In what ways lithium shows similarities to magnesium in its chemical behaviour?
Or
List four properties to show the diagonal relationship between lithium and magnesium.

Solution

The similarity between Li and Mg is because of their similar atomic radii (Li = 152 pm; Mg = 160 pm) and ionic radii. (Li⁺ = 76 pm, Mg²⁺ = 72 pm).
These two elements resemble each other in the following properties:
(i) Both Li and Mg decompose water very slowly with the liberation of hydrogen.
(ii) Both Li and Mg form nitrides - Li directly and Mg on burning in nitrogen.
(iii) LiOH and Mg(OH)₂ are weak bases.
(iv) Nitrates of both decompose on heating to give oxides.
$4 LiNO subscript 3 space space rightwards arrow space space space 2 Li subscript 2 straight O space plus space 4 NO subscript 2 space plus space straight O subscript 2 2 Mg left parenthesis NO subscript 3 right parenthesis subscript 2 space rightwards arrow space 2 MgO space plus space 4 NO subscript 2 space plus space straight O subscript 2$
(v) Both LiCl and MgCl₂are soluble in ethanol.
(vi) Both LiCl and MgCl₂ are deliquescent and crystalline from aqueous solution as hydrates, LiCl_2.2H₂O and MgCl₂.8H₂O.

Some More Questions From The s-Block Elements Chapter

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The S-Block Elements

In what ways lithium shows similarities to magnesium in its chemical behaviour?
Or
List four properties to show the diagonal relationship between lithium and magnesium.

Some More Questions From The s-Block Elements Chapter

Lithium has highest ionisation energy in group 1 elements, yet it is strongest reducing agent. Comment.

The softness of group 1 elements increases down the group with increasing atomic number. Give reason.

Which is the most reactive alkali metal and why?

Why alkali metals do not form M²⁺ions?

Name the radio active element in group 1. How does it resemble with the remaining elements of the group?

Why alkali metals are normally kept in kerosene oil?

Why lithium cannot be stored in kerosene?

Why does lithium form complexes?

Why are alkali metal ions diamagnetic and colourless?

Why are alkali metals the most electropositive in nature?

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Entrance Exams Preparation

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For Daily Free Study Material Join wiredfaculty

The S-Block Elements

In what ways lithium shows similarities to magnesium in its chemical behaviour?OrList four properties to show the diagonal relationship between lithium and magnesium.

Some More Questions From The s-Block Elements Chapter

Lithium has highest ionisation energy in group 1 elements, yet it is strongest reducing agent. Comment.

The softness of group 1 elements increases down the group with increasing atomic number. Give reason.

Which is the most reactive alkali metal and why?

Why alkali metals do not form M2+ ions?

Name the radio active element in group 1. How does it resemble with the remaining elements of the group?

Why alkali metals are normally kept in kerosene oil?

Why lithium cannot be stored in kerosene?

Why does lithium form complexes?

Why are alkali metal ions diamagnetic and colourless?

Why are alkali metals the most electropositive in nature?

Mock Test Series

NCERT Sample Papers

Entrance Exams Preparation

In what ways lithium shows similarities to magnesium in its chemical behaviour?
Or
List four properties to show the diagonal relationship between lithium and magnesium.

Why alkali metals do not form M²⁺ions?