Comment of the following observations : Lithium is the only alkali metal to form a nitride directly.

Comment of the following observations : Lithium is the only alkali met

1.	Comment of the following observations : Lithium is the only alkali metal to form a nitride directly.
Answer» Solution :Unlike the other elements of group 1, Li reacts directly with nitrogen to form lithium nitride. This is because `Li^(+)`is very SMALL in size and so its size is the most compatible with the `N^(3-)` ion.Hence, the lattice energy released is very HIGH. This energy also overcomes the high amount of energy required for the formation of the `V^(3+)` ion.