Element X forms a chloride with the formula XCl₂, which is a solid with high melting point. X would most likely be in the same group of periodic table as

This question was previously asked in
NDA-I (GAT) Official Paper (Held On: 13 Apr, 2025)
View all NDA Papers >
  1. Na
  2. Al
  3. Mg
  4. K

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : Mg
Free
NDA 01/2025: English Subject Test
5.7 K Users
30 Questions 120 Marks 30 Mins

Detailed Solution

Download Solution PDF

CONCEPT:

Periodic Groups and Their Properties

  • Elements in the same group of the periodic table have similar chemical properties because they have the same number of valence electrons.
  • Group 2 elements, also known as alkaline earth metals (e.g., Be, Mg, Ca, etc.), typically form compounds with the formula XCl₂, where X is the metal, and Cl is the chloride ion.
  • These chlorides are ionic compounds that are generally solids with high melting points due to the strong electrostatic forces between the ions.

EXPLANATION:

  • The formula of the chloride formed by element X is XCl₂, which suggests that X has a valency of +2.
  • In the periodic table:
    • Na (sodium) belongs to Group 1 and forms NaCl, not XCl₂.
    • Al (aluminum) belongs to Group 13 and forms AlCl₃, not XCl₂.
    • Mg (magnesium) belongs to Group 2 and forms MgCl₂, which matches the formula XCl₂.
    • K (potassium) belongs to Group 1 and forms KCl, not XCl₂.

Since the formula XCl₂ is characteristic of Group 2 elements, X is most likely in the same group as magnesium (Mg).

Therefore, the correct answer is Mg.

Latest NDA Updates

Last updated on Jun 18, 2025

->UPSC has extended the UPSC NDA 2 Registration Date till 20th June 2025.

-> A total of 406 vacancies have been announced for NDA 2 Exam 2025.

->The NDA exam date 2025 has been announced. The written examination will be held on 14th September 2025.

-> The selection process for the NDA exam includes a Written Exam and SSB Interview.

-> Candidates who get successful selection under UPSC NDA will get a salary range between Rs. 15,600 to Rs. 39,100. 

-> Candidates must go through the NDA previous year question paper. Attempting the NDA mock test is also essential. 

Get Free Access Now
Hot Links: mpl teen patti teen patti master 2023 teen patti gold real cash