A-LevelChemistryChemical periodicity9701/12 · Oct/Nov 2020 · Q161 Mark

Due to their similar ionic radii, the reactions of lithium and magnesium and their corresponding compounds are very similar. Which statement about the reactions of lithium or its compounds can be predicted from this statement?

ALithium burns very slowly in oxygen.

BLithium carbonate decomposes on heating in a blue Bunsen burner flame, forming lithium oxide and carbon dioxide.

CLithium nitrate decomposes on heating, forming lithium nitrite, LiNO₂, and oxygen.

DLithium reacts very violently with cold water, producing hydrogen.

✓ Correct answer

B: Lithium carbonate decomposes on heating in a blue Bunsen burner flame, forming lithium oxide and carbon dioxide.

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Topic: Chemical periodicity, A-Level Chemistry (syllabus 9701). Multiple choice, 1 mark.
Source: A-Level Chemistry, Oct/Nov 2020 Paper 1 Variant 2, question 16.

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