Which azide is explosive ?

Options

A. `Ba(N_(3))_(2)`
B. `NaN_(3)`
C. `KN_(3)`
D. `Mg_(3)N_(2)`

Explanation

To determine which azide is explosive, we need to analyze the stability of the azides based on their ionic or covalent character. Here’s a step-by-step solution:

### Step 1: Understand the nature of azides
Azides are compounds containing the azide ion (N₃⁻). The stability of azides can vary based on the metal cation they are associated with.

**Hint:** Consider the relationship between ionic and covalent compounds regarding their stability.

### Step 2: Compare the metal ions
The metal ions in the azides can be classified based on their ionic or covalent nature. Generally, alkali metals (like Na and K) form more ionic azides, while alkaline earth metals (like Mg and Ba) tend to form more covalent azides.

**Hint:** Identify which metal ions are more likely to form ionic versus covalent bonds.

### Step 3: Analyze the trend in covalent character
Covalent character tends to increase down a group in the periodic table due to the increase in atomic size and the ability to share electrons. Thus, as we move from Na to Ba, the azides become more covalent in nature.

**Hint:** Remember that larger atoms can have more covalent character due to their ability to overlap orbitals.

### Step 4: Identify the most covalent azide
Among the azides of the mentioned metals, Ba (Barium) azide will be the most covalent because it is lower in the group compared to Na and K. Therefore, it will have the least stability.

**Hint:** Think about which azide would be the least stable based on the covalent character.

### Step 5: Conclusion
Since Barium azide is the most covalent and least stable, it is also the most explosive among the azides discussed.

**Final Answer:** Barium azide is the explosive azide.