Question

An element X which is a yellow solid at room temperature shows catenation and allotropy. X forms two oxides which are also formed during the thermal decomposition of ferrous sulphate crystals and are the major air pollutants.
(a) Identify the element X.
(b) Write the electronic configuration of X.
(c) Write the balanced chemical equation for the thermal decomposition of ferrous sulphate crystals.
(d) What would he the nature (acidic/basic) of oxides formed?
(e) Locate the position of the element in the Modem Periodic Table.

Answer 1

(a) Element X is sulphur (atomic no. 16).

(b) K, L, M .
2, 8, 6

(c) 2FeSO₄(s) + heat → Fe₂O₃(s) + SO₂(g) + SO₃(g)

(d) Acidic.

(e) 3rd period, group 16.