A metal, M forms chlorides in + 2 and + 4 oxidation states.... | CHEMISTRY - IONIC OR ELECTROVALENT BOND | SolveeIt | Solveeit

Today, August 23

Question

A metal, M forms chlorides in + 2 and + 4 oxidation states. Which of the following statements about these chlorides is correct ?

A

MCl2 is more volatile than MCl4

B

MCl2 is more soluble in anhydrous ethanol than MCl4

C

MCl2 is more ionic than MCl4

D

MCl2 is more easily hydrolysed than MCl4

Answer

MCl2 is more ionic than MCl4

Explanation

Solution

The elements of group 14 show an oxidation state of +4 and +2. The compounds showing an oxidation state of +4 forms covalent compound and have tetrahedral structures. e.g. SnCl4, PbCl4, SiCl4, etc. whereas those which show +2 oxidation state are ionic in nature and behave as reducing agent. e.g. SnCI2, PbCI2 etc. Further as we move down the group the tendency of the element to form covalent compound decreases but the tendency to form ionic compound increases.