Question

Give a brief account of the oxides of group 16 elements.

Answer 1

1. Group 16 includes O, S, Se, Te, and Po.
2. Except Se, all form monoxides (MO); all form dioxides (MO₂) and trioxides (MO₃).
3. SO₂ is a bent molecule, gaseous and acidic.
4. SeO₂ and TeO₂ are solids with polymeric structures; TeO₂ is amphoteric.
5. SO₂ is planar and acidic.
6. The acidic nature of oxides decreases down the group; oxides show varying hybridisations and bonding.