Question detail
Describe the trend in solubility of Group 2 sulfates and explain a practical implication of this trend.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Group 2, the alkaline earth metals
Question
Describe the trend in solubility of Group 2 sulfates and explain a practical implication of this trend.
Answer
The solubility of Group 2 sulfates decreases down the group, with barium sulfate being insoluble. This is significant in medicine, where barium sulfate is used as a radiopaque agent in X-ray imaging due to its low solubility, preventing it from being absorbed in the body.
Explanation
This answer illustrates the trend in solubility of Group 2 sulfates and its application in medical imaging, assessing the student's ability to apply chemical knowledge to practical scenarios.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Solubility Trends
Students often confuse the solubility trends of Group 2 hydroxides and sulfates, incorrectly stating that both increase or decrease uniformly down the group.
To clarify, remember that the solubility of Group 2 hydroxides increases down the group, while the solubility of sulfates decreases. Use this rule: 'Hydroxides are more soluble as you go down, sulfates are less soluble.'
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