature.
(ii) It dissolves much more readily in dilute acids, even in acetic acid than in water. It dissolves also in
ammonium sulphate solution forming CaSO4.(NH4)SO4.H2O.
(iii) Monoclinic crystals of gypsum when heated, first changes into orthorhombic form without any loss
of water. On further heating to 120°C, it loses three-fourth of its water of crystallization and forms
the hemihydrate, (2CaSO4).H2O or CaSO 4 . 12 H 2O which is commonly known as Plaster of Paris.
120 C
CaSO4 .2H 2 O   CaSO4 . 12 H 2 O  1 12 H 2 O
Plaster of Paris is a white powder which when mixed with water takes up the water of crystallization
again, thus converted back into the dehydrate and sets to a hard mass with slight expansion. Setting
takes about 10–15 minutes and may be catalysed by the addition of common salt or delayed by
the use of alum or borax.
H2O hardening
CaSO 4 . 12 H 2 O 
setting
 CaSO 4 .2H 2O   CaSO 4 .2H 2O
Plaster of Paris Orthor hom bic Monoclinic (gypsum)
Plaster of paris or gypsum when heated to about 200°C is converted into anhydrous calcium sulphate.
The anhydrous form (anhydrite) is known as dead burnt because it does not set like Plaster of
Paris when moistened with water.
(vi) Calcium Chloride (CaCl2)

Preparation: It separates out as deliquescent crystals when a solution of lime or calcium carbonate
in HCl is evaporated.
CaCO3 + 2HCl  CaCl2 + H2CO3
But it separates out from the reaction mixture as CaCl26H2O. The anhydrous salt is obtained on
heating above 200C.
Properties: It is a colourless, deliquescent salt, highly soluble in water. The anhydrous salt is an
excellent drying agent.
(vii) Superphosphate
Phosphate rocks such as fluoroaptatite [3Ca3(PO4)2.CaF2] are very insoluble, and thus are of no
use to plants. Superphosphate is made by treating phosphate rock with concentrated H2SO4. The
acid salt Ca(H2PO4)2 is more soluble, and over a period of weeks the superophosphate will dissolve
in the soil water
[3(Ca3(PO4)2.CaF2] + 7H2SO4  3Ca(H 2 PO4 )2  7CaSO4 + 2HF


superphosphate
“Triple superphosphate’ is made in a similar way, using H3PO4 to avoid the formation of the waste
product CaSO4.
[3(Ca3(PO4)2.CaF2] + 14H3PO4  10Ca(H 2PO4 )2 + 2HF


triple superphosphate
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 33
(viii) Hydrolith
CaH2 is technically called hydrolith and use on large scale for the production of hydrogen
CaH 2 + 2H2O  Ca(OH)2 + 2H2
(ix) Calcium Carbide, CaC2
Calcium carbide is prepared by heating quick lime with coke in an electric furnace.
CaO  3C  CaC 2  CO 
CaC2 on reaction with water produces acetylene gas
CaC 2  2H 2 O  Ca(OH) 2  C 2 H 2
Illustration
1. Which of the following substance is used as dehydrating agent in laboratory
(A) Calcium chloride (B) Sodium chloride (C) Sodium carbonate (D) Potassium nitrate
Ans. (A)
Sol. CaCl2 because it is hygroscopic.
2. Setting of plaster of paris is
(A) Oxidation with atmospheric CO2 (B) Combination with atmospheric CO2
(C) Dehydration (D) Hydration to yield another
Ans. (D)
Sol. Setting of plaster of paris is
1
CaSO4. H O H
2O
 CaSO4.2H2O Hardening
  CaSO4.2H2O
2 2 
orthorhombic Mono orthorhombic Gypsum
The setting is due to formation of another hydrate.
Exercise
1. Which of the following statements is false
(A) CaOCl2 gives OH¯, Cl¯ and OCl¯ in aqueous solution
(B) Diamond and graphite are allotrops
(C) Bleaching action of Cl2 is moist condition is not permanent
(D) Calomel is Hg2Cl2
Ans. (C)
34 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
SOLVED EXAMPLES
Q.1 NaOH gives disproportionation reaction with
(A) S (B) CO2 (C) SO2 (D) SO3
Ans. (A)
Sol. 4S + 6NaOH 
 Na2S2O3 + 2Na2S + 3H2O
with excess pentasulfide forms
Na2S + 4S  Na2S5
Q.2 CO2 gas along with solid (Y) is obtained when sodium salt (X) is heated. (X) is again obtained
when CO2 gas is passed into (Y). X & Y are -
(A) Na2CO3, Na2O (B) Na2CO3, NaOH (C) NaHCO3, Na2CO3 (D) Na2CO3, NaHCO3
Ans. (C)
2 NaHCO 3 Na 2 CO 3  H 2 O  CO 2
Sol. (X) 
Heat (Y)
Na 2 CO 3  H 2 O  CO 2
(Y)
 2 NaHCO
(X)
3
Q.3 Commercial common salt becomes slightly damp on keeping. This is due to the fact that -
(A) Common salt is hygroscopic
(B) Common salt contains some impurity which is hygroscopic
(C) Salt is efflorescent
(D) Salt is crystalline
Ans. (B)
Sol. Commercial common salt commonly becomes slightly damp on keeping because common salt contains
some impurity MgCl2 and CaCl2 which is hygroscopic in nature and absorbs moisture from the atmosphere.
Q.4 The highest melting point among alkali metal of -
(A) Li (B) Na (C) K (D) Rb
Ans. (A)
Sol. Li has highest melting point among alkali metals. All alkali metals have low M.P. The M.P. decrease
down the group. The low M.P. are attributed to their larger atomic size due to which the binding energies
of their atoms in the crystal lattice are low.
Q. 5 Li has the maximum value of ionisation potential among alkali metals i.e. lithium has the minimum tendency
to ionise to give Li+ ion. lithium is -
(A) Strongest reducing (B) Poorest reducing agent
(C) Strongest oxidising agent (D) Poorest oxidising agent
Ans. (A)
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 35
Sol. The ionisation potential value of Lithium is maximum among alkali metals i.e., its tendency to ionise to
give Li+ ions should be the minimum i.e. Li should be the poorest reducing agent. But, lithium is the
strongest reducing agent. This is due to the largest value of hydration energy of Li+ ions.
Q. 6 Which of the following compound decomposes at highest temperature -
Ans. (B)
Sol. BaCO3 decomposes at highest temp.
All the carbonates decompose on heating to give CO2 and metal oxide.
MCO3 
 MO + CO2
The stability of carbonate towards heat depends upon the stability of the resulting metal oxide. More is
the stability of the resulting metal oxide lesser is the stability of the carbonate towards heat and vice
versa.
Q.7 Gypsum CaSO4.2H2O on heating to about 120ºC forms a compound which has the chemical composition
represented by
(A) CaSO4 (B) 2CaSO4.H2O (C) CaSO4.H2O (D) 2CaSO4.3H2O
Ans. (B)
120 º
Sol. 2(CaSO4.2H2O)  
 2CaSO . H O + 3H O
Dehydration 4 2 2
Gypsum Plaster of pairs
Q.8 Portland cement is manufactured by using -
(A) Lime stone, clay and sand (B) Lime stone, gypsum and sand
(C) Lime stone, gypsum and alumina (D) Lime stone, clay and gypsum
Ans. (D)
Sol. Lime stone - CaCO3
Clay - silica and alumina
Gypsum - CaSO4.2H2O
Q.9 The first ionization potential of Mg is
(A) Less than Al (B) More than Al (C) Equal to Al (D) Zero
Ans. (B)
Sol. The first ionization potential of Mg is more than Al since the electron has to be removed from completely
filled svalence shell of Mg.
Q.10 Metallic magnesium is prepared by
(A) Reduction of MgO by coke
(B) Electrolysis of aqueous solution of Mg(NO3)
(C) Displacement of Mg by iron from MgSO4 solution
(D) Electrolysis of molten MgCl2
Ans. (D)
+2
Sol. MgCl2 Electrolys
  is
 Mg + 2Cl
(Molten) Cation Anion
Anode : 2Cl¯ 2Cl + 2e¯, Cl + Cl Cl3
Cathode : Mg+2 + 2e¯ Mg
36 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
Q.11 Which liberates ammonia when treated with
(A) Li3N (B) Mg3N2 (C) CaCN2 (D) All
Ans. (D)
Sol. All nitrides react with H2O to yield NH3. Calcium cyanamide (CaCN2) on hydrolysis also given NH3.
CaNCN + 3H2O CaCO3 + NH3
Q.12 The cation which gives a yellow precipitate with potassium chromate is
Ans. (B)
Sol. Barium gives a yellow ppt. of barium chromate with pot. chromate.
K2CrO4 + Ba2+ BaCrO4 + 2K+
Q.13 If Na+ ion is larger than Mg2+ ion and S2– ion is larger than Cl¯ ion, which of the following will be least
soluble in water ?
(A) Sodium chloride (B) Sodium sulphide (C) Magnesium chloride (D) Magnesium sulphide
Ans. (D)
Sol. Magnesium sulphide. Higher the lattice energy lower the solubility. Out of the four combinations possible,
the lattice energy of MgS (Bi-bivalent ionic solid) is higher than those of Na2S, MgCl2 (uni-bivalent or
biunivalent ionic solids) and NaCl (uniunivalent ionic solids) and hence MgS is the least soluble.
Q.14 Which of the following is used as barium meal for getting the X-ray spectrum of the human digestive
system ?
(A) BaSO4 (B) BaCl2 (C) BaF2 (D) BaCO3
Ans. (A)
Sol. BaSO4 is both insoluble in water and opaque to X-rays and hence is used to get the X-ray spectrum of
the digestive system ?
Q.15 Potassium is kept in
(A) Alcohol (B) Water (C) Kerosene (D) Liquid ammonia
Ans. (C)
Sol. Alkali metals are highly reactive metal. They react with
Alcohol – 2C2H5OH + 2K 2C2H5OK + H2
Water – 2K + 2H2O 2KOH + H2
Ammonia – K + (x + y)NH3 [K(NH3)x]+ + [e(NH3)y]¯
Ammoniated cation Ammoniated electron
But they do not react with Kerosene.
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 37
EXERCISE-1 (Exercise for JEE Mains)
[SINGLE CORRECT CHOICE TYPE]

Q.1 Which of the following carbide produces propyne on reaction with water.
(A) CaC2 (B) Be2C (C) Al4C3 (D) Mg2C3
[2010410025]
K CrO / H 
Q.2 (Yellow ppt) T 2  
4
 X dil
. HCl

 Y(Yellow ppt)  Z  (pungent smelling gas)
If X gives green flame test. Then, X is
(A) MgSO4 (B) BaS2O3 (C) CuSO4 (D) PbS2O3
[2010410076]
Q.4 Which of the following carbide does not release any hydrocarbon on reaction with water.
(A) SiC (B) Be2C (C) CaC2 (D) Mg2C3
[2010410280]
Q.5 The golden yellow colour associated with NaCl to Bunsen flame can be explained on the basis of
(A) low ionisation potential of sodium
(B) emission spectrum
(C) photosensitivity of sodium
(D) sublimation of metallic sodium of yellow vapours [2010410331]
Q.6 Incorrect statement regarding the dissolution of alkali & alkaline earth metals in liq. NH3 is
(A) Due to high L.E. and I.E. Be and Mg do not dissolve in liquid NH3.
(B) Deep blue colour is due to absorption spectrum of solvated electron.
(C) Solution conducts electricity at all concentration.
(D) Solution remains paramagnetic at all concentration. [2010410020]
Q.7 The salt which finds uses in qualitative inorganic analysis is
(A) CuSO4·5H2O or ZnSO4·5H2O (B) K2SO4·Al2(SO4)3·24H2O
(C) Na(NH4)HPO4·4H2O (D) FeSO4·(NH4)2SO4·6H2O
[2010410294]
Q.8 (i) A + Na2CO3  B + C
(ii) A CO
2  (Milky) C
The chemical formula of A and B are respectively
(A) NaOH & Ca(OH)2 (B) Ca(OH)2 and NaOH
(C) NaOH and CaO (D) CaO & Ca(OH)2
[2010410345]
Q.9 CsBr3 contains
(A) Cs–Br covalent bonds (B) Cs3+ and Br– ions
(C) Cs+ and Br3– ions (D) Cs3+ and Br33– ions
[2010410192]
38 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
Q.10 Which of the following statement is false
(A) The milk of magnesia used as antacid is chemically MgO + MgCl2
(B) Stability of alkali metal peroxides increases with increase in atomic number.
(C) Hydration energy of AgF is higher than its lattice energy.
(D) Anhydrous MgCl2 cannot be prepared by direct heating of MgCl2.6H2O. [2010410071]
High temperature CO in
Q.11 Na + Al2O3     X 2 Y; compound Y is
water
(A) NaAlO2 (B) NaHCO3 (C) Na2CO3 (D) Na2O2
[2010410122]
Q.12 Mg2C3 reacts with water forming propyne. C34 has
(A) Two sigma and two pi bonds (B) Three sigma and one pi bond
(C) Two sigma and one pi bond (D) Two sigma and three pi bonds
[2010410173]
Na CO K CrO
Q.13 ( White ppt) D 23 A 2 
4  B(Yellow ppt)
(in acetic acid)
dil. H 2SO 4 
C( White ppt)
If A is the metallic salt, then the white ppt. of D must be of
(A) stronsium carbonate (B) red lead (C) barium carbonate (D) calcium carbonate
[2010410224]
Q.14 Li does not resemble other alkali metals in following properties :
(A) Li2CO3 decomposes into oxides while other alkali metal carbonates are thermally stable
(B) LiCl is predominantly covalent
(C) Li3N is stable (D) all are correct
[2010410275]
Q.15 The pair of compounds which cannot exist together in aqueous solution is:
(I) NaH2PO4 and NaHCO3 (II) Na2CO3 and NaHCO3
(III) NaOH and NaH2PO2 (IV) NaHCO3 and NaOH
(A) I, II, III (B) II, III (C) I, IV (D) only IV
[2010410326]
Q.16 Crown ethers and cryptands form
(A) complexes with alkali metals
(B) salts of alkali metals
(C) hydroxides of alkali metals used for inorganic quantitative analysis
(D) organic salts of alkali metals [2010410134]
Q.17 Calcium imide on hydrolysis will give gas (B) which on oxidation by bleaching powder gives gas (C) gas
(C) on reaction with magnesium give compound (D). (D) on hydrolysis gives again gas (B). (B), (C) and
(D) are
(A) NH3, N2, Mg3N2 (B) N2, NH3, MgNH
(C) N2 , N2O5 , Mg(NO3)2 (D) NH3, NO2 , Mg(NO2)2
[2010410338]
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 39
Q.18 The commercial method of preparation of potassium by reduction of molten KCl with metallic sodium at
850°C is based on the fact that
(A) potassium is solid and sodium distils off at 850 °C
(B) potassium being more volatile and distils off thus shifting the reaction forward
(C) sodium is more reactive than potassium at 850 °C
(D) sodium has less affinity to chloride ions in the presence of potassium ion
[2010410052]
Q.19 Choose the correct alternate (s).
(I) BeCO3 is kept in the atmosphere of CO2 since it is least thermally stable.
(II) Be dissolves in an alkali forming [Be(OH)4]2–
(III) BeF2 forms complex ion with NaF in which Be goes with cation.
(IV) BeF2 forms complex ion with NaF in which Be goes with anion.
(A) I, II, III (B) II & III (C) I, II, III & IV (D) I, II & IV
[2010410354]
Q.20 Nitrogen dioxide can not be obtained from
(A) Cu(NO3)2 (B) Hg(NO3)2 (C) NaNO3 (D) AgNO3
[2010410456]
Q.21 When conc. H2SO4 was treated with K4[Fe(CN)6], CO gas was evolved. By mistake, somebody used
dilute H2SO4 instead of conc. H2SO4, then the gas evolved was
(A) CO (B) HCN (C) N2 (D) CO2
[2010410558]
Q.22 A solution of metal hydroxide (MOH) with copper sulphate and mixed tartarate of metal M with another
metal M1 of the same group is used in the detection of –CHO group. Metal M and M1 are respectively
(A) K, Na (B) K, Rb (C) Na, Li (D) Rb, Na
[2010410660]
Q.23 Which of the following statement is false
(A) The milk of magnesia used as antacid is chemically MgO + MgCl2
(B) Stability of alkali metal peroxides increases with increase in atomic number.
(C) Hydration energy of AgF is higher than its lattice energy.
(D) Anhydrous MgCl2 cannot be prepared by direct heating of MgCl2.6H2O.
[2010410609]
Q.24 Which of the following is not a water softener?
(A) Na2CO3 (B) Na2SO4 (C) Calgon (D) Permutit
[2010410359]
Q.25 Which of the following gases are evolved by the electrolysis of aqueous solution of NaCl ?
(A) H2 (B) Cl2 (C) O2 (D) Both A and B
[2010410410]
Q.26 Which of the following option is incorrect regarding the property of ‘hypo’
(A) The heating effect of hypo is a type of disproportionation reaction
(B) Na2S5 is a heating product of hypo
(C) Na2S5 and hypo both have S-S linkage
(D) SO2 reacts with NaOH and produced hypo [2010410461]
40 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
EXERCISE-2 (Exercise for JEE Advanced)
[PARAGRAPH TYPE]
Paragraph for question nos. 1 to 2
Dilute solutions of alkali metals in liquid NH3 are blue. It is the ammoniated electron which is responsible
for the blue colour of the solution, and the electrical conductivity is due to the ammoniated cation,
[M(NH3)x]+ as well as the ammoniated electron, [e(NH3)y]–, values of x and y depend on the extent of
solvation (by NH3). Dilute solutions are paramagnetic due to free electrons.
[2010410691]
Q.1 What happens if alkali metals is allowed to react with concentrated liquid ammonia?
(A) Paramagnetic character of solvated electrons is retained.
(B) Solvated electrons associate to form electron-pairs and paramagnetic character decreases.
(C) Reducing character is increased.
(D) Reducing character is not affected.
Q.2 Ammoniated solutions of alkali metals are reducing agents due to the presence of free ammoniated or
solvated electrons that can reduce:
[I] O2 to O 22 [II] K2[Ni(CN)4] to K4[Ni(CN)4]
[III] aromatic ring [IV] non-terminal alkyne
Choose the correct code
(A) III & IV (B) II & III (C) I, II, III & IV (D) I, III & IV
[REASONING TYPE]
These questions consists of two statements each, printed as Statement-I and Statement-II. While answering
these Questions you are required to choose any one of the following four responses.
(A) If both Statement-I & Statement-II are True & the Statement-II is a correct explanation of the Statement-
I.
(B) If both Statement-I & Statement-II are True but Statement-II is not a correct explanation of the
Statement-I.
(C) If Statement-I is True but the Statement-II is False.
(D) If Statement-I is False but the Statement-II is True.
Q.3 Statement - I :Alkali metal carbonates (M2CO3) are soluble in water.

Statement - II : Usually ionic compounds are fairly soluble in water.
[2010410622]
Q.4 Statement - I :Li2SO4 do not form double salt like alum.
Statement - II : Li reacts with NH3 gas to form LiNH2.
[2010410673]
Q.5 Statement-I : BeCl2 can not be easily hydrolysed.

Statement-II : BeCl2 is electron deficient compound.
[2010410376]
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 41
Q.6 Statement-I : K+ and NH4+ ions have lot of similarities in their test

Statement-II : Radius of K+ is almost equal to radius of NH4+
[2010410427]
Q.7 Statement-I : Mg gets oxidised, when heated in CO2 atmosphere

Statement-II : Mg has a strong affinity for oxygen
[2010410478]
Q.8 Statement-I : Mg2+ + ZnSO4  MgSO4 + Zn2+

Statement-II : More active metal can displace less active metal from its salt solution.
[2010410529]
Q.9 Statement-I : Aqueous solution of Na2SO4 on electrolysis gives H2 and O2 gases in cathode and

anode respectively.
Statement-II : Discharge potential on H is less than Na+ but discharge potential of OH¯ is more than
SO42– .
[2010410580]
Q.10 Statement-I : Superoxides of alkalimetals are paramagnetic.
Statement-II : Superoxides contain the ion O 2 which has one unpaired electron in its anti-bonding
molecular orbital.
[2010410682]
[MULTIPLE CORRECT CHOICE TYPE]
Q.11 The addition of which metal into liquid NH3 leads to the formation of blue solution.
(A) Li (B) Sr (C) Cs (D) Ba
[2010410229]
Q.12 Which statement(s) is / are correct regarding alkali metals

(A) Thermal stability of metal nitrate increases on moving upward the group.
(B) Water solubility of metal carbonate increases on moving down the group.
(C) All metal bicarbonate salts exist in solution form except NaHCO3.
(D) B.P. and M.P. decreases down the group.
[2010410243]
Q.13 Which of the following metals on treatment with alkali will liberate H2 gas?
(A) Be (B) Sn (C) Ga (D) In
[2010410287]
Q.14 Which of the following properties show a similar trend on moving from Li to Cs within the group
(A) Ionic mobility in aqueous solution (B) Reactivity towards water
(C) Solubility of Bromide salt (D) Thermal stability of Carbonate salt
[2010410405]
42 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
[MATCH THE COLUMN]
Q.15 Match the column-
Column I Column II
Reactions Moles of reactant of
NaOH reacted per mole
(A) ZnCl2 + NaOH (p) 8
(B) PCl3 + NaOH (q) 6
(C) PCl5 + NaOH (r) 4
CCl3
(D) + NaOH (s) 5
[2010410665]
Column – I Column - II
(A) NaOH + SO2  (p) NaNO3
(B) NaOH + CO2  (q) Na2SO3
(C) NaOH + NO2  (r) Na2CO3
(D) NaOH + HNO3  (s) NaNO2
[2010410418]
Column - I Column - II
(A) Ba (p) Golden yellow
(B) Ca (q) Apple green
(C) Na (r) Brick Red
(D) Rb (s) Violet
[2010410469]

Column I Column II
For the production of H2O2
(A) Down process (p) K 2 CO 3
(B) Solvay process (q) Manufacture of Na
(C) Leblance process (r) Manufacture of NaOH
(D) Castner- Kellner cell (s) Na 2CO 3
[2010410520]
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 43
Q.19 Match List–I with List–II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists:
List–I (Compounds) List–II (used in)
(a) BaSO4 + ZnS (1) Explosive
(b) NI3 (2) Oxidiser in rocket propellants
(c) N2O 4 (3) Space capsule
(d) KO 2 (4) Pigment
[2010410512]
Q.20 Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists.

List-I (Compound) List-II
(a) B4C (1) Propyne preparation
(b) Al4C3 (2) Abrasive
(c) Mg2C3 (3) Methane preparation
(d) WC (4) Interstitial carbides
[2010410614]
44 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
EXERCISE-3 (Miscellaneous Exercise)
Q.1 Identify the following:
2 SO 2 2 Na CO 2 elements S I
Na2CO3   A    C 
 B  D
Also mention the oxidation state of S in all the compounds
[2010410007]
Q.2 The solubility of calcium acetate decreases while that of lead nitrate increases which increase in temperature.
[2010410058]
Q.3 Beryllium chloride shows acidic nature in water or why BeCl2 is easily hydrolysed?
[2010410108]
Q.4 The solvay process can be represented by the following scheme:
CaCO3
H2 O CaO + CO2
NH3, H2O
A
B
NaHCO3 + D
NaCl
C + H2O
NH3 + H2O + E
Identity A, B, C D and E.
[2010410159]
Q.5 A white solid is either Na2O or Na2O2. A piece of red litmus paper turns white when it is dipped into
a freshly made aqueous solution of the white solid.
(i) Identify the substance and explain with balanced equation.
(ii) Explain what would happen to the red litmus if the white solid were the other compound.
[2010410261]
Q.6 Between Na+ and Ag+, which is a stronger Lewis acid and why?
[2010410312]
Q.7 The crystalline salts of alkaline earth metals contain more water of crystallisation then the
corresponding alkali metal salts, why? [2010410014]
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 45
Q.8 Arrange the following sulphates of alkaline earth metals in order of their decreasing thermal stability.
BeSO4, MgSO4, CaSO4, SrSO4. [2010410065]
Q.9 Element (A) burns in nitrogen to give an ionic compound B. Compound B reacts with water to give
(C) and (D). A solution of (C) becomes milky on bubbling CO2. Identify (A) to (D).
[2010410116]
Q.10 (i) An inorganic compound (A) is formed on passing a gas (B) through a concentrated liquor
containing sodium sulphide and sodium sulphite.
(ii) On adding (A) into a dilute solution of silver nitrate, a white precipitate appears which
quickly changes into a black coloured compound (D).
(iii) On adding two or three drops of ferric chloride into the excess of solution of (A), a violet
coloured compound (D) is formed. This colour disappears quickly.
(iv) On adding a solution of (A) into the solution of cupric chloride, a white precipitate is first
formed which dissolves on adding excess of (A) forming a compound (E).
Identify (A) to (E) and give chemical equations for the reactions at step (i) to (iv).
[2010410213]
Q.11 When gas (A) is passed through dry KOH at low temperature, a deep red coloured compound (B)
and a gas (C) are obtained. The gas (A) on reaction with but-2-ene followed by treatment with Zn/
H2O yields acetaldehyde. Identify (A), (B) and (C). [2010410269]
Q.12 (A) is binary compound of a univalent metal. 1.422 g of (A) reacts completely with 0.321 g of
sulphur in an evacuated and sealed tube to give 1.743 g of white crystalline solid (B) that formed a
hydrated double salt (C) with Al2(SO4)3. Identify (A), (B) and (C). [2010410321]
Q.13 Arrange MgO, SrO, K2O, NiO, Cs2O in their increasing order of basic nature.
[2010410090]
Q.14 A compound [X] imparts a golden yellow flame and shows the following reactions:
(i) Zinc powder when boiled with a concentrated aqueous solution of [X] dissolved and hydrogen
is evolved (ii) when an aqueous solution of (X) is added to an aqueous solution of stannous chloride,
a white precipitate is obtained first which dissolves in excess of solution of (X). Identify (X) and
write equations at step (i) and (ii). [2010410141]
Q.15 Arrange the following increasing order of solubility
LiI, RbI, NaI, CsI, KI
[2010410039]
Q.16 How many X–O–X linkages are present in the structure of calgon (NaPO3)6
[201041869]
46 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
EXERCISE-4
SECTION-A
(IIT JEE Previous Year's Questions)
Q.1 A metal X on heating in nitrogen gas gives Y. Y on treating with H2O gives a colourless gas which when
passed through CuSO4 solution gives a blue colour. Y is [JEE-2000]
(A) Mg(NO3)2 (B) Mg3N2 (C) NaN3 (D) MgO
[2010410103]
Q.2 Halides of alkaline earth metals form hydrates such as MgCl2.6H2O, CaCl2.6H2O, BaCl2.2H2O and
SrCl2.2H2O. This shows that halides of group 2 elements. [JEE-2000]
(A) are hygroscopic in nature (B) act as dehydrating agents
(C) can absorbs moisture from air (D) all of the above
[2010410154]
Q.3 MgSO4 + NH4Cl + Na2HPO4  white crystalline precipitate. [JEE-2006]

(A) MgCl2, MgSO4 (B) MgSO4 (C) Mg(NH4)PO4 (D) Mg(PO4)2
[2010410205]
Q.4 Statement-I : Alkali metals dissolve in liquid ammonia to give blue solutions.
Statement-II : Alkali metals in liquid ammonia give solvated species of the type [M(NH3)n] (M = alkali
metals) [JEE-2007]
(A) If both Statement-I & Statement-II are True & the Statement-II is a correct explanation of the
Statement-I.
(B) If both Statement-I & Statement-II are True but Statement-II is not a correct explanation of
the Statement-I.
(C) If Statement-I is True but the Statement-II is False.
(D) If Statement-I is False but the Statement-II is True.
[2010410256]
Q.5 A solution of colourless salt H on boiling with excess NaOH produces a non-flammable gas. The
gas evolution ceases after sometime. Upon addition of Zn dust to the same solution, the gas evolu-
tion restarts. The colourless salts(s) H is (are) [JEE-2008]
(A) NH4NO3 (B) NH4NO2 (C) NH4Cl (D) (NH4)2SO4
[2010410307]
Q.6 White phosphorus on reaction with NaOH gives PH3 as one of the products. This is a [JEE-2008]
(A) dimerization reaction (B) disproportionation reaction
(C) condensation reaction (D) precipitation reaction
[2010410198]
Q.7 Aqueous solution of Na2S2O3 on reaction with Cl2 gives [JEE-2008]

(A) Na2S4O6 (B) NaHSO4 (C) NaCl (D) NaOH
[2010410096]
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 47
Q.8 The compound(s) formed upon combustion of sodium metal in excess air is (are) [JEE-2009]

(A) Na2O2 (B) Na2O (C) NaO2 (D) NaOH
[2010410249]
Q.9 Amongst the following, the total number of compounds whose aqueous solution turns red litmus paper
blue is [JEE-2010]
KCN K2SO 4 (NH4)2C2O4 NaCl Zn(NO3)2
FeCl3 K2CO 3 NH4NO3 LiCN
[2010410031]
SECTION-B
(JEE Main Previous Year's Questions)
Q.1 The set representing the correct order of ionic radius is : [AIEEE -09]

(A) Li+ > Be2+ > Na+ > Mg2+ (B) Na+ > Li+ > Mg2+ > Be2+
(C) Li+2 > Na+ > Mg2+ > Be2+ (D) Mg2+ > Be2+ > Li+ > Na+
[2010413971]
Q.2 Which of the following on thermal decomposition yields a basic as well as an acidic oxide ?
(A) CaCO3 (B) NH4NO3 (C) NaNO3 (D) KClO3 [AIEEE-12]
[2010413976]
48 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
EXERCISE-1
Q.1 D Q.2 B Q.4 A Q.5 A

Q.6 D Q.7 C Q.8 B Q.9 C
Q.10 A Q.11 C Q.12 A Q.13 C
Q.14 D Q.15 D Q.16 A Q.17 A
Q.18 B Q.19 D Q.20 C Q.21 B
Q.22 A Q.23 A Q.24 B Q.25 D
Q.26 D
EXERCISE-2
Q.1 B Q.2 C Q.3 D Q.4 C

Q.5 D Q.6 A Q.7 A Q.8 D
Q.9 C Q.10 C Q.11 A, B, C, D Q.12 B, C, D
Q.13 A, B, C, Q.14 A, B, D Q.15 A-R, B-s, C-p, d-r
Q.16 A-q, B-r, C-p,s, D-p Q.17 A-q, B-r, C-p, D-s
Q.18 A-q, B-s, C-r, D-p Q.19 (a) 4 (b) 1 (c) 2 (d) 3
Q.20 (a) 2 (b) 3 (c) 1 (d) 4
EXERCISE-3
Q.16 6
EXERCISE-4
SECTION-A
Q.1 B Q.2 D Q.3 C Q.4 B

Q.5 A, B Q.6 B Q.7 B Q.8 A, B
Q.9 3
SECTION-B
Q.1 B Q.2 A
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 49
EXERCISE-1
1. (A) CaC2 + H2O  Ca(OH)2 + HC  CH
(B) Be2C + 2H2O  2 BeO + CH4
(C) Al4C3 + 12H2O  4Al(OH)3 + 3CH4
(D) Mg2C3 + 4H2O  2Mg(OH)2 + H3C–C  CH
2. Ba+2 gives green colour in flame test
BaCrO4  yellow ppt
BaS2O3 reacts with dil HCl & produce S (Yellow ppt) & SO2 pungent smelling gas
4. (A) SiC  Covalent carbide.
(B) Be2C + 4H2O  2Be(OH)2 + CH4 
(C) CaC2 + 2H2O  HC  CH  + Ca(OH)2
(D) Mg2C3 + 2H2O  2Mg(OH)2 + H3C – C  CH 
5. The golden yellow colour associated with NaCl to Bunsen flame can be explained on the basis of low
ionisation potential of sodium.
6. The solution becomes diamagnetic when concentration of metal increases and electrons are going to
become paired up within the solvent cage.
7. Na(NH4)HPO4·4H2O (Microcosmic salt) uses in qualitative inorganic analysis for the dry test of basic
radicals.

8. Ca(OH)2 + Na2CO3 
 2NaOH + CaCO3
(A) (B) (C)
Ca(OH)2 CO
2  CaCO3
(A) (C)
10. Milk of magnesia is a suspension of MgO + H2O
 2 2

12.  C  C  C  has two sigma and two pi bonds
 
15. Acidic salt NaHCO3 and NaOH (base) react with each other so they cannot exist together in aqueous
solution.
50 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
17. Ca(NH) + 2H2O  Ca(OH)2 + NH3 (g)
(B)
2NH3 + 3CaOCl2  N2(g) + 3CaCl2 + 3H2O
(B) (C)
N2 (g) + 3Mg  Mg3N2
(C) (D)
Mg3N2 + 6H2O  3Mg(OH)2 + 2NH3
(D) (B)
19. BeF2 + 2NaF  Na2[BeF4]
below 1
20. NaNO3  NaNO2 + O
500C 2 2
 1
Cu(NO3)2  CuO + 2NO2 + O
2 2
21. K4[Fe(CN)6] + 6H2SO4 + 6H2O — 2K2SO4 + FeSO4 + 3(NH4)2SO4 + 6CO
conc.
K4[Fe(CN)6] + 3H2SO4 — 2K2SO4 + FeSO4 + 6HCN
(dil.)
22. NaOH + CuSO4 + sodium (M) Potassium(M1) tartarate solution is known as Fehling solution and is
used in the detection of –CHO group
23. Milk of magnesia is a suspension of MgO + H2O
24.  Na2CO3 precipitates out Ca++ and Mg++ from hard water as insoluble carbonates
 Calgon; (NaPO3)6 ; exchanges Ca++ and Mg++ from hard water
 Permutit : common type of zeolite, it exchanges Ca++ and Mg++ from hard water with its Na+
and also does not allow to pass large sized molecules from it.
EXERCISE-2
Paragraph for question nos. 1 to 2

Sol. M(s) + NH3(liq.)  M+. ( NH 3 ) x + e.( NH3 ) y
excess Ammoniated e responsible for
blue color & reducing character.
If conc. of solution is increased, then association of solvated electrons get started hence, paramagnetism
decreases.
3. Statement - I is false, statement - II is true
4. Among sulphate salt of alkali metals only Li2SO4 does not forms alum, as Li+ has very small size.
Li2SO4
Li forms Li2NH with NH3 gas.
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 51
5. BeCl2 can be easily hydrolysed due to its e– deficient nature
BeCl2 + 2H2O — Be(OH)2 + 2HCl 
6. (A) Ionic radius of NH4+ is almost equal to ionic radius of K+

7. 2Mg + CO2  2MgO + C
Mg is a strong reducing agent & have great affinity for O2 at high temperature.
8. Mg2+ + ZnSO4  MgSO4 + Zn++. It is not metal displacement reaction in which more active
metal displaces less active metal from its salt solution
11. M + x · NH3  M+ + e ·xNH3

Ammoniated electron
responsible for blue colour
12. Thermal stability of Nitrates of alkali metals
LiNO3 < NaNO3 < KNO3 < RbNO3 < CsNO3
Metal carbonate solubility
Li2CO3 < Na2CO34 < K2CO34 < Rb2CO3 < Cs2CO3
Only NaHCO3 is insoluble in water due to association of HCO3¯ by intermolecular H-bonding
O O
HO O¯ C HO O¯ C
C HO O¯ C HO O¯
O O
13. Be, Sn and Ga are amphoteric metals
14. (A) (B) (C) (D)

Li
Na
K
Pb
Cs
Increases Increases Decreases Increases
EXERCISE-3
1. A = NaHSO3, B=Na2SO3, C = Na2S2O3, D =Na2S4O6
2. (CH3COO)2 Ca shows exothermic dissolution whereas Pb(NO3)2 shows endothermic dissolution.
According to Le-chatellier principle the solubility of (CH3COO)2 Ca decreases and solubility of
Pb(NO3)2 increases with temperature.
3. BeCl2 is salt of weak base Be(OH)2 and strong acid HCl and thus undergoes hydrolysis to result in
an acidic solution in water
hydration
 [Be(H2O)2]2+ + 2Cl–
BeCl2 + H2O 
52 ACC- CH-s-BLOCK
Beryllium chloride is acidic when dissolved in pure water because the hydrated ions hydrolyses,
producing H3O+. The Be2+ ions are easily hydrated first because of high charge-size ratio. The
hydrolysis happens because the Be–O bond is very strong and so in the hydrated ion this weakens
the O–H bonds hence there is a tendency to lose protons.
hydration
[Be(H2O)]2+ + H2O   [Be(H2O)3OH]+ + H3+O
4. A = Ca(OH)2, B = NH4HCO3, C = Na2CO3, D = NH4Cl, E = CaCl2
5. (i) Na2O2 is powerful oxidant and bleacing agent and bleaches red litmus paper to white in aqueous
solution state.
Na2O2 + 2HO  2NaOH + H2O + [O]
(ii) The other compound Na2O will give NaOH on dissolution in water. The red litmus will turn to
blue.
6. Ag+; because Ag+ has pseudo noble gas configuration which makes it more polarising and therefore
stronger acid.
7. Alkaline earth metals have smaller size and more nuclear charge. So higher degree of hydration.
8. SrSO4 > CaSO4 > MgSO4 > BeSO4
9. A = Mg, B = Mg3N2, C = Mg(OH)2, D = NH3 (A) may be Ca or Ba
10. A = Na2S2O3, B = I2 ; C = Ag2S, D = [Fe(S2O3)2]–, E = Na4[Cu6(S2O3)5]
11. (A) = O3, (B) = KO3, (C) = O2
12. (A) = KO2; B = K2SO4 (C) = K2SO4.Al2(SO4)3.24H2O
13. NiO < MgO < SrO < K2O < Cs2O
14. [X] = NaOH
15. CsI < RbI < KI < NaI < LiI
16. It is a cyclic structure having six P–O–P linkages.
ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 53
EXERCISE-4
SECTION-A
1. Mg + N2  Mg3 N2 H 2O

 Mg(OH)2 + NH3
CaSO4 + NH3 (aq)  [Cu(NH4)4]SO4
deep blue colour
4. Blue solution to the presence of solvated/ammonated e¯
5. NH4NO3 or NH4NO2 + NaOH  NH3 (non flammable gas) + H2O + NaNO3
Zn react with this solution & produce nacent hydrogen which can reduce NO3¯/ NO2¯ in ammo-
nia.
6. White phosphorus (P4) on reaction with NaOH gives PH3 (oxidation state of phosphorus is –3) &
NaH2PO2 (oxidation state of phosphorus is +1). This reaction is type of disproportionation reaction.
7. Aqueous solution of Na2S2O3 on reaction with Cl2 gives NaHSO4.
1 
8. 2Na + O  Na2O 
2 2 Parallel reaction takes place
2Na + O2  Na2O2 

SECTION-B
1. Na+ > Li+ > Mg+2 > Be+2
116 pm > 90 pm > 86 >
Ionic size increases down the group and decreases in period from left to right.

CaCO3 CaO + CO2
Basic Acidic

NH4NO3 N2O + H2O
Neutral oxide
2. 
NaNO3 NaNO2 + 1/2 O2

2KClO3 2KCl + 3O2
Metal oxides are bases non metallic oxides are acidic except CO, NO, H2O, N2O are neutral oxide.

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ACC- CH-s-BLOCK 1

(i) The Elements : are Li , Na, K, Rb, Cs, Fr (Radioactive : t1/2 of Fr233 = 21 minutes)

(ii) Atomic Radii. The atomic radii of alkali metals are largest in their respective periods. The atomic

(iii) Ionic Radii. Alkali metals change into positively charged ions by losing their outermost electron.

(iv) Density. Alkali metals have low densities due to their large atomic size. Densities increase on

(v) Ionization Energy. The first ionization energies of alkali metals are very low as compared with

(vi) Electropositive Character. On account of their low ionization energies, these metals have a strong

(vii) Oxidation State. Alkali metals exhibit an oxidation state of +1.

(viii) Reducing Character : All the alkali metals are good reducing agents due to their low ionization energies.

(ix) Melting and Boiling point. The generally low values for cohesive energy are reflected in the very

(xii) Crystal Structure : All the Alkali metals have their body centre cubic (BCC) structure with

(xiii) Flame Colouration. Alkali metals impart characteristic colours to the flame when they are heated

(xiv) Colour - The compounds of alkali metals are typically white

(xv) Magnetic behaviour - The compounds of alkali metals are diamagnetic. Superoxides of alkali

(xvi) Hydration. Most of alkali metal salts dissolve in water. In solution alkali metal ions are hydrated.

 The alkali metals are highly reactive elements. The reactivity of alkali metals is due to low

(ii) Formation of oxides and hydroxides :

(iii) Reaction with nitrogen. Lithium is the only element in the group that reacts with dinitrogen to

(iv) Reaction with water. The hydroxides of alkali meals are strong bases, all of which are highly

(vii) Reaction with Non Metals - Alkali metals, on heating react with non – metals such as sulphur

(viii) Solubility in Liquid Ammonia.

(xii) Nature of sulphate Salts:

(xiii) Crown Ethers and Cryptands:

ORES OF ALKALI METALS

(A) Ores of Lithium

(B) Ores of Sodium

(C) Ores of Potassium

EXTRACTION OF ALKALI METALS

(i) Lithium : Extraction of lithium involves two steps

(iii) Potassium : Potassium is obtained by electrolysis of fused potassium hydroxide (KOH)

COMPOUND OF ALKALI METALS

(1) Sodium Monoxide (Na2O)

(3) Sodium Hydroxide (Caustic Soda), NaOH

(4) Sodium Carbonate (Na2CO3) : It exists in various forms, namely anhydrous sodium carbonate

Manufacture: (Solvay or ammonia soda process). In this process, brine (NaCl), ammonia and

2MgCl2  2Na 2 CO3  H 2 O 

(5) Sodium Sulphate (Na2SO4. 10 H2O) (Glauber’s salt)

(7) Sodium Thiosulfate (Na2S2O3)·5H2O

(8) Sodium Bicarbonate (NaHCO3)

POTASSIUM AND ITS COMPOUNDS

(i) Oxides of Potassium:

(iii) Potassium carbonate (K2CO3): It is also known as pearl ash.

(iv) Potassium Bicarbonate (KHCO3)

(v) Potassium Sulphate (K2SO4)

K 2SO4 .MgSO 4 .6H 2 O  2KCl 

ALKALINE EARTH METALS

ALKALI EARTH METAL & THEIR COMPOUNDS

(i) Electronic configuration : The Elements are Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba Ra,

(x) Reducing properties. The members of this group are weaker reducing agents than the alkali metals.

(xii) Solubility of Liquid Ammonia. All these metals dissolve in liquid NH3.

 Alkaline earth metals are quite reactive elements due to their low ionization energies and high

EXTRACTION OF ALKALINE METALS

Anomalous behaviour of Be and its diagonal relationship with Al

COMPOUND OF ALKALINE EARTH METALS

(ii) Hydrides : BeH2 is covalent. MgH2 is partially covalent and the remaining hydrides are largely

sp3 sp3 sp3 sp3 sp3

(iii) Halides : II group metals when heated with halogens, give the halides. Beryllium halides (eg. BeF2

(iv) Sulphates : BeSO4 is slightly soluble in water. The solubility of the sulphates of the metals decreases

(v) Carbonates and bicarbonates : The carbonates of alkaline earth metals are insoluble in water: the

(vi) Carbides of II group metal are ionic carbides, which may be in a methanide or acetylide or allylide.

On heating 160ºC 200ºC

(ii) Magnesium Chloride MgCl2. 6H2O

Mg(OH) 2  2HCl  MgCl 2  2H 2 O