BeO and `Be(OH)_(2)` are amphoteric while the oxides and hydroxides of other alkaline earth metals are basic. The solubility of hydroxides increases as we move down the group from `Be` to `Ba` but the solubility of sulphates and carbonates decreases in that order the thermal stability of carbonates and sulphates of alkaline earth metals increases from Be to Ba as we move from top to bottom in the group.
Which of the following metal carbonates decompses on heating ?

Options

A. `MgCO_(3)`
B. `Na_(2)CO_(3)`
C. `K_(2)CO_(3)`
D. `Rb_(2)CO_(3)`

Answer

A

Explanation

`MgCO_(3)` decomposes on heating to give `MgO` and `CO_(2)`. While alkaline metal carbonates `(Na_(2),CO_(3),K_(2)CO_(3),Rb_(2)CO_(3)`} donot decompose.