Sciencemadness Discussion Board

Question about reaction!!!

Tatiana - 5-10-2005 at 19:45

TextBlackHello!!! Could someone clarify for me why Bi2O5 is insoluble in water and whether it reacts with acid or not....Thanks

BromicAcid - 5-10-2005 at 20:39

Bi<sub>2</sub>O<sub>5</sub> despite being a high oxidation compound is only very slightly soluble. The lattice energy is just too high and its not overcome by the increase in entopy gained by dissolving, though I would be suprised if it didn't react with the water. As for the acid part, bismuth pentoxide decomposes in the presence of acid (to Bi<sup>3+</sup> salts and oxygen), it would also oxidize your acid, for example hydrochloric acid would liberate chlorine.

Tatiana - 5-10-2005 at 21:00

Thank you for your answer!!! It is very helpful!!!