Question

K forms the compound K2O , which is an ionic compound that is brittle. Identify another element, M , that is likely to form a brittle, ionic compound with the formula M2O . Justify your answer in terms of periodic trends.

Answer 1

The metal is sodium, Na.

Explanation:

K₂O is an ionic compound in which K is in the oxidation state of +1 and it belongs to group 1.

Group 1 elements also form oxides with the metals with the general formula M₂O and M being Na, K, Li and so on.

Metals Like sodium and Potassium are so brittle in nature and also their oxides.

So the other metal that form metal oxide which is brittle as well as ionic in nature, and so the metal oxide is Na₂O.

So the metal is sodium, Na.