Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion A and the other is labelled as Reason R
Assertion A: Beryllium has less negative value of reduction potential compared to the other alkaline earth metals
Reason R: Beryllium has large hydration energy due to small size of \(Be ^{2+}\) but relatively large value of atomization enthalpy
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below

• A. Both $A$ and $R$ are correct and $R$ is the correct explanation of $A$
• B. $A$ is not correct but $R$ is correct
• C. Both $A$ and $R$ are correct but $R$ is NOT the correct explanation of $A$
• D. $A$ is correct but $R$ is not correct

Hint:

Reduction potential is influenced by hydration energy, ion size, and atomization enthalpy. Smaller ions like \(Be^{2+}\) have higher hydration energy, stabilizing the ion in aqueous solutions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To solve this question, we need to evaluate both the assertion and the reason provided to determine their correctness and the relationship between them. 

1. Assertion A: Beryllium has less negative value of reduction potential compared to the other alkaline earth metals.
2. Reason R: Beryllium has large hydration energy due to small size of \(Be^{2+}\) but relatively large value of atomization enthalpy.

Let's analyze each statement:

1. The reduction potential of an element is influenced by several factors, including its hydration energy and atomization enthalpy.
2. Hydration Energy: Beryllium ions are small and highly charged, resulting in a large hydration energy. This large hydration energy contributes to making the reduction potential less negative.
3. Atomization Enthalpy: Beryllium has a relatively large atomization enthalpy due to the difficulty in breaking its strong metallic bonds to form gaseous atoms. This factor also influences the reduction potential.
4. Together, these properties explain why beryllium has a less negative reduction potential compared to other alkaline earth metals, which are larger and have lower hydration energies.

By considering the information above, we see that both Assertion A and Reason R are correct. Furthermore, Reason R provides an accurate explanation for Assertion A.

Thus, the most appropriate answer is:

Both $A$ and $R$ are correct and $R$ is the correct explanation of $A$