Question 115 of 513
Five compounds R,T,W,X and Y form the following compounds: a basic hydride R.H, an acidic hydride YH, atmospheric oxide W2O3, XO2. which of the elements is an alkali
Correct Answer:
A
Explanation
To determine which of the elements R, T, W, X, or Y is an alkali metal based on the compounds they form, we need to analyze the properties of the compounds mentioned and the characteristics of alkali metals.
### Step-by-Step Explanation
1. **Understanding Alkali Metals**:
- Alkali metals are found in Group 1 of the periodic table. They include lithium (Li), sodium (Na), potassium (K), rubidium (Rb), cesium (Cs), and francium (Fr).
- These metals are characterized by their tendency to form basic oxides and hydrides. They react vigorously with water to produce hydroxides and hydrogen gas.
2. **Analyzing the Compounds**:
- **Basic Hydride (R.H)**: This indicates that R is likely a metal that can form a hydride with a basic character. Alkali metals typically form basic hydrides.
- **Acidic Hydride (YH)**: This suggests that Y is likely a non-metal or a metalloid that can form an acidic hydride. Non-metals like hydrogen (H), carbon (C), and nitrogen (N) can form acidic hydrides.
- **Atmospheric Oxide (WβOβ)**: This oxide suggests that W is likely a metal that can form a trivalent oxide. This is not typical for alkali metals, which usually form oxides with a +1 oxidation state (e.g., NaβO).
- **XOβ**: This indicates that X is likely a non-metal or a metalloid that can form a dioxide. Non-metals like carbon (C) and silicon (Si) can form dioxides.
3. **Identifying the Alkali Metal**:
- Given that R forms a basic hydride (R.H), it is reasonable to conclude that R is an alkali metal. The basic nature of the hydride aligns with the properties of alkali metals.
- The other compounds do not suggest that T, W, or X are alkali metals based on their respective characteristics.
### Why Other Options Are Incorrect
- **Option B (T)**: There is no information provided that suggests T forms a basic hydride or any characteristic that aligns with alkali metals. Therefore, T is not an alkali metal.
- **Option C (W)**: W forms an oxide (WβOβ) that suggests it is a metal that can exhibit a +3 oxidation state. This is not characteristic of alkali metals, which typically form +1 oxidation states in their oxides.
- **Option D (X)**: X forms a dioxide (XOβ), which is characteristic of non-metals or metalloids, not alkali metals. Alkali metals do not form dioxides.
### Summary of Key Points
- **Alkali Metals**: Group 1 elements that form basic hydrides and oxides.
- **Basic Hydride (R.H)**: Indicates R is likely an alkali metal.
- **Acidic Hydride (YH)**: Suggests Y is a non-metal.
- **WβOβ and XOβ**: Indicate that W and X are not alkali metals.
### Revision Summary
- Alkali metals are found in Group 1 and form basic hydrides and oxides.
- R is identified as the alkali metal due to the formation of a basic hydride.
- W and X do not exhibit properties characteristic of alkali metals.
- Understanding the nature of the compounds formed helps in identifying the type of elements involved.
Thus, the correct answer is **A. R**.