18. LITHIUM

18

 LITHIUM

In CHAPTER 18 -  LITHIUM (10 Pages)- explanations for mainly the following questions are given.

1. Why is Li₂ molecule not as stable as H₂ molecule?

2. Though Li-Li covalent bond is stronger than the bond in the Li metal lattice, Li atoms try to form a metal lattice of lithium. Why?

3. Why are some alkali metal-salts coloured?

4. Why does Li form lithium bonds?

5. With respect to hydration, why does lithium differ from its diagonally related Mg?

6. Why is LiOH  a stronger base than CsOH in water?

7. “Cs₂CO₃ is more soluble in water than Li₂CO₃. But LiClO₃ is more soluble in water than C_SClO₃”. Why?

8. LiF and certain other alkali metal salts are insoluble, or only slightly soluble, in water. Why?

9. What are the entropy effects on the solubility of the alkali metal salts?

10. Why do Li⁺ and Na⁺ ions retain their water of crystallization in the solid state?

11. Why are alkali metals porous?