Analyzing the Setup
When we look at the s-block elements, we see a fascinating array of properties that vary systematically down the groups and across the periods
In this problem, we are tasked with matching four distinct s-block elements—Barium, Calcium, Lithium, and Sodium—with their most defining chemical or physical characteristics. Let's break them down one by one.
Barium
The Heavy Alkaline Earth Metal
Let's start with Barium (Ba). Barium is a heavy alkaline earth metal located in Group 2 and Period 6 of the periodic table.
Because it resides in Group 2, it has two valence electrons. And since it is in the sixth period, its outermost electrons are in the 6s subshell. Therefore, its outer electronic configuration is exactly 6s2. This makes matching Barium straightforward: A matches with (ii).
Calcium
The Insoluble Oxalate
Next up is Calcium (Ca). A classic fact about calcium chemistry—often related to biology and medicine, particularly in the formation of kidney stones—is its reaction with oxalate ions.
Calcium forms calcium oxalate (CaC2O4), a compound that is notoriously insoluble in water. The strong electrostatic attraction between the Ca2+ ions and the C2O42− ions creates a lattice energy that far exceeds its hydration energy. Thus, B matches perfectly with (iii).
Lithium
The Anomalous Alkali Metal
Moving on to Lithium (Li), we encounter the first element of the alkali metals. Lithium is unique because of its exceptionally small atomic and ionic size.
According to Fajan's rules, a smaller cation has a higher polarizing power. Lithium's high polarizing power allows it to distort the electron cloud of anions significantly, introducing a strong covalent character into its compounds. Because "like dissolves like," these covalent lithium compounds are highly soluble in organic (non-polar or weakly polar) solvents, unlike the typical ionic compounds of other alkali metals. Therefore, C matches with (i).
Sodium
The Strong Base Former
Finally, we have Sodium (Na). Sodium is a highly reactive alkali metal that reacts vigorously with water to form sodium hydroxide (NaOH).
Sodium hydroxide is a classic example of a very strong monoacidic base. It completely dissociates in water to yield one hydroxide ion (OH−) per molecule, ready to neutralize a single proton from an acid. This leads us to our final connection: D matches with (iv).
Final Calculation
Putting all our logical deductions together, we arrive at the final sequence:
- A → (ii)
- B → (iii)
- C → (i)
- D → (iv)
This sequence corresponds exactly to the first option provided in the question. By understanding the periodic trends and anomalous behaviors of s-block elements, we can confidently solve such matrix match problems!