Question:medium

Oxygen will directly react with each of the following elements except?

Updated On: Jun 12, 2026
  • P
  • CI
  • Na
  • S
Show Solution

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

To determine which element does not directly react with oxygen, we must consider the typical reactivity of each option with oxygen.

  • Phosphorus (P): Phosphorus is known to react readily with oxygen to form phosphorus oxides, such as P_4O_{10}. This is a vigorous reaction, especially in its white form.
  • Sulfur (S): Sulfur also reacts with oxygen to form sulfur dioxide (SO_2) and with excess oxygen, sulfur trioxide (SO_3), further combining to form sulfuric acid in water.
  • Sodium (Na): Sodium is a highly reactive metal and reacts with oxygen at room temperature to form sodium oxide (Na_2O). This reaction is quite rapid and exothermic.
  • Chlorine (Cl): Unlike the other elements listed, chlorine does not react directly with oxygen. Chlorine is a relatively inert element towards oxygen under standard conditions.

Therefore, the element that does not directly react with oxygen is Chlorine (Cl).

Correct Answer: Cl

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