Question

A metal, M forms chlorides in +2 and +4 oxidation states. Which of the following statements about these chlorides is correct?
(a) MCl₂ is more volatile than MCl₄
(b) MCl₂ is more soluble in anhydrous ethanol than MCl₄
(c) MCl₂ is more ionic than MCl₄
(d) MCl₂ is more easily hydrolysed than MCl₄ .

Answer 1

(c) : The elements of group 14 show an oxidation state of +4 and +2. The compounds showing an oxidation state of +4 are covalent compound and have tetrahedral structures. e.g. SnCl₄, PbCl₄, SiCl₄, etc. whereas those which show +2 oxidation state are ionic in nature and behave as reducing agent. 

e.g. SnCl₂, PbCl₂ , etc. Further as we move down the group, the tendency of the element to form covalent compound decreases but the tendency to form ionic compound increases.