Question

The number of water molecules in hydrated beryllium salt never exceeds:

• A. 6
• B. 3
• C. 2
• D. 4

Answer 1

The correct option is D 4

The number of vacant orbitals present in the valence shell of $B{e}^{2+}$ is four. Hence, a maximum of four water molecules can be accommodated in these vacant orbitals. Hence, the number of water molecules directly attached to beryllium in its salt can never exceed four.