Question

Metals are usually not found as nitrates in their ores. Out of the following two ($a$ and $b$) reasons which is /are true for the above observation?

(a) Metal nitrates are highly unstable
(b) Metal nitrates are highly soluble in water

• A. $a$ is false but $b$ is true
• B. $a$ is true but $b$ is false
• C. $a$ and $b$ are true
• D. $a$ and $b$ are false

Answer 1

The correct option is A $a$ is false but $b$ is true

Metal nitrates such as potassium nitrate, sodium nitrate are stable. The statement ($b$) "Metal nitrates are highly soluble in water" is true.

Metal nitrates such as potassium nitrate, sodium nitrate have high water solubility. Hence, they are washed out by rainwater and not found in the ores.

Hence, option $A$ is correct.