Question

The solubility of metal halides depends on their nature, lattice enthalpy and hydration enthalpy of the individual ions. Amongst fluorides of alkali metals, the lowest solubility of $LiF$ in water is due to:

• A. ionic nature of lithium fluoride
• B. high lattice enthalpy
• C. high hydration enthalpy for lithium ion
• D. low ionization enthalpy of lithium atom

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

high lattice enthalpy

In $LiF$, due to the small size of cation and anion, lattice is very strong and so, lattice energy is very high. Due to this high lattice energy, $LiF$ is less soluble in water.