Question

The nature of oxides V\(_2\)O\(_3\) and CrO is indexed as 'X' and 'Y' type respectively. The correct set of X and Y is:

• A. X = amphoteric \quad Y = basic
• B. X = basic \quad Y = basic
• C. X = basic \quad Y = amphoteric
• D. X = acidic \quad Y = acidic

Hint:

A useful trend to remember for transition metals is the change in oxide character with oxidation state. For chromium: CrO (+2) is basic, Cr\(_2\)O\(_3\) (+3) is amphoteric, and CrO\(_3\) (+6) is acidic. This pattern holds for many transition metals.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

To determine the nature of the oxides V\(_2\)O\(_3\) and CrO, we must consider their chemical properties and oxidation states. These factors typically influence whether an oxide is acidic, basic, or amphoteric.

• V\(_2\)O\(_3\) (Vanadium(III) oxide): In this oxide, vanadium is in the +3 oxidation state. Generally, for transition metals, oxides with lower oxidation states tend to be basic. V\(_2\)O\(_3\) is known to display basic properties.
• CrO (Chromium(II) oxide): In this oxide, chromium is in the +2 oxidation state. Transition metal oxides with lower oxidation states also typically exhibit basic behavior. Therefore, CrO behaves as a basic oxide.

Since both V\(_2\)O\(_3\) and CrO exhibit basic characteristics, the correct set corresponding to X and Y in the question is:

• X = basic: V\(_2\)O\(_3\) is basic.
• Y = basic: CrO is basic.

Thus, the correct answer is: X = basic, Y = basic.

Options’ Analysis:

• X = amphoteric, Y = basic: This option is incorrect as V\(_2\)O\(_3\) behaves as a basic oxide rather than amphoteric.
• X = basic, Y = amphoteric: This is incorrect because CrO is also basic, not amphoteric.
• X = acidic, Y = acidic: This is incorrect as neither V\(_2\)O\(_3\) nor CrO demonstrate acidic behavior.