Among the group 1 elements, which of the following hydrogen carbonates (bicarbonates) does NOT exist — s Block Elements Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Bicarbonates of alkali metals generally exist as solid crystals, except for Lithium. Due to the exceptionally small size and high polarizing power of the $Li^+$ ion, it cannot stabilize the large $HCO_3^-$ ion in a solid crystal lattice. Thus, $LiHCO_3$ exists only in aqueous solution.