MHT CET · Chemistry · d and f Block Elements

Most basic hydroxide among the following is

A \(\mathrm{Lu}(\mathrm{OH})_{3}\)
B \(\mathrm{Eu}(\mathrm{OH})_{3}\)
C \(\mathrm{Yb}(\mathrm{OH})_{3}\)
D \(\mathrm{Ce}(\mathrm{OH})_{3}\)

Verified Solution

Answer & Solution

Correct Answer

(D) \(\mathrm{Ce}(\mathrm{OH})_{3}\)

Step-by-step Solution

Detailed explanation

Due to lanthanide contraction, the size of \(M^{3+}\) ions [ie, \(\mathrm{Lu}^{3+}, \mathrm{Eu}^{3+}, \mathrm{Yb}^{3+}\) and \(\mathrm{Ce}^{3+}\) ] decreases
and thus, the basic strength of their hydroxides decreases.
The order of size of given \(M^{3+}\) ions is \(\mathrm{Ce}^{3+}>\mathrm{Eu}^{3+}>\mathrm{Yb}^{3+}>\mathrm{Lu}^{3+}\)
\(\therefore\) The order of basic strength of hydroxides is \(\mathrm{Ce}(\mathrm{OH})_{3}>\mathrm{Eu}(\mathrm{OH})_{3}>\)\(\mathrm{Yb}(\mathrm{OH})_{3}>\mathrm{Lu}(\mathrm{OH})_{3}\)
(most basic)

Apply the relevant identity from the chapter and substitute the values established in the previous step, keeping the original constraint in view.

Use the simplified expression to isolate the unknown, then plug the result back into the question setup to confirm the working is internally consistent.

Cross-check against a boundary or limiting case. Both the dimensional balance and the qualitative behaviour at the extreme should agree with the candidate answer.

Combine the steps above to identify the correct option. The remaining choices each fail at least one of the consistency, dimensional, or boundary checks.

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