An unknown element,X,reacts with oxygen to form two oxides with the general formula X₂O₃ and X₂O₅.The pure element is strongly paramagnetic,and the oxides are amphoteric.Which of the following elements could be represented by X? A)Sc B)Na C)Bi D)S E)Sb

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The general formula of the two oxides suggests that X is a transition metal with variable oxidation states of +3 and +5. Moreover, the fact that the oxides are amphoteric means that they can act both as an acid and as a base, which is a common property of metalloids or semi-metals. Among the given choices, only Sb (antimony) is a semi-metal that satisfies both criteria. Therefore, Sb could be represented by X.

An Unknown Element,X,reacts with Oxygen to Form Two Oxides with the General