MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #5367

When heating Group 1 carbonates, Lithium carbonate decomposes into its oxide, but Sodium carbonate remains stable. This difference is due to:

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #5367

  1. Question 1

    Q1. When heating Group 1 carbonates, Lithium carbonate decomposes into its oxide, but Sodium carbonate remains stable. This difference is due to:

    • A) Lithium ion has a higher charge density than Sodium ion
    • B) Sodium carbonate is more covalent than Lithium carbonate
    • C) Lithium ion is larger than the Sodium ion
    • D) Sodium carbonate decomposes at a lower temperature than Lithium carbonate

    Answer: Lithium ion has a higher charge density than Sodium ion

    Explanation: Lithium has a high charge density which polarizes the carbonate ion, leading to decomposition; Sodium has a lower charge density.