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Multiple Choice
Which of the following compounds is produced when lithium metal (Li) undergoes combustion in oxygen?
A
Li2CO3
B
LiO2
C
Li2O
D
LiOH
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the reaction type. Combustion of a metal like lithium in oxygen typically forms a metal oxide, where lithium reacts directly with oxygen gas (O\_2).
Step 2: Write the general combustion reaction for lithium: \(4\ Li + O\_2 \rightarrow 2\ Li\_2O\). This shows lithium combining with oxygen to form lithium oxide.
Step 3: Analyze the given options. Lithium carbonate (Li\_2CO\_3) and lithium hydroxide (LiOH) contain additional elements (carbon and hydrogen, respectively) that are not part of a simple combustion reaction with oxygen alone.
Step 4: Consider lithium superoxide (LiO\_2). This is a less common product and typically forms under specific conditions, not the straightforward combustion of lithium metal in oxygen.
Step 5: Conclude that the most straightforward and common product of lithium combustion in oxygen is lithium oxide (Li\_2O), matching the balanced reaction and typical chemical behavior.