JEEMAIN.

GURU

ALKALI METAL
1. PH YSICAL STATE

(a) One electron in outermost shell & General formula ns 1.

(b) Francium is radioactive element.

(c) All are silvery white

(d) Light soft, malleable and ductile metals with metallic lustre.

(e) Alkali metals are paramagnetic, diamagnetic and colourless in form of ions.

2. ATOMIC SIZE

(a) Biggest in their respective period

(except noble gas element)

(b) Size increases from Li to Fr due to addition of an extra shell.

Li < Na < K < Rb < Cs < Fr

3. SOFTNESS

(a) Alkali metals are soft because of -

(i) Large atomic size

(ii) BCC crystal structure (HCP in Li)

(iii) Loose packing (68% packing efficiency)

(iv) Weak metallic bond

(b) Cs is the softest metal in s-block

1 1
A tomic size   softn ess 
stren gth of m etallic bond M elting & Boiling poin t

4. MELTING POINT AND BOILING POINT

(a) Weak interatomic bonds are due to their large atomic radii and presence of only one valence electron
hence melting point and boiling point are low.

(b) Decreasing order of melting point and boiling point is

Li > Na > K > Rb > Cs

(c) With the increase in the size of metal atom, the repulsion of the non-bonding electrons increases and
therefore melting point and boiling point decreases from Li to Cs.

5. ELECTRO POSITIVE CHAR ACTER OR METALLIC CHAR ACTER

Electropositivity  1/Ionisation Potential

Due to their larger size electron can easily be removed to form M+ ion. Electro positive property increases from
Li to Cs.
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6. FLAME TEST

Alkali metals and their salts gives characteristic colour to bunsen flame. The flame energy causes an excitation
of the outer most electron which on dropping back to ground state emits absorbed energy as visible light

Ex. Li-Crimson red Na-Golden yellow K -V i o le t

Rb-Red violet Cs-Blue

7. REACTION WITH NH 3

(a) 2Li + NH3  Li2NH (Lithimide)

2Na + 2NH3 2NaNH2 + H2 

(Sodamide)

(b) Solubility in liquid ammonia

(i) All the alkali metals dissolves in NH3 (liq.) and produces blue solution.

(ii) This blue solution conducts electricity and possesses strong reducing power, due to the presence of
ammoniated electrons.

Na(s) + (x+y) NH3  [Na(NH3)x]+ + [e(NH3)y]–

ammoniated electron

(iii) This dilute solution is paramagnetic in nature.

8. PHOTO ELECTRIC EFFECT

(a) Atomic size of K, Rb and Cs is quite large, so their ionisation potential is very low

(b) Due to very low ionisation potential their valence shell electrons gets excited even by absorbing visible
light. That's why Cs is used in photo cells.

9. STANDARD OXIDATION POTENTIAL

(a) All the alkali metals have high +ve values of standard oxidation potential (tendency of releasing electrons
in water or self ionic solutions)

(b) So these are good reducing agent, having upper most positions in the electro chemical series.

(c) Li has highest standerd oxidation potential (+3.05 eV) due to its high hydration energy. Such that it converts
into. Li+ ion by loosing one electron.

Order of standard oxidation potential of s - block element

Li > K > Ba > Sr > C a > Na > M g > Be
Hydration energy  Charge density on ion

10. HYDR ATION ENERGY (HE AT OF HYDR ATION)

(a) Alkali metals salts are generally soluble in water due to hydration of cations by water molecules.

(b) Smaller the cation, greater is the degree of its hydration.

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(c) Li + Na+ K+ Rb + Cs+

* Degree of hydration decreasing
* Hydration energy decreasing
* Hydrated ion size decreasing
* Ionic conductance increasing
11. REDUCING PROPERTY

(a) Since alkali metals have high standard oxidation potential, so these are strongest reductants.

(b) Reducing property increases down the group in gaseous or molten state

Li+ < Na+ < K+ < Rb+ < Cs+

(c) But in aqueous solution order is -

Li+ > K+ ~ Rb + > Cs+ > Na+

12. REACTION WITH AIR

(a) Alkali metals gets turnish in air due to the formation of oxide at their surface hence they are kept in
kerosene or paraffin oil.

(b) These elements reacts with moist air to form carbonates

4Na + O2  2Na2O
Na2O + H2O  2NaOH
(moist)

2NaOH + CO2  Na2CO3 + H2O

(in air)

In dry air only Li gives nitride and oxide both while other elements gives only oxides.

13. REACTION WITH OXYGEN

Oxide ion [O 2– ] :

Li forms only Li2O (Lithium oxide).

Peroxide [O 2 ] — 2 :

Na reacts with O2 to form peroxide (Na2O2).

Super oxide [O 2 – ] :

K, Rb and Cs forms MO2 type oxides (super oxides) in excess of O2. So super oxides are paramagnetic and
coloured.
O2 O2 O2
M MO
2 MO
2 2 MO
2 2
Oxide perioxide super
oxide

(Li2O) (Na2O2) (KO2, RbO2, CsO2)

Their stability order is –

Normaloxide > Peroxide > Superoxide

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14. RE ACTION WITH WATER

(a) Alkali metals react vigorously with water forming hydroxides with the liberation of H2.

2M + 2H2O  2MOH + H2

(b) Reactivity with water increases from Li to Cs.

Li  least reactive towards water

Na  reacts vigorously

K  reacts producing a flame

Rb, Cs  reacts explosively.

(c) These metals also reacts with alcohol gives alkoxide and H2.

– +
2Li + 2C2H5OH  2C 2 H 5 O Li + H2

(d) Monoxides gives strongly alkaline solution with water

M2O + H2O  2MOH

15. HALIDES

(a) Alkali metals reacts directly with halogen to form MX

(M – alkalimetal, X – Halide ion)

(b) Ionic properties of MX increases from LiCl to CsCl

(c) LiCl is covalent in nature (due to polarisation of Cl– ion by small Li+ ion). hence it hydrolyses with water
while rest are ionic so do not hydrolyse.

(d) K, Rb and Cs halides reacts with more halogens to gives polyhalides.

on
KI  I 2  KI 3 
ionisation
 K   I 3

CsBr + Br2  CsBr3  Cs+ + Br3–

16. C A R B O N AT E S

(a) All the alkali metals forms M2CO3 type carbonates.

(b) Except Li 2CO 3, all the carbonates are stable towards heat

Li2CO3 Li2O + CO2

(c) Thermal stability of carbonates   1/ (Ionic potential)

Order of stability is –

Cs2CO 3 > Rb 2CO3 > K2CO 3 > Na2CO 3 > Li 2CO 3

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17. N I T R AT E S

(a) Alkali metals forms MNO3 type nitrates (M – alkali metal)

(b) Stability increases from LiNO3 to CsNO3. LiNO3 decompoes into Lithium oxide & NO2 on heating.

4LiNO3 
Oxide
2Li2O + 4NO2 + O2

(c) Other nitrates, on heating to give nitrite and oxygen.


MNO 3  2MNO 2  O 2

Nitrite

18. NITRIDES

Only Li reacts directly with N2 to form nitride which gives NH3 on reacting with water.

6Li + N2  2Li3N

Li3N + 3H2O  3LiOH + NH3

19. FORM ATION OF A M ALGA M

(a) Alkali metals gives amalgam with Hg.

(b) These metals reacts with other metals to give mixed metals (alloys)

20. S U L P H AT E S

(a) Alkali metals forms M2SO4 type sulphates.

(b) All alkali metal sulphates are ionic. Ionic properties increases from Li to Cs.

Li2SO4 < Na2SO4 < K2SO4 < Rb2SO4 < Cs2SO4

(c) Li 2SO4 Least soluble in water.

(d) These sulphates on burning with C forms sulphides

M2SO4 + 4C  M2S + 4CO

(e) Except lithium, sulphates of IA group reacts with

sulphates of trivalent metals like Fe+3, Cr+3, Al+3 etc. gives double salts called alum.
I III
M 2 SO 4 .M 2 (SO 4 ) 3 .24H 2 O
21. REACTION WITH ACIDS

Reacts vigorously with acids.

2M + H2SO4 M2SO4 + H2 
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COMPOUNDS OF ALKALI METALS

1. SODIUM (NA), NATRIUM

(a) Extraction : Down's Process

By Electrolysis of fused NaCl + CaCl2 + NaF
At cathode (Iron Vessel) : Na+ +e– Na(s)
–
At Anode (Graphite) : 2Cl Cl2 + 2e–
(i) (CaCl2 + NaF) is used to lower Melting point (8000C) of NaCl to about 6000C.
(ii) Aqueous sodium chloride cannot be used for preparing sodium by electrolysis. Because instead of metallic
sodium, hydrogen gas will be liberated at cathode.
(b) Properties
(i) It is a crystalline soft metal.
(ii) Highly reactive, so kept in kerosene.
(iii) Na dissolves in liquid NH3 to give blue solution.
(c) Uses
(i) In the preparation of sodium amalgam (used as reducing agent)
(ii) In sodium vapour lamp, which emits monochromatic yellow light.
(iii) As heat transfer medium in nuclear reactors.

2. SODIUM CHLORIDE NaCl

(a) Occurrence : Sea water is the main source and also found in salt lakes.
(b) Preparation
Evaporation
(i) Sea water NaCl(2.7 – 2.9%) by solar heat crude NaCl
(ii) It contains impurities – Na2SO4, MgCl2, CaCl2 etc.
(iii) Insoluble impurities removed by filtration.
HCl gas passed
(iv) Filtrate Pure NaCl precipitation (Common ion effect)
_ + _
HCl Cl NaCl Na + Cl
–
Ionic product of [Na+] [Cl ] > solubility product of NaCl hence it precipitates out.
(v) MgCl2 and CaCl2 are more soluble in water so left in solution.
(c) Properties
(i) Table salt is slightly hygroscopic due to the presence of magnesium and calcium chlorides in small amounts.
(ii) Reaction with AgNO3
NaCl + AgNO3   NaNO3 + AgCl(white ppt.)
Reaction with K2Cr2O7 + conc. H2SO 4

(iii) 4NaCl + K2Cr2O7 + 5H2SO4 

  4NaHSO4 + K2SO4 + 2CrO2Cl2 + 3H2O

(orange red)
(d) Uses
(i) As a preservative for pickles, meat and fish.
(ii) For making freezing mixture with Ice.
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3. SODIUM HYDROXIDE (NaOH), CAUSTIC SODA
(a) Manufacture : By electrolysis of NaCl.
(b) Nelson Cell or Diaphragm Cell : The following reactions takes place –
_
NaCl(aq.) Na+ + Cl
_
NaOH + H2 + Cl2
H2O H+ + OH
–
At cathode (Perforated steel) : 2H+ + 2e–  H2(g) At anode (Carbon) : 2Cl (aq.) 
 Cl2(g) + 2e–
(c) Castner – Kellner Cell : (Hg – Cathode Process)
+ _
Electrolite (Brine) NaCl Na + Cl
On electrolysis –
At Cathode (Hg)
Na+ + e–  Na. and Na + Hg  Na.Hg (amalgum)
At anode (Graphite)
–
2Cl  Cl2(g) + 2e– and 2Na.Hg + 2H2O  2NaOH + H2 + 2Hg
(d) Properties
(i) It is deliquescent white crystalline solid.
(ii) It absorbs CO2 from air forming Na2CO3.
(iii) NaOH is strong base
SiO2
Na2SiO3 + H2O
NaOH Al2O3
2NaAlO2 + H2O

(iv) Reaction with non metals : no reaction with H 2, N 2 and C

B
Na3BO3 (sodium borate)
Si
NaOH Na2SiO3 (sodium silicate)
P4
NaHPO
2 2 + PH3
(sodium hypo phosphate)
(v) Reaction with halogens

NaOH (cold/dil)
NaX + NaOX (Sodium hypo halite)
X2 NaOH (Hot/conc.)
NaX + NaOX3 (Sodium Halate)
(X2 = Cl2, Br2, I2)

(vi) Reaction with Metal :

Alkali metal
No reaction
2Al + 2H2O
2NaAlO2 (Sodium meta aluminate) + H2
Be
Na2BeO2 (Sodium Berrylate) + H2
NaOH Zn
Na2ZnO2 (Sodium zincate) + H2
Sn
Na2SnO2 (Sodiumstannite) + H2
Pb
Na2PbO2 (Sodiumplumbite) + H2
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(vii) Reaction with ZnCl 2 or ZnSO 4


ZnCl2 + 2NaOH Zn(OH)2 + 2NaCl

Zn(OH)2 + 2NaOH Na2 [Zn(OH)4]

(Soluble complex )
(viii) The hydroxides of aluminium, zinc, lead and tin, however, dissolve in excess of sodium hydroxide giving
clear solution which can also be obtained when these metals are acted upon by the concentrated solution
of sodium hydroxide.
Zn(OH)2 + 2OH– [Zn(OH)4]
2–
Al(OH)3 + 3OH
–
[Al(OH)6]
3–

Zincate ion Aluminate ion

(e) Uses
(i) In the manufacture of soap, rayon, dyes, paper and drugs.
(ii) In petroleum refining.

4. SODIUM BICARBONATE OR BA KING SODA (NaHCO 3 )

(a) Preparation : Solvay process (Commercial Scale)

CaCO3  CaO + CO2 (In brine saturated with NH3, CO2 is passed)
NH3 + H2O + CO2 NH4HCO3
NaCl + NH4HCO3 NH4Cl + NaHCO3
2NH4Cl + CaO CaCl2 + 2NH3 + H2O (Bye-products)

(b) Properties

Hydrolysis NaHCO3 + H2 O NaOH + H2CO3

Effect of heat (temp. > 100°C) 2NaHCO3 Na2CO3 + H 2O + CO2

(Process occurs during preparation of cake)

Reaction with acids – gives CO 2 NaHCO3 + HCl NaCl + H2O + CO2

Reaction with base NaHCO3 + NaOH Na2CO3 + H2 O

(c) Uses
(i) In the preparation of baking powder.
(ii) In the preparation of effervescent drinks.
(iii) In the fire extinguishers.
(iv) As antacid medicine (removing acidity)
5. SODIUM CARBONATE OR WASHING SODA (Na 2 CO 3 .10H 2 O)

(a) Occurrence : Na 2CO 3 –Soda ash.

(b) Manufacture : By solvay process
(i) Concentrated aqueous solution of NaCl is saturated with NH3.
(ii) Current of CO2 passed through the solution.
(iii) NaHCO 3 precipitated –
NH3 + CO2 + H2O NH4HCO3 NH4+ + HCO3–
–
NaCl Na+ + Cl
[Na ] × [HCO3–] > Ksp of NaHCO3
+
(so ppt. forms)
2NaHCO3 Na2CO3 + H2O + CO2
(iv) Potassium bicarbonate (KHCO3) cannot be prepared by solvay process as it is soluble in water.
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(c) Leblanc Process

NaCl + H2SO4 (conc.) 

mild heating
 NaHSO3 + HCl

Strongly
NaCl + NaHSO4 
heated
 Na2SO4 + HCl

(Salt Cake)
Na2SO4 + 4C  Na2S + 4CO
Na2S + CaCO3  Na2CO3 + CaS
(d) Properties
(i) Efflorescence :
Na2CO3.10H2O when exposed to air it gives out nine out of ten H2O molecules.
Na2CO3.10H2O Na2CO3.H2O + 9H2O
(Monohydrate)
This process is called efflorescence. Hence washing soda losses weight on exposure to air.
(ii) Hydrolysis :Aqueous solution of Na2CO3 is alkaline in nature due to anionic hydrolysis.
–
Na2CO3 2Na+ + CO3–2 and CO3–2 + H2 O H2CO3 + 2OH
(Carbonic acid)
(e) Uses
(i) For making fusion mixture (Na2CO3 + K2CO3)
(ii) In the manufacture of glass, caustic soda, soap powders etc.
(iii) In laundries and softening of water.

6. SODIUM PEROXIDE Na 2 O 2
(a) Sodium peroxide is manufacured by heating sodium metal on aluminium trays in air (free from CO2)
2Na + O2 (air) Na2 O2
(i) When pure it is colourless, and the faint yellow colour of the usual product arises from the presence of a
small amount of NaO2.
(ii) When it is exposed, it comes in contact with moist air and turns white due to formation of NaOH and
Na 2CO 3. Thus
Na2O2 + 2H2O 2NaOH + H2O2 and 2NaOH + CO2 Na2CO3 + H2O
(iii) Sodium peroxide is a powerful oxidizing agent and oxidizes chromium (III) hydroxide to sodium chromate,
manganese (II) to sodium manganate and sulphides to sulphates.
2Cr(OH)3 + 3O2–2 CrO4–2 + 2OH– + 2H2O
(b) Uses
(i) Sodium peroxide is widely used as an oxidizing agent yielding in inorganic chemisty; its reaction with
organic compounds are dangerously violent.
(ii) Sodium readily combines with carbon dioxide, sodium carbonate and oxygen, it may be used for the
purification of air in confined spaces such as submarines.
(iii) It is also used as a bleaching agent because of its oxidizing property.
(iv) Sodium peroxide is used in the manufacture of dyes, and many other chemicals such as benzoyl peroxide,
sodium perborate etc.
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7. POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE KOH

(a) Preparation: Electrolysis of KCl aqueous solution.

(b) Properties: Same as NaOH

(i) It is stronger base compared to NaOH.

(ii) Sollubility in water is more compared to NaOH.

(iii) In alcohol, NaOH is sparingly soluble but KOH is highly soluble.

(iv) As a reagent KOH is less frequently used but in absorption of CO2, KOH is preferable used compared to
NaOH. Because KHCO3 formed is soluble whereas NaHCO3 is insoluble and may therefore chocke the
tubes of apparatus used.

8. POTASSIUM CARBONATE

(a) By leblance process, it can be prepared but by solvay process it cannot be prepared because KHCO3 is
soluble in water.

(b) Properties: It resembles with Na 2CO 3, m.p. is 900ºC but a mixture of Na 2CO 3 and K 2CO 3 melts at
712ºC.

(c) Uses: It is used in glass manufacturing.

9. POTASSIUM CHLORIDE

It is also occurs in nature and sylvyne (KCl) or carnalite (2KCl.MgCl2.6H2O)

U s e s : It is used as fertiliser.

10. OXIDES OF POTASSIUM

K 2 O, K 2O 2 , K 2O 3 , KO 2 KO 3
Colours White White Red Bright yellow Reddish brown needles

Preparation
(i) 2KNO3 + 10K 
heating
 6K 2O + N 2

K2O 
heating
 K2O
(white) (Yellow)
K2O + H2O  2KOH
Controlled
(ii) 2K + O2 
air at 300 º C
 K 2O2

(iii) Passage of O2 through a blue solution of K in liquid NH3 yields oxides K2O2 (white), K2O3 (red) and KO2
(deep yellow) i.e.
K in liq. NH3 
O2
 K2O2 K2O3  KO2
white red yellow
KO2 reacts with H2O and produces H2O2 and O2 both
KOH + O3 (Ozonised oxygen) 
–10 º to –15 º C
 KO3
(Dry powdered) (orange solid)
JEEMAIN.GURU

ALKALINE EARTH METAL

1. PH YSICAL STATEE

(a) Two electrons in outer most shell & General formula ns2.
(b) Radium is radioactive element.
(c) All are greyish white.
(d) These metals are harder than alkali metals.
(e) These are diamagnetic and colourless in form of ions or in metal states.
2. ATOMIC SIZE
Smaller than IA group elements, since extra charge on nucleus attracts the electron cloud.
(a) Size increases gradually from Be to Ba
Be < Mg < Ca < Sr < Ba
(b) In s-block elements
Be is the smallest, Cs is the biggest
3. SOFTNESS

(a) These metals are slightly harder than IA group because of -

(i) Smaller atomic size
(ii) FCC, HCP crystal structures
(iii) Packing capacity 74%
(iv) Stronger metallic bond due to presence of two electrons in valence shell.
(b) Be is the hardest metal in s-block.
4. MELTING POINT AND BOILING POINT
(a) Metallic bond is stronger than IA group due to smaller atomic size and two electrons in valence shell
hence melting point and boiling point are higher.
(b) Decreasing order of melting point and boiling point is
Be > Ca > Sr > Ba > Mg
(c) Melting point and Boiling point of Ca, Sr and Ba is higher than Mg because of presence of d-orbitals in
the outer most shell, which forms stronger metallic bond.
5. ELECTRO POSITIVE CHAR ACTER OR METALLIC CHAR ACTER

Their atomic size is smaller than IA group so these are lesser electro positive than IA group. Electropositivity
increases from Be to Ba
6. FLAME TEST

(a) Be and Mg atoms, due to small size, bind their electrons more strongly, so are not excited to higher level,
hence no flame test.

(b) Other elements gives characteristic colour to flame

Ca-Brick red Sr-crimson red
Ba-Apple green
7. REACTION WITH NH 3

(a) On increasing metal ion concentrate solution converts into bronze colour due to cluster formation of metal
ions.
(b) Solubility in liquid ammonia

(i) Only Ca, Sr and Ba gives blue solution of ammoniated electron.

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(ii) Be and Mg are small in size and have high ionisation potential so do not dissolves in liquid NH3.

(iii) Dark blue colour of solution becomes fade if it allowed to stand for a long time, it is because of metal
amide formation.

(iv) Blue colour of solution disappears on addition of ammonium salt, due to NH3 formation.

NH4+ + NH 2  2NH3
8. PHOTO ELECTRIC EFFECT

These elements do not show this property as their atomic size is small hence ionisation potential is higher than
IA group.

9. STANDARD OXIDATION POTENTIAL

(a) They have lower values of standard oxidation potential due to their small size.

(b) Increasing order of standard oxidation potential is -

Be < Mg < Ca < Sr < Ba

(c) Tendendy of loosing electron increases
10. HYDR ATION ENERGY (HE AT OF HYDR ATION)

(a) Due to smaller ionic size and higher charge density their hydration energy is high.

(b) Its decreasing order is

Be+2 > Mg+2 > Ca+2 > Sr+2 > Ba+2
(c) H ydration energy  1/cation size

11. REDUCING PROPERTY

(a) Less reductant than alkali metals

(b) Order of reducing property in aqueous and gaseous medium is
Be+2 < Mg+2 < Ca+2 < Sr+2 < Ba+2
12. REACTION WITH AIR

(a) Except Be, these metals are easily turnished in air, as a Layer of oxide is formed on the surface.

(b) Barium in powdered form, burst into flame on exposure to air.

(c) In moist air, except Be all the elements converts into carbonates.

(d) In dry air Be and Mg gives nitride and oxide both while other gives only oxides.
13. REACTION WITH OXYGEN

(a) Alkaline earth metals reacts with O2 to form 'MO' type oxides
(M = Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba)
(b) But Ca, Sr and Ba due to low ionisation potential and more reactivity, forms MO2 (peroxides) at low
temperature.
E x . CaO 2 , SrO 2, BaO 2
(c) Peroxides are coloured due to Lattice deffect.
(d) BeO shows amphoteric property.
MgO  weak base
CaO, SrO & BaO  Strong base
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(e) Basic properties increases from Be to Ba
(f) Its stability order general oxide > peroxide > super oxide
14. RE ACTION WITH WATER

(a) These metals reacts slowly with water gives H2 and metals hydroxides.

M + 2H2O  M(OH)2 + H2
(b) Be does not reacts with water

(c) Mg reacts only with hot water

(d) Ca, Sr, Ba reacts with cold water but not as energetically as alkali metals. order of reactivity

Ba > Sr > Ca > Mg > Be

(e) from Be(OH)2 to Ba(OH)2 basic property and stability increases.

15. HALIDES

(a) Alkaline metals reacts with X (Halogen) to form MX2.

Ex. (BeCl2, MgCl2, CaCl2 etc.)

(b) Ionic nature of MX2 increases from BeCl2 to BaCl2

(c) Ba burns in contact with Cl2

(d) Hydrolytic nature of these halides decreases from BeCl2 to BaCl2

(e) BeCl2 and MgCl2 are covalent in nature. Order of ionic nature –

BeCl2 < MgCl2 < CaCl2 < SrCl2 < BaCl2

Solubility in water

BeCl2 > MgCl2 > CaCl2 > SrCl2 > BaCl2

16. C A R B O N AT E S

(a) All the alkaline metals forms MCO3 type carbonates.

(b) Except BeCO3, all the carbonates are stable towards heat

BeCO3   BeO + CO2

(c) Order of decreasing stability -

BaCO3 > SrCO3 > CaCO3 > MgCO3 > BeCO3

17. N I T R AT E S

(a) Alkaline earth metals forms M(NO3)2 type nitrates. (M –Alkaline earth metal).

(b) Stability increases from Be(NO3)2 to Ba(NO3)2 but these are less stable than IA group, due to smaller
atomic size.
(c) All alkaline metals nitrates on heating gives oxides and NO2 + O2


M(NO3)2  Oxides + NO2 + O2

(d) Be(NO3)2 forms a layer of BeO on its surface so reaction stops.

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18. NITRIDES

Only Be and Mg burns in N2 to give M3N2 (Be3N2, Mg 3N2)

Be3N2 + 6H2O   3Be(OH)2 + 2NH3

Mg3N2 + 6H2O  3Mg(OH)2 + 2NH3
19. FORM ATION OF A M ALGA M

Shows same properties as alkali matals.

20. S U L P H AT E S

(a) Alkaline earth metals forms MSO4 type sulphates.

(b) Ionic nature of alkaline metal sulphat is increases from Be to Ba

BeSO 4 < MgSO 4 < CaSO 4 < SrSO 4 < BaSO 4

(c) Solubility decreases from BeSO4 to BaSO4 as Be+2 and Mg+2 are of small size so their hydration energy
is high Hydration Energy > Lattice energy.

(d) Order of solubility –

BeSO4 > MgSO4 > CaSO4 > SrSO4 > BaSO4

(e) Order of thermal stability –

BeSO4, MgSO4, CaSO4, SrSO4, BaSO4

Ionic nature increases, Thermal stability increases

21. REACTION WITH ACIDS

Freely reacts with acids and displaces hydrogen

M + 2HCl MCl2 + H2

COMPOUNDS OF ALK ALINE E ARTH METALS

1. MAGNESIUM
(a) Preparation :
(i) From Magnesite or Dolomite : The ore is first calcined to form the oxide
MgCO3 MgO + CO2 and CaCO3.MgCO3 CaO. MgO + 2CO2
(ii) From MgO : The oxide is mixed with carbon and heated in a current of chlorine gas
MgO + C + Cl2 MgCl2 + CO
The chloride thus obtained is subjected to electrolysis.
(iii) The mixed oxides (CaO.MgO) obtained from calcination of dolomite (CaCO3 MgCO3) are reduced by
ferrosilicon under reduced pressure above 1273 K.
(iv) It is prepared by the electrolysis of fused magnesium chloride.
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(b) Properties
(i) Magnesium burns in air with dazzling light.
2Mg + O2 2MgO
(ii) Burning Mg continues to burn in CO2 forming MgO because reducing nature Mg > C
2Mg + CO2 2MgO + C
(c) Uses
(i) In preparation of alloy
Electron : 95% Mg + 5% Zn, air craft
Magnalium : 1 – 15% Mg + 85 – 99% Al, used in aeroplanes, balance beams, light instruments.
(ii) In photographic flash light.
(iii) In preparation of Grignard's reagent.

2. MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE MgCl 2

(a) Occurrence : It is mainly found in sea water and carnallite KCl.MgCl2.6H2O.
(b) Preparation :
(i) By reaction of dil HCl on MgCO3
MgCO3 + 2HCl MgCl2 + CO2 + H2O
(ii) MgCl2 is obtained by burning Mg metal in chlorine
Heated
Mg + Cl2 MgCl2
(c) Properties
On heating MgCl2.6H2O, it gets hydrolysed by its own water of crystallization to an oxy chlorides.

MgCl2.6H2O MgO + 2HCl + 5H2O
(d) Uses
(i) For preparation of metallic magnesium.
(ii) In manufacture of magnesia cement.
(iii) Used for dressing cotton threads.

3. MAGNESIUM SULPHATE MgSO 4

(a) Occurrence : It occurs naturally as kiserite (MgSO 4.H 2 O) and epsomite (MgSO 4.7H2O).
(b) Preparation
By dissolving magnesite in dil. H2SO4
MgCO3 + H2SO4 MgSO4 + H2O + CO2
(c) Properties :On heating above 2000 C
Above
2MgSO4 200°C 2MgO + 2SO2 + O2
Note : It is used in medicine as purgative.

4. CA LC IU M

(a) Extraction
(i) It is obtained by the electrolysis of fused CaCl2. By adding CaF2 melting point of CaCl2 (7800C) decreased.
700°C –
CaCl2 Ca++ + 2Cl
–
At Cathode (Iron) Ca++ + 2e– Ca and at Anode(Graphite) 2Cl Cl2 + 2e–
(ii) Goldschmidt (thermite) Process
3CaO + 2Al Al 2O 3 + 3Ca
CaO is reduced by Al because it has greater affinity for oxygen than Ca.
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(b) Properties
(i) With air
Burning Burning
2Ca + O2 2CaO and 3Ca + N2 Ca3N2

 
CaH2 (Hydrolith)
(ii) Ca Cold H2O
Ca(OH)2 + H2

(c) Uses
(i) For removal of sulphur from petroleum
(ii) As a dehydrating agent in preparation of absolute alcohol
(iii) It is used as a deoxidiser for copper, cast Iron and steel
5. CALCIUM OXIDE (CaO) QUICK LIME

(a) Preparation : By heating limestones at 800 0 C.

800°C
CaCO3 CaO + CO2
(b) Properties
(i) Action of water : CaO + H2O Ca(OH)2
(quick lime) (Slaked lime)
Ca(OH)2 paste in water called milk of lime.
(ii) Basic Nature :
 
CaO + SiO2 CaSiO3 and CaO + P4O10 2Ca3(PO4)2
(Calcium silicate)
2000°C
(iii) Reaction with carbon : CaO + 3C CaC2 + CO 
(c) Uses
(i) In the manufacture of bleaching powder, cement, glass, calcium carbide etc.
(ii) In the purification of sugar
(iii) As a drying agent for NH3 and C2H5OH
(iv) As basic lining in furnaces
(v) For making Soda lime

6. CALCIUM HYDROXIDE Ca(OH) 2 SLAKED LIME

(a) Preparation : By the action of water on quick lime

CaO + H2O Ca(OH)2 + heat
(b) Properties
(i) Action of CO 2 : Lime water turns milky on passing CO2 gas.
Ca(OH)2 + CO2 CaCO3 + H2O
Milkiness
Excess of
CaCO3 CO2
Ca(HCO3)2 (soluble)

(ii) Action of Chlorine :

below 35°C
Ca(OH)2 + Cl2 CaOCl2 + H2O
dry Bleaching powder

red heat
2Ca(OH)2 + 2Cl2 2CaCl2 + 2H2O + O2
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(c) Uses

(i) For softening of hard water.

(ii) For purification of sugar and Coal gas.

(iii) In the manufacture of bleaching powder, Caustic soda and soda lime

(iv) In preparation of mortar, plaster and white washing.

7. CALCIUM CARBONATE (CaCO 3 )

(a) It ocurs in nature as marble, limestone, chalk, coral, calcite etc. It is prepared by dissolving marble or
limestone in HCl and removing iron and aluminium present, by precipitating with NH3 and then adding
(NH4)2CO3 to the solution.

CaCl2 + (NH4)2CO3  CaCO3 + 2NH4Cl

(b) Properties

(i) It dissociates above 1000ºC as follows: CaCO3  CaO + CO2

(ii) It dissolves in water containing CO2 forming Ca(HCO3)2 but is precipitated from the solution by boiling

CaCO3 + H2O + CO2 Ca(HCO3)2

boiling

(c) Uses

(i) In the preparation tooth pastes, cosmetics face powder and medicine for indigestion.

(ii) In the preparation of Quick lime.

(iii) As a building material.

(iv) In manufacture of cement, glass, washing soad etc.

8. CACLIUM SULPHATE CaSO 4 .2H 2 O (GYPSUM)

(a) Preparation : CaSO4.2H2O is naturally occuring calcium sulphate. It can be obtained by the action of
dil.H2SO4 on a soluble calcium salt below 600C.

CaCl2 + H2SO4 2HCl + CaSO4 

dilute white ppt.
(b) Properties

(i) Action of heat

120°C 200°C
2CaSO4.2H2O 
–3H 2 O
 (CaSO4)2.H2O   2CaSO4
 + H2O

(Plaster of paris) (Anhydride)

(ii) It forms an important fertilizer (NH4) 2SO 4

CaSO4 + 2NH3 + CO2 + H2O  CaCO3  + (NH4)2 SO4

(c) Uses

(i) In the preparation of plaster of paris

(ii) Anhydrous CaSO4 used as drying agent.

(iii) Anhydride (CaSO4) is used for manufacture of sulphuric acid, ammonium sulphate.
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9. PLASTER OF PARIS (2CaSO 4 .H 2 O )
(a) Preparation : It obtained when gypsum is heated at 1200C
2(CaSO4.2H2O) 2CaSO4.H2O + 3H2O
(b) Properties
(i) It is a white powder.
(ii) It has the property of setting to a hard mass when a paste with water is allowed to stand aside for
sometime.
(iii) When it heated at 2000C, anhydrous CaSO4 is formed.

(c) Uses

(i) In surgery for setting broken bones

(ii) In making casts for toys, statues etc.
(iii) In making blackboard chalks.
10. SIMILARITIES BETWEEN LITHIUM AND MAGNESIUM

(a) Both lithium and magnesium are harder and lighter than other elements in the respective groups.
(b) Lithium and magnesium react slowly with cold water. Their oxides and hydroxides are much less soluble
and their hydroxides decompose on heating. Both form a nitride by direct combination with nitrogen,
Li 3 N and Mg 3 N 2 .
(c) The oxides, Li2O and MgO do not combine with excess oxygen to give a peroxide or a superoxide.
(d) The carbonates of lithium and magnesium decompose easily on heating to form the oxide and CO2. Solid
bicarbonates are not formed by lithium and magnesium.
(e) Both LiCl and MgCl2 are soluble in ethanol.
(f) Both LiCl and MgCl2 are deliquescent and crystallise from aqueous solution as hydrates,
LiCl.2H 2O and MgCl 2.8H 2O.
11. DIAGONAL SIMILARITY BETWEEN BERYLLIUM AND ALUMINIUM : In many of its properties, beryllium
resembles aluminium. Thus –
(a) The two elements have same electronegativity and their charge/ radius ratios.
(b) Both metals are fairly resistant to the action of acids due to a protective film of oxide on the surface. Both
metals are acted upon by strong alkalies to form soluble complexes, beryllates [Be(OH) 4 ] 2– and
aluminates, [Al(OH)4 ]– .
(c) The chlorides of both beryllium and aluminium

Cl Cl Cl Cl
Cl-Be Be-Cl Al Al
Cl Cl Cl Cl

have bridged chloride structures in vapour phase.

(d) Salts of these metals form hydrated ions, Ex. [Be(OH2)4 ]2+ and [Al (OH2)6 ]3+ in aqueous solutions. Due
to similar charge/ radius ratios of beryllium and aluminium ions have strong tendency to form complexes.
For example beryllium forms tetrahedral complexes such as BeF4 2– and [Be(C2 O4 )2 ]2– and aluminium
forms octahedral complexes like AlF6 3– and [Al(C2 O4)3]3–.
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IMPORTANT COMPOUNDS AND THEIR FORMULA

1. Active nitrogen : N(atomic nitrogen)

2. Alums : M2'SO4 . M2 '''(SO4)3 . 24H2 O

M' = K+, NH4 +, Na+ etc.

M''' = Cr +3 , Al+3 , Fe+3 etc.

3. Asbestos : CaMg 3 (SiO 3 ) 4

4. Arsine : AsH 3

5. Aquaregia : Conc. HNO3 + Conc. HCl (1 : 3 part)

6. Anhydrone : Mg(ClO 4 ) 2

7. Argentoferrous galena : PbS + Ag 2 S

8. Borax : Na 2 B 4 O 7 . 10H 2 O

9. Blue vitriol : CuSO 4 , 5H 2 O

10. Barytes : BaSO 4

11. Baryta water : Ba(OH)2 solution

12. Baryta : BaO

13. Baking soda : NaHCO 3

14. Bleaching powder : CaOCl 2

15. Boranes : Hydride of borone

16. Brine : NaCl solution

17. Calgon : Na 2 [Na 4 (PO 3 ) 6 ]

18. Coinage metals : Cu, Ag and Au

19. Carborundum : SiC

20. Cementite : FeC

21. Caliche : NaNO 3 + NalO 3

22. Caustic soda : NaOH

23. Caustic potash : KOH

24. Calomel : Hg 2 Cl 2

25. Corrosive sublimate : HgCl 2

26. Deuterium : 1
H2 of D

27. D.D.T. : p-dichloro, diphenyl, trichloroethane

28. Dry ice : Solid CO2

29. Freon : CF 2 Cl 2

30. Ferric Alum : K2SO4 . Fe2(SO4)3 . 24H2O

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31. Fenton's reagent : H2O2 + few drops of FeSO4

32. Fusion mixutre : Na 2 CO 3 + K 2 CO 3

33. Fluid magnesia : 12% solution of Mg (HCO)2

34. Fehling solution : CuSO4 . 5H2O + NaOH + Na, K tartarate

35. King of metals : Gold

36. Horn Silver : AgCl

37. Green vitriol : FeSO4 . 7H2 O

38. Graphite : An allotrope of carbon

39. Gun powder : 75% KNO 3 + 12%S + 13% charcoal (explosive)

40. Glauber salt : Na 2SO 4 . 10H 2 O

41. Hydrolith : CaH 2

42. Heavy water : D2O

43. Hypo (sodium thiosulphate) : Na 2 S 2 O 3 . 5H 2 O

44. Heavy hydrogen : D2

45. King of chemicals : H 2 SO 4

46. Lime (quick lime or burnt lime) : CaO

47. Lead pencil : Graphite

48. Lime water : Ca(OH) 2

49. Laughing gas : N2O

50. Lunar Caustic : AgNO 3

51. Litharge (Masscote) : PbO

52. Lithopone : (ZnS + BaSO4 ), a pigment

53. Mortar : Slaked lime + sand (1 : 3 in water)

54. Mica : K2O. Al2O3 . 6SiO2 . 2H2O

55. Mohr salt : FeSO4 . (NH4)2SO4 . 6H2O

56. Matte : Cu 2 S + FeS

57. Milk of lime : Ca(OH)2 in water

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58. Minium : Pb 3 O 4

59. Micro cosmic salt : NaNH4 . HPO4 . 4H2O(used in test of silicates)

60. Milk of magnesia : Paste of Mg(OH)2 in water (Antacid)

61. Magnesia : MgO

62. Marsh gas : CH 4

63. Nitrolim : CaCN2 + C (a fertilizer)

64. Nascent Hydrogen : H at the moment of generation

65. Nessler's reagent : (K2HgI4 + KOH) aqueous solution

66. Indian saltpetre, Bengal salt petre : KNO 3

67. Oil of vitriol : Conc. H2SO 4

68. Ozone : O3

69. Oleum : H2S 2O 7

70. Permutit (Zeolite) : Na 2Al 2 SiO 8 . XH 2 O

71. Pearl ash (Potash) : K 2 CO 3

72. Plaster of paris : CaSO4 ½ H2O or 2CaSO4 . H2O

73. Philospher's wool (chinese white) : ZnO (Zinc white)

74. Phosgene : COCl 2

75. Phosphine : PH 3

76. Pig iron : Impure form of iron

77. Producer gas : A mixture of CO + N2 + H2

78. Quartz : SiO 2

79. Refrigerant : CO2, NH3 . CF2Cl2 etc.

80. Red lead : Pb 3 O 4

81. Rochelle salt : Sodium - potassium tartarate

82. Rust : Fe2O3 . xH2 O

83. Sorel's cement (Magnesia cement) : MgCl2 . 5MgO . XH2O

84. Soda - lime : NaOH + CaO

85. Soda ash : Na 2 CO 3 (anhydrous)

86. Slaked lime : Ca(OH) 2

87. Stainless steel : An alloy of Fe, Cr and C

88. Salt cake : Na 2 SO 4 (anhydrous)

89. Super phosphate : Ca(H 2 PO 4 ) + 2CaSO 4

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90. TNT : Trinitro toluene (an explosive)

91. TNB : Trinitro benzene (an explosive)

92. Tincal : Na 2 B 4 O 7 . 10H 2 O

93. Talc : 3MgO . 4SiO2 . H2O or Mg2 (Si2O3)2 . Mg(OH)2

94. Tritium : 1
H3(an isotope of H)

95. Water glass : Na 2 SiO 3

96. Water gas : CO + H2

97. White vitriol : ZnSO4 . 7H2 O

98. Wrought iron : Pure form of iron

99. Washing soda : Na 2 CO 3 . 10H 2 O

100. Willemite \ Zincite : ZnO

101. Zinc white : ZnO

102. Zinc blend : ZnS

INDUSTRIALLY IMPORTANT PROCESS

Ammonia Soda process : Manufacture of NaHCO 3, Na 2 CO 3

(Solvay process)

Birkeland - Eyde process : Manufacture of HNO 3

Bosch process : Manufacture of H 2

Castner process : Manufacture of Na

Caster - Kellner Cell process : Manufacture of NaOH

Contact process : Manufacture of H 2 SO 4

Down process : Manufacture of Na

Dow's process : Manufacture of phenol

Deacon's process : Manufacture of Cl 2

Haber process : Manufacture of NH 3

Hasenclever process : Manufacture of Bleaching powder

L.D. process : Manufacture of steel

Lead chamber process : Manufacture of H 2 SO 4

Nelson cell process : Manufacture of NaOH

Ostwald process : Manufacture of HNO 3