Compounds of the alkali metals

2 marks · Normal

State the formula and appearance of the solid produced when lithium burns in air.

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Li2O, white powder

Also accept: Li2O and white solid; Lithium oxide and white powder

Common mistakes: Giving lithium hydroxide; Giving only one property

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Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · Correct formula: Li2O (accept 'lithium oxide')

B2 · 1 mark · States 'white powder' or 'white solid' for appearance

Worked solution

Lithium burns in air to produce lithium oxide, Li2O, which is a white powder (or white solid).