Question detail
Which of the following halogen displacement reactions will occur when a solution of potassium bromide is mixed with a solution of silver chloride?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Group 7(17), the halogens
Question
- A. KBr + AgCl → KCl + AgBr
- B. KBr + AgCl → KAg + BrCl
- C. KBr + AgCl → KCl + AgBr (no reaction)
- D. KBr + AgCl → KBrCl + Ag
Answer
KBr + AgCl → KCl + AgBr
Explanation
The halogen displacement rule states that a halogen will displace a less electronegative halide from its salt. Bromine is less electronegative than chlorine, so bromide ions will replace chloride ions in the silver chloride salt, forming silver bromide and potassium chloride. The correct balanced equation is KBr + AgCl → KCl + AgBr.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Displacement Reactions
Students often confuse the reactivity of halogens and incorrectly predict that a less reactive halogen can displace a more reactive halogen from its compound.
To correctly predict halogen displacement reactions, remember that a more reactive halogen will displace a less reactive halogen. For example, in the reaction between chlorine and potassium bromide, chlorine (more reactive) displaces bromine (less reactive). Therefore, the correct prediction is that chlorine will displace bromine, forming potassium chloride and bromine gas.
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