Question

In context with beryllium, which one of the following statements is incorrect?

• A. It is rendered passive by nitric acid
• B. It forms $B{e}_{2}C$
• C. Its salts rarely hydrolyze
• D. Its hydride is electron-deficient and polymeric

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Its salts rarely hydrolyze

Metallic beryllium is rendered passive by nitric acid. The hydride is electron-deficient and polymeric as well. The carbide is $B{e}_{2}C$. The hydration energy for $B{e}^{2+}$ is significantly higher than ions from the same group. This is because the ionic radius is the smallest for $B{e}^{2+}$ than the other dipositive ions from alkaline earth metals group. A greater charge density implies a higher energy is released on solvation/hydration. In general, Beryllium salts hydrolyze easily.