Which one of the following alkaline earth metal carbonates is thermally the most stable?
Correct answer: A. BaCO3
- A. BaCO3
- B. MgCO3
- C. CaCO3
- D. SrCO3
Explanation
'Barium carbonate' is thermally the most stable. As we move down the group, the charge density of the cation decreases due to increasing cationic radius. As a result, the polarisation of the anion decreases, or the polarising ability of the cation decreases down the group. The lesser the polarisation, the greater the stability of a compound. Hence as we move down the group thermal stability of the carbonates increases. Barium is the lowest down in the group hence its carbonate has the greatest thermal stability.
Last updated
About s-Block and p-Block Elements
The s and p blocks are studied through their valence-shell configurations, periodic trends and characteristic chemical properties. Work covers the reactions of Group I and Group II elements, the behaviour of Group IV elements, and how atomic size, ionization energy, electronegativity and metallic character change across periods and down groups.
Practise s-Block and p-Block Elements
1,359 free s-Block and p-Block Elements MCQs from Chemistry, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.
Exams that ask Chemistry questions like this
Chemistry is on 12 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.
Related questions
2NaOH(aq) + Cl2(g) → NaCl + NaClO + H2O proceed at:
A compound 'X' on heating gives a colourless gas. The residue is dissolved in water to produce 'Y'. When CO₂ is passed through the aqueous solution of 'Y', it produces 'Z', which on gentle heating gives back 'X'. Compound 'X' is:
A elements are named as alkali metals because
A gas which burn with blue flame is:
A gas which burns with a blue flame is