Anomalous Behaviour Of Beryllium

Question 1

How does Beryllium differ from Group II elements in terms of compounds formed?

Answer 1

Beryllium forms covalent compounds in contrast to the ionic compounds of Group II elements.

Question 2

How does Beryllium differ from Group II elements in terms of hallides and hydrides?

Answer 2

Beryllium hallides and hydrides are electron deficient. In gaseous states they are unstable, but in solid states they form polymeric chains using dative bonds with neighbouring lone pairs.

Question 3

What does Beryllium do differently in terms of complexes?

Answer 3

Beryllium forms many complexes.

Question 4

How does Beryllium react with hydrogen in sodium hydroxide?

Answer 4

Beryllium liberates hydrogen in sodium hydroxide, forming beryllate:

Be + 2NaOH → Na2BeO2 + H2

Question 5

How does Beryllium react with HNO3?

Answer 5

Beryllium is rendered passive by HNO3 because as Be comes in contact with the acid, an impervious layer of oxide is formed.