An element P does not react with dil H₂SO₄ It forms an oxide PO which turns red litmus into blue. P is a metal or a non-metal? Justify your answer.

Given that the element P does not react with dilute sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄​) and forms an oxide (PO) that turns red litmus blue, we can infer the following:

  • P is a Metal: The fact that PO (the oxide of P) turns red litmus blue indicates that PO is a basic oxide. Basic oxides are typically formed by metals. Non-metals usually form acidic or neutral oxides. Additionally, metals generally do not react with dilute sulfuric acid to produce hydrogen gas, especially if they are less reactive.

Copper Maybe the P ► As when copper react with concentrated H₂SO₄ it form Cu + H2SO4 → CuSO4 + SO2 + H2O. while copper not with dilute sulfuric acid.

Question-Related To Chapters Acid, Base, Salt: Exam Point of View