Question

An element reacts with oxygen to give a compound which is basic in nature. This compound is also soluble in water. The element is likely to be:

• A. Sodium
• B. Carbon
• C. Bromine
• D. Iron

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

The correct option is A Sodium

Metal oxides are basic in nature. Hence, answer could be options $A$ and $D$. But most metal oxides are insoluble in water and only some of these dissolve in water to form alkalis. Sodium oxide and potassium oxide dissolve in water to produce alkalis as follows –

$N{a}_{2}O\left(s\right)+H_{2}O\left(l\right)\to 2NaOH\left(aq\right)$

So, the correct option is $A$