The main oxides formed on combustion of Li, Na and K in excess of air are, respectively:
Alkali metals form different oxides when burned in excess air due to stability trends. Lithium forms the normal oxide (Li2O) because its small size stabilizes it. Sodium forms the peroxide (Na2O2). Potassium, rubidium, and cesium form superoxides (like KO2) because their larger sizes stabilize the larger superoxide ion.
The stability order is: normal oxide < peroxide < superoxide as we go down the group.
Final answer: Li2O, Na2O2 and KO2
When alkali metals (Group 1 elements) burn in excess air, they form different oxides based on their size and stability of the resulting compound. The key factor is the size of the cation: smaller cations stabilize normal oxides, while larger cations stabilize peroxides or superoxides.
Step 1: Understand the trend
As we move down the group from Lithium (Li) to Potassium (K), the atomic size increases. This affects the type of oxide formed:
Step 2: Chemical Reactions
The combustion reactions in excess air are: (Lithium oxide)
(Sodium peroxide)
(Potassium superoxide)
Step 3: Match with Options
Comparing with the given options, the correct combination is Li2O, Na2O2, and KO2.
Final Answer: The correct option is: Li2O, Na2O2 and KO2
Stability of Oxides: The stability of peroxides and superoxides increases down the group due to larger cation size, which better accommodates larger anions (O22- for peroxide and O2- for superoxide).
Important Compounds of Alkali Metals: This topic covers oxides, hydroxides, carbonates, and other salts, emphasizing their formation, properties, and uses.
Chemical Reactions of s-Block Elements: Includes reactions with oxygen, water, hydrogen, and halogens, highlighting trends and anomalies.