Radicals


 
 
Concept Explanation
 

Radicals

A radical is an atom, molecule, or ion that has an unpaired valence electron. Properties of Free Radicals

  • Free radicals are unique and rare species and are present only under special and limited conditions. However , some free radicals are familiar to us in our lives.
  • Molecular oxygen is a typical free radical a bi radical species. Standard and stable molecular oxygen is in triplet state and the two unpaired electrons have the spin orientation in two orbitals respectively, having the same orbital energy based on Hund's rule. Nitrogen monoxide and nitrogen dioxide are also stable, free radical species.
  • Free radicals are highly reactive and unstable. As they can lose and gain one electron therefore they are also known as oxidant and reductant.
  • Examples of Free Radicals:

    Positive Radicals are:

  • Sodium = Na⁺
  • Hydrogen = H⁺
  • Potassium = K⁺
  • Lithium = Li⁺
  • Ammonium = NH₄⁺
  • Cuprous [Copper II] = Cu²âº
  • Cupric [ Copper III] = Cu³âº
  • Negative Radicals:

  • Flouride =  F⁻
  • Chloride = Cl⁻
  • Bromide = Br⁻
  • Iodide = I⁻
  • Sulphate = SOâ‚„²â»
  • Oxide = O²â»
  • Nitride = N³â»
  • Sulphur = S²â»
  • Sample Questions
    (More Questions for each concept available in Login)
    Question : 1

    Which of the following element has an unpaired valence electron?

    Right Option : C
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    Explanation
    Question : 2

    Which of the following statement / statements are correct :

    (a) Kis the radical of Potassium.

    (b) NH4+ is the radical of Ammonium.

    Right Option : C
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    Explanation
    Question : 3

    Free radicals are highly reactive and ____________.

    Right Option : B
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    Explanation
     
     


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