Question detail
Which Group 2 metal hydroxide is least soluble in water?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Group 2, the alkaline earth metals
Question
- A. Barium hydroxide
- B. Calcium hydroxide
- C. Magnesium hydroxide
- D. Strontium hydroxide
Answer
Magnesium hydroxide
Explanation
Magnesium hydroxide is the least soluble in water among the Group 2 hydroxides, as its lattice energy is relatively high compared to the others.
Common mistake
Solubility Confusion
Students often confuse the solubility trends of Group 2 hydroxides and sulfates, incorrectly stating that both become less soluble down the group.
To correct this, remember that Group 2 hydroxides increase in solubility down the group, while sulfates decrease in solubility. For example, barium hydroxide is more soluble than magnesium hydroxide, but barium sulfate is less soluble than magnesium sulfate. This can be summarized as follows: - Hydroxides: - Rule: Solubility increases down the group. - Example: Mg(OH)₂ (sparingly soluble) < Ca(OH)₂ (more soluble) < Ba(OH)₂ (most soluble). - Sulfates: - Rule: Solubility decreases down the group. - Example: MgSO₄ (soluble) > CaSO₄ (less soluble) > BaSO₄ (insoluble).
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