Explain why Li resembles Mg more than Na (diagonal relationship) — JEE Chemistry
Explain why $Li$ resembles $Mg$ more than $Na$ (diagonal relationship).
1 Answer
NANisha Agarwal
✓ Accepted
· 2mo ago
▲ 20
Li and Mg show diagonal relationship due to similar:
- Ionic radii: $Li^+ = 76$ pm, $Mg^{2+} = 72$ pm
- Charge/radius ratio (polarising power): Both have high charge density
- Similarities: Both form nitrides ($Li_3N$, $Mg_3N_2$), both form oxides (not peroxides), both carbonates decompose on heating, both chlorides are covalent and soluble in ethanol.
$$Diagonal relationship due to similar ionic potential = \frac{z}{r}$$
Log in to post your own answer or join the discussion.
Discussion (3)
N
Underrated solution. The way you set it up makes it almost obvious.
R
Plotting it roughly also helps you sanity-check the sign.
AB
For revision — the key formula used here comes up almost every year.