Identify X in reaction `: X + underset("steam")(2 H_(2)O) overset(Delta)(to) XO_(2) + 2H_(2)`

Options

A. C
B. Si
C. Ge
D. Sn

Explanation

To identify the element X in the reaction \( X + 2 H_2O \overset{\Delta}{\rightarrow} XO_2 + 2 H_2 \), we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Analyze the Reaction
The reaction shows that element X reacts with steam (water vapor) to produce a dioxide (XO2) and hydrogen gas (H2). This indicates that X must be a metal that can react with water at high temperatures.

**Hint:** Look for elements that can form dioxides and release hydrogen when reacting with steam.

### Step 2: Identify Possible Candidates
The elements in Group 14 (the carbon family) are:
- Carbon (C)
- Silicon (Si)
- Germanium (Ge)
- Tin (Sn)
- Lead (Pb)

We need to determine which of these elements can react with steam.

**Hint:** Consider the reactivity of each element with water, especially in the presence of steam.

### Step 3: Evaluate Each Element
- **Carbon (C)**: Does not react with water.
- **Silicon (Si)**: Does not react with water.
- **Germanium (Ge)**: Does not react with water.
- **Tin (Sn)**: Can react with steam at high temperatures to form tin dioxide (SnO2) and hydrogen gas.
- **Lead (Pb)**: Unaffected by water due to the formation of a protective oxide layer.

**Hint:** Focus on the element that is known to react with steam to form a dioxide and hydrogen.

### Step 4: Conclude the Identity of X
From the evaluation, the only element that reacts with steam to produce a dioxide and hydrogen is Tin (Sn). Therefore, X is identified as Tin.

**Final Answer:** \( X = \text{Tin (Sn)} \)

### Summary of Steps:
1. Analyze the reaction to determine the nature of X.
2. List the Group 14 elements.
3. Evaluate the reactivity of each element with steam.
4. Conclude that Tin (Sn) is the only element that fits the criteria.