Question

If the radius of a Chloride ion is 0.154 nm, then what is the maximum size of a cation that can fit in each of its octahedral voids?

(a) 1.15 x 10^-1 nm

(b) 1.21 x 10^-1 nm

(c) 1.18 x 10^-1 nm

(d) 1.13 x 10^-1 nm

I had been asked this question during an interview for a job.

My doubt stems from Solid State in portion Solid State of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer 1

The correct option is (d) 1.13 x 10^-1 nm

The explanation: Given,

Radius of Chloride ion (r^–) = 0.154 nm

 Let radius of cation = r^+

 For Octahedral Voids, r^+ / r^– = 0.732 (for maximum value of the size of the cation)

Therefore, r^+ = 0.732 x 0.154 = 1.13 x 10^-1 nm.