Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · States of matter

States of matter — practice question

(a)[2]

State and explain how the oxidation numbers change in the chlorides of the elements Na, Mg, Al and Si.

(b)[2]

Describe how phosphorus(V) chloride reacts with water, and write an equation for the reaction.

(c)

If microwave radiation is passed through phosphorus(III) chloride, $\text{PCl}_3$, at low pressure, a different phosphorus chloride, $B$, is produced. $B$ is made up of $69.6\%$ chlorine by mass and $30.4\%$ phosphorus by mass, and it has $M_r \approx 200$.

(c(i))

Calculate the empirical and molecular formulae of $B$.

(c(ii))

Assuming phosphorus and chlorine have their usual valencies, draw the displayed formula of $B$, showing every bond and lone pair.

(c(iii))

Calculate the oxidation number of phosphorus present in $B$.

(c(iv))[6]

One mole of $B$ reacts with four moles of water. Suggest the structure of the phosphorus-containing product formed in this reaction.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Oxidation numbers are $+1, +2, +3, +4$

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI