Question detail
Which of the following statements best explains why chlorine will not displace bromine from a bromide salt?
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. Chlorine is less electronegative than bromine.
- B. Chlorine is more electronegative than bromine.
- C. Chlorine has a larger atomic radius than bromine.
- D. Chlorine forms a stronger ionic bond with sodium than bromine does.
Answer
Chlorine is less electronegative than bromine.
Explanation
Displacement reactions are governed by electronegativity: a more electronegative halogen displaces a less electronegative one. Chlorine is less electronegative than bromine, so it cannot displace bromide ions from a bromide salt. The correct explanation is that chlorine is less electronegative than bromine.
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.
Related flashcards
Flashcard 1 of 5
Related practice questions
Question 1 of 5
Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.