s-Block Elements

 Marked Questions may have for Revision Questions.

PART - I : SUBJECTIVE QUESTIONS

Section (A) : General facts about elements
A-1. Why do alkali metals form unipositive ions and impart characteristic colours to flame?

Section (B) : Based on Periodic trends

B-1. (a) Explain why is sodium less reactive than potassium?
(b) E1 value of Mg is more than that of Na while it’s E2 value is less. Explain ?
B-2. Comment on the order of mobilities of the alkali metal ions in aqueous solution :
Li+ < Na+ < K+ < Rb+ < Cs+.

Section (C) : Based on Chemical Bonding

C-1. Why is KO2 paramagnetic ?
C-2. Draw the structure of BeCl 2 in solid and vapour state.
C-3. Explain why in anion of Na 2CO3 all bond lengths are equal ?
C-4. Order of the ionic character of following :
MgCl2, MgBr2, MgI2
C-5. Why LiNO3 on heating shows exceptional behaviour than other elements of this group ?
C-6. Write the order of thermal stability of following :
BeSO4 , MgSO4 , CaSO 4 , SrSO4
C-7. Write the increasing order of basic strength of following :
NaOH, KOH, RbOH, CsOH
C-8. Although Ionisation potential of Li is very high, then why is it a good reducing agent ?

Section (D) : Properties of elements

D-1. Alkali metals are soft and can be cut with the help of a knife. Explain.
D-2. We know air mostly contains (O
2, N2), What happen when group-I and group-II elements of s-block
react with exess of air ?
Group-I + O2 + N2 Group-II + O2 + N2
Elements (Major (product) Elements (Major (product)
product) product)
Li …………. ………. Be ……………. …………….
Na ……..…. ………. Mg ……………. …………….
K ……….. ………. Ca ……………. …………….
Rb ……….. ………. Sr ……………. …………….
Cs ………… ………. Ba ……………. …………….

D-3. What happens when sodium and calcium metal are dropped in water ?
(a) Na + H2O  (b) Ca + H 2O 

D-4._ (i) M + H2SO4  ............ + .............. (where M = group-I elements)

(ii) M + HCl ............ + .............. (where M = group-II elements)
D-5. What happen when sodium metal is dissolved in liquid ammonia?

Section (E) : Oxides, Peroxides, Super Oxides, Hydroxides

E-1. Lithium forms monoxide, sodium gives peroxide while the rest of the alkali metals form superoxide
mainly when treated with excess of air. Explain.
s-Block Elements
E-2. How NaOH is commercialy prepared ? Which cell is used ?
E-3. Write the method of perparation of Na 2O2 & KO 2 and also give their hydrolysis product ?
E-4. (a) NaOH + HNO 3  (b) Li2O + H2SO4 
25ºC
(c) Na2O2 + H2SO4(dilute)  (d) CaO + HCl 

E-5. Ca(OH)2 (excess) + H 3PO4 

E-6. NaOH + Al2O3 
+cold & dil. NaOH
Products

E-7._ Cl2
+hot & conc. NaOH
Products

E-8. P4 (white) + NaOH + H 2O 

Section (F) : Carbonates, Bicarbonates

F-1. The thermal stability order of following carbonates :
BeCO3, MgCO3, CaCO3, SrCO 3, BaCO3

F-2._ Write chemical changes of solvay process.

F-3. Na2CO3 + HCl (dil.) 

F-4. Write the products of the following reactions :
(a) NaHCO3 + H2SO4  (b) Na2CO3 + Ca(OH) 2 

(c) NaHCO3 + NaOH  (d) 2NaHCO 3 
Boil
room temperature
(e) NaHCO3 + CaCl2 

Section (G) : Chlorides, Sulphates

G-1._ Decreasing order of solubility in water of following sulphates :
BeSO4 , MgSO4, CaSO 4 , SrSO 4
G-2. How is CaCl 2 prepared ?
120ºC, 
G-3. CaSO4.2H2O 
G-4. How would you explain ?
(i) BeO is insoluble but BeSO 4 is soluble in water.
(ii) BaO is soluble but BaSO 4 is insoluble in water.

G-5. NaOCl + HOH 


G-6. CaCl2 + H2SO4 (conc.) 

Section (H) : Miscellaneous (Hydrides, Carbides, Nitrates)

H-1. Write the thermal stability order of following :
LiH, NaH, KH, RbH, CsH
H-2. Write the products of the following reactions :
(a) CaC2 + H2O 
(b) Mg2C3 + H2O 
s-Block Elements
H-3. (i) What happens when metal nitrate of s-block group-I (except Li) are heated ?
500ºC, 
2MNO3  ............ + ...........
(ii) What happens when any metal nitrate of s-block group-II is heated ?

M(NO3)2 ............ + ...........+..........

H-4. (a) Li3N + H2O  (b) NaNH2 + H2O 

PART - II : ONLY ONE OPTION CORRECT TYPE

Section (A) : General facts about elements
A-1. A chloride dissolves appreciably in cold water. When placed on a platinum wire in Bunsen flame, no
distinctive colour is noticed. The cation of chloride is :
(A) Mg2+ (B) Ba2+ (C) Li+ (D) Ca2+
A-2. A fire work gave bright crimson red light. It probably contained a salt of :
(A) Ca (B) Sr (C) Ba (D) Mg

Section (B) : Based on Periodic trends

B-1. Be has, as compared to Mg :
(A) less electronegativity (B) more ionisation potential
(C) larger atomic radius (D) lower melting point
B-2. The first ionisation energies of alkaline earth metal are higher than those of the alkali metals. This is
because :
(A) there is increase in the nuclear charge of the alkaline earth metal
(B) there is decrease in the nuclear charge of the alkaline earth metal
(C) there is no change in the nuclear charge
(D) none of these

Section (C) : Based on Chemical Bonding

C-1. Among LiCl, RbCl, BeCl 2 and MgCl 2 the compound with greatest and least ionic character respectively
are :
(A) LiCl, RbCl (B) RbCl, BeCl 2 (C) RbCl, MgCl 2 (D) MgCl2, BeCl2

C-2. Which of the following carbonate of alkalimetal have highest thermal stability ?
(A) Li2CO3 (B) Na2CO3 (C) K2CO3 (D) Rb2CO3
C-3. Which of the following hydroxide of alkali metal have highest thermal stability ?
(A) LiOH (B) NaOH (C) RbOH (D) CsOH
C-4. Which of the following is the strongest base ?
(A) Ca(OH) 2 (B) Sr(OH) 2 (C) Ba(OH) 2 (D) Mg(OH) 2

C-5._ Which is amphoteric ?

(A) Li2O (B) BeO (C) BaO (D) Cs2O
C-6._ Alkali metals are :
(A) good reductant (B) good oxidant (C) Both of these (D) None of these

Section (D) : Properties of elements

D-1. The metallic lustre exhibited by sodium is explained by :
(A) diffusion of sodium ions (B) oscillation of mobile valence electrons
(C) existence of free protons (D) existence of body centered cubic lattice
D-2. Which of the following will appears silvery white ?
(A) Li (B) K (C) Na (D) All
D-3. Which of the following s-block metal does not react with water ?
(A) K (B) Na (C) Ca (D) Be
s-Block Elements
D-4. Which of the following option is correct for given reaction ?
M + H2SO4 
(A) It reacts vigrously with acid if M is alkali metal.
(B) It reacts readily with acid if M is alkaline earth metal.
(C) metal sulphate and hydrogen gas will form after reaction.
(D) All are correct.
D-5. Be reacts with excess of caustic soda to form :
(A) Be(OH)2 (B) BeO (C) Na2[Be(OH) 4] (D) Be(OH) 2.BeCO3

Section (E) : Oxides, Peroxides, Super Oxides, Hydroxides

E-1. What is [X] in the following reaction ?

MgCl2.6H2O  [X] + HCl + H 2O
(A) MgO (B) Mg (C) Mg(OH) 2 (D) Mg(OH)Cl.
E-2. When magnesium burns in air, compounds of magnesium formed are magnesium oxide and :
(A) Mg3N2 (B) MgCO3 (C) Mg(NO 3)2 (D) Mg(NO 2)2
E-3. Which product will be formed after the reaction
10C to 15C
KOH + O 3(Ozonised oxygen)  Product (Orange solid)
(Dry powder)
(A) KO2 (B) KO3 (C) K2O3 (D) K2O
E-4. Peroxide ion is present in :
(A) KO2 (B) CaO (C) Li2O (D) BaO2

E-5. The compound that gives hydrogen peroxide on treatment with a dilute cold acid is :
(A) PbO2 (B) Na2O2 (C) MnO2 (D) SnO2
E-6. Products of following reaction :
NaOH + ZnO 
(A) Na2O, Zn(OH) 2 (B) Na2ZnO2, H2O (C) Na2O2 , Zn(OH) 2 (D) None of these

E-7. The principal products obtained on heating iodine with concentrated caustic soda solution is :
(A) NaIO + NaI (B) NaIO + NaIO3 (C) NaIO3 + NaI (D) NaIO4 + NaI
E-8. Products of the following reaction are :
NaOH + S 
(A) Na2S, Na2S2O3 , H2O (B) Na 2SO4, H2O (C) Na2O2, Na2SO4 (D) H2S , Na 2SO4

Section (F) : Carbonates, Bicarbonates

F-1. Which of the following can not decompose on heating to give CO 2 in a dry test tube ?
(A) Li2CO3 (B) Na2CO 3 (C) KHCO3 (D) BeCO3
heat
F-2. 2(Na2CO3. NaHCO 3 . 2H2O)  Products.
Which of the following is not product of this reaction?
(A) Na2CO3 (B) CO2 (C) H2O (D) Na2O
F-3._ Sodium carbonate can be manufactured by Solvay’s process but potassium carbonate cannot be
prepared because:
(A) K2CO3 is more soluble (B) K2CO3 is less soluble
(C) KHCO3 is more soluble than NaHCO 3 (D) KHCO3 is less soluble than NaHCO 3

F-4. CaCO3 + HNO3 Products :

(A) Ca(NO 3)2, H2O, CO2 (B) Ca(NO 3)2, H2CO3
(C) Ca3N2, CO2, H2O (D) None of these
s-Block Elements
F-5. CO2 + NaOH Na2CO3 + H2O
This reaction shows following nature of CO 2
(A) Acidic (B) basic (C) Neutral (D) Amphoteric
F-6. When SO2 gas in excess is passed into an aqueous solution of Na 2CO3, product formed is :
(A) NaHSO 4 (B) Na2SO4 (C) NaHSO 3 (D) All

Section (G) : Chlorides, Sulphates

G-1. Which of the following sulphate have highest thermal stability
(A) Li2SO4 (B) Na2SO4 (C) K2SO4 (D) CsSO 4
G.2_ What product will be obtained when magnesite (MgCO 3) dissolve in hot dil. H 2SO4 ?
(A) MgSO4, H2O, CO2 (B) MgS, H2O, CO 2
(C) MgSO4, H2CO3 (D) MgS, H 2CO3
G-3. CaSO4 can be prepared by reaction of any calcium salt with ?
(A) Sulphuric acid (B) Soluble sulphate (C) Both (A) and (B) (D) None of these
G-4. Aqueous solution of NaCl is :
(A) Acidic (B) Basic (C) Neutral (D) None of these
G-5. Aqueous solution of BeCl 2 is:
(A) Acidic (B) Basic (C) Neutral (D) None of these

Section (H) : Miscellaneous (Hydrides, Carbides, Nitrates)

H-1. Which of the following is least stable
(A) BeH2 (B) MgH2 (C) CaH2 (D) BaH2
H2O 
H-2. Ca + H2  [X]  [Y] + [Z]
Total number of atom in one molecule or formula unit of [Y] & [Z] is ?
(A) 7 (B) 3 (C) 4 (D) 5

H-3. Be2C + H 2O Be(OH)2 + [X] ; "X" is :

(A) C2H2 (B) CH3–CCH (C) C2H6 (D) CH4

H-4. At high temperature, nitrogen combines with CaC 2 to give :

(A) calcium cyanide (B) calcium cyanamide
(C) Calcium carbonate (D) calcium nitride
H-5. Compounds of alkaline earth metals are less soluble in water than the corresponding alkali metal salts
due to :
(A) their high ionisation energy (B) their low electronegativity
(C) their low hydration energy (D) their high lattice energy
H-6. Bleaching powder turns Red litmus to blue and finally white, it is due to :
(A) OH– (B) HCl (C) OCl– (D) Cl–

PART - III : MATCH THE COLUMN

1. Match the reactions listed in column-I with the characteristic(s) of the products listed in column-II.
Column – I Column – II

(A) Na2O2  (p) One of the products is diamagnetic.
(i) S 
(B) KO2  (q) One of the products acts as reducing agent.
(ii) C 
800ºC
(C) NaNO 3  (r) One of the products acts as oxidising agent.

(D) Ba(NO 3)2  (s) One of the products is a basic oxide.
500 C
s-Block Elements
2. Match the compounds listed in column-I with the characteristic(s) listed in column-II.
Column-I Column-II
(A) BeO (s) (p) Amphoteric in nature
(B) NaHCO3 (crystalline) (q) Imparts characteristic colour to Bunsen flame.
(C) BeCl2(s) (r) Produce H 2O2 and O 2 on reaction with water.
(D) CsO 2(s) (s) Show hydrogen bonding
(t) Has a chain structure

 Marked Questions may have for Revision Questions.

PART - I : ONLY ONE OPTION CORRECT TYPE
1. The element having electronic configuration 1s 2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 4s1 will form :
(A) Acidic oxide (B) Basic oxide (C) Amphoteric oxide (D) Netural oxide
2. Beryllium has less negative value of reduction potentials compared to other alkaline earth metals due
to:
(A) the smaller hydration energy of the Be 2+ .
(B) the large value of the atomization enthalpy of the Be metal.
(C) the large value of ionisation energy of the Be metal.
(D) (B) and (C) both.
3. The incorrect statement is :
(A) Be2+ cation has largest hydration enthalpy among the alkaline earth metals.
(B) The second ionisation enthalpies of alkalilne earth metals are smaller than those of the
corresponding alkali metals.
(C) Li is the strongest reducing agent among all the elements.
(D) Both LiCl and MgCl 2 are most covalent in their groups.

4. Select the correct statement with respect to alkali metals.

(A) Melting point decrease with increasing atomic number.
(B) Potassium is lighter than sodium.
(C) Salts of Li to Cs impart characteristic colour to an oxidising flame (of Bunsen burner).
(D) All of these.
5. On dissolving moderate amount of sodium metal in liquid NH3 at low temperature, which one of the
folloiwng does not occur ?
(A) Blue coloured solution is obtained
(B) Na+ ions are formed in the solution
(C) Liquid NH 3 becomes good conductor of electricity
(D) Liquid NH 3 remains diamagnetic.
6. The incorrect statement is :
(A) KOH can be used as an absorbent of carbondioxide.
(B) Liquid Na metal is used as a coolant in fast breeder nuclear reactors.
(C) All alkali metal gives flame test.
(D) Lithium is the weakest reducing agent among alkali metals.
7. Consider the following statements ;
S1 : Alkali metals are never found in free state in nature.
S2 : The melting and boiling points of alkali metals are high.
S3 : The ceasium and potassium both are used as electrodes in photoelectric cells.
S4 : Alkali metals are normally kept in kerosene oil.
and arrange in the order of true/false.
(A) T T F F (B) T F T T (C) F F F T (D) T T F T
s-Block Elements
8. The incorrect statement is :
(A) The alkaline earth metals readily reacts with acids liberating dihydrogen.
(B) Lithium is the only alkali metal to form a nitride directly by heating with N 2 gas.
(C) Calcium cannot be prepared by electrolysis of its aqueous salt solution.
(D) The mobilities of the alkali metal ions in aqueous solution are Li + > Na+ > K+ > Rb+ > Cs+.
9. Which of the following reacts with H 2O at room temperature?
(A) Be (B) Li (C) Mg (D) All of these
10. Which of the following fails to react significantly with air at room temperature?
(A) Be (B) Li (C) Ba (D) All of these
11. The pair of amphoteric hydroxides is :
(A) Be(OH)2, Al(OH) 3 (B) Al(OH)3, LiOH (C) B(OH) 3, Be(OH)2 (D) Be(OH) 2, Mg(OH) 2
12. Na2[Be(OH) 4] is formed when ;
(A) BeO reacts with NaOH solution. (B) Be(OH) 2 reacts with NaOH solution.
(C) both (A) and (B) are correct. (D) none of the above is correct.
13. Drying agent which react with CO 2 and removes water vapours from ammonia is :
(A) CaO (B) CaCl2 (C) CaCO 3 (D) Ca(NO 3)2
14. Brine solution on electrolysis will not give :
(A) NaOH (B) Cl2 (C) H2 (D) CO2
15. Chemical (A) is used for water softening to remove temporary hardness. A reacts with Na2 CO3 to
generate caustic soda. When CO2 is bubled through (A), it turns cloudy (i.e. milky). What is the
chemical formula of (A) ?
(A) CaCO3 (B) CaO (C) Ca(OH) 2 (D) Ca(HCO 3)2
16. (X) reacts with sulphur dioxide in aqueous medium to give NaHSO 3, (X) is :
(A) Na2CO3 (B) NaNO3 (C) Na2S2O3 (D) NaHSO4
17. In Solvay process of manufacture of Na 2CO3 , the by products obtained from recovery tower are :
(A) NH4Cl, CaO, CO 2 (B) CaO, Na 2CO3, CaCl2
(C) CaCl2 , CO2 , NH3 (D) Na2CO3 , CaCl2 , CO 2
18. A colourless solid (X) on heating evolved CO 2 and also gave a white residue, soluble in water. Residue
also gave CO 2 when treated with dilute acid. (X) is :
(A) K2CO3 (B) CaCO3 (C) KHCO3 (D) Na2CO3
19. Crude common salt becomes damp on keeping in air because :
(A) It is hygroscopic in nature.
(B) It contains MgCl 2 and CaCl2 as impurities which are deliquescent in nature.
(C) (A) and (B) both.
(D) none.
(p ) (q)  393 K
20. CaCl2 + H2SO4  CaSO4.2H2O  (r)  (s)
–HCl
Which of the following option describes, the products, reactants and the reaction conditions.
Option (p) (q) (.r) (s)
(A) Crystallisation Heat at 393 K 2 CaSO4.H2O CaSO4
Heat at 393 K
(B) Crystallisation 2 CaSO4.H2O CaSO4
at high pressure
(C) Higher temperature Cool CaSO4.H2O CaSO4
(D) Higher pressure Heat at 393 K CaSO4 CaSO3

21. Setting of plaster of paris involves :

(A) the oxidation with atmoshperic oxygen.
(B) the removal of water to form anhydrous calcium sulphate.
(C) the hydration to form the orthorhombic form of gypsum.
(D) the reaction with atmospheric carbondioxide gas.
s-Block Elements
22. Calcium cyanamide on reaction with steam under pressure gives ammonia and ------------- .
(A) calcium carbonate (B) calcium hydroxide (C) calcium oxide (D) calcium bicarbonate

PART - II : SINGLE AND DOUBLE VALUE INTEGER TYPE

1. How many of the following are correctly matched ?
Element Colour in flame test
K Violet/Lilac
Na Yellow
Be Crimson red
Ca Brick red
Sr Apple green
Mg No colour
Rb Red violet
Cs Blue
Li Crimson red
2. How many of the following form polymeric chains?
BeCl2, AlCl 3, NaHCO 3, Li2CO 3, BeH2, Na2CO3

3. For alkali metal M :

M2O + H2O  x
M2O2 + H2O  x + y
MO3 + H2O  x + y + z
Sum of the number of atoms present in one molecule each of x, y, z.

4. NaOH + PbO  x + H2O

NaOH + SnO 2  y + H 2O

NaOH + H2O + Al  z + H2
Sum of the number of atoms present in one molecule each of x, y, z is.......... . (Assume no complex
formation)
5. How many of the following will turn moist red litmus blue and finally white?
Li2O, KO3, RbO 2, Cs2O2, BeO, MgO, BaO 2, SrO

6. The by product of solvay process reacts with Na 2CO3 to form a compound x, which on heating
decomposes to give y. y is absorbed by KO 2. The number of atoms per molecule of y is ...........

7._ How many of the following statement is/are correct?

(a) Solvay process is used for manufacturing sodium carbonate.
(b) CaCl2 is obtained as by product in Solvay process.
(c) NH3 can be recovered in above process.
(d) MgSO 4.7H2O is epsom salt.
(e) On hydrolysis of Na 2CO3, we get an acidic solution due to the formation of H 2CO 3.
(f) K2CO3 can also be prepared by Solvay process.
(g) CaCO 3 can be obtained by passing excess of CO 2 through lime water.

8. A + B + H2O (NH4)HCO3
NH4HCO3 + NaCl  C + NH4Cl
NH4Cl + D  2NH3 + 2H 2O + CaCl 2
Sum of the atoms present in one molecule each of A, B, C and D.
9. Molecular formula of Glauber’s salt is Na 2SO4.xH2O. The value of x is_____.

10. When gypsum is heated at 393 K, the compund formed is CaSO 4.xH2O. Value of 6x is.........
s-Block Elements
PART - III : ONE OR MORE THAN ONE OPTIONS CORRECT TYPE
1. Which is/are not correct configuration of s–block elements :
(A) [Ar] 3d10 4s2 (B) [Ar] 3d10 4s1 (C) [Ar]) 4s 2 (D) [Ar] 4s1
2. The set representing the correct order of first ionisation potential is :
(A) K < Na < Li (B) Be > Mg > Ca (C) B > C > N (D) Ge > Si > C
3. The hydration energy of Mg 2+ ion is higher than that of :
(A) Al3+ (B) Ca2+ (C) Na+ (D) None of these
4. Going down in  A group, following properties decrease :
(A) solubility of sulphates in H 2O (B) hydration energy
(C) thermal stability of carbonates (D) ionic radius in water.
5. Exceptionally small size of Lithium results in :
(A) Anomalous behaviour of Li +. (B) Its high polarising power.
(C) It has high degree of hydration. (D) Exceptionally low ionisation enthalpy.
6. Which of the following statement is incorrect ?
(A) The atomic radius of Na is greater than that of Mg.
(B) Metallic bond in Mg is stronger than the metallic bond in Na.
(C) Melting and boiling points of K are greater than those of Na.
(D) Mg and Ca both impart characteristic colour to the flame.
7. Which of the following statement(s) is/are true ?
(A) All alkali metals are soft and can be cut with knife.
(B) Alkali metals do not occur in free state in nature.
(C) Alkali metals are highly electropositive elements.
(D) Alkali metal hydrides are covalent and low melting solids.
8. Which is/are true statement(s)?
(A) The heats of hydration of the dipositive alkaline earth metal ions decreases with an increase in their
ionic size.
(B) Hydration of alkali metal ion is less than that of  A ion of the same period.
(C) Alkaline earth metal ions, because of their much larger charge to radius ratio, exert a much stronger
electrostatic attraction on the oxygen of water molecule surrounding them.
(D) None.
9. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
(A) Milk of lime is a suspension of Ca(OH) 2 in water.
(B) Lime water is a clear solution of Ca(OH) 2 in water.
(C) Baryta water is a clear solution of Ba(OH) 2.
(D) Nitrolim is the mixture of CaCN 2 and carbon.
10. Select correct statement(s) :
(A) Stability of peroxides and superoxides of alkali metals increases with increase in size of the cation.
(B) Increase in stability in (A) is due to stabilisation of large anions by larger cations through lattice
energy effects.
(C) The low solubility of LiF is due to its high lattice energy whereas low solubility of CsI is due to
smaller hydration energy .
(D) NaOH is not deliquescent .
11. Select correct statement(s) :
(A) Li2CO3 is only sparingly soluble in water and no LiHCO 3 has been isolated.
(B) K2CO3 cannot be made by a method similar to the ammonia–soda (Solvay) process.
(C) Li2CO3 and MgCO 3 both are thermally stable.
(D) KCl.MgCl 2.6H2O is a mineral called carnallite.
12. Sodium bicarbonate can react with :
(A) Na2CO3 (B) NaOH (C) NaH (D) HCl
s-Block Elements
13. Aqueous solution of sodium carbonate can react with :
(A) MgCl2 (B) Ca(HCO 3)2 (C) H2SO4 (D) CO2

14. Which of the following compounds are readily soluble in water?

(A) MgSO4 (B) SrSO4 (C) BeSO4 (D) BaSO4

15. Heating which of the following with C produces a metal sulphide?

(A) Na2SO4 (B) MgSO4 (C) BaSO4 (D) Li2SO4

16. Which of the following are correctly matched?

(A) Basic strength Cs 2O < Rb 2O < K2O < Na 2O < Li2O
(B) Stability of peroxides Na 2O2 < K2O2 < Rb2O2 < Cs2O2
(C) Stability of bicarbonates LiHCO 3 < NaHCO 3 < KHCO 3 < RbHCO 3 < CsHCO 3
(D) Thermal stability of hydrides CsH < RbH < KH < NaH < LiH
17._ Electrolysis of aqueous NaCl may produce with mercuty cathode :
(A) Na–Hg (B) Cl2 (C) NaOH (D) H2

18. A substance (P) releases a gas (Q) on reaction with H 2O. (Q) decolourises Br 2 water. (P) may be :
(A) BeC2 (B) Be2C (C) Al4C3 (D) Mg2C3
19. Nitrate can be converted into metal oxide on heating not above 500ºC in case of :
(A) Li (B) Na (C) Mg (D) None of these.

20. A substance (P), when heated in a dry test tube, liberated a colourless odourless gas that rekindled a
glowing splinter. It may be :
(A) KClO3 (B) NaNO3 (C) K2SO3 (D) CaCO 3

PART - IV : COMPREHENSION
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions.

Comprehension # 1
All alkali metals dissolve in anhydrous liquid ammonia to give blue colour solution. It is the ammoniated
electron which is responsible for the blue colour of the solution, and the electrical conductivity is mainly
due to ammoniated electron, [e(NH3)y]–. Dilute solutions are paramagnetic due to free ammoniated
electrons ; this paramagnetism decreases at higher concentration. Above 3M concentration, the
solutions are diamagnetic and no longer blue but are bronze/copper-bronze coloured with a metallic
luster.

1. Which of the following changes will be observed in concentrated solution of alkali metal in liquid
ammonia ?
(A) Deep blue colour of the solution due to ammoniated electron is retained.
(B) Solvated electrons associate to form electrons-pairs and paramagnetic character decreases.
(C) Reducing character is increased.
(D) Two of the above.

2. Which of the following statement about solution of alkali metals in liquid ammonia is correct ?
(A) The dilute solutions are bad conductor of electricity.
(B) Both the dilute solutions as well as concentrated solution are equally paramagnetic in nature.
(C) Charge transfer is responsible for the blue colour of the solution.
(D) None of these.

3. Ammoniated solutions of alkali metals are reducing agents due to the :

(A) solvated cation. (B) solvated unpaired electron.
(C) the liberation of hydrogen gas (D) (A) and (B) both
s-Block Elements
Comprehension # 2
Answer Q.4, Q.5 and Q.6 by appropriately matching the information given in the three columns
of the following table.
In Column–1 some compounds are given which are treated with the Column–2 compounds or
are heated then in column–3 corresponding observations are given.
Column-1 Column-2 Column-3
Any binary compound of
(I) (i) H2O (P) Liberation of O 2 is possible
potassium & oxygen
Any alkaline earth metal
(II) (ii) HCl (Q) The resulting solution is alkaline
carbide
Any alkaline earth metal
(III) (iii) NaOH (R) A gaseous hydrocarbon is liberated
carbonate
A gaseous oxide of non metal A gaseous acidic oxide or acidic
(IV) (iv) heat (S)
in +4 state solution is formed

4._ Select the incorrect option :

(A) (I) (i) (P) (B) (II) (i) (R) (C) (III) (iv) (S) (D) (IV) (iii) (P)
5._ Select the correct option :
(A) (I) (ii) (R) (B) (I) (i) (Q) (C) (IV) (iii) (S) (D) (II) (i) (S)
6._ Select the correct option :
(A) (IV) (i) (S) (B) (III) (iv) (R) (C) (III) (iii) (S) (D) (III) (ii) (P)

PART - I : JEE (ADVANCED) / IIT-JEE PROBLEMS (PREVIOUS YEARS)

* Marked Questions may have more than one correct option.
1. Property of the alkaline earth metals that increases with their atomic number is :
[JEE-1997(Cancelled), 2/200]
(A) ionisation energy (B) solubility of their hydroxides
(C) solubility of their sulphates (D) electronegativity
2.* Highly pure dilute solution of sodium in liquid ammonia : [JEE-1998, 1/200]
(A) shows blue colour. (B) exhibits electrical conductivity.
(C) produces sodium amide. (D) produces hydrogen gas.
3.* Sodium nitrate decomposes above 800°C to give : [JEE-1998, 1/200]
(A) N2 (B) O2 (C) NO2 (D) Na2O

4. Beryllium chloride shows acidic nature in water or why BeCl 2 is easily hydrolysed ?[JEE-1999, 2/200]

5. The Haber's process can be represented by the following scheme :

CaCO3
NH3 + H2 O

H2O CaO + CO2

B

A NaHCO3 + D NaCl

C + H2 O
NH3 + H2 O + E
Identify A, B, C, D and E. [JEE-1999, 5/200]
s-Block Elements
6. A white solid is either Na 2O or Na 2O2. A piece of red litmus paper turns white when it is dipped into a
freshly made aqueous solution of the white solid. [JEE-1999, 4/200]
(i) Identify the substances and explain with balanced equation.
(ii) Explain what would happen to the red litmus if the white solid were the other compound.
7. The set representing the correct order of first ionization potential is: [JEE-2001, 1/35]
(A) K > Na > Li (B) Be > Mg > Ca (C) B > C > N (D) Ge > Si > C
8. Identify the following :
SO2 Na2CO3 elemental S 2
Na2CO3  A  B  C  D

Also mention the oxidation state of S in all the compounds. [JEE-2003, 4/60]
9. Statement-1 : Alkali metals dissolve in liquid ammonia to give blue solutions.
Statement-2 : Alkali metals in liquid ammonia give solvated species of the type [M(NH 3)n]+ (M = alkali
metals). [JEE-2007, 3/162]
(A) Statement-1 is True, Statement-2 is True; Statement-2 is a correct explanation for Statement-1.
(B) Statement-1 is True, Statement-2 is True; Statement-2 is NOT a correct explanation for Statement-1.
(C) Statement-1 is True, Statement-2 is False.
(D) Statement-1 is False, Statement-2 is True.
10.* The compound(s) formed upon combustion of sodium metal in excess air is(are) : [JEE-2009, 4/160]
(A) Na2O2 (B) Na2O (C) NaO 2 (D) NaOH

PART - II : JEE (MAIN) / AIEEE PROBLEMS (PREVIOUS YEARS)

1. KO2 (potassium super oxide) is used in oxygen cylinders in space and submarines because it :
(1) Absorbs CO 2 and increases O 2 contents (2) Eliminates moisture
(3) Absorbs CO 2 (4) Produces ozone [AIEEE-2002]

2. A metal M readily forms water soluble sulphate MSO 4 , water insoluble hydroxide M(OH) 2 and oxide
MO which becomes inert on heating. The hydroxide is soluble in NaOH. The M is : [AIEEE-2002]
(1) Be (2) Mg (3) Ca (4) Sr
3. In curing cement plasters, water is sprinkled from-time to time. This helps in : [AIEEE-2003]
(1) developing interlocking needle like crystals of hydrate silicates
(2) hydrated sand gravel mixed with cement
(3) converting sand into silicic acid
(4) keeping it cool.
4. The substance not likely to contain CaCO 3 is : [AIEEE-2003]
(1) calcined gypsum (2) sea shells (3) dolomite (4) a marble statue
5. The solubilities of carbonates decrease down the magnesium group due to a decrease in :
[AIEEE-2003]
(1) hydration energies of cations (2) inter ionic interaction
(3) entropy of solution formation (4) lattice energies of solids.
6. Several blocks of magnesium are fixed to the bottom of a ship to : [AIEEE-2003]
(1) make the ship lighter (2) prevent action of water and salt
(3) prevent puncturing by under-sea rocks (4) keep away the sharks.
7. One mole of magnesium nitride on the reaction with an excess of water gives : [AIEEE-2004]
(1) one mole of ammonia (2) one mole of nitric acid
(3) two moles of ammonia (4) two moles of nitric acid.
8. Beryllium and aluminium exhibit many properties which are similar. But, the two elements differ in
[AIEEE-2004]
(1) exhibiting maximum covalency in compounds (2) forming polymeric hydrides
(3) forming covalent halides (4) exhibiting amphoteric nature in their oxides.
s-Block Elements
9. Following statements regarding the periodic trends of chemical reactivity of the alkali metals and the
halogens are given. Which of these statements gives the correct picture ? [AIEEE-2006]
(1) The reactivity decreases in the alkali metals but increases in the halogens with increase in atomic
number down the group.
(2) In both the alkali metals and the halogens the chemical reactivity decreases with increase in atomic
number down the group.
(3) Chemical reactivity increases with increase in atomic number down the group in both the alkali
metals and halogens.
(4) In alkali metals the reactivity increases but in the halogens it decreases with increase in atomic
number down the group.
10. The ionic mobility of alkali metal ions in aqueous solution is maximum for : [AIEEE-2006]
(1) K+ (2) Rb+ (3) Li+ (4) Na+
11. Which one of the following orders presents the correct sequence of the increasing basic nature of the
given oxides ? [AIEEE-2011, 4/120]
(1) Al2O3 < MgO < Na2O < K2O (2) MgO < K 2O < Al2O3 < Na2O
(3) Na2O < K2O < MgO < Al 2O3 (4) K2O < Na2O < Al2O3 < MgO

12. The products obtained on heating LiNO 3 will be : [AIEEE-2011, 4/120]

(1) Li2O + NO2 + O2 (2) Li3N + O2 (3) Li2O + NO + O 2 (4) LiNO3 + O2
13. Which of the following on thermal decomposition yields a basic as well as acidic oxide ?
[AIEEE-2011, 4/120]
(1) NaNO 3 (2) KClO3 (3) CaCO 3 (4) NH4NO3
14. Which one of the following alkaline earth metal sulphates has its hydration enthalpy greater than its
lattice enthalpy ? [JEE(Main)-2015, 4/120]
(1) CaSO4 (2) BeSO4 (3) BaSO4 (4) SrSO4
15. The hottest region of Bunsen flame shown in the figure below is: [JEE(Main)-2016, 4/120]
region 4
region 3
region 2
region 1

(1) region 2 (2) region 3 (3) region 4 (4) region 1

16. The main oxides formed on combustion of Li, Na and K in excess of air are, respectively:
[JEE(Main)-2016, 4/120]
(1) LiO2, Na2O2 and K2O (2) Li2O2, Na2O2 and KO 2
(3) Li2O, Na2O2 and KO 2 (4) Li2O, Na2O and KO 2
17. Both lithium and magnesium display several similar properties due to the diagonal relationship;
however, the one which is incorrect, is : [JEE(Main)-2017, 4/120]
(1) both form soluble bicarbonates
(2) both form nitrides
(3) nitrates of both Li and Mg yield NO 2 and O 2 on heating
(4) both form basic carbonates
s-Block Elements

EXERCISE - 1
PART – I
A-1. After removal of I st electron alkali metal occupies inert gas configuration. Now removal of II nd electron
from inert gas configuration requires very high energy, therefore, they form unipositive ions. As IE 1 of
these metals are low, the excitation of electrons can be done by providing less energy. This much of
energy can be given by Bunsen flame. When they drop back to the ground state, there is emission of
radiation in the visible region.
B-1. (a) The ionization enthalpy ( iH) of potassium (419 kJ mol –1) is less than that of sodium (496 kJ mol –1)
or more precisely the standard electrode potential (Eº) of potassium (– 2.925 V) is more negative than
that of sodium (– 2.714 V) and hence potassium is more reactive than sodium.
(b)E1 of Mg (3s2 ) > Na (3s 1)
as Mg has fully filled electronic configuration while Na has one unpaired electron. 
 E2 of Mg (3s1) > Na (2p 6)
as Mg+ (3s1) has one unpaired electron and Na + has inert gas configuration.
B-2. Smaller the size of the ion, more highly it is hydrated and hence greater is the mass of the hydrated ion
and hence lower is its ionic mobility. Since the extent of hydration decreases in the order :
Li+ > Na+ > K+ > Rb+ > Cs+
therefore, ionic mobility increases in the order :
Li+ < Na+ < K+ < Rb+ < Cs+
C-1. The superoxide O 2– is paramagnetic because of one unpaired electron in *2p molecular orbital.
C-2. In vapour state it exists as linear or dimeric molecules where as in solid it has polymeric structure,
Cl Cl
Cl – Be – Cl(g) (g) Be Be Be (s)
Cl
Cl
3
C-3. In [CO 32–] all C–O bonds are equal due to resonance with B.O = , so their bond length will also be
2
equal.
C-4. There will be more polarisation of big anion due to Fajan's factors, so covalent character will be more in
I– due to large size and Ionic character will be less.
MgCl2 > MgBr2 > MgI2
C-5. Due to small size Li +, it has high polarising power while from Na + to Cs + have bigger size. So they have
low polarising power. Li + is more similar to Mg 2+ in its properties, which destabilizes a polyatomic anion
due to its high polarising power.
C-6. BeSO4 < MgSO 4 < CaSO 4 < SrSO 4
C-7. NaOH < KOH < RbOH < CsOH
C-8. Lithium is expected to be least reducing agent due to it’s very high I.E. However, lithium has the highest
hydration enthalpy due to small size which accounts for its high negativeE  and its high reducing
power.
D-1. Due to large atomic size & only one valence electron per atom, alkali metals have weak metallic bonds
as interparticle forces.
s-Block Elements
D-2.
Group-I + O2 (Major + N2 Group-II + O2 + N2
Elements product) (product) Elements (Major (product)
product) (Only on strong heating)
Li Li2O (Oxide) Li3N Be BeO Be3N2
Na Na2O2 It does not Mg MgO Mg3N2
(Peroxide) react
K KO2 It does not Ca CaO Ca3N2
(superoxide) react
Rb RbO2 It does not Sr SrO2 Sr3N2
(superoxide) react
Cs CsO2 It does not Ba BaO2 Ba3N2
(superoxide) react

1
D-3. (a) Na + H2O  NaOH + H2  (b) Ca + 2H2O  Ca(OH)2 + H2 
2

D-4. (i) M + H2SO4 M2SO4 + H2 

(ii) M + 2HCl MCl2 + H2 

D-5. On dissolving Metal in Liquid NH 3

M(s) + 2NH3()  M+(NH3) + e–(NH3)
M+ + x (NH3)  [M (NH 3)x]+  Ammoniated cation
e– + y (NH3)  [e(NH3)y]–  Ammoniated electron
E-1. Small cation have high polarizing power therefore it stabilizes monoatomic anion.
e.g. Li2O
Large cation have less polarizing power therefore it can stabilize polyatomic anion.
e.g. Na2O2 ; KO2
E-2. NaOH is commercialy prepared by electrolysis of brine solution in diaphragm cell.
Brine
Cl2 Gas out H2 Gas out
(Raw material)

 

Carbon Carbon
anode Cathode

NaOH + NaCl(aq)

Asbestos diaphragm
Anode reaction: 2Cl–  Cl2 + 2e–
Cathode reactions : 2H2O + 2e–  H2 + 2OH–
Na+ + OH–  NaOH
Over all reaction: 2Na+ + 2Cl– + 2H2O  2NaOH + H 2 + Cl2
E-3. (i) Industrial method : It is a two stage reaction in presence of excess of air.
2Na + O2  Na2O
Na2O + O2  Na2O2
(ii) It is prepared by burning potassium in excess of oxygen free from moisture.
K + O2  KO2
Hydrolysis
0C
(i) with cold water, Na 2O2 + 2H2O  2NaOH + H2O2
25C
At room temperature, 2Na 2O2 + 2H2O  4NaOH + O 2
1 1
(ii) KO2 + H2O  KOH + H2O2 + O2
2 2
s-Block Elements
E-4. (a) NaOH+ HNO3  NaNO3 + H2O
base acid salt
(b) Li2O + H2SO4  Li2SO4 + H2O
25ºC
(c) Na2O2 + H2SO4(dilute)  2Na2SO4 + 2H2O + O2
(d) CaO + HCl  CaCl2 + H2O
E-5. 3Ca(OH)2 + 2H3PO4  Ca3(PO4)2 + 6H2O
E-6. NaOH + Al2O3 (amphoteric metal oxide)  2NaAlO 2 + H2O
base it will react as acid

+cold & dil. NaOH

NaCl+NaOCl+H2 O
Sod. hypochlorite
E-7. Cl2
+hot & conc. NaOH
NaCl+NaClO3 +H2 O
Sod. chlorate

E-8. It goes under disproportionation reaction

(0 ) 1 3
P4 (white) + NaOH + H 2O  NaH 2P O 2 + PH 3
Sod. hypophosphite Phosphine

F-1. BeCO3< MgCO3 < CaCO 3 < SrCO3 < BaCO3

Stability of carbonates increases with increase in electropositive character and decrease in polarisation
power of metal.
F-2. (i) In ammonia absorber
NH3 + CO2 + H2O  NH4HCO3 ;
30C
NH4HCO3 + NaCl  NaHCO3  + NH4Cl
(ii) Calcination
150C
2 NaHCO 3  Na2CO3 + CO2 + H2O
(iii) In recovery tower :-
 / steam
NH4 HCO3  NH3 + CO2 + H2O
 / steam
2NH4 Cl +Ca(OH) 2  2NH3+ 2H2O+CaCl 2

F-3. Na2CO3 + HCl(dil.) NaCl + H2O + CO2

F-4. (a) 2NaHCO3 + H2SO4  2Na2SO4 + 2H2O + CO2

(b) Na2CO3 + Ca(OH) 2 CaCO3  + 2NaOH
(c) NaHCO3 + NaOH  Na2CO 3 + H2O

(d) 2NaHCO 3  Na2CO3 + H2O + CO2 
Boil
room temperature
 (e) NaHCO3 + CaCl2 No reaction.
G-1. BeSO4>MgSO4>CaSO4>SrSO4 Bigger cation is stable with bigger anion where as smaller cation is less
stable with bigger anion that why BeSO 4 is more water soluble.
G-2. It is produced in large amount as a by product in solvey process.
120ºC,  1 3
G-3. CaSO4.2H2O  CaSO4. H2O (Plaster of Paris) + H2O
2 2
G-4. (i) Be 2+ & O 2– smaller in size & thus higher lattice energy and lattice energy is greater than hydration
energy in BeO where as in BeSO 4 lattice energy is less due to bigger sulphate ion and is soluble.
Order of solubility : BeO < MgO < CaO < SrO < BaO
(ii) In BaSO 4 lattice energy is greater than hydration energy while in BaO lattice energy is smaller than
hydration energy.
Order of solubility : BeSO 4 > MgSO 4 > CaSO 4 > SrSO 4 > BaSO4
s-Block Elements
G-5. NaOCl + HOH  NaOH + HOCl

G-6. CaCl2 + H2SO4 (conc.) CaSO4 + 2HCl
H-1. Order is LiH > NaH > KH > RbH > CsH because small Li + due to high polarisation power will stablise
smaller anion.

H-2. (a) CaC2 + 2H2O  Ca(OH)2 + C2H2

(b) Mg2C3 + 4HOH 2Mg(OH) 2 + CH3 –CCH
500ºC, 
H-3. (i) 2MNO3 (metal nitrate)  2MNO2 (Metal nitrite) + O 2 (except Li)
500ºC, 
4Li NO3  Li2O + 4NO 2 + O2
 1
(ii) M(NO3)2  MO + 2NO2 + O2
2

H-4. (a) Li3N + 3H2O  3LiOH + NH 3 (b) NaNH2 + H2O  NaOH + NH 3

PART – II
A-1. (A) A-2. (B) B-1. (B) B-2. (A) C-1. (B)
C-2. (D) C-3. (D) C-4. (C) C-5. (B) C-6. (A)
D-1. (B) D-2. (D) D-3. (D) D-4. (D) D-5. (C)
E-1. (A) E-2. (A) E-3. (B) E-4. (D) E-5. (B)
E-6. (B) E-7. (C) E-8. (A) F-1. (B) F-2. (D)
F-3. (C) F-4. (A) F-5. (A) F-6. (C) G-1. (D)
G-2. (A) G-3. (C) G-4. (C) G-5. (A) H-1. (D)
H-2. (A) H-3. (D) H-4. (B) H-5. (D) H-6. (C)

PART – III
1. (A – p,r,s) ; (B – p,q) ; (C – p,q,r,s) ; (D – p,q, r).
2. (A – p) ; (B – p, q, s, t) ; (C – t) ; (D – q, r)

EXERCISE – 2
PART – I
1. (B) 2. (D) 3. (D) 4. (D) 5. (D)
6. (D) 7. (B) 8. (D) 9. (B) 10. (A)
11. (A) 12. (C) 13. (A) 14. (D) 15. (C)
16. (A) 17. (C) 18. (C) 19. (B) 20. (A)
21. (C) 22. (A)

PART – II
1. 7 (All except Be & Sr) 2. 3 (BeCl2 , NaHCO 3, BeH2)

3. 9 (x = 3, y = 4, z = 2) 4. 15 (x = 5, y = 6, z = 4)
5. 4 (KO3, RbO2, Cs2O2, BaO 2) 6. 3 (CO2) 7. 4 (1st four)

8. 18 (4, 3, 6, 5) 9. 10. 10. 3

s-Block Elements
PART – III
1. (AB) 2. (AB) 3. (BC) 4. (ABD) 5. (ABC)
6. (CD) 7. (ABC) 8. (ABC) 9. (ABCD) 10. (ABC)
11. (ABD) 12. (BCD) 13. (ABCD) 14. (AC) 15. (AC)
16. (BCD) 17. (ABCD) 18. (AD) 19. (AC) 20. (AB)

PART – IV
1. (D) 2. (D) 3. (B) 4. (D) 5. (B)
6. (A)

EXERCISE – 3
PART – I
1. (B) 2.* (AB) 3.* (ABD)
4. (i) Beryllium chloride is acidic, when dissolved in water because the hydrated ion hydrolysed producing
H3O+. This happens because the Be–O bond is very strong, and so in the hydrated ion this weakens
the O–H bonds, and hence there is tendency to lose portons.
BeCl2 + 4H2O  [Be(H2O)4] Cl2 ; [Be(H2O)4]2+ + H2O  [Be(H2O)3 (OH)]+ + H3O+

5. A = Ca(OH)2, B = NH 4HCO3 , C = Na2CO 3, D = NH 4Cl, E = CaCl 2

6. (i) Na2O2 is powerful oxidant and bleaching agent and bleaches red litmus paper to white in
aqueous solution according to the following reaction,
Na2O2 + 2H 2O  2NaOH + H 2O + [O]
[O] + Litmus White (bleaching)
(ii) The other compound Na 2O will give NaOH on dissolution in water according to the following
reaction.
Na2O + H2O  2NaOH .
The red litmus will turn to blue due to stronger alkaline nature of NaOH
7. (B)
H2O
8. Na2CO3 + SO2  2NaHSO 3 (A) + CO2
2NaHSO3 + Na2CO3  2Na2SO3 (B) + H 2O + CO2

Na2SO3 + S  Na2S2O3 (C)
2Na2S2O3 + I2 Na2S4O6 (D) + 2NaI
Oxidation states of S + 4 in NaHSO 3 [1 + 1 + x + 3(–2) = 0] and +4 in Na 2SO3 [2 + x + 3(–2) = 0] ;
+ 6 and – 2 (or an average + 2) in Na 2S2O3 and +5 and 0 (or an average + 5/2) in Na 2S4O6.

9. (B) 10.* (AB)

PART – II
1. (1) 2. (1) 3. (1) 4. (1) 5. (1)
6. (2) 7. (3) 8. (1) 9. (4) 10. (2)
11. (1) 12. (1) 13. (3) 14. (2) 15. (1)
16. (3) 17. (4)