question_answer 45)

  The solubility of metal halides depends on their nature, lattice enthalpy and hydration enthalpy of the individual ions. Amongst fluorides of alkali metals the lowest solubility of\[~LiF\] in water is due to : (a) ionic nature of lithium fluoride                            (b) high lattice enthalpy (c) high hydration enthalpy for Li-ion                      (d) low ionisation enthalpy of Li-atom

Answer:

  (b) Lattice energy of\[LiF\]is higher than its hydration energy and thus, it has low solubility in water.