Question

The pair of compounds that can exist together is:

• A. \(HgCl_2, SnCl_2\)
• B. \(FeCl_2, SnCl_2\)
• C. \(FeCl_3, KI\)
• D. \(FeCl_3, SnCl_2\)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

To determine which pair of compounds can coexist, we need to consider the chemical reactivity and compatibility of these compounds when present together. Here’s the step-by-step explanation:

1. Understanding Characteristics of the Compounds:
   • HgCl_2 (Mercury(II) chloride): It is a potent compound that can oxidize many other compounds.
   • SnCl_2 (Tin(II) chloride): It is a reducing agent and can easily get oxidized, especially in the presence of oxidizing agents.
   • FeCl_2 (Iron(II) chloride): It is relatively stable and does not easily change under normal conditions. It has reducing properties but not as strong as SnCl₂.
   • FeCl_3 (Iron(III) chloride): This is a strong oxidizing agent and can oxidize substances like SnCl₂ easily.
   • KI (Potassium iodide): It can be oxidized in the presence of an oxidizing agent.
2. Analyzing Each Option:
   • HgCl_2, SnCl_2: The combination is reactive as HgCl_2 can oxidize SnCl_2.
   • FeCl_2, SnCl_2: Both have reducing properties but are stable when present together. There is no significant reaction between these two.
   • FeCl_3, KI: FeCl_3 will oxidize KI, leading to a reaction.
   • FeCl_3, SnCl_2: FeCl_3 is an oxidizing agent and will oxidize SnCl_2.
3. Conclusion: The pair that can coexist without reacting significantly with each other is FeCl_2, SnCl_2. Hence, the correct answer is this pair.