Question:

Metal ‘M’ in the following reaction is:
\[ 2MNO_3 \rightarrow M_2O+2NO_2+\frac{1}{2}O_2 \]

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Lithium shows anomalous behavior among alkali metals due to its small size and high polarizing power.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • Cs
  • K
  • Na
  • Li
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Recall the thermal decomposition of alkali metal nitrates.
On heating, alkali metal nitrates generally form nitrites: \[ 2MNO_3 \rightarrow 2MNO_2+O_2 \] This behavior is shown by: \[ \mathrm{Na,\ K,\ Rb,\ Cs} \]

Step 2: Observe the given reaction carefully.
The given reaction is: \[ 2MNO_3 \rightarrow M_2O+2NO_2+\frac{1}{2}O_2 \] Here nitrate decomposes into oxide directly.

Step 3: Identify the exception among alkali metals.
Lithium nitrate behaves differently due to the small size and high polarizing power of lithium ion.
Lithium nitrate decomposes as: \[ 4LiNO_3 \rightarrow 2Li_2O+4NO_2+O_2 \] This matches the given reaction pattern.

Step 4: Final conclusion.
Therefore, the metal \(M\) is \[ \boxed{\mathrm{Li}} \]
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