Class 11 Chemistry - Chapter The s Block Elements NCERT Solutions | Why are lithium salts commonly hydrated

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 11th Chemistry - Chapter The s Block Elements. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 1, Question 22: why are lithium salts commonly hydrated and those....
Question 22

Why are lithium salts commonly hydrated and those of the other alkali metal ions usually anhydrous?

Answer

Lithium is smallest in size among the alkali metals. Hence, Li+ ion can polarize water molecules more easily than other alkali metals. As a result, water molecules get attached to lithium salts as water of crystallization. Hence, lithium salts such as trihydrated lithium chloride (LiCl.3H2O) are commonly hydrated. As the size of the ions increases, their polarizing power decreases. Hence, other alkali metal ions usually form anhydrous salts.

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