Does the reaction of a main-group nonmetal oxide in water produce an acidic or a basic solution? Write a balanced equation for the reaction of a Group 6A (16) nonmetal oxide with water.

Question

Chemistry

Rene Lloyd

19 February, 21:28

Does the reaction of a main-group nonmetal oxide in water produce an acidic or a basic solution? Write a balanced equation for the reaction of a Group 6A (16) nonmetal oxide with water.

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Answers (1)

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Hayley Atkins · Answer 1

They form acidic solutions

SO2 (g) + H2O (l) - -> H2SO3 (aq)

SO3 (g) + H2O (l) - -> H2SO4 (aq)

Explanation:

Group 6 elements are elements on the periodic table with 6 atoms on their valence shell. Metallic properties increases down the group from oxygen through polonium. Examples are oxygen, polonium, sulphur etc.

Group 6 nonmetal oxides react with water to form acidic solutions, this is because the oxides of nonmetallic elements are basic in nature.

Sulphur exhibits a wide range of oxidation states ranging from + 2 to + 6. So its oxides are SO2 and SO3.

Example:

SO2 (g) + H2O (l) - -> H2SO3 (aq)

SO3 (g) + H2O (l) - -> H2SO4 (aq)