Which Element is Most Likely to Form an Oxide with the Formula MO₃?

Question:

Which of the following elements is most likely to form an oxide with the formula MO₃: Zr, Nb, or Mo?

a. Zr
b. Nb
c. Mo
d. None of the above

Final answer:

Answer:

Molybdenum (Mo) is most likely to form an oxide with the formula MO₃ due to its tendency to form higher oxidation state oxides (c).

Explanation:

The element most likely to form an oxide with the formula MO₃ is Mo. This prediction is based on the general chemical behavior of transition metals and their common oxidation states. Molybdenum tends to form higher oxidation state oxides such as MoO₃, which is molybdenum trioxide, a well-known compound. In contrast, zirconium (Zr) and niobium (Nb) typically do not form MO₃ oxides under standard conditions.

The reason behind this is that Mo belongs to the group 6 of the periodic table, while Zr and Nb belong to the group 4 and 5, respectively. Group 6 elements have a higher tendency to form higher oxidation states compared to group 4 and 5 elements. Therefore, Mo is more likely to form an oxide with the formula MO₃.