NEETChemistrys Block Elements
What is the primary factor responsible for the decrease in hydration enthalpies of alkali metal ions as you move down the group?
Options
- ADecrease in the number of water molecules surrounding the ion
- BIncrease in the size of the ions
- CIncrease in the charge density of the ions
- DIncrease in the solubility of the ions in water
Correct answer
B. Increase in the size of the ions
Step-by-step solution
The primary factor responsible for the decrease in hydration enthalpies of alkali metal ions as you move down the group is the increase in the size of the ions. Larger ions are less effective at attracting and binding water molecules.