Moderate

LiF is the least soluble among the fluorides of alkali metals because:

Correct answer: C. The lattice energy of LiF is quite high due to the smaller size of Li+ and F-

  • A. The smaller size of Li+ imparts significant covalent character in LiF
  • B. The hydration energies of Li+ and F- are quite high
  • C. The lattice energy of LiF is quite high due to the smaller size of Li+ and F-
  • D. LiF has a strong polymeric network in solid form

Explanation

Due to the very small ionic radii of both Li⁺ and F⁻, the electrostatic attraction between them is extremely strong. This results in a very high lattice energy, which is difficult for the hydration energy to overcome, making LiF sparingly soluble.

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