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The solubility of alkaline earth metal sulphates in water follows the trend . Which thermodynamic fas Block Elements Chemistry Question

Question

The solubility of alkaline earth metal sulphates in water follows the trend $BeSO_4 > MgSO_4 > CaSO_4 > SrSO_4 > BaSO_4$. Which thermodynamic factor is primarily responsible for this sharp decrease in solubility down the group?

Answer: B

💡 Solution & Explanation

For large polyatomic anions like $SO_4^{2-}$, the lattice energy is dominated by the anion and remains relatively constant down the group. However, the hydration enthalpy drops sharply as the cation size increases from $Be^{2+}$ to $Ba^{2+}$. Thus, hydration energy overcomes lattice energy only for $Be$ and $Mg$.

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