Class 11 Chemistry - Chapter The s Block Elements NCERT Solutions | Why is LiF almost insoluble in water whe

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 Excercise ".$ex_no." , Question 23: why is lif almost insoluble in water whereas licl....
Question 23

Why is LiF almost insoluble in water whereas LiCl soluble not only in water but also in acetone?

Answer

LiF is insoluble in water. On the contrary, LiCl is soluble not only in water, but also in acetone. This is mainly because of the greater ionic character of LiF as compared to LiCl. The solubility of a compound in water depends on the balance between lattice energy and hydration energy. Since fluoride ion is much smaller in size than chloride ion, the lattice energy of LiF is greater than that of LiCl. Also, there is not much difference between the hydration energies of fluoride ion and chloride ion. Thus, the net energy change during the dissolution of LiCl in water is more exothermic than that during the dissolution of LiF in water. Hence, low lattice energy and greater covalent character are the factors making LiCl soluble not only in water, but also in acetone.

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