MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #5408

Magnesium sulfate is readily soluble in water, but Barium sulfate is practically insoluble. What is the primary thermodynamic reason for this decrease in solubility?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #5408

  1. Question 1

    Q1. Magnesium sulfate is readily soluble in water, but Barium sulfate is practically insoluble. What is the primary thermodynamic reason for this decrease in solubility?

    • A) Lattice energy increases more rapidly than hydration energy
    • B) Lattice energy remains constant while hydration energy increases
    • C) Hydration energy decreases more rapidly than lattice energy
    • D) Ionic radius of the cation decreases as the group descends

    Answer: Hydration energy decreases more rapidly than lattice energy

    Explanation: Hydration energy decreases faster than lattice energy down the group, making the dissolution of Barium sulfate energetically unfavorable compared to Magnesium sulfate.