Solution
Related Formula
The solubility product constant (Kₛₚ) reflects the equilibrium position of a sparingly soluble salt in water.
Core Logic
Based on standard literature Kₛₚ values at 298 K:
- HgS: ≈ 4 × 10⁻⁵³ (extremely insoluble, Group IIB cation analysis)
- PbS: ≈ 8 × 10⁻²⁸ (highly insoluble, Group IIA cation analysis)
- AgBr: ≈ 5 × 10⁻¹³ (sparingly soluble halide salt)
- Ca(OH)₂: ≈ 5.5 × 10⁻⁶ (moderately soluble base)
Step 1: Arrangement
Comparing these Kₛₚ orders:
4 × 10⁻⁵³ < 8 × 10⁻²⁸ < 5 × 10⁻¹³ < 5.5 × 10⁻⁶Hence, the correct increasing sequence is: HgS < PbS < AgBr < Ca(OH)₂.
Pattern Recognition
Sulphides of heavy transition metals like Hg²⁺ and Pb²⁺ have exceptionally small Kₛₚ values compared to halides or hydroxides. Among sulphides, HgS is famously known to have one of the lowest solubility products found in inorganic qualitative analysis.
Chapter Mix
Class 11 Chemistry: Equilibrium