Moderate

Which one of the following alkali metals forms only normal oxide when it reacts with O2 ?

Correct answer: A. Lithium

  • A. Lithium
  • B. Sodium
  • C. Potassium
  • D. Rubidium

Explanation

Lithium reacts with oxygen mainly to form the normal oxide, Li2O. The larger alkali metals form peroxides or superoxides because their larger cations can stabilize these larger oxide ions. Students may choose sodium because it is also commonly associated with oxides, but sodium forms mainly sodium peroxide in excess oxygen.

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About Reactions of Group I Elements

Group I elements have one valence electron, so their reactivity increases down the group as ionisation energy decreases. Their reactions with water, oxygen, hydrogen and halogens produce hydroxides, oxides, hydrides and halides, while the behaviour of lithium differs from the heavier metals because of its small ionic size.

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