Question

Which of the following is most basic?

• A. \( \text{Tl}_2\text{O}_3 \)
• B. \( \text{Tl}_2\text{O} \)
• C. \( \text{Cr}_2\text{O}_3 \)
• D. \( \text{B}_2\text{O}_3 \)

Hint:

In general, oxides of elements in lower oxidation states tend to be more basic, while oxides of elements in higher oxidation states tend to be more acidic.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Analyze the oxides.
Basicity of metal oxides generally increases with the metallic character of the element. Alkali metals and their compounds are typically more basic. Step 2: Comparison of oxides.
- \( \text{Tl}_2\text{O}_3 \): This is thallium(III) oxide, and thallium in the +3 oxidation state exhibits some acidic properties.
- \( \text{Tl}_2\text{O} \): Thallium(I) oxide is more basic compared to thallium(III) oxide because thallium(I) has a lower oxidation state, which is more characteristic of basic oxides.
- \( \text{Cr}_2\text{O}_3 \): Chromium(III) oxide is amphoteric, meaning it can act both as an acid and as a base.
- \( \text{B}_2\text{O}_3 \): Boron oxide is acidic in nature.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Among the given oxides, \( \text{Tl}_2\text{O} \) is the most basic because thallium in the +1 oxidation state forms a more basic oxide. Final Answer:} (B) \( \text{Tl}_2\text{O} \)