Explain the following reactions (a) S | Class 11 Chemistry Chapter The p Block Elements, The p Block Elements NCERT Solutions

Previous / historical NCERT chapter

This chapter belongs to a previous NCERT/CBSE curriculum and is not part of the current 2026-27 chapter list. Removed in 2022-23.

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Chemistry - Chapter The p Block Elements. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 1, Question 21:

Explain the following reactions

(a) Silicon is heated with methyl chloride at high temperature in the presence of copper;

(b) Silicon dioxide is treated with hydrogen fluoride;

(c) CO is heated with ZnO;

(d) Hydrated alumina is treated with aqueous NaOH solution

. With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.

Question 21:

Explain the following reactions

(a) Silicon is heated with methyl chloride at high temperature in the presence of copper;

(b) Silicon dioxide is treated with hydrogen fluoride;

(c) CO is heated with ZnO;

(d) Hydrated alumina is treated with aqueous NaOH solution

Answer:

(a) When silicon reacts with methyl chloride in the presence of copper (catalyst) and at a temperature of about 537 K, a class of organo silicon polymers called methyl-substituted chlorosilanes (MeSiCl3, Me2SiCl2, Me3SiCl, and Me4Si) are formed.

 

(b) When silicon dioxide (SiO2) is heated with hydrogen fluoride (HF), it forms silicon tetrafluoride (SiF4). Usually, the Si-O bond is a strong bond and it resists any attack by halogens and most acids, even at a high temperature. However, it is attacked by HF.

SiO2   +   4HF   →   SiF4   +   2H2O

The SiF4 formed in this reaction can further react with HF to form hydrofluorosilicic acid.

SiF4   +   2HF   →    H2SiF6

 

(c) When CO reacts with ZnO, it reduces ZnO to Zn. CO acts as a reducing agent.

ZnO(s)  +  CO(g)  →  Zn(s)   +   CO2(g)

 

(d) When hydrated alumina is added to sodium hydroxide, the former dissolves in the latter because of the formation of sodium meta-aluminate.

Al2O3.2H2O   +   2NaOH    →    2NaAlO2   +   3H2O


Study Tips for Answering NCERT Questions:

NCERT questions are designed to test your understanding of the concepts and theories discussed in the chapter. Here are some tips to help you answer NCERT questions effectively:

  • Read the question carefully and focus on the core concept being asked.
  • Reference examples and data from the chapter when answering questions about The p Block Elements.
  • Review previous year question papers to get an idea of how such questions may be framed in exams.
  • Practice answering questions within the time limit to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Discuss your answers with your teachers or peers to get feedback and improve your understanding.

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Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Chemistry - Chapter . This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Excercise 1 , Question 21: Explain the following reactions (a) Silicon is heated with methyl chloride at high temperature in....

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