HYDRIDES OF ALKALI METALS:
Introduction:
Well, in our previous articles, we talked about Alkali Metals now we talk about its compounds which are their hydrides. Hydrides are the type of binary compound of hydrogen with some other elements for example, in this case, we are talking about Hydrides of Alkali Metal.
Properties of Alkali Metal Hydrides:
Some Common Properties of Alkali Metal Hydrides:
1. Formation of Alkali Metal Hydrides:
The formation of alkali metal hydrides occurs by a direct reaction between alkali metal and hydrogen. But need temperatures which are given below:
LiH 700-800 degrees Celsius
NaH 200-400 degrees Celsius
KH 300-500 degrees Celsius
RuH 400-600 degrees Celsius
CsH 500-700 degrees Celsius
Well, you do not need to learn the temperature at which the reaction starts occurring. There is a pattern except for LiH all others have some unique pattern. For example, NaH needs 200-400 degrees Celsius, and KH needs 300 (100+) - 500 (100+) degree Celsius. All others except LiH follow the same pattern.
2. Formation of Ionic bond:
There is a property that is common in all alkali metal hydrides which is the formation of ionic bonds. These compounds form ionic bonds and show characteristics which is common in ionic bonds strong ness, high melting and boiling point, and other such properties that are common in ionic compounds.
3. Physical State:
All the alkali metal hydrides exist in a solid state at room temperature and pressure.
4. Solubility:
Alkali metal hydrides are insoluble in non-polar solvents but soluble in water due to the process of hydrolysis. Hydrolysis is the reaction in which water is used for breaking big molecules into smaller ones.5. Reactivity:
All the alkali metal hydrides are very highly reactive.Uses and Applications of Alkali Metal Hydrides:
1. We all know the fuel of the future is hydrogen but its storage is a major problem. Here Alkali metal hydrides especially LiH are useful.
2. These compounds are very important reduction agents.
3. These alkali metal hydrides are useful as neutron shields and neutron absorbers (especially LiH).
4. Alkali Metal Hydrides are useful drying agents.
5. As you notice all the alkali metal hydrides are strong bases and that why useful in organic reactions in which an acid-base reaction is required.
Conclusion:
All the compounds are unique all their uses are also very specific. I think to wonder about that the knowledge of the periodic table is so amazing. These are five compounds that we know about in great depth with minimum work.
That's all about the Hydrides of Alkali Metal. I hope you like it.
Autor:
This article is written by "Noel Gill."
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