Multiple choice

Which of the following alkaline earth metals do not give characteristic flame colouration? P. Beryllium Q. Magnesium R. Calcium S. Strontium

  1. Only P

  2. P and Q

  3. P and R

  4. Q and S

  5. Only S
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Beryllium and magnesium atoms are comparatively smaller in comparison to other alkaline earth metals and their ionisation enthalpies are very high. Hence, the energy of the flame is not sufficient to excite their electrons to higher energy levels. Therefore, Be and Mg do not give any colour in Bunsen flame.

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