Master The NCERT > CHEMISTRY (Vol-I )

CHAPTER > 10

s-Block Elements
KEY NOTES

The elements in which the last electron enters the outermost Reactivity Towards Air
s-orbital are called s-block elements. Group 1 elements ˜ On combustion in excess of air, lithium forms monoxide
(alkali metals) and group 2 elements (alkaline earth metals) (Li 2 O), sodium forms peroxide (Na 2 O2 ) and the other metals
constitute s-block elements. form superoxides ( KO2 , RbO2 , CsO2 ).
Group 1 Elements : Alkali Metals 4Li + O2 → 2Li 2 O (oxide)
˜ Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs and Fr belong to alkali earth metals. They 2Na + O2 → Na 2 O2 (peroxide)
are collectively known as alkali metals because they form M + O2 → MO2 (superoxides) ( M = K, Rb, Cs)
hydroxides on reaction with water which are strongly ˜ The stability of peroxides and superoxides increases with
alkaline in nature. increase in atomic number of alkali metals.
˜ The general electronic configuration is ns1 . ˜ Except lithium other metals of the group react explosively
Atomic and Ionic Radii with water.
They have the largest sizes in a particular period of the periodic ˜ Lithium shows exceptional behaviour in reacting directly
table. The atomic and ionic radii increases on moving down with nitrogen of air to form the nitride, Li 3 N.
the group. Because of their high reactivity towards air and water, alkali
metals are kept in kerosene oil.
Ionisation Enthalpy
Reactivity Towards Water
They have low ionisation enthalpies and decreases down the group.
Alkali metals react with water to form metal hydroxide and
Hydration Enthalpy dihydrogen.
Hydration enthalpy of these metal ions decreases with increase 2M + 2H2 O → 2M + + 2OH− + H2 ↑
in ionic size. Hence, the correct order is
Reactivity Towards Dihydrogen
Li + > Na + > K + > Rb + > Cs + .
All the alkali metal hydrides are ionic solids with high melting
Physical Properties points.
2M + H2 → 2M + H−
˜ They are silvery white, soft and light metals.
˜ They have low density which increases down the group. Reactivity Towards Halogens
˜ The melting and boiling point of the alkali metals are low Alkali metals readily react vigorously with halogens to form
and impart characteristics colour to an oxidising flame. ionic halides M + X− . Lithium halides are somewhat covalent.
Metal Li Na K Rb Cs Reducing Nature
Colour Crimson red Yellow Violet Red violet Blue Alkali metals are good reductant and Li because of its most
λ/nm 670.8 589.2 766.5 780.0 455.5 negative E° , is most powerful reductant among them and Na is
least powerful.
Chemical Properties Solution in Liquid Ammonia
The alkali metals are highly reactive due to their large size and The solution of alkali metals in liquid ammonia is blue,
low ionisation enthalpy. The reactivity of these metals
paramagnetic and has high reducing capacity.
increases down the group.
This is because of the presence of solvated electrons. Salts of Oxo-Acids
+ −
M + ( x + y)NH3 → [M (NH3 ) x] + [e (NH3 ) y ] ˜ The alkali metals form salts with all the oxo-acids which are
Solvated electrons generally soluble in water and thermally stable. Their
carbonates and in most cases the hydrogen carbonate are also
In concentrated solution, the blue colour changes to
highly stable to heat.
bronze and becomes diamagnetic.
˜ As the electropositive character increases down the group, the
Uses of Alkali Metals stability of the alkali metal carbonates and hydrogen
˜ Li metal is used to make useful alloys, in thermonuclear carbonates also increases down the group.
reactions, to make electrochemical cells. ˜ Lithium carbonate (Li 2 CO 3 ) is not so stable to heat and leads
˜ Liquid Na is used as a coolant in fast breeder nuclear to the formation of more stable Li 2 O and CO2 . Its hydrogen
reactors. carbonate does not exist as solid.
˜ K has a vital role in biological systems. Anomalous Behaviour of Lithium
˜ KOH is used as a fertiliser. Due to smallest size of lithium, it shows very high ionisation
˜ Cs is used in devising photoelectric cells. enthalpy and highest electronegativity in the group.
Lithium shows diagonal relationship to magnesium (Mg).
General Characteristics of the Compounds It also shows following properties which differ it from other
of the Alkali Metals alkali metals :
Oxides and Hydroxides ˜ It is harder than other alkali metals due to strong metallic bond.

˜ The stability of peroxides and superoxides of ˜ Unlike other alkali metals, it reacts with nitrogen to form

alkali metals increases down the group. nitride.

Order of solubility : ˜ Li CO , LiF, LiSO and Li PO are insoluble in water, while
2 3 4 3 4
Normal oxides > peroxides > superoxides the corresponding salts of other alkali metals are soluble in
˜ Alkali metal oxides hydrolysed with water to give water.
alkali metal hydroxides. ˜ Its melting and boiling points are higher than that of other

alkali metals.
M2 O + H2 O → 2M + + 2OH−
˜ It is least reactive but strongest reducing agent among all

Halides alkali metals.

˜ All metal chlorides of group-I elements are ionic except ˜ LiCl is deliquescent and crystallises as LiCl ⋅ 2H O, whereas
2
LiCl, which is covalent in nature. other alkali metal chlorides do not form hydrates.
˜ Li unlike other alkali metals does not form ethynide on
˜ The order of melting and boiling point of metal halides is
reaction with ethyne.
MF > MCl > MBr > MI.
˜ LiNO on heating gives Li O, while other alkali metal nitrates
3 2
˜ All the halides are water soluble. The low solubility of
give nitrites.
LiF in water is due to high lattice enthalpy, whereas
˜ Bicarbonates and carbonates of Li are unstable towards heat
low solubility of CsI is due to smaller hydration
enthalpy. and decomposes to give Li 2 O.

Some Important Compounds of Sodium

Sodium carbonate or washing soda Sodium hydrogen
Sodium chloride Sodium hydroxide
Compounds (Na 2CO3.10H2O) carbonate or baking soda
(NaCl) or caustic soda (NaOH)
(NaHCO3 )
Preparation • It is manufactured by Solvay process, also • Crude sodium chloride generally It is prepared by electrolysis of It is prepared by saturating
called ammonia soda process. obtained by crystallisation of brine sodium chloride in solution of Na 2CO3 (cold) with
solution contains Na 2 SO 4 , CaSO 4 , Castner-Kellner cell; brine CO2 .
• Sodium bicarbonate being sparingly soluble, solution is electrolysed using a
CaCl 2 and MgCl 2 as impurities.
crystallises out. This is finally calcined to form Na 2CO3 + H 2O + CO2
mercury cathode and carbon
sodium carbonate. • To obtain pure NaCl, the crude salt → 2NaHCO3
anode.
Reactions involved is dissolved in minimum amount of
water and filter to remove insoluble • At cathode :
• 2NH 3 + H 2O + CO2 → (NH 4 ) 2 CO3 impurities. Hg
Na+ + e − → Na − amalgam
• (NH 4 ) 2 CO3 + H 2O + CO2 → 2NH 4 HCO3 • The solution is then saturated with
• NH 4 HCO3 + NaCl → NH 4Cl + NaHCO3 ↓ HCl crystals of pure NaCl separate • At anode :
1
out. Cl − → Cl 2 + e −
• 2NaHCO3 → Na 2CO3 + CO2 ↑ + H 2O 2
• Potassium carbonate cannot be prepared by • Amalgam is treated with water
this process because potassium carbonate is to give NaOH and H 2 .
fairly soluble in water. • 2 Na-amalgam + 2H 2O →
2NaOH + 2Hg + H 2 ↑

KEY NOTES
 Sodium carbonate or washing soda Sodium hydrogen
Sodium chloride Sodium hydroxide
Compounds (Na 2CO3.10H2O) carbonate or baking soda
(NaCl) or caustic soda (NaOH)
(NaHCO3 )
Properties • White crystalline solid. • White crystalline ionic solid • Deliquescent, white crystalline • White crystalline powder
• It exist as a decahydrate Na 2CO3 ⋅ 10H 2O, also (melting point 1081 K). solid. • Less soluble than sodium
known as washing soda. • Soluble in water (solubility 36% • It melts at 591 K. carbonate.
at 293 K) with absorption of heat. • Dissolves readily in water to
• On heating, it loses water of crystallisation
375K yield highly alkaline solution
Na 2CO3 ⋅ 10H 2O → which is corrosive, soapy to
Na 2CO3 ⋅ H 2O + 9H 2O touch and bitter in taste.
> 373 K
Na 2CO3 ⋅ 10H 2O → Na 2CO3 + H 2O
• Solubility decreases with increase in
temperature.

Uses • In water softening, laundering and cleaning. • An essential constituent of food • In the manufacture of soap, • In pharmaceutical products
• In paper, paints and textile industries. (common salt or table salt) and a paper, artificial silk, pure fats, including antacid.
preservative of food articles like oils and a number of • As a mild antiseptic for skin
• In the manufacture of glass, soap, borax and meat, fish etc. chemicals.
caustic soda. infections.
• As laboratory reagent both in qualitative and • Used to prepare sodium compounds, • In petroleum refining and • In fire extinguishers.
Na 2O2 , NaOH, Na 2CO3 . textile industries for
quantitative analysis.
mercerising cotton fabrics.
• Soda ash (Na 2CO3 ) is used in petroleum
• In the purification of bauxite.
refinery and textile industry.
• As a laboratory reagent.

Biological Importance of Sodium The hydration enthalpies of alkaline earth metal ions are
and Potassium lower than those of alkali metal ions.
˜ Sodium and potassium play an important role in nerve Physical Properties
signal transmission. ˜ Alkaline earth metals are silvery white, lustrous and
˜ Na + ions also regulate the flow of water across relatively soft but harder than the alkali metals.
cell membranes and in transport of sugar and amino acids ˜ The melting and boiling points are higher than
into cells. corresponding alkali metals.
˜ K + ions activates many enzymes participitate in the ˜ The electropositive character increases down the group
oxidation of glucose to produce ATP. from Be to Ba.
Group 2 Elements : Alkaline Earth ˜ In Bunsen flame, all alkaline earth metals (except Be and
Mg) give coloured flame.
Metals
˜ They have high electrical and thermal conductivities.
˜ Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba and Ra belong to group II. They are
collectively known as alkaline earth metals because their Chemical Properties
oxides and hydroxides are alkaline in nature and these The alkaline earth metals are less reactive than alkali metals.
metal oxides are found in the earth’s crust. The reactivity of these elements increases on going down the
˜ The general electronic configuration is ns2 . group.
Atomic and Ionic Radii Reactivity Towards Air and Water
˜ They have smaller atomic and ionic radii than those of Be and Mg are kinetically inert to oxygen and water because
corresponding alkali metals. of the formation of an oxide film, while Ca, Sr and Ba are
˜ Within the group, the atomic and ionic radii increases with readily attacked by air to form oxide and nitride.
increase in atomic number. Reactivity Towards Halogens
Ionisation Enthalpy All alkaline earth metals combine with halogen at elevated
˜ They have low ionisation enthalpies due to large size of the temperatures forming halides of type , MX2 .
atoms. M + X2 → MX2
˜ Down the group, the ionisation enthalpy decreases. Reactivity Towards Hydrogen
Hydration Enthalpy Except beryllium, all alkaline earth metals combine with
Hydration enthalpy of these metal ions decreases with hydrogen upon heating to form their hydrides. BeH 2 can be
increase in ionic size. prepared by the reaction of BeCl 2 with LiAlH 4 .
Be 2+ > Mg 2+ > Ca 2+ > Sr 2+ > Ba 2+ 2BeCl 2 + LiAlH4 → 2BeH2 + LiCl + AlCl 3

KEY NOTES
Reactivity Towards Acids ˜ The solubility, thermal stability and basic character of
Alkaline earth metals readily react with acids liberating these hydroxides increases from Mg(OH) 2 to Ba(OH) 2 .
dihydrogen. Halides
M + 2HCl → MCl 2 + H2 ↑ ˜ All halides of alkaline earth metals are ionic except Be
Reducing Nature which are covalent and electron deficient.
˜ Alkaline earth metals are strong reducing agents but their ˜ Beryllium chloride has a chain structure in the solid state.
reducing power is less than those of their corresponding Salts of Oxo-Acids
alkali metals. ˜ Solubility of carbonates and sulphates of alkaline earth
˜ Reducing nature increases from Be to Ba, as the ionisation metals decreases on moving down the group.
enthalpies decreases and electrode potential become more ˜ The thermal stability of carbonates increases with
and more negative with increasing atomic number. increase in cationic size.
Solutions in Liquid Ammonia ˜ The nitrates of alkaline earth metals are made by
The solution of alkaline earth metals is deep blue black. dissolution of carbonates in dilute nitric acid.
M + ( x + y )NH3 → [ M(NH3 ) x]2+ + 2[ e(NH3 ) y ]− ˜ Nitrates decompose on heating to give oxide .
2M(NO3 ) 2 → 2MO + 4NO2 + O2
Uses of Alkaline Earth Metals
˜ Be is used in the manufacture of alloys, Mg is used in flash Anomalous Behaviour of Beryllium
powders and bulbs, MgCO3 is an ingredient of toothpaste. ˜ Beryllium has exceptionally small atomic and ionic size,
˜ Calcium is used in the extraction of metals from oxides. high charge density and absence of vacant d-orbitals.
˜ Ca and Ba metals have often been used to remove air from
˜ It forms covalent compounds. Its oxide and hydroxide
vacuum tubes. are amphoteric. It does not exhibit coordination number
more than four.
˜ Ra salts are used in radiotherapy. e.g., in treatment of cancer.
˜ It shows diagonal relationship with aluminium.
General Characteristics of Compounds of the e.g. both Al and Be are not readily attacked by acids.
Alkaline Earth Metals ˜ The chloride of both Be and Al have bridged chloride
Oxides and Hydroxides (Cl − ) structure in vapour state.
˜ All the alkaline earth metals, oxides and hydroxides are basic ˜ Be and Al ions have strong tendency to form complexes.
except BeO and Be(OH) 2 which are amphoteric in nature.
Some Important Compounds of Calcium
Plaster of Paris or
hemihydrate of
Calcium oxide or quick lime or Calcium hydroxide or calcium sulphate
Compounds Calcium carbonate (CaCO 3 )
burnt lime (CaO) slaked lime [Ca(OH) 2 ]  1 
 CaSO 4 . H 2O 
 2 

Preparation By heating limestone to 1000°C By adding water to quick lime •By passing CO2 through slaked •It can be prepared by
in rotary kiln. CaO + H2O → Ca(OH)2 lime. heating gypsum at
1070- 1270 K Quick lime 150-160°C.
CaCO3 c CaO + CO2 Ca(OH)2 + CO2 → 150-160° C
2(CaSO4.2H2O) →
CaCO3 + H2O Gypsum
•By adding aqueous solution of (CaSO4 )2. H2O + 3H2O
Na 2CO3 in CaCl 2 solution. Plaster of Paris

CaCl 2 + Na 2CO3 → CaCO3 •Gypsum on heating at

+ 2NaCl 200°C gives dead burnt
plaster (CaSO4 ).

Physical •White amorphous solid having •White amorphous powder. • CaCO3 is a white fluffy powder. •It is a white powder.
properties melting point 2870 K. •Sparingly soluble in water. •Insoluble in water. •It has a remarkable
•Basic in nature. •Aqueous solution is known as property of setting with
•On exposure to atmosphere, it lime water water.
absorbs moisture and carbon •Suspension of slaked lime in
dioxide. water is known as milk of lime.

KEY NOTES
 Plaster of Paris or
hemihydrate of
Calcium oxide or quick lime or Calcium hydroxide or calcium sulphate
Compounds Calcium carbonate (CaCO 3 )
burnt lime (CaO) slaked lime [Ca(OH) 2 ]  1 
 CaSO 4 . H 2O 
 2 

Chemical It undergoes following reactions : CaCl2 CaO+CO2

properties + Ca(OCl)2
Ca(OH)2
+H2O 1200K
H 2O Cl2
CO2 Cold CaCO3
SiO2
CaCO3 CaO CaSiO3
Ca(OH)2 2HCl H2SO4
O 2 CO2
P4O10
O +C
H2 CaCl2+H2O+CO2 CaSO4+H2O+CO2
CaCO3+ H2O
Ca3(PO4)2 Ca(HCO3)2

Uses • For manufacturing cement. • In water softening. • As a building material in the • The largest use of
• In the manufacture of sodium • In preparation of washing soda. form of marble. plaster of Paris is in
carbonate from caustic soda. • In the preparation of mortar, a • Raw material in Solvay process. plasters.
• In the purification of sugar, in building material. • Used as a flux along with • It is also employed in
the manufacture of dye stuffs. • In white wash due to magnesium carbonate in the dentistry, in ornamental
disinfectant nature. extraction of metals such as iron. work and making casts
• For purification of sugar. • Specially precipitated CaCO3 is of statues and busts.
• In glass making. extensively used in the
•In the preparation of bleaching manufacture of high quality
powder. paper.
•As an antacid, mild abrasive in
tooth paste, a constituent of
chewing gum, and a filler in
cosmetics.

Cement ˜ Some gypsum is added to cement to slow down its setting

˜ Cement is a product obtained by combining a material rich process.
in CaO with other material such as clay which contains ˜ It is used in concrete and reinforce concrete in plastering
SiO2 along-with the oxides of Al, Fe and Mg. and in construction of bridge, dams and buildings.
˜ It is also called Portland cement.
Biological Importance of Magnesium
˜ The average composition for Portland cement is CaO
(50-60%), SiO 2 (20-25%), Al 2 O 3 (5-10%), MgO (2-3%), and Calcium
Fe2 O3 (1-2%) and SO 3 (1-2%). Biologically, Mg 2+ acts as co-factor in the enzymes that
˜ The raw materials for manufacturing of cement are utilize ATP in phosphate transfer, whereas, Ca is present in
limestone and clay. bones and teeth as apatite Ca 3 (PO4 ) 2 and in enamel on teeth
˜ Important ingredients present in Portland cement are as fluorapatite, 3Ca 3 (PO4 ) 2 .
Ca 3 SiO 4 -26%, CaSiO5 -51% and Ca 3 Al 2 O 6-11%. Also, the main pigment for absorption of light in plants is
chlorophyll which contains magnesium.

KEY NOTES
CHAPTER 10 > s-Block Elements 275

Mastering NCERT
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS

TOPIC 1 ~ Elements of Group-I and

Anomalous Properties of Lithium
1 Which of the following pair of alkali metals is 9 Which of the following metal salt has highest
relatively more abundant in nature? conductivity in aqueous medium?
(a) Sodium and rubidium (b) Lithium and sodium (a) Li + (b) Cs +
(c) Sodium and potassium (d) Lithium and potassium (c) Na + (d) K +
2 Which of the following metal is the rarest among all 10 The low melting point of alkali metals is due to
comprising only 10 −10 per cent of igneous rocks? (a) weak metallic bonding
(a) Barium (b) Radium (b) presence of only one valence electron
(c) Caesium (d) Beryllium (c) lower density
(d) Both (a) and (b)
3 Alkali metals show regular trend in their physical and
chemical property with the 11 The alkali metals and their salts show characteristic
(a) increasing atomic number (b) increasing s-electrons colour to
(c) decreasing atomic number (d) None of these (a) an oxidising flame
(b) a reducing flame
4 Which of the following reason is most appropriate
(c) they do not show any colour to any flame
regarding regular decrease in ionisation enthalpy
(d) Both (a) and (b)
along the group of alkali metals?
12 The most correct reason for the colour of the flame
(a) Increase in atomic number
due to alkali metal ions is
(b) Increase in nuclear charge
(a) presence of single valence electron
(c) Increase in atomic size
(b) excitation of valence electron
(d) Increase in atomic size overweigh the increase in nuclear
charge (c) emission of radiation in visible region when electron
come back to the ground state energy level
5 Which of the following has the lowest value of (d) None of the above
hydration enthalpy?
13 Which of the following element(s) is used as
(a) Na + (b) K + (c) Li + (d) Cs + electrode(s) in photoelectric cells?
6 The hydration enthalpies of alkali metal ions decrease (a) Sodium (b) Caesium
with increase in ionic size. Which of the following (c) Potassium (d) Both (b) and (c)
ions has maximum degree of hydration?
14 Which of the following element(s) form stable
(a) Na + (b) K + (c) Li + (d) Cs + superoxide?
7 The correct order of hydration enthalpies of alkali (a) K (b) Rb
metal ions is JEE Main 2019 (c) Cs (d) All of these
(a) Li + > K + > Na + > Rb + > Cs + 15 The oxidation state of K in KO 2 and the bonding type
(b) Li + < Na + < K + < Rb + < Cs + respectively are
(c) Li + > Na + > K + > Rb + > Cs + (a) − 1 and ionic (b) +1 and covalent
+ + + + + (c) +2 and ionic (d) +1 and ionic
(d) Li > Na > K > Rb > Cs
8 Ionic mobility of which of the following alkali metal 16 Which of the alkali metal chloride (MCl) forms its
ions is lowest when aqueous solution of their salts are dihydrate salt ( MCl ⋅ 2H 2O) easily?
put under an electric field? NEET 2017 NEET (Odisha) 2019
(a) LiCl (b) CsCl (c) RbCl (d) KCl
(a) Na (b) K (c) Rb (d) Li
17 The nature of bonding in hydride of alkali metal is 27 Which of the alkali metals forms only the normal
(a) covalent (b) ionic (c) metallic (d) coordinate oxide, M2 O on heating in air? CBSE AIPMT 2012
18 Which of the following is correct metals regarding (a) Rb (b) K (c) Li (d) Na
most and least powerful reducing agent among alkali 28 The metal, M in the reaction, M + O 2 → MO 2
metals? (superoxide) is
(a) Lithium, sodium (b) Lithium, potassium (a) lithium (b) sodium
(c) Lithium, caesium (d) Caesium, sodium
(c) potassium (d) barium
19 The metal that forms nitride by reacting directly with
29 Which compound will liberate oxygen when reacted
N 2 of air, is JEE Main 2019
with water?
(a) Rb (b) K (a) KO2 (b) Na 2 O
(c) Cs (d) Li (c) Cs 2 O2 (d) Na 2 O2
20 The E ° for Cl 2 /Cl − is 1.36, for Ag + /Ag is +0.79, 30 The colour of oxides and superoxides of alkali metals
Na + /Na is −2.71 and for Li + /Li is − 3.04. Which of in pure state respectively are
the ionic species has the maximum reducing power? (a) colourless, colourless (b) colourless, yellow
(a) Li (b) Na (c) yellow, colourless (d) colourless, red
(c) Ag (d) Cl − 31 Which of the following trend is correct regarding
21 Alkali metals dissolve in liquid ammonia and produces reactivity of alkali metal oxides?
(a) deep blue solution (a) Li 2 O < Na 2 O < K 2 O < Rb 2 O < Cs 2 O
(b) a solution which are conducting in nature (b) Li 2 O > Na 2 O > K 2 O > Rb 2 O > Cs 2 O
(c) red coloured solution (c) Li 2 O < Cs 2 O < K 2 O < Rb 2 O < Na 2 O
(d) Both (a) and (b)
(d) Na 2 O < K 2 O < Li 2 O < Rb 2 O < Cs 2 O
22 Alkali metals readily dissolve in liquid ammonia to
32 On moving from top to bottom in group I of periodic
give blue coloured solutions. The blue colour is
table the negative value of enthalpy of formation
believed to be due to JIPMER 2018
(a) becomes less negative for fluoride of alkali metals
(a) ammoniated cations
(b) becomes more negative for fluoride of alkali metals
(b) ammoniated anions
(c) ammoniated electrons (c) remains constant for fluoride of alkali metals
(d) ammoniated cations and ammoniated electrons (d) None of the above

23 Lithium halides have some covalent characters. It is 33 The correct trend of melting point and boiling point
because of of alkali metal halides is
+ (a) fluoride > chloride > bromide > iodide
(a) the high polarisation capacity of Li
(b) fluoride < chloride > bromide < iodide
(b) the low polarisation capacity of Li + (c) fluoride < chloride < bromide < iodide
(c) the high melting point of Li X (d) iodide < fluoride < chloride < bromide
(d) None of the above
34 The low solubility of LiF and CsI is due to
24 Which of the following metal is used to form an alloy (a) smaller lattice enthalpy, high hydration enthalpy
with lead (Pb), known as white metal? (b) high lattice enthalpy, smaller hydration enthalpy
(a) Na (b) K (c) high lattice enthalpy, high hydration enthalpy
(c) Li (d) All of these (d) low lattice enthalpy, low hydration enthalpy
25 Which of the following is alloy with Pb and earlier 35 The carbonates and hydrogen carbonates of alkali
used as anti-knock additives to petrol and also as metals are highly stable. Their stability
coolant in fast breeder nuclear reactor? (a) decreases from top to bottom
(a) Sodium (b) Potassium (b) increases from top to bottom
(c) Caesium (d) Both (a) and (b) (c) remains same
26 Which of the following compounds is used in the (d) does not follow a regular trend in the group
manufacturing of soft soap? 36 Lithium being very small in size, polarises a large
(a) Sodium hydroxide CO 2−
3 ion leading to the formation of more stable
(b) Potassium hydroxide (a) Li 2 O and CO (b) Li 2 O and CO2
(c) Lithium hydroxide (c) Li 2 O2 and CO (d) Li O and CO2
(d) Potassium chloride
37 Hydrogen carbonate of lithium does not exist in solid 38 Which of the following metals do not form salt with
state due to ethyne?
(a) low polarisation value of Li + (a) Li (b) Na (c) K (d) Cs
(b) low hydration energy of Li + 39 X and Y , nitrates of two different alkali metals, on
(c) high hydration energy of Li + decomposition produces their oxides and nitrites
(d) high polarisation value of Li + respectively. Here, X and Y refer respectively to
(a) LiNO3 and KNO3 (b) KNO 3 and NaNO 3
(c) KNO3 and LiNO3 (d) NaNO3 and KNO3

TOPIC 2 ~ Compounds of Group-I and their

Biological Importance
40 Which of the following is commonly known as 47 Crude sodium chloride obtained by crystallisation of
washing soda? brine solution does not contain NEET (Odisha) 2019
(a) Na 2 CO3 ⋅ 10H2 O (b) Na 2 CO3 ⋅ 7H2 O (a) MgSO 4 (b) Na 2 SO 4 (c) MgCl 2 (d) CaSO 4
(c) NaHCO3 ⋅ 10H2 O (d) NaHCO3 ⋅ 7H2 O 48 Sodium hydroxide is prepared by the electrolysis of
41 Which of the following compound is not involved in sodium chloride solution and the electrodes used as
Solvay process? cathode and anode are respectively
(a) NaNO3 (b) (NH4 )2 CO3 (a) mercury and platinum (b) platinum and mercury
(c) NH4 Cl (d) NH4 HCO3 (c) mercury and carbon (d) carbon and mercury

42 What will be the product when ammonium chloride is 49 Which of the following sequence of chemical reaction
treated with calcium hydroxide? is correct?
HCl(aq) CO2
(a) Ammonia (b) Calcium chloride (a) Na + O2 → Na 2 O → NaCl → Na 2 CO3
(c) Both (a) and (b) (d) None of these ∆
→ Na
43 Consider the following reactions : O2 H 2O CO2
(b) Na → Na 2 O → NaOH → Na 2 CO3
2NH 3 + H 2O + CO 2 → [ X ] ∆
[ X ] + H 2O + CO 2 → [Y ] → Na
HCl CO2
[Y ] + NaCl → NH 4Cl + NaHCO 3 (c) Na + H2 O → NaOH → NaCl → Na 2 CO3
∆
Here, [ X ] and [Y ] refer to → Na
(a) NaNO3 , (NH4 )2 CO3 CO2 HCl
(d) Na + H2 O → NaOH → Na 2 CO3 → NaCl
(b) (NH4 )2 CO3 , NH4 HCO3 (Molten)
(c) NaHCO3 , (NH4 )2 CO3 Electrolysis 1
(d) (NH4 )HCO3 , (NH4 )2 CO3 → Na + Cl 2
2
44 What happens when ammonium hydrogen carbonate 50 Which of the following is used in the preparation of
is added to a saturated solution of potassium chloride? cakes and pastries?
(a) Precipitate of potassium hydrogen carbonate is obtained (a) Sodium hydrogen carbonate
(b) Solution of potassium hydrogen carbonate is obtained (b) Sodium carbonate
(c) Precipitate of potassium carbonate is obtained (c) Sodium hydroxide
(d) Solution of potassium carbonate is obtained (d) Potassium hydroxide
45 Crude sodium chloride is generally obtained by 51 A compound ‘X’ is made by saturating solution of ‘Y’
crystallisation of with carbon dioxide. The white crystalline powder of
(a) NH4 Cl solution (b) NaOH solution
‘X’ being less soluble gets separated out.
The compound ‘Y’ is prepared by Solvay process. The
(c) brine solution (d) None of these
compound ‘X’ and ‘Y’ are respectively.
46 Which of the following is/are present as impurity in (a) Sodium carbonate and sodium chloride
crude sodium chloride? (b) Sodium hydrogen carbonate and sodium carbonate
(a) Magnesium chloride (b) Calcium chloride (c) Sodium hydroxide and sodium carbonate
(c) Sodium sulphate (d) All of these (d) Sodium hydrogen carbonate and sodium oxide
52 Which of the following is/are characteristic(s) of 53 The biological role of potassium ion is
baking soda? (a) it regulates flow of water across cell membrane
(a) It is used as an antiseptic for skin infections (b) it participate in oxidation of glucose of ATP
(b) It is used in fire extinguishers (c) it transport sugars to cell
(c) It is used in preparation of cakes and bakery product (d) All of the above are correct
(d) All of the above are correct

TOPIC 3 ~ Elements of Group-II and

Anomalous Properties of Beryllium (Be)
54 The alkaline earth metals have smaller size than those 62 Magnesium powder burns in air to give JEE Main 2019
of corresponding alkali metals. This is due to (a) MgO and Mg 3 N2 (b) Mg ( NO3 )2 and Mg 3 N2
(a) increase in ionisation enthalpy (c) MgO only (d) MgO and Mg( NO3 )2
(b) decrease in nuclear charge 63 Which of the following oxides are arranged in
(c) increase in nuclear charge increasing order of basic strength?
(d) increase in number of shells (a) CaO < MgO < BaO < BeO
55 The second ionisation enthalpy of the alkaline earth (b) BeO < MgO < CaO < BaO
metals are smaller than that of corresponding group (c) BaO < CaO < MgO < BeO
I metals. This is due to (d) BaO < BeO < MgO < CaO
(a) large size of alkali metals
64 BeH 2 can be prepared by
(b) stable configuration of alkali metal ions
(c) small size of alkaline earth metals (a) reaction of beryllium with H2 gas
(d) stable configuration of alkaline earth metal monocation (b) reaction of BeCl 2 with LiAlH4
56 Which of the following hydrates exist? (c) reaction of BeCl 2 with H2
(a) MgCl 2 ⋅ 6H2 O (b) NaCl ⋅ 6H2 O (d) All of the above
(c) CaCl 2 ⋅ 6H2 O (d) Both (a) and (c) 65 Which of the following is used in radiotherapy?
57 Alkali metals are generally silvery white but (a) Barium salt (b) Calcium salt
beryllium and magnesium appears to be (c) Radium salt (d) Strontium salt
(a) reddish (b) greyish 66 What type of compounds like oxide is formed by
(c) yellowish (d) None of these beryllium and magnesium?
58 Which of the following order is correct regarding (a) ionic (b) covalent (c) neutral (d) acidic
electropositive character of alkaline earth metals? 67 Which one of the following alkaline earth metal
(a) Be < Mg > Ca < Sr < Ra (b) Be > Mg > Ca > Sr > Ba sulphates has its hydration enthalpy greater than its
(c) Be < Mg < Ca < Sr < Ba (d) None of these lattice enthalpy?
59 Beryllium and magnesium do not impart any colour to (a) CaSO4 (b) BeSO4 (c) BaSO4 (d) SrSO4
the flame test. The reason behind this is 68 Which of the following can react with both HCl and
(a) lower value of ionisation energy NaOH?
(b) higher value of ionisation energy (a) BeO (b) CaO (c) MgO (d) SrO
(c) larger size of alkaline earth metal
(d) Both (b) and (c) are correct 69 Which of the following oxides is most acidic in
nature? NEET 2018
60 Beryllium and magnesium are kinetically inert to
(a) BaO (b) BeO (c) MgO (d) CaO
oxygen and water because of the formation of
(a) oxide film on their surface 70 Which of the following property of hydroxides of
(b) hydroxide film on their surface alkaline earth metals increases from top to bottom?
(c) hydrated salt (a) Thermal stability (b) Basic character
(d) None of the above (c) Solubility in water (d) All of these
61 Powder of beryllium burns in air frequently to produce 71 Which of the following is an amphoteric in nature?
(a) BeO (b) Be3 N2 NEET (National) 2019
(c) Be2 O (d) Both (a) and (b) (a) Ca(OH)2 (b) Mg(OH)2 (c) Ba(OH)2 (d) Be(OH)2
72 What happens when magnesium is burnt in air and the (c) carbonates of alkaline earth metal in dilute nitric acid
products X and Y are treated with water? (d) All of the above

Mg → X
Air
+ Y 74 Out of BeF 2 , MgF 2 , CaF 2 , SrF 2 which has
H 2 O H O maximum solubility? AIIMS 2019
↓ ↓ 2 (a) BeF 2 (b) MgF 2 (c) CaF 2 (d) SrF 2
P P +Q
75 Beryllium is reducing in nature because it has
(a) X = MgO, Y = Mg ( OH )2 , P = Mg ( OH )2 , Q = N2 (a) small value of hydration energy
(b) X = MgO, Y = Mg 3 N2 , P = Mg ( OH )2 , Q = NH3 (b) large size of Be2+
(c) X = MgO, Y = Mg 3 N2 , P = Mg ( OH )2 , Q = N2 (c) large value of enthalpy of atomisation
(d) X = MgO, Y = Mg CO3 , P = Mg ( OH )2 , Q = CO2 (d) small value of enthalpy of atomisation
73 Nitrates of alkaline earth metals can be prepared by 76 The chlorides of both beryllium and aluminium are
dissolution of soluble in organic solvent and are
(a) hydroxide of alkaline earth metal in dilute nitric acid (a) weak Lewis bases (b) amphoteric
(b) oxides of alkaline earth metal in dilute nitric acid (c) strong Lewis acids (d) strong Lewis bases

TOPIC 4 ~ Compounds of Group-II and

their Biological Importance
77 Calcium oxide is prepared by heating 82 Which one of the following is present as an active
(a) CaCO3 in Castner-Kellner cell ingredient in bleaching powder for bleaching action?
(b) CaCO3 in rotary kiln CBSE AIPMT 2011
(c) Ca(HCO3 )2 in rotary kiln (a) CaCl 2 (b) CaOCl 2
(d) Ca(HCO3 )2 in Castner-Kellner cell (c) Ca(OCl)2 (d) CaO2 Cl 2
78 Which of the following compound is a white 83 Calcium hydroxide is used in
amorphous solid and is a basic oxide which combines (a) preparation of mortar, a building material
with acidic oxides at high temperature and when (b) white wash due its disinfectant nature
slaked with soda gives solid sodalime? (c) glass making, tanning industry, for the preparation of
(a) Calcium oxide bleaching powder
(d) All of the above
(b) Calcium hydroxide
(c) Calcium carbonate 84 Calcium carbonate can be prepared by passing
(d) Calcium sulphate carbon dioxide through
(a) calcium metal (b) calcium hydroxide
79 Which of the following is not the use of quicklime?
(c) quick lime, (d) Both (a) and (b)
(a) It is used in the manufacture of sodium carbonate from
caustic soda 85 An element X is formed by adding water to
(b) It is an important primary material for manufacturing of quicklime. When CO 2 is passed through it, turns lime
cement water milky due to the formation of Y . On passing
(c) It is employed in the purification of sugar excess of CO 2 , it precipitate dissolve form Z.
(d) It is employed in the purification of salt Identify X , Y and Z
80 Slaked lime on treatment with chlorine produces a X Y Z
compound ( X ) . What is the oxidation state of (a) CaO Ca(OH) 2 CaCO 3
chlorine in the ‘X ’ ? (b) CaO Ca(HCO 3 ) 2 CaCO 3
(a) +1 (b) –1 (c) Ca(OH) 2 CaCO 3 Ca(HCO 3 ) 2
(c) Both (a) and (b) (d) 0 (d) Ca(OH) 2 CaCl 2 CaO
81 Which of the following is used as antacid in 86 Which of the following mixtures is used as a flux in
medicine? the extraction of metals?
(a) Suspension of magnesium carbonate in water (a) Calcium carbonate, strontium carbonate
(b) Suspension of hydroxide of magnesium in water (b) Magnesium carbonate, calcium chloride
(c) Suspension of hydroxide of calcium in water (c) Calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate
(d) Suspension of calcium carbonate in water (d) None of the above
 87 Molecular formula of plaster of Paris is JIPMER 2018 94 Which of the following is not an important ingredient
1 present in Portland cement?
(a) CaSO4 (b) CaSO4 ⋅ H2 O
2 (a) Ca 2 SiO4 (b) Ca 3 SiO5
(c) CaSO4 ⋅ 2H2 O (d) None of these (c) Ca 3 Al 2 O6 (d) Ca 3 (PO4 )2
88 When gypsum is heated to 393 K, it forms 95 What is the purpose of adding gypsum to the cement?
JEE Main 2020 (a) setting time of cement become less
(a) dead burnt plaster (b) CaSO4 .0.5H2 O (b) setting time of cement increases
(c) CaSO4 .5H2 O (d) anhydrous CaSO4 (c) colour of cement becomes light
89 Percentage of CaO present in Portland cement is (d) shining surface is obtained
(a) 50-60% (b) 70-80% (c) 90% (d) 40% 96 A is an important constituent of cement which is
90 Average composition of metal oxides in Portland responsible for slowing setting of cement. What is the
cement in decreasing order is number of water of crystallisation present in A?
(a) CaO > SiO2 > Al 2 O3 > MgO > Fe2 O3 (a) 2 (b) 1 (c) 0 (d) 1/2
(b) CaO > Al 2 O3 > SiO2 > MgO > Fe2 O3 97 Which of the following metal is most abundant in
(c) Al 2 O3 > CaO > SiO2 > MgO > Fe2 O3 human body?
(d) CaO > MgO > SiO2 > Al 2 O3 > Fe2 O3 (a) Na (b) K (c) Ca (d) Mg
91 For a good quality of cement, ratio of lime (CaO) to 98 Enzymes that utilise ATP in phosphate transfer
total of oxide of silicon (SiO 2 ), aluminium (Al 2O 3 ) require an alkaline earth metal ( M ) as the cofactor.
and iron (Fe 2O 3 ) should be as close to M is NEET (National) 2019
(a) 2 (b) 3 (c) 4 (d) 5 (a) Mg (b) Ca (c) Sr (d) be
92 Both lithium and magnesium display several similar 99 The main pigment for the absorption of light in plants
properties due to the diagonal relationship; however, is chlorophyll which contains
the one which is incorrect is [JEE Main 2017 (Offline)] (a) Mg (b) Mn
(a) Both form basic carbonates (c) Ca (d) Fe
(b) Both form soluble bicarbonates
100 Ion(s) of which of the following metals is/are
(c) Both form nitrides
responsible for biological functions such as
(d) nitrates of both Li and Mg yield NO2 and O2 on heating maintenance of ion balance and nerve impulse
93 What is the amount of gypsum (% by weight) added conduction?
to cement clinker to form cement? (a) Sodium (b) Potassium
(a) 0.5-1.5% (b) 2-3% (c) 4-6% (d) 6-10% (c) Magnesium (d) All of these

SPECIAL TYPES QUESTIONS

I. Statement Based Questions
101 Which of the following statement is incorrect? 103 The incorrect statement is
(a) Alkali metals tarnish in dry air to form their oxides (a) lithium is the strongest reducing agent among the alkali
(b) Lithium forms monoxide, sodium forms peroxide metals
(c) Reaction of lithium with water is more vigorous than (b) lithium is least reactive with water among the alkali
sodium metals
(d) None of the above (c) LiNO 3 decomposes on heating to give LiNO 2 and O 2
102 Which of the following statement is incorrect? (d) LiCl crystallise from aqueous solution as LiCl ⋅ 2H2 O
(a) Alkali metals have largest size in a particular period 104 Which of the following statement is incorrect?
(b) Monovalent ions are smaller than parent atom (a) Na 2 CO3 is used in glass industry
(c) Atomic and ionic radii of alkali metals increase on (b) KHCO3 is acidic salt
moving down the group
(c) K 2 CO3 can be prepared by Solvay process
(d) The ionisation enthalpies of alkali metals are high in a period
(d) Na 2 CO3 is used for metal refining
105 Which of the following statement is incorrect 112 Choose the incorrect statement(s).
regarding salt of oxo-acids of alkali metals? (a) Nitrate of magnesium crystallises with six water molecules
(a) Oxo-acids are those compounds in which the acidic (b) Barium nitrate crystallises as anhydrous salt
proton is on a hydroxyl group with an oxo group attached (c) Nitrates of alkaline earth metal decompose on heating
to the same atom to produce monoxide
(b) Carbonic acid is an oxo-acid (d) Solubility of sulphates of alkaline earth metals increases
(c) They are generally soluble in water from MgSO4 to BaSO4
(d) They are thermally unstable 113 Which of the following statement is incorrect
106 Choose the incorrect statements regarding preparation regarding beryllium?
of sodium hydroxide. (a) It forms compounds which largely covalent and get
(a) It is prepared by electrolysis of brine solution easily hydrolysed
(b) It is prepared by electrolysis of sodium chloride solution (b) Oxides and hydroxides for beryllium are basic in nature
(c) Beryllium hydroxide dissolves in excess of alkali to give
(c) It is prepared by using Castner-Kellner cell
a beryllate ion
(d) It is prepared by using Ca-amalgam (d) Beryllium and aluminium ions have strong tendency to
107 Which of the following statement is incorrect form complexes, BeF42 − , AlF63 −
regarding the uses of caustic soda? 114 Select the incorrect statement.
(a) It is used in purification of bauxite
(a) Mg 2+ ions are necessary for the activation of sulphate
(b) It is used in textile industry transfer enzymes
(c) It is used in preparation of ammonia (b) Mg is present in chlorophyll used in photosynthesis in
(d) It is used in manufacture of soap and paper green plants
108 In context with beryllium, which one of the following (c) Operation of Na + – K + pumps has biological origin
statement is incorrect? NEET 2016 (d) Operation of Na + − Mg 2 + pumps has biological origin
(a) It is rendered passive by nitric acid 115 Which of the following is incorrect statements?
(b) It forms Be2 C (a) Ca 3 (PO4 )2 forms part of bones
(c) Its salt rarely hydrolyse (b) 3Ca 3 (PO4 ) ⋅ NaF2 is part of enamel on teeth
(d) Its hydride is electron-deficient and polymeric (c) Ca 2+ ions are required for blood clotting
109 Which of the following statements is incorrect? (d) Calcium passes through the blood plasma
(a) The general electronic configuration of alkaline earth 116 Which of the following statements is/are incorrect
metal is [noble gas] ns2 . regarding the s-block elements?
(b) Ground state valence shell electronic configuration of I. Francium is highly radioactive element.
barium is 6s2 . II. Oxides and hydroxides of alkali metals and alkaline
(c) Nature of bonding present in compounds of alkaline earth metals are not alkaline in nature.
earth metals are covalent. III. Sodium and potassium are the only two s-block
(d) Both (a) and (b) are correct elements that are found in large proportion in
110 Which of the following statement is correct? biological fluids.
(a) All the alkaline earth metals combine with halogen at low IV. Biological function of s-block elements includes
temperature to form their halides maintenance of ion balance and nerve impulse
(b) Thermal decomposition of (NH4 )2 BeF4 is used for the conduction.
preparation of BeF4 (a) Only I (b) II and III (c) II and III (d) Only III
(c) BeCl 2 is conveniently made from the oxide 117 Which of the following statements is/are incorrect
(d) Alkaline earth metals readily react with acids liberating regarding property of alkali metals?
carbon dioxide I. Alkali metal on reaction with water produces a gas as a
111 Which of the following statements is correct by-product which burns with poping sound.
regarding BeO? II. Alkali metal dissolves in excess of ammonia to
(a) BeO is essentially covalent in nature produce bronze colour liquid.
(b) BeO has high value of enthalpy of formation III. Alkali metal halides are ionic in nature.
(c) BeO is thermally very stable
IV. All alkali metal hydrides are ionic in nature.
(d) All of the above
(a) I, II and III (b) Only II (c) II and IV (d) Only IV
118 Which of the following statements are correct 123 Consider the following structure :
regarding alkali metal halides?
Cl Cl Cl
I. They possess high melting point and are crystalline in Be Be Be
nature. Cl Cl Cl
II. They are prepared by reaction of appropriate oxides
with aqueous hydrohalic acid. Choose the incorrect statements regarding above
III. They are prepared by reaction of carbonates with structure.
aqueous hydrohalic acid. I. This structure is acceptable at vapour phase.
IV. They have high negative enthalpy of formation. II. Above 1200 K it dissociates into linear polymer.
(a) I and II (b) I, II and III III. This structure is acceptable only at very low
(c) II, III and I (d) All of these temperature.
(a) I and III
119 Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct (b) I and II
regarding sodium hydroxide? (c) All are correct
I. It is white and translucent. (d) I, II, III
II. It melts around 600K.
124 Which of the following is/are correct statement(s)
III. It is non-deliquescent. regarding carbonates of alkaline earth metal?
IV. It is soluble in water and its aqueous solution is highly I. They are thermally unstable.
basic in nature.
II. They are insoluble in water.
(a) I and III (b) II and IV
(c) I, III and IV (d) I, II and IV III. They cannot be precipitated by adding sodium or
ammonium carbonate.
120 Which of the following is/are correct statement(s) IV. Beryllium carbonate is thermally unstable.
regarding preparation of cakes and pastries? (a) I, II and III are correct (b) II and IV are correct
I. Baking soda is used. (c) I, II and IV are correct (d) All are correct
II. Caustic soda is used. 125 Choose the correct statements from the following
III. Evolution of CO2 makes them puffy. regarding the properties of compounds of alkaline
IV. Caustic soda produces CO2 bubbles. earth metals.
(a) I and IV are correct (b) I and III are correct I. Solubility of sulphates of Ca to Ba decreases
(c) II and III are correct (d) Only III is correct progressively.
121 Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct? II. Solubility of carbonates in water increases top to
I. Sodium and potassium are found on same side of a bottom in the group.
living cell. III. Hydrate forming tendency of alkaline earth metal
II. Sodium and potassium are present on opposite side of decreases from top to bottom.
cell. (a) I and II are correct
III. Sodium is found in blood plasma and potassium is (b) II and III are correct
found in RBC. (c) I and III are correct
IV. Sodium and potassium operates sodium-potassium (d) All of the above are correct
pump across the membrane. 126 Consider the following statements regarding calcium
(a) I and III carbonate.
(b) II, III and IV I. It is a white fluffy powder and almost soluble in water.
(c) III and IV II It decomposed to evolve carbon dioxide when heated
(d) All of the above to 1200K .
122 Which of the following statement(s) is/are not a III. It reacts with conc. acid to liberate carbon monoxide.
biological role of Na and K? IV. It is used in the manufacture of high quality paper, as
I. Nerve signals transmission. an antacid, filler in cosmetics.
II. Oxidation of glucose to ATP. Choose the correct statements and select the correct
III. Clotting of blood. option.
(a) I, II (b) III and IV
IV. Sugar and amino acid transport.
(c) I, II and IV (d) II, III and IV
(a) I and II (b) II and III (c) Only III (d) Only IV
II. Assertion and Reason Codes
A B C D
■ Directions (Q. Nos. 127-131) In the following (a) 1 4 2 5
questions a statement of Assertion (A) followed by a (b) 1 2 3 4
statement of Reason (R) is given. Choose the correct (c) 3 1 2 5
answer out of the following choices. (d) 4 5 2 1
(a) Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation 133 Choose the correct option from the codes given below
of A. regarding elements and their characteristics colour
(b) Both A and R are correct; R is not the correct explanation given in Column I and II of the following table.
of A.
(c) A is correct; R is incorrect. Column I Column II
(d) A is incorrect; R is correct A. Li 1. Crimson red
127 Assertion (A) The compounds of alkaline earth B. Na 2. Yellow
metals are more extensively hydrated than those of
C. K 3. Red violet
alkali metal.
D. Rb 4. Blue
Reason (R) This is due to low hydration energy of
alkaline earth metals as compared to alkali metal. 5. Violet

128 Assertion (A) Fluorides are less soluble than Codes

chlorides of alkaline earth metals. A B C D A B C D
Reason (R) Fluorides of alkaline earth metals have (a) 2 1 3 5 (b) 1 2 4 3
less hydration energy. (c) 1 2 5 3 (d) 1 2 3 4
129 Assertion (A) The solubility of alkaline earth metal 134 Match the elements present in Column I and uses of
carbonates and sulphates in water decreases down the alloy formed by those elements in Column II.
group. Choose the correct option from the codes given below.
Reason (R) Due to larger size of anion, the lattice Column I Column II
enthalpy will remain almost constant within a
A. Li+Pb 1. Thermonuclear reaction
particular group.
B. Li+Al 2. Bearing for motor engines
130 Assertion (A) BaCO 3 is more soluble in HNO 3 than in
C. Li+Mg 3. Aircraft parts
water.
4. Armour plates
Reason (R) Carbonate is a strong base and reacts with
H + from the strong acid, causing the barium salt to Codes
dissociate. A B C
131 Assertion (A) BeSO 4 and MgSO 4 are readily soluble (a) 1 2 4
in water. (b) 1 4 3
(c) 2 3 4
Reason (R) Greater values of hydration enthalpies of (d) 4 3 1
Be 2+ and Mg 2+ ions overcome the lattice enthalpy
135 Match the Column I with Column II and choose the
factor. correct option from the codes given below.

III. Matching Type Questions Column I Column II

A. Potassium 1. Soft soap
132 Match the Column I with Column II and choose the
correct option from the codes given below. B. Potassium chloride 2. Fertiliser
C. Potassium hydroxide 3. Photoelectric cells
Column I Column II
D. Caesium 4. Biological nerve impulse
A. Lithium 1. Present in biological fluid
Codes
B. Beryllium 2. Radioactive element
A B C D
C. Francium 3. Lower abundance (a) 4 2 1 3
D. Calcium 4. Least reactive alkali metals (b) 3 1 2 4
(c) 2 3 1 4
5. Smallest alkaline earth metal
(d) 4 2 3 1
136 Match the terms of Column I with Column II and Codes
choose the correct option from the codes given below. A B C D
Column I Column II
(a) 2 3 1 4
(b) 4 3 2 1
A. Sodium hydroxide 1. Baking soda
(c) 1 2 4 3
B. Sodium chloride 2. Brine solution
(d) 1 2 3 4
C. Sodium bicarbonate 3. Washing soda
138 Match the following items in Column I with the
D. Sodium carbonate 4. Caustic soda
corresponding items in Column II. JEE Main 2019
Codes
A B C D A B C D Column I Column II
(a) 4 2 1 3 (b) 1 2 3 4 A. Na 2CO3 ⋅ 10H2O 1. Portland cement ingredient
(c) 4 3 2 1 (d) 3 2 4 1
B. Mg(HCO3 )2 2. Castner-Kellner process
137 Match the Column I with Column II and choose the C. NaOH 3. Solvay process
correct option from the codes given below. D. Ca 3Al 2O6 4. Temporary hardness
Column I Column II
1 Codes
A. Plaster of Paris 1. CaSO4 ⋅ H2O
2 A B C D
(a) 4 1 2 3
B. Gypsum 2. CaSO4 ⋅ 2H2O
(b) 2 3 1 4
C. Dead burnt plaster 3. CaSO4 (c) 3 2 4 1
D. Bleaching powder 4. Ca(OCl)2 (d) 3 4 2 1

NCERT & NCERT Exemplar

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS
NCERT 142 Which of the following is the structure of BeCl 2 (vapour)
139 Which one of the following alkali metals gives (a) Cl — Be — Cl
hydrated salts? Be
(a) Li (b) Na (b)
Cl Cl
(c) K (d) Cs Cl
140 Potassium carbonate cannot be prepared by Solvay (c) Cl— Be Be—Cl
Cl
process because
(a) potassium hydrogen carbonate is highly soluble in water Cl Cl Cl
(d) Be Be Be
(b) potassium hydrogen carbonate is less soluble in water Cl Cl Cl
(c) potassium hydrogen carbonate is highly soluble in
benzene NCERT Exemplar
(d) Both (a) and (c)
143 The alkali metals are low melting. Which of the
141 Beryllium and magnesium do not give colour to flame following alkali metal is expected to melt if the room
whereas other alkaline earth metals do so. It is due of temperature rises to 30°C?
their (a) Na (b) K (c) Rb (d) Cs
(a) small size and high effective nuclear charge
144 Alkali metals react with water vigorously to form
(b) small size and less effective nuclear charge
hydroxides and dihydrogen. Which of the following
(c) solubility in water
alkali metals reacts with water least vigorously?
(d) None of the above
(a) Li (b) Na (c) K (d) Cs
145 The reducing power of a metal depends on various 155 By adding gypsum to cement
factors. Suggest the factor which makes Li, the (a) setting time of cement becomes less
strongest reducing agent in aqueous solution. (b) setting time of cement increases
(a) Sublimation enthalpy (b) Ionisation enthalpy (c) colour of cement becomes light
(c) Hydration enthalpy (d) Electron-gain enthalpy (d) shining surface is obtained
146 Metal carbonates decompose on heating to give metal 156 Dead burnt plaster is
oxide and carbon dioxide. Which of the metal 1
(a) CaSO4 (b) CaSO4 ⋅ H2 O
carbonates is most stable thermally? 2
(a) MgCO3 (b) CaCO3 (c) CaSO4 ⋅ H2 O (d) CaSO4 ⋅ 2H2 O
(c) SrCO3 (d) BaCO3
157 Suspension of slaked lime in water is known as
147 Which of the carbonates given below is unstable in air (a) lime water
and is kept in CO 2 atmosphere to avoid decomposition? (b) quick lime
(a) BeCO3 (b) MgCO3 (c) milk of lime
(c) CaCO3 (d) BaCO3 (d) aqueous solution of slaked lime
148 Metals form basic hydroxides. Which of the 158 Which of the following elements does not form
following metal hydroxide is the least basic? hydride by direct heating with dihydrogen?
(a) Mg(OH)2 (b) Ca(OH)2 (a) Be (b) Mg (c) Sr (d) Ba
(c) Sr(OH)2 (d) Ba(OH)2
159 The formula of soda ash is
149 Some of the group II metal halides are covalent and (a) Na 2 CO3 ⋅ 10H2 O (b) Na 2 CO3 ⋅ 2H2 O
soluble in organic solvents. Among the following
(c) Na 2 CO3 ⋅ H2 O (d) Na 2 CO3
metal halides, the one which is soluble in ethanol is
(a) BeCl 2 (b) MgCl 2 160 A substance which gives brick red flame and breaks
(c) CaCl 2 (d) SrCl 2 down on heating to give oxygen and a brown gas is
(a) magnesium nitrate
150 The order of decreasing ionisation enthalpy in alkali
(b) calcium nitrate
metals is
(c) barium nitrate
(a) Na > Li > K > Rb (b) Rb < Na < K < Li
(d) strontium nitrate
(c) Li > Na > K > Rb (d) K < Li < Na < Rb
161 Which of the following statements is true about
151 The solubility of metal halides depends on their
Ca(OH) 2 ?
nature, lattice enthalpy and hydration enthalpy of the
(a) It is used in the preparation of bleaching powder
individual ions. Amongst fluorides of alkali metals,
(b) It is a light blue solid
the lowest solubility of LiF in water is due to
(c) It does not possess disinfectant property
(a) ionic nature of lithium fluoride
(d) It is used in the manufacture of cement
(b) high lattice enthalpy
(c) high hydration enthalpy for lithium ion 162 A chemical A is used for the preparation of washing
(d) low ionisation enthalpy of lithium atom soda to recover ammonia. When CO 2 is bubbled
through an aqueous solution of A, the solution turns
152 Amphoteric hydroxides react with both alkalies and
milky. It is used in white washing due to disinfectant
acids. Which of the following group II metal
nature. What is the chemical formula of A?
hydroxides is soluble in sodium hydroxide?
(a) Ca(HCO3 )2 (b) CaO
(a) Be(OH)2 (b) Mg(OH)2
(c) Ca(OH)2 (d) CaCO3
(c) Ca(OH)2 (d) Ba(OH)2
163 Dehydration of hydrates of halides of calcium, barium
153 In the synthesis of sodium carbonate, the recovery of
and strontium i.e. CaCl 2 ⋅6H 2O, BaCl 2 ⋅ 2H 2O,
ammonia is done by treating NH 4Cl with Ca(OH) 2 .
SrCl 2 ⋅ 2H 2O, can be achieved by heating.
The by-product obtained in this process is
(a) CaCl 2 (b) NaCl (c) NaOH (d) NaHCO3 These become wet on keeping in air. Which of the
following statements is correct about these halides?
154 When sodium is dissolved in liquid ammonia, a
(a) Act as dehydrating agent
solution of deep blue colour is obtained. The colour
(b) Can absorb moisture from air
of the solution is due to
(c) Tendency to form hydrate decreases from calcium to barium
(a) ammoniated electron (b) sodium ion
(d) All of the above
(c) sodium amide (d) ammoniated sodium ion
164 Match the elements given in Column I with the Codes
properties mentioned in Column II. A B C D
(a) 3 4 2 1
Column I Column II (b) 1 2 3 4
A. Li 1. Insoluble sulphate (c) 4 3 2 1
B. Na 2. Strongest monoacidic base (d) 2 4 1 3
C. Ca 3. Most negative E s value among alkali metals 166 Match the elements given in Column I with the colour
they impart to the flame given in Column II.
D. Ba 4. Insoluble oxalate
5. 6s2 outer electronic configuration Column I Column II

Codes A. Cs 1. Apple green

A B C D A B C D B. Na 2. Violet
(a) 1 2 3 4 (b) 2 3 5 4 C. K 3. Brick red
(c) 3 2 4 5 (d) 3 4 2 5
D. Ca 4. Yellow
165 Match the compounds given in Column I with their
E. Sr 5. Crimson red
uses mentioned in Column II.
F. Ba 6. Blue
Column I Column II
A. CaCO3 1. Dentistry, ornamental work Codes
B. Ca(OH)2 2. Manufacture of sodium carbonate from
A B C D E F
caustic soda (a) 1 2 3 4 5 6
(b) 6 4 2 3 5 1
C. CaO 3. Manufacture of high quality paper
(c) 4 6 5 3 2 1
D. CaSO4 4. Used in white washing (d) 3 2 1 4 5 6

Answers
> Mastering NCERT with MCQs
1 (c) 2 (b) 3 (a) 4 (d) 5 (d) 6 (c) 7 (d) 8 (d) 9 (b) 10 (d)
11 (a) 12 (c) 13 (d) 14 (d) 15 (d) 16 (a) 17 (b) 18 (c) 19 (d) 20 (a)
21 (d) 22 (c) 23 (a) 24 (c) 25 (a) 26 (b) 27 (c) 28 (c) 29 (a) 30 (b)
31 (a) 32 (a) 33 (a) 34 (b) 35 (b) 36 (b) 37 (d) 38 (a) 39 (a) 40 (a)
41 (a) 42 (c) 43 (b) 44 (b) 45 (c) 46 (d) 47 (a) 48 (c) 49 (d) 50 (a)
51 (b) 52 (d) 53 (b) 54 (c) 55 (b) 56 (d) 57 (b) 58 (c) 59 (b) 60 (a)
61 (d) 62 (a) 63 (b) 64 (b) 65 (c) 66 (b) 67 (b) 68 (a) 69 (b) 70 (d)
71 (d) 72 (b) 73 (c) 74 (a) 75 (c) 76 (c) 77 (b) 78 (a) 79 (c) 80 (c)
81 (b) 82 (c) 83 (d) 84 (b) 85 (c) 86 (c) 87 (b) 88 (d) 89 (a) 90 (a)
91 (a) 92 (a) 93 (b) 94 (d) 95 (b) 96 (a) 97 (c) 98 (a) 99 (a) 100 (d)

> Special Types Questions

101 (c) 102 (d) 103 (c) 104 (c) 105 (d) 106 (d) 107 (c) 108 (c) 109 (c) 110 (c)
111 (d) 112 (d) 113 (b) 114 (d) 115 (b) 116 (c) 117 (d) 118 (d) 119 (d) 120 (b)
121 (b) 122 (c) 123 (d) 124 (c) 125 (c) 126 (d) 127 (c) 128 (c) 129 (a) 130 (c)
131 (a) 132 (d) 133 (c) 134 (c) 135 (a) 136 (a) 137 (d) 138 (d)

> NCERT & NCERT Exemplar Questions

139 (a) 140 (a) 141 (a) 142 (c) 143 (d) 144 (a) 145 (c) 146 (d) 147 (a) 148 (a)
149 (a) 150 (c) 151 (b) 152 (a) 153 (a) 154 (a) 155 (a) 156 (a) 157 (c) 158 (a)
159 (d) 160 (b) 161 (a) 162 (c) 163 (d) 164 (c) 165 (a) 166 (b)
CHAPTER 10 > s-Block Elements 287

Hints & Explanations

2 (b) Radium is the rarest of all alkaline earth metals Sodium cannot be used due to its smaller size as
comprising only 10−10 per cent of igneous rocks. compared to K and Cr.
4 (d) On moving from top to bottom in group I, atomic 15 (d) The oxidation state of K in KO2 is +1 because
radii increases regularly. Hence, ionisation enthalpy oxygen is present in this compound as superoxide and
decreases. This is due to increase in number of shells the bonding type in KO2 is ionic.
which overweigh increase in nuclear charge. 16 (a) The size of the ion and its charge determines extent of
5 (d) Caesium cation has the lowest value of hydration hydration. Greater the charge and smaller the size of ion,
energy due to its bigger size in the group. greater is the extent of hydration and, hence greater is the
hydration enthalpy.
6 (c) The hydration enthalpies of alkali metal ions
decrease with increase in ionic size. Thus, Li + having maximum hydration tendency, forms
dihydrate salt (LiCl.2H2 O) easily.
Thus, the decreasing order of hydration enthalpies is
18 (c) Reducing tendency decreases from top to bottom in
Li + > Na + > K + > Rb + > Cs +
alkali group.That’s why, lithium is most powerful and
Thus, Li + has maximum degree of hydration and for this caesium is least powerful reducing agent among all
reason lithium salts are mostly hydrated, e.g. LiCl ⋅ 2H2 O. alkali metals.
7 (d) The correct order of hydration enthalpies of alkali 19 (d) Among the group-1 metals, only Li is able to form its
metal ions is nitride, Li 3 N. [All alkaline earth metals of group-2 form
+ + + + +
Li > Na > K > Rb > Cs their nitride, M 3 N 2 ]
− 6Li + N2 → 2Li 3 N (Ruby red solid)
Li possesses the maximum degree of hydration due to (Air)
its small size. As a consequence of hydration enthalpy, I II
their mobility also get affected. Cs + has highest and Li − [ 3M + N2 → M 3 N2 ]
has lowest mobility in aqueous solution.
Li ⊕ is the smallest metal ion of group-1, Smaller size of
8 (d) Smaller the size of a cation, greater is the extent of Li ⊕ and larger size of nitride ion, N3− , enable Li ⊕ to
hydration and lesser is the ionic mobility.
polarise the spherical electron cloud of N3− and it gives
In all the alkali metals, Li + ion is smallest, thus extent of higher stability to Li 3 N.
hydration is maximum in Li + ion and, thus its ionic 20 (a) The order of reducing strength is
mobility is lowest when its aqueous solution is put under
electric field. Li > Na > Ag > Cl −
9 (b) Cs + has maximum conductivity in aqueous medium Thus, Li has the maximum reducing power.
due to low value of hydration enthalpy. Due to low 21 (d) Alkali metals dissolve in liquid ammonia giving
hydration enthalpy, its hydration is less and, hence its deep blue solutions which are of conducting nature.
hydrated size becomes minimum among the alkali metals M + ( x + y ) NH3 → [ M (NH3 )x ] + + [ e(NH3 ) y ] −
in aqueous solution and a smaller ion move faster.
Here, M indicate the alkali metals and NH3 is ammonia.
10 (d) Alkali metals have low melting point due to the
presence of only one valence electron which causes 22 (c) Alkali metals readily dissolve in liquid ammonia.
weak metallic bonding. It gives blue coloured solution due to ammoniated electrons.
11 (a) Alkali metals and their salts impart characteristic The reaction is shown below :
colour to an oxidising flame. This is because, heat from Na ( s ) + ( x + y ) NH3 → Na + (NH3 )x + e− (NH3 ) y
the flame excites the outermost electron to a higher energy Blue colour
Hints & Explanations

level, which comes back to the ground state with the 23 (a) Lithium halides are somewhat covalent. It is because
emission of radiation in the visible region of spectrum. of the high polarisation capability of lithium ion. The Li +
12 (c) The alkali metals and their salts impart colour to an ion is very small in size and hence have high tendency to
oxidising flame. This is due to emission of radiation in distort electron cloud around the negative halide ion.
visible region when the excited electron come back to Since, anion with large size can be easily distorted among
the ground state energy level. halides, lithium iodide is the most covalent in nature.
13 (d) When Cs and K are irradiated with light, the light 24 (c) Lithium metal is used to make ‘white metal’ which
energy absorbed may be sufficient to make the metal is an alloy with Pb.
atom to lose an electron. This property makes Cs and K lt is used for making bearing for motor engines.
useful as electrodes in photoelectric cell.
 25 (a) Sodium is used to make a Na/Pb alloy needed to 39 (a) Only lithium nitrate on decomposition produces
make PbEt 4 and PbMe4 . These organolead compounds lithium oxide, whereas other alkali metal nitrates on
were earlier used as anitknock additives to petrol but decomposition produce alkali metal nitrites.
now-a-days vehicles use lead free petrol. ∆
4LiNO3 → 2Li 2 O + 4NO2 + O2
Liquid sodium metal is used as a coolant in fast breeder
nuclear reactors. ∆
2KNO3 → 2KNO2 + O2
27 (c) Li is the alkali metal which forms only normal oxide,
i.e. Li 2 O when heated in air. 40 (a) Molecular formula of washing soda is
Na 2 CO3 ⋅ 10H2 O.
1
2Li + O2 → Li 2 O 41 (a) Chemical reactions involved in Solvay process are
2
as follows :
Sodium when heated in air forms peroxide, while
heavier alkali metal such as Rb and Cs forms superoxide 2NH3 + H2 O + CO2 → (NH4 )2 CO3
as the major product. (NH4 )2 CO3 + H2 O + CO2 → 2NH4 HCO3
28 (c) As the size of metal ion increases, tendency to form
NH4 HCO3 + NaCl → NH4 Cl + NaHCO3
superoxides increases. Since, superoxide is of MO2 type,
it is clear that, it is alkali metal superoxide. Here, NaNO3 does not involve in any of the above
In superoxide, oxygen is in O−2 form. chemical reaction.
Hence, it is potassium superoxide (KO2 ). 42 (c) Ammonium chloride on reaction with calcium
hydroxide produces ammonia and calcium chloride.
29 (a) All superoxides liberate oxygen with water. Among
the given oxides, only KO2 is superoxide and, thus The reaction is as follows :
liberate oxygen with water. 2NH4 Cl + Ca ( OH)2 → 2NH3 + CaCl 2 + 2H2 O
2KO2 + 2H2 O( l ) → 2KOH( aq ) + H2 O2 ( l ) + O2 ( g ) 43 (b) This reaction includes sequential steps involved in
30 (b) The oxides and superoxides of alkali metals in pure Solvay process which proceeds as :
condition are colourless and yellow (or orange) in 2NH3 + H2 O + CO2 → (NH4 )2 CO3
colour, respectively. (X )
31 (a) From top to bottom, reactivity of alkali metal oxides (NH4 )2 CO3 + H2 O + CO2 → 2NH4 HCO3
with water increases and, thus reaction of Rb 2 O with (X ) (Y )
water and Cs 2 O with water are explosive.
NH4 HCO3 + NaCl → NH4 Cl + NaHCO3
Hence, the correct order is (Y )
Li 2 O < Na 2 O < K 2 O < Rb 2 O < Cs 2O Hence, [ X ] = (NH4 )2 CO3 and [Y ] = NH4 HCO3 .
33 (a) The order of melting point and boiling point of alkali 44 (b) When ammonium hydrogen carbonate is added to the
metal halides decreases as saturated solution of potassium chloride, the solution of
fluoride > chloride > bromide > iodide potassium hydroxide is formed, which is too soluble to
This trend is due to decrease in negative value of ∆ f H s precipitate out.
of halides with increase in size. NH4 HCO3 + KCl → KHCO3 + NH4 Cl
34 (b) The low solubility of LiF in water is due to its high 47 (a) Crude sodium chloride (NaCl) obtained by
lattice enthalpy and low solubility of CsI is due to crystallisation of brine solution contains CaSO4 ,
smaller hydration enthalpy of its two ions. Na 2 SO4 , CaCl 2 , MgCl 2 as impurities. CaCl 2 and MgCl 2
are deliquescent, i.e. absorb moisture from atmosphere
35 (b) As the electropositive character increases from top and give wet appearance to the salt. Crude salt is dissolved
to bottom, the stability of the carbonates and hydrogen in water and insoluble impurities are removed by filtration.
Hints & Explanations

carbonates increases from top to bottom.

Hence, MgSO4 is not present in crude sodium chloride.
36 (b) Lithium being very small in size, polarises a large
48 (c) Sodium hydroxide is generally prepared
CO2–
3 ion leading to the formation of more stable Li 2 O commercially by the electrolysis of sodium chloride is
and CO2 . Castner-Kellner cell.
37 (d) Hydrogen carbonate of lithium does not exist in When brine solution is electrolysed using a mercury
solid state due to high polarisation value of Li + ion cathode and carbon anode.
which causes formation of more stable Li 2 O and CO2 . 49 (d) 2Na + 2H2 O → 2NaOH + H2 ↑
38 (a) Due to its small size and high e/r, lithium metal does 2NaOH + CO2 → Na 2 CO3 + H2 O
not form ethynide on reaction with ethyne.
Na 2 CO3 + 2HCl → 2NaCl + H2 O + CO2
 Electrolysis 62 (a) Magnesium powder burns in air to give MgO and
NaCl → Na + + Cl −
Mg 3 N2 ⋅ MgO does not combine with excess oxygen to
 + e−  − e− give any superoxide. Mg reacts with nitrogen to form
↓ ↓
1 magnesium nitride ( Mg 3 N2 ).
Na Cl 2
2 Mg + O2 → MgO
In case of options (a), (b) and (c), in the last step of 3Mg + N2 → Mg 3 N2
heating Na 2 CO3 gives Na-metal which is not formed, 63 (b) The basic strength of alkaline earth metal increases
because it is thermally stable. down the group.
Thus, correct sequence of reaction is given in (d).
Thus, the correct order is
50 (a) Sodium hydrogen carbonate NaHCO 3 is added to BeO < MgO < CaO < BaO.
cakes and pastries because when it is heated, it generates
bubbles of CO2 , which make cakes puffy. 64 (b) BeH2 can be prepared by reaction of BeCl 2 with
51 (b) Compound Y is prepared by Solvay process, thus it LiAlH4 .
will be sodium carbonate. Sodium hydrogen carbonate (X) 2BeCl 2 + LiAlH4 → 2BeH2 + LiCl + AlCl 3
is made by saturating a solution of sodium carbonate with 65 (c) Radium salts are radioactive in nature, hence they
carbon dioxide. The white crystalline powder of sodium are used in radiotherapy.
hyrogen carbonate being less soluble gets separated out.
66 (b) Oxides and other compounds of Be and Mg are more
Na 2 CO3 + H2 O + CO2 → 2Na HCO3 covalent than those of rest heavier large sized atom.
Y X
Covalent character is due to small size and large e / r
Thus, X is sodium hydrogen carbonate and Y is ratio.
sodium carbonate (b).
67 (b) BeSO4 has its hydration enthalpy greater than its
53 (b) Na + regulates flow of water across cell membranes
lattice energy. This is because, Be has lower size,
and regulate transport of sugars into cells. K + activates
while SO 24− has bigger size, that's why, BeSO4 breaks
many enzymes and participate in the oxidation of glucose
to produce ATP. easily and lattice energy becomes smaller but due to
lower size of Be, water molecules are gathered around
54 (c) Alkaline earth metals have smaller size than those of and hence hydration energy increases.
corresponding alkali metals is due to high value of nuclear
charge, which increase along a period from left to right. On the other hand, rest metals, i.e. Ca, Ba, Sr have
bigger size and that’s why have lattice energy is
55 (b) The second ionisation enthalpies of alkaline earth greater than hydration energy.
metals are smaller than alkali metals. This is due to stable
68 (a) BeO is amphoteric in nature. When dissolves in
completely filled ns2 configuration of alkali metal cations.
water, it produces Be(OH)2 which reacts with both HCl
56 (d) MgCl 2 and CaCl 2 exist as hydrates in form of (acid) and NaOH (bases).
MgCl 2 ⋅ 6H 2 O and CaCl 2 ⋅ 6H 2 O respectively, while KCl
and NaCl do not exist in the hydrate form. Be (OH)2 + 2NaOH → [Be(OH)4 ]2 – + 2Na +
Beryllate ion
58 (c) Electropositive character (i.e. tendency to loss
electron) increases from top to bottom in the group II. Be (OH)2 + 2HCl + 2H2 O → [Be(OH)4 ] Cl 2
Thus, the correct order of electropositive character of The reaction involved are as follows :
alkaline earth metals is 2Be + O2 → 2BeO
Be < Mg < Ca < Sr < Ba. 3Be + N2 → Be3 N2
59 (b) The electrons in beryllium and magnesium are so 69 (b) Among the given oxides, BeO is most acidic. This
tightly bounded with nucleus that they do not get excited is because, basic strength of the oxides of alkaline
by flame. This is because, these metals also have higher earth metals increases from BeO to BaO. Infact, BeO
Hints & Explanations

value of ionisation energy. is amphoteric while all other oxides are basic. It is
Hence, these metals do not impart colour to flame test. because all the alkaline earth metals are ionic in nature
but BeO in addition to ionic character shows some
61 (d) Powdered beryllium burns brilliantly in air to give
covalent character also.
BeO and Be3 N2 . Be2 O is not formed as both Be and O
have valency equal to 2. Thus, BeO being amphoteric in nature behaves both as
an acid and base.
The reactions involved are as follows :
2Be + O2 → 2BeO BeO
123
, MgO
123
, CaO,
144SrO,
244BaO
3
3Be + N2 → Be3 N2 Amphoteric Weak base Strong base
 70 (d) On moving from top to bottom 79 (c) Quicklime, which is calcium oxide is used in
preparation of sodium carbonate from caustic soda. It is
Be(OH)2
an important constituent of cement. It is employed in the
Mg(OH)2 • Thermal stability increases purification of salt and manufacturing of dye stuff too
Ca(OH)2 • Basic character increases but it is not employed in the purification of sugar.
Sr(OH)2 • Solubility in water increases
80 (c) Slaked lime on treatment with chlorine produces a
Ba(OH)2 compound CaOCl 2 ( X ) is active ingredient in bleaching
powder.
71 (d) Be(OH)2 is amphoteric in nature, as it reacts with
both acid and alkali 2Ca(OH)2 + 2Cl 2 → CaCl 2 + Ca(OCl)2 + 2H2 O
Slaked lime Bleaching
Be(OH)2 + 2HCl → BeCl 2 + 2H2 O powder
+1
Be(OH)2 + 2NaOH → Na 2 [Be(OH)2 ] OCl
This amphoteric nature of Be is due to small size of Be. Ca
−1
The other hydroxides of alkaline earth metals are basic Cl
in nature.
Thus, Cl has two oxidation states, i.e. +1 and –1 both.
72 (b) When magnesium is burnt in air, magnesium oxide
81 (b) Magnesium hydroxide Mg(OH) 2 dissolved in water
( X ) and magnesium nitride (Y) is formed. When X and
Y react with water they give Mg(OH) 2 (P ) and NH 3 (Q). which is known as milk of magnesia is used as an
antacid in medicine.
Air
Mg → MgO + Mg 3 N2 82 (c) Active ingredient in bleaching powder for bleaching
(X ) (Y ) action is Ca(OCl)2 .
 H2 O  H2 O 84 (b) Calcium carbonate can be prepared by passing CO2
↓ ↓ through calcium hydroxide (or slaked lime).
Mg(OH)2 Mg (OH)2 + NH3 Ca(OH)2 + CO2 → CaCO3 + H2 O
(P ) (P ) (Q )
85 (c) CaO + H2 O → Ca(OH)2
74 (a) Solubility of fluorides of alkaline earth metals Quick lime (X )
decreases down the group due to more increase in Ca(OH)2 + CO2 → CaCO3
hydration enthalpy. (X ) (Y )
Thus, the order of solubility of given compounds is as CaCO3 + CO2 + H2 O → Ca(HCO3 )2
follows : ( Excess) (Z )

BeF2 > MgF2 > SrF2 88 (b) When gypsum is heated to 393 K, it forms, plaster of
Hence, BeF2 has maximum solubility. Paris CaSO4 . 0.5H2 O.
The reaction is as follows :
75 (c) Beryllium (Be) has less negative value of reduction
potential. Its reducing nature is due to large hydration ∆
CaSO4 . 2H2 O → CaSO4 . 0.5H2 O
energy associated with small size of Be2+ ion and large 393 K
value of enthalpy of atomisation. 89 (a) The average composition of Portland cement is
76 (c) The chlorides of both beryllium and aluminium are CaO, 50-60%; SiO2 , 20-25%; Al 2 O3 , 5-10%; MgO,
soluble in organic solvent and are strong Lewis acids 2-3%; Fe2 O3 , 1-2% and SO3 , 1-2%.
due to absence of vacant p-orbital and d-orbital Thus, the percentage of CaO present in Portland cement
respectively. is 50-60%.
77 (b) Calcium oxide is prepared on a commercial scale by 90 (a) Average composition of metal oxides in Portland
heating CaCO3 in a rotary kiln at 1070 to 1270 K.
Hints & Explanations

cement is as follows :
Heat Metal oxide Percentage
CaCO3 → CaO + CO2 composition
1070 −1270K
CaO 50 – 60%
78 (a) Calcium oxide (CaO) is a white amorphous solid. SiO2 20 – 25%
When quick lime slaked with soda, it gives solid Percentage composition
Al 2O3 5 – 10%
sodalime. decreases
MgO 2 – 3%
It is a basic oxide which combines with acidic oxides at Fe2O3 1 – 2%
high temperature.
So, the correct decreasing order is
CaO + SiO2 → CaSiO3
CaO > SiO2 > Al 2 O3 > MgO > Fe2 O3
6CaO + P4 O10 → 2Ca 3 (PO4 )2
 92 (a) Mg can form basic carbonate, while Li cannot. 106 (d) Statement (d) is incorrect.
5Mg 2 + + 6CO23 − + 7H2 O → It’s correct form is as follows :
4 MgCO3 ⋅ Mg ( OH )5H2 O + 2HCO3− The Na-amalgam is treated with water to give
sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.
94 (d) Ca 3 (PO 4 ) 2 is not important ingredient present in
Rest other statements are correct.
Portland cement. Except Ca 3 (PO4 )2 , all are important
107 (c) Statement (c) is incorrect.
ingredients of Portland cement.
It’s correct form is as follows :
95 (b) The purpose of adding gypsum is only to increase the
setting time of the cement so that it gets sufficiently Preparation of ammonia does not require use of NaOH.
hardened. Rest other statements are correct.
96 (a) The constituent of cement, A, responsible for 108 (c) Statement (c) is incorrect.
reducing its increase setting time is gypsum. It’s correct form is as follows :
Molecular formula of gypsum = CaSO4 ⋅ 2H2 O Beryllium salts are covalent in nature because of very
and number of water of crystallisation of gypsum is 2. small Be2+ ion and its high polarising power, it is easily
hydrolysed.
97 (c) Most abundant element out of given choices is Ca.
An adult body contains about 1200 g of Ca. e.g. BeCl 2 + 2H2 O → Be(OH)2 + 2HCl

98 (a) All enzymes that utillise ATP in phosphate transfer Rest other statements are correct.
require magnesium as the cofactor. The cofactor are 109 (c) Statement (c) is incorrect.
required by the enzyme for their efficient activity. It’s correct form is as follows :
101 (c) Statement (c) is incorrect. Compounds of alkaline earth metals are ionic in nature
It’s correct form is as follows : due to low value of ionisation enthalpy of alkaline earth
metals.
Although, lithium has most negative E° value, its reaction
with water is less vigorous than that of sodium which Rest other statements are correct.
has the least negative E° value among the alkali metals. 110 (c) Statement (c) is correct, while other statements are
This behaviour of lithium is attributed to its small size incorrect.
and very high hydration energy. Corrected form are as follows :
Rest other statements are correct. (a) All the alkaline earth metals combine with halogen at
elevated temperatures forming their halides.
102 (d) Statement (d) is incorrect.
It’s correct form is as follows : M + X 2 → MX 2 ( X = F, Cl, Br, I)
The ionisation enthalpies of the alkali metals are (b) Thermal decomposition of (NH4 )2 BeF4 is the best
considerably low in a period because of the presence of route for the preparation of BeF2 .
only single valence electron and decrease down the group (d) Alkaline earth metals readily react with acids
due to increase in size. liberating dihydrogen.
Rest other statements are correct. M + 2HCl → MCl 2 + H2

103 (c) Statement (c) is incorrect. LiNO 3 (lithium nitrate) on 112 (d) Statement (d) is incorrect.
heating gives a mixture of Li 2 O, NO2 and O2 . It’s correct form is as follows :
∆ Solubility of sulphates of alkaline earth metals decreases
4 LiNO3 → 2Li 2 O + 4 NO2 ↑ + O2 ↑ from MgSO4 to BaSO4 . This is because, hydration
Among the alkali metals, lithium is the strongest energy decreases but lattice energy remains almost
reducing agent. constant from MgSO4 to BaSO4 .
104 (c) Statement (c) is incorrect. Rest other statements are correct.
Hints & Explanations

It’s correct form is as follows : 113 (b) Statement (b) is incorrect.

KHCO3 is much more soluble than NaHCO3 . It’s correct form is as follows :
So, in Solvay process, KHCO3 cannot be precipitated The oxide and hydroxide for beryllium unlike the
and, hence K 2 CO3 cannot be prepared by Solvay process. hydroxides of other elements in the group are
Rest other statements are correct. amphoteric in nature.
Rest other statements are correct.
105 (d) Statement (d) is incorrect.
It’s correct form is as follows : 114 (d) Statement (d) is incorrect.
Oxo-acids of alkali metals are water soluble and It’s correct form is as follows :
thermally stable. Operation of Na + — K + pumps is of biological origin.
Rest other statements are correct. Rest other statements are correct.
 115 (b) Statement (b) is incorrect. 125 (c) Statements I and III are correct, while statement II is
It’s correct form is as follows : incorrect. It’s correct form is as follows :
3Ca 3 (PO4 ) ⋅ CaF2 is part of enamel on teeth. Solubility of alkaline earth metal carbonates in water also
Rest other statements are correct. decreases from top to bottom.
116 (c) Statements II and III are incorrect. 126 (d) Statements II, III and IV are correct, while the
It’s correct form are as follows : statement I is incorrect. It’s correct form is as follows :
II. Oxides and hydroxides of alkaline earth metals and Calcium carbonate is a white fluffy powder and is almost
alkali metals are alkaline in nature. insoluble in water.
III. Apart from Na and K, Ca and Mg are also found in 127 (c) Due to high value of hydration energy of alkaline
biological fluid. earth metal as compared to alkali metal compounds of
Rest other statements are correct. alkaline earth metals are more extensively hydrated than
those of alkali metal.
117 (d) Statement IV is incorrect.
Thus, A is correct but R is incorrect.
It’s correct form is as follows :
128 (c) Due to high value of lattice energy of fluorides, these
All metal hydrides are not ionic in nature. Lithium
are less soluble than chlorides.
hydride is covalent in nature. The ionic character in the
bond of alkali metal hydrides increases as the atomic Thus, A is correct but R is incorrect.
number of metal increases. 129 (a) The size of anions being much larger compared to
Rest other statements are correct. cations, the lattice enthalpy will remain almost constant
within a particular group. Since, the hydration enthalpies
119 (d) Statement I, II and IV are correct, while the
decrease on moving down the group, so solubility of
statement III is incorrect.
alkaline earth metal carbonates and sulphates decreases on
It’s correct form is as follows : moving down the group.
NaOH is deliquescent in nature, i.e. NaOH absorbs Thus, both A and R are correct, R is the correct
water from moisture. explanation of A.
120 (b) Statements I and III are correct, while the 130 (c) BaCO3 is more soluble in HNO3 than in water because
statements II and IV are incorrect. Corrected form are carbonate is a weak base and reacts with H+ ion of HNO3
as follows : causing barium salt to dissociate.
II. In the manufacturing of cakes and pastry, baking The reaction involved is as follows :
soda is used but caustic soda cannot be used.
BaCO3 + 2HNO3 → Ba(NO3 )2 + CO2 + H2 O
IV. Caustic soda is NaOH, hence it cannot produce CO2
on heating. Thus, A is correct but R is incorrect.
121 (b) Statements II, III and IV are correct, while the 131 (a) BeSO4 and MgSO4 are readily soluble in water
statement I is incorrect. because of greater hydration enthalpies of Be2+ and Mg 2+
It’s correct form is as follows : ion which overcome the lattice enthalpy factor.
+ + Thus, both A and R are correct, R is the correct
l Na and K are present in opposite side of the cell
membranes. explanation of A.
Na + ions are present outside the cell, while K + ions are
l 139 (a) Among alkali metal ions, Li + is the smallest.
present inside the cell. Therefore, it has the maximum degree of hydration than
122 (c) Statement III is not a biological role of Na and K. any other alkali metal cation.
It’s correct form are as follows : 140 (a) Potassium carbonate cannot be prepared by Solvay
Na and K have no role in blood clotting. Na and K process because potassium hydrogen carbonate being
participate in the transmission of nerve signals, in highly soluble in water, would not be precipitated out.
Hints & Explanations

regulating the flow of water across the cell membranes 141 (a) Beryllium and magnesium atoms due to their small
and in the transport of sugar and amino acids into cells. size and high effective nuclear charge bind their electrons
They participate in the oxidation of glucose to produce more strongly. Therefore, they require high excitation
ATP. energy and are not excited by Bunsen flame.
Rest other statements are correct. While, other alkaline earth metals impart a characteristic
124 (c) Statements I, II and IV are correct, while the colour to the flame due to easy excitation of electrons to
statement III is incorrect. It’s correct form is as follows higher energy levels.
: 142 (c) In the vapour state, it exists as a chlorine bridged dimer.
Carbonates of alkaline earth metals can be precipitated Cl
by adding sodium or ammonium carbonate due to Cl—Be Be—Cl
common ion effect. Cl
(Vapour state)
 In the solid state, BeCl 2 has polymeric chain structure effectively. With the increase in atomic number, the size
with chlorine bridges. of the metal cation increases and the stability of the
Cl Cl Cl metal oxide decreases, hence that of carbonate increases
Be Be Be (maximum in case of BaCO3 ).
Cl Cl Cl Therefore, the increasing size of cation destabilises the
(Solid state) oxides and, hence does not favour the decomposition of
heavier alkaline earth metal carbonates like BaCO3 .
143 (d) Alkali metals have low melting and boiling points.
The melting point of alkali metals decreases from Li to Cs 147 (a) BeCO3 is unstable in air and is stable only in
as cohesive force decreases with increase in atomic size. atmosphere of CO2 which avoids its decomposition.
Melting point of Cs = 302 K, i.e. 29° C . BeCO3 shows reversible reaction because stability of
oxide formed is more than carbonates.
Thus, among the alkali metal, Cs is expected to melt,
if the room temperature is raised to 30°C. BeCO3 r BeO + CO2 ↑
144 (a) Li has most negative standard reduction potential due BeCO3 is unstable due to strong polarising effect of small
to very high enthalpy of hydration and its small size . Be2+ ion on the large polarisable carbonate ion.
Thus, reaction of Li with water will be most exothermic, Moreover, oxide achieved an extra stability through lattice
but surprisingly Li reacts with water gently, whereas Na energy by packing small cation with small oxide ion.
and K vigorously. 148 (a) The basic nature of hydroxides of alkaline earth
The explanation lies in kinetics and not in metal depends on the solubility in water. More is the
thermodynamics of the reaction. Maximum energy is solubility, more is the basicity. Solubility of hydroxides
evolved with Li but its fusion, vaporisation and depends on lattice energy and hydration energy.
ionisation consume more energy. As a result, reaction ∆H solution = ∆H + ∆H hydration energy
proceeds slowly. Na or K have low melting points and lattice energy
molten metal spreads over water exposing a larger The magnitude of hydration energy remains almost same
surface to water, making the reaction vigorous. whereas lattice energy decreases down the group leading
145 (c) Standard reduction potential (ERP ° ) is a measure of to more negative values for ∆H solution down the group.
tendency of an element to lose electron, i.e. reducing More negative ∆H solution , more is solubility of
power in aqueous solution. Higher the negative ERP ° , compounds.
greater is the ability to lose electrons. Hence, Be(OH)2 and Mg(OH)2 have less negative values
The value of ERP ° depends on for ∆H solution therefore, least basic.
(i) enthalpy of sublimation Thus, option (a) is correct.
(ii) ionisation enthalpy 149 (a) Ethanol is an organic compound i.e. of covalent
(iii) enthalpy of hydration character. To dissolve in ethanol, the compound should
Thus, in aqueous medium, order of reducing power of have more covalent character. ‘‘Like dissolves like’’.
alkali metals is Beryllium halides have covalent character due to small
Na < K < Rb < Cs < Li. size and high effective nuclear charge.
° Hence, BeCl 2 being covalent dissolves in ethanol.
ERP value of Li is least (−3.04 V) among all alkali metals.
The formation of Li + ( aq ) from Li involves following 150 (c) On moving down the group (from Li to Cs),
the ionisation energy decreases from Li to Cs. This is
steps :
because from top to bottom, size of the atom increases so
Sublimation
(i) Li( s ) → Li ( g ) ; valence electron is less tightly held by the nucleus.
∆H s = Enthalpy of sublimation Moreover, increased screening effect from Li to Cs also
makes the removal of electron easier.
→ Li + ( g ) + e− ;
(ii) Li ( g ) 
Hints & Explanations

Thus, the decreasing order of ionisation enthalpy in

IE1 = Ionisation enthalpy alkali metals is
(iii) Li + ( g ) + H2 O → Li + ( aq ) ; Li > Na > K > Rb.
∆H H = Enthalpy of hydration
151 (b) Among fluorides, the order of solubility is:
For alkali metals, enthalpies of sublimation are almost
LiF < NaF < KF < RbF < CsF. Low solubility of LiF is
same. IE1 value of Li is endothermic and highest, where
due to very high lattice energy. On moving down in the
as hydration is exothermic and maximum for Li + .
group, solubility of their fluorides increases because
Thus, high hydration enthalpy makes Li, the strongest lattice energy decreases. Except LiF, other halides of
reducing agent in aqueous solution. lithium are highly soluble in water.
146 (d) BaCO3 is thermally most stable because CO2−
3 being 152 (a) Be(OH)2 is an amphoteric hydroxide. It can react
bigger anion stabilises bigger cation Ba 2+ more with both acid as well as base.
 Be(OH)2 + 2HCl + 2H2 O → [Be(OH)4 ]Cl 2 NO2 is brown coloured gas.
Be(OH)2 + 2NaOH → Na 2 [Be(OH)4 ] 161 (a) Statement (a) is correct.
Thus, Be(OH) 2 is soluble in sodium hydroxide. It’s correct form is as follows :
Calcium hydroxide is used in the manufacture of
153 (a) In the synthesis of sodium carbonate, the recovery of bleaching powder.
ammonia is done by treating NH4 Cl with Ca ( OH )2 .
The by product obtained in the process is CaCl 2 . 2Ca(OH)2 + 2Cl 2 Cold
→ CaCl 2 + CaOCl 2 + 2H2 O
Slaked Chlorine Bleaching
The reaction involved is lime powder
2NH4 Cl + Ca(OH)2 → 2NH3 + CaCl 2 + 2H2 O 162 (c) To recover NH3 in Solvay ammonia soda process,
Ammonium Calcium Ammonia Calcium chloride
chloride hydroxide (by-product) Ca(OH)2 A is used.
2NH4 Cl + Ca(OH)2 → 2NH3 + CaCl 2 + 2H2 O
154 (a) Na + ( x + y )NH3 → [Na (NH3 )x ]+ + e (NH3 )−y ( A)
Ammoniated Ammoniated
cation electron On passing CO2 through Ca(OH)2 , it turns milky due to
The blue colour of the solution of Na metals in liquid the formation of CaCO3 .
ammonia is due to the ammoniated electron which Ca(OH)2 + CO2 → CaCO3 ↓ + H2 O
absorbs energy in the visible region of light and, thus Calcium
hydroxide
imparts blue colour to the solution.
Note The solutions are paramagnetic and on standing Ca(OH)2 is used for white washing.
slowly liberate hydrogen resulting in the formation of amide. 164 (c) The correct match is
155 (a) Raw materials for cement-limestone, clay, gypsum. A. → (3) B. → (2) C. → (4) D. → (5)
Cement is a dirty greyish heavy powder containing A. Li—Most negative E s among alkali metals
calcium aluminates and silicates.
[Due to very high hydration energy, the resulting E s
Gypsum (CaSO4 ⋅ 5H2 O) is added to the components to is most negative].
increase the setting time of cement, so that it gets B. Na—Strongest monoacidic base
sufficiently hardened. Setting of cement is an
[Alkalies are more acidic than alkaline earth metals.
exothermic process and involves hydration of calcium
LiOH has covalent character].
aluminates and silicates.
C. Ca—Insoluble oxalate
156 (a) On heating plaster of Paris at 200°C, it forms [Calciuim oxalate is insoluble in water]
anhydrous calcium sulphate, i.e. dead plaster which has D. Ba—Insoluble sulphate
no setting property as it absorbs water very slowly.
[Hydration energy decreases as size of cation increases].
200 °C 1100 °C
1
CaSO4 ⋅ H2 O → CaSO4 → CaO + SO3 6s 2 outer electronic configuration
56 Ba = 1s , 2s , 2 p , 3s , 3 p , 3 d , 4 s , 4 p ,
2 2 6 2 6 10 2 6
2 Anhydrous
calcium
sulphate 4 d 10 , 5s2 , 5 p 6 , 6s2 ]
157 (c) Suspension of slaked lime in water is called milk of
166 (b) The correct match is
lime and the clear solution obtained after the suspension
settles is known as lime water. A. → (6) B. → (4) C. → (2) D. → (3)
158 (a) Except Be, all alkaline earth metals form hydrides
E. → (5) F. → (1)
( MH2 ) on directly heating with H2 . Elements with the characteristic flame colour are as
BeH2 cannot be prepared by direct action of H2 on Be. follows :
A. Cs – Blue B. Na – Yellow
159 (d) On heating washing soda, it loses its water of
C. K – Violet D. Ca – Brick red
crystallisation.
Hints & Explanations

E. Sr – Crimson red F. Ba – Apple green

Above 373 K, it converts into completely anhydrous
white powder, called soda ash. It’s formula is Na 2 CO 3 . Flame colours are produced from the movement of the
electrons in the metal ions present in the compounds.
Na 2 CO3 ⋅ 10H2 O >373
 K
→ Na 2 CO3 +10H2 O These movement of electrons (electronic
Washing soda Soda ash excitation-de-excitation) requires energy.
160 (b) Calcium gives brick red coloured flame. Each atom has particular energy gap between ground and
excited energy level therefore each of these movements
Hence, calcium nitrate on heating decomposes into
involves a specific amount of energy emitted as light
calcium oxide with evolution of a mixture of NO2
energy, and each corresponds to a particular colour. As we
and O2 .
∆
know energy gap between ground and excited state energy
2Ca(NO3 )2 → 2CaO + 4NO2 + O2 level increases wavelength of decreases and
Calcium nitrate complemently colour is observed as a result.