Question

Some metal oxides, such as \(\mathrm{Sc}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{3},\) do not react with pure water, but they do react when the solution becomes either acidic or basic. Do you expect \(\mathrm{Sc}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{3}\) to react when the solution becomes acidic or when it becomes basic? Write a balanced chemical equation to support your answer.

Short answer

Sc2O3 reacts when the solution becomes acidic, as Scandium is located at the top of group 3 in the periodic table and forms basic oxides. The balanced chemical equation for the reaction of Sc2O3 with HCl is: \(Sc_{2}O_{3} (s) + 6HCl (aq) \rightarrow 2ScCl_{3} (aq) + 3H_{2}O (l)\)

Step-by-step solution

Determine the nature of Scandium

Scandium (Sc) is a metal located in group 3 of the periodic table. Elements in group 3 generally form amphoteric oxides, which means they can react with both acidic and basic solutions. However, the tendency of these elements to form acidic or basic oxides depends on their position within the group. Elements at the top of the group have a stronger tendency to form basic oxides, while elements at the bottom tend to form acidic oxides. Scandium is at the top of Group 3.

Predict the behavior of Sc2O3

Since Scandium is at the top of group 3, its oxide (Sc2O3) has a higher tendency to form basic oxides. Therefore, Sc2O3 reacts when the solution becomes acidic, while it would not react with a basic solution.

Write the balanced chemical equation

Now, let's write the balanced chemical equation for the reaction of Sc2O3 with an acidic solution, such as HCl (hydrochloric acid): \(Sc_{2}O_{3} (s) + 6HCl (aq) \rightarrow 2ScCl_{3} (aq) + 3H_{2}O (l)\) In this balanced equation, solid Scandium(III) oxide (Sc2O3) reacts with an aqueous solution of Hydrochloric acid (HCl) to form an aqueous solution of Scandium(III) chloride (ScCl3) and water (H2O).