Period 3 Oxides: Structure and Reactivity Trends

Steps:

• Statement 1: Maximum oxidation states increase from Na (+1) to S (+6), contradicting the claimed decrease after P (+5).
• Statement 2: Wording is contradictory ("hydrolysed without hydrolysis"); actual hydrolysis varies (e.g., Na2O reacts, SiO2 inert), not matching the description.
• Statement 3: Bonding shifts correctly—giant ionic (Na2O, MgO), giant covalent (Al2O3, SiO2), simple molecular (P4O10, SO2/SO3).
• Only statement 3 aligns with periodic trends.

Why D is correct:

• D selects only statement 3, matching the established progression in oxide structures per periodic table group trends.

Why the others are wrong:

• A includes false statements 1 and 2.
• B relies solely on incorrect statement 1.
• C includes flawed statement 2.

Final answer: D