Anomalous Behaviour Of Lithium

Question 1

How does Lithium (and magnesium) react with nitrogen?

Answer 1

Lithium reacts with nitrogen to form nitrides, like magnesium.

6Li + N2 ==> 2Li3N

3Mg+ N2 ==> Mg3​N2

Question 2

How does Li2CO3 behave under heat?

Answer 2

Li2CO3 (lithium triooxocarbonate (IV) ) decomposes on heating to form Li2O and CO; Group I carbonates do not decompose.

Li2CO3(s) ==∆==> Li2O(s) + CO2(g)

MgCO3(s) ==∆==> MgO(s) + CO2(g)

Question 3

What is the shared property of lithium and magnesium hydroxides?

Answer 3

Lithium and magnesium hydroxides do not delequescent, are less soluble and are weak bases.

Question 4

How does Lithium behave in terms of complexes?

Answer 4

Lithium has a higher tendency to form complexes than other Group I elements.

Question 5

What compounds of lithium are insoluble?

Answer 5

F-, (CO3)^2- , and (PO4)^3- of lithium are insoluble, unlike other Group I elements.