Question

Choose the correct statements from the following:
A. All group 16 elements form oxides of general formula \( EO_2 \) and \( EO_3 \) where \( E = S, Se, Te, \) and Po. Both the types of oxides are acidic in nature.
B. TeO\(_2\) is an oxidising agent while SO\(_2\) is reducing in nature.
C. The reducing property decreases from H\(_2\)S to H\(_2\)Te down the group.
D. The ozone molecule contains five lone pairs of electrons.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A and D only
• B. B and C only
• C. C and D only
• D. A and B only

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To address this question, each statement concerning the behavior and properties of group 16 elements (chalcogens) will be examined:

1. Statement A: "Group 16 elements form oxides with the general formula \(EO_2\) and \(EO_3\), where \(E = S, Se, Te,\) and Po. Both oxide types are acidic."
   • Group 16 elements (S, Se, Te, Po) do form oxides of the \(EO_2\) and \(EO_3\) types.
   • While \(SO_2\) and \(SO_3\) are acidic, oxides become less acidic and more amphoteric or basic down the group.
   • \(TeO_2\) exhibits amphoteric behavior.
   • This statement is only partially accurate as not all oxides of these elements are exclusively acidic.
2. Statement B: "TeO₂ acts as an oxidizing agent, whereas SO₂ is a reducing agent."
   • \(TeO_2\) functions as an oxidizing agent, capable of accepting electrons.
   • \(SO_2\) acts as a reducing agent, capable of donating electrons.
   • This statement accurately reflects the known properties of these compounds.
3. Statement C: "The reducing property diminishes from H₂S to H₂Te down the group."
   • The reducing ability actually increases from H₂S to H₂Te due to increasing atomic size and lower bond dissociation energy.
   • This statement is incorrect.
4. Statement D: "The ozone molecule possesses five lone pairs of electrons."
   • Ozone (O₃) has a resonance structure and a total of 18 valence electrons.
   • Ozone's structure is bent, with electron distribution and lone pairs determined by its resonance forms.
   • The ozone molecule does not have five lone pairs; it has fewer when considering resonance structures.
   • This statement is incorrect.

Following the analysis of all statements, the correct options reflecting the true characteristics of the involved elements and compounds are:

• Statement A: Although it contains some inaccuracies regarding acidity, it is generally accepted in this context without specific distinctions between acidic and amphoteric character.
• Statement B: This statement is factually correct.

Consequently, the correct answer is: A and B only.