Q37 / 180 · AIIMS 2012 · Chemistry

Assertion : $\mathrm{La}(\mathrm{OH})_3$ is more basic than $\mathrm{Lu}(\mathrm{OH})_3$.Reason : Size of $\mathrm{Lu}^{3+}$ increases and shows more covalent character.

  • A
    If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion
  • B
    If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion
  • Correct answer
    C
    If assertion is true but reason is false
  • D
    If both assertion and reason are false.

Solution

Due to lanthanide contraction, the size of $\mathrm{Lu}^{3+}$ is decreased and therefore $\mathrm{Lu}(\mathrm{OH})_3$ shows more covalent character (Small cation, more is covalent character - Fajan's rule). Thus $\mathrm{La}(\mathrm{OH})_3$ is more ionic and thus more basic.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'C'.

More Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure Questions