oxygen free radical (1 Viewer)

[+:: $i[Q]u3 ::+]

when the dot point sez "compare properties of the gaseous forms of oxygen and the oxygen free radical", is it asking us to compare O2 with the oxide anion? like.. bonding n stuf?

 

[Frigid]

yeah, I was trying to do this dp the other day; it's basically comparing the electron configuration... and saying that the radical is more reactive than the diatomic oxygen molecule... it's not actually compare the properties (as comparing ozone and oxygen, where u compare BP, MP etc.)

 

[CHUDYMASTER]

The oxygen radical is not an anion. To be an anion would make it stable, but radicals are generally atoms who don't yet satisfy the octet rule and hence they are very reactive.

Therefore Frigid is right in saying that O is more reactive than O2. I don't see how you can look at physical properties of a radical seeing as though they are impossible to contain.

 

[+:: $i[Q]u3 ::+]

thanks guys =)
so i jus say it's more reactive cuz of that unbonded electron etc right? ^^

 

[CHUDYMASTER]

I think my explanation is better as it shows more understanding, but yes, if you wish...