Which one of the ionic compounds below would you expect to have the smallest (least negative) lattice energy?
A)MgO
B)CaO
C)SrO
D)BaO
E)BeO

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

BaO is expected to have the smallest (least negative) lattice energy among the options given. This is because lattice energy decreases as the size of the ions increases. BaO contains the Ba^2+ ion, which is larger than the ions in the other compounds listed. Therefore, the electrostatic attraction between the Ba^2+ and O^2- ions is weaker, resulting in the smallest (least negative) lattice energy.

Which One of the Ionic Compounds Below Would You Expect