Which observation is NOT seen when lithium reacts with water?

Study for the IGCSE Edexcel Chemistry Test. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which observation is NOT seen when lithium reacts with water?

Explanation:
When lithium reacts with water, it undergoes a rapid, exothermic redox reaction that forms lithium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. The fizzing you see comes from the hydrogen gas bubbles. The lithium piece floats because its density is less than that of water, so it sits on the surface. It may seem to disappear as it is converted into Li+ ions in solution. Melting would require the solid lithium to stay as a metal and change to a liquid phase. In this reaction, the metal is consumed to form ions and compounds far more quickly than it could reach its melting point, so you don’t observe a separate liquid metal.

When lithium reacts with water, it undergoes a rapid, exothermic redox reaction that forms lithium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. The fizzing you see comes from the hydrogen gas bubbles. The lithium piece floats because its density is less than that of water, so it sits on the surface. It may seem to disappear as it is converted into Li+ ions in solution.

Melting would require the solid lithium to stay as a metal and change to a liquid phase. In this reaction, the metal is consumed to form ions and compounds far more quickly than it could reach its melting point, so you don’t observe a separate liquid metal.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy