What is the correct order of thermal stability of carbonates of alkaline earth metals?

Options

A. `BeCO_(3) lt MgCO_(3) lt CaCO_(3) lt SrCO_(3) lt BaCO_(3)`
B. `BeCO_(3) lt MgCO_(3)~~ CaCO_(3) gt SrCO_(3) lt BaCO_(3)`
C. `BeCO_(3) lt MgCO_(3) gt CaCO_(3) gt SrCO_(3) gt BaCO_(3)`
D. `BeCO_(3) gt MgCO_(3)~~ CaCO_(3) lt SrCO_(3) lt BaCO_(3)`

Answer

A

Explanation

The oxide of the smaller cation will be much more stable than those of large cations. The carbonates of smaller cation will therefore decompose to their oxides more easily than those of the larger cation.