Question

predict the product in the synthesis reaction below
al (s) + n₂ (g) → ______
1 aln₂
2 aln₃
3 al₃n
4 al₃n₂
5 aln

Explanation:

Step1: Determine oxidation states

Aluminum (Al) typically has an oxidation state of +3, and nitrogen (N) in compounds like nitrides has an oxidation state of -3 (since \( \text{N}_2 \) is a diatomic gas, and in the reaction, it will form a compound with Al).

Step2: Balance charges

To form a neutral compound, the charges must balance. Let the formula be \( \text{Al}_x\text{N}_y \). The charge from Al is \( +3x \), and from N is \( -3y \). For the compound to be neutral: \( +3x - 3y = 0 \), which simplifies to \( x = y \). So the ratio of Al to N is 1:1.

Step3: Check the reaction

The synthesis reaction between aluminum and nitrogen gas is: \( 2\text{Al}(s) + \text{N}_2(g)
ightarrow 2\text{AlN}(s) \). So the product is AlN. Now check the options: option 5 is AlN.

Answer:

1. AlN