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Chapter 11: Problem 2

Discuss the anomalous behaviour of Beryllium as compared to its congeners.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Beryllium shows anomalous behavior compared to its congeners because of its small atomic size and high ionization energy, leading to the formation of covalent compounds and non-existence of a +2 oxidation state in aqueous solution, unlike its congeners in Group 2.

Step by step solution

01

The Congeners of Beryllium

Identify the congeners of Beryllium. These are the elements in Group 2 of the periodic table, namely magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), strontium (Sr), barium (Ba) and radium (Ra).
02

The Anomaly of Beryllium

Discuss the anomalous properties of Beryllium. Beryllium (Be) is the lightest of the alkaline earth metals. Its small size and high ionization energy lead to unique and distinct behaviors. For example, it forms covalent compounds, not ionic like its congeners. It also does not exhibit a +2 oxidation state in aqueous solution.
03

Comparison to Congeners

Compare Beryllium to its congeners. The congeners have larger atomic sizes and lower ionization energies. As a result, they form ionic compounds and display a +2 oxidation state in aqueous solution, contrasting with Beryllium's behavior.

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