Question Detail
Question
Which of the following statements best explains why the lithium ion (Li+) has the highest polarizing power among alkali metal ions?
Correct Answer
Option D is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
According to page 6, 'The polarizing power of lithium ion is highest of all the alkali metal ion' due to its 'small ionic size and high charge'. Smaller size and higher charge density lead to greater polarizing power.
Hint
Polarizing power is related to the charge density of an ion.