Uploaded by allan lee

Chemistry - Oxford Fajar - SPM

advertisement
OXFORD FAJAR ADVISORY BOARD
The board consists of a team of experienced teachers
who review our titles to ensure that the contents are
in line with the current syllabus and examination
requirements as set by the Examination Syndicate,
Ministry of Education Malaysia.
Success Chemistry SPM e-book was reviewed by
• Ilani bte Ibrahim
• Tan Sze Chuan
• Tay Geok It
*****************************************
Oxford Fajar Sdn. Bhd. (008974-T)
(Formerly known as Penerbit Fajar Bakti Sdn. Bhd.)
4 Jalan Pemaju U1/15, Seksyen U1
Hicom-Glenmarie Industrial Park
40150 Shah Alam
Selangor Darul Ehsan
© Oxford Fajar Sdn. Bhd. (008974-T) 2013
First published 2013
ISBN 978 983 47 0756 9
All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced,
stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or
by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of
Oxford Fajar Sdn. Bhd. (008974-T)
Text set in 10 point ITC Giovanni by
Leo & Libra Creative, Kuala Lumpur
Word Power
ii
Contents
Keywords
v
4.7 Appreciating the Existence of Elements and
Their Compounds
98
SPM Exam Practice 4
100
Introduction to Chemistry
1
CHAPTER 5
2
1.1 Chemistry and Its Importance
1.2 Scientific Method
1.3 Scientific Attitudes and Values in
Conducting Scientific Investigations
SPM Exam Practice 1
2
5
Chemical Bonds
FORM 4
CHAPTER 1
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
Formation of Compounds
Formation of Ionic Bonds
Formation of Covalent Bonds
The Properties of Ionic Compounds and
Covalent Compounds
SPM Exam Practice 5
7
9
CHAPTER 2
The Structure of the Atom
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
Matter
The Atomic Structure
Isotopes and Their Importance
The Electronic Structure of an Atom
Appreciating the Orderliness and
Uniqueness of the Atomic Structure
SPM Exam Practice 2
14
15
23
26
29
3.1 Relative Atomic Mass and Relative
Molecular Mass
3.2 Relationship between the Number of
Moles and the Number of Particles
3.3 Relationship between the Number of
Moles of a Substance and Its Mass
3.4 Relationship between the Number of
Moles of a Gas and Its Volume
3.5 Chemical Formulae
3.6 Chemical Equations
3.7 Scientific Attitudes and Values in
Investigating Matter
SPM Exam Practice 3
108
109
114
121
128
CHAPTER 6
2
Electrochemistry
134
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
6.6
6.7
Electrolytes and Non-electrolytes
135
Electrolysis of Molten Compounds
137
Electrolysis of Aqueous Solutions
142
Electrolysis in Industries
152
Voltaic Cells
158
The Electrochemical Series
165
Developing Awareness and Responsible
Practices when Handling Chemicals used in
the Electrochemical Industries
172
SPM Exam Practice 6
173
32
33
2
CHAPTER 3
Chemical Formulae and Equations
107
39
40
43
CHAPTER 7
2
45
Acids and Bases
48
51
57
181
60
62
7.1 Characteristics and Properties of Acids and
Bases
182
7.2 The Strength of Acids and Alkalis
192
7.3 Concentration of Acids and Alkalis
196
7.4 Neutralisation
203
SPM Exam Practice 7
211
67
CHAPTER 8
2
68
74
75
82
89
93
Salts
218
8.1 Salts
8.2 Qualitative Analysis of Salts
8.3 Practising Systematic and Meticulous
Methods when Carrying Out Activities
SPM Exam Practice 8
219
240
2
CHAPTER 4
Periodic Table of Elements
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
Periodic Table of Elements
Group 18 Elements
Group 1 Elements
Group 17 Elements
Elements in a Period
Transition Elements
iii
255
256
2
CHAPTER 9
2
CHAPTER 3
Manufactured Substances in Industry
9.1
9.2
9.3
9.4
9.5
9.6
9.7
Sulphuric Acid
Ammonia and Its Salts
Alloys
Synthetic Polymers
Glass and Ceramics
Composite Materials
Appreciating Various Synthetic Industrial
Materials
SPM Exam Practice 9
262
Oxidation and Reduction
263
266
272
278
281
284
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
288
289
FORM 5
2
CHAPTER 4
Thermochemistry
CHAPTER 1
Rate of Reaction
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
Rate of Reaction
Factors that Affect the Rate of Reaction
The Collision Theory
Practising Scientific Knowledge to
Enhance Quality of Life
SPM Exam Practice 1
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
Energy Changes in Chemical Reactions
Heat of Precipitation
Heat of Displacement
Heat of Neutralisation
Heat of Combustion
Appreciating the Existence of Various
Energy Sources
SPM Exam Practice 4
295
296
305
322
328
329
CHAPTER 2
Carbon Compounds
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
2.8
2.9
2.10
2.11
SPM
384
Redox Reactions
385
Rusting as a Redox Reaction
412
The Reactivity Series of Metals and
Its Applications
418
Redox Reactions in Electrolytic Cell and
Chemical Cell
430
3.5 Appreciating the Ability of the Elements to
Change their Oxidation Numbers
441
SPM Exam Practice 3
444
452
453
463
469
474
482
489
492
2
CHAPTER 5
340
Carbon Compounds
341
Alkanes
343
Alkenes
346
Isomerism
352
Alcohols
357
Carboxylic Acids
362
Esters
366
Oils and Fats
370
Natural Rubber
371
Order in Homologous Series
376
The Variety of Organic Materials in Nature 376
Exam Practice 2
378
Chemicals for Consumers
499
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
SPM
500
510
515
519
521
Soaps and Detergents
Uses of Food Additives
Medicine
Appreciating the Existence of Chemicals
Exam Practice 5
SPM Model Test
Answers
Glossary
iv
526
537
592
Key Words
1 Introduction to Chemistry
conclusion – kesimpulan
constant variable – pembolehubah
yang dimalarkan
manipulated variable
– pembolehubah yang
dimanipulasikan
procedure – kaedah/prosedur
responding variable – pembolehubah
yang bergerakbalas
scientific attitudes – sikap saintifik
variable – pembolehubah
denominator – penyebut
element – unsur
empirical formula – formula empirik
ionic compound – sebatian ion
mass – jisim
molar volume – isipadu molar
molecular formula – formula molekul
numerator – pengangka
product – hasil tindak balas
reactant – bahan tindak balas
reduced – diturunkan
relative atomic mass – jisim atom
relatif
4 Periodic Table of Elements
2 The Structure of the Atom
charged particles – zarah bercas
chemical reaction – tindakbalas kimia
collision – perlanggaran
compressibility – kemampatan
condensation – kondensasi
diffusion – peresapan
duplet – duplet
electronic configuration –susunan
elektron
electron shells – petala elektron
forces of attraction – daya tarikan
freezing point – takat beku
half-life – setengah hayat
isotope – isotop
matter – jirim
melting point – takat lebur
non-renewable – tidak boleh
diperbaharui
nucleon number – nombor nukleon
octet – oktet
3 Chemical Formulae and
Equations
anion (negatively-charged ion)
– anion (ion bercas negatif)
cation (positively-charged ion)
– kation (ion bercas positif)
compound – sebatian
crucible – mangkuk pijar
covalent compound –sebatian
kovalen
boiling point – takat didih
chemical bonding – ikatan kimia
covalent bond – ikatan kovalen
double bond – ikatan ganda dua
electrical conductivity – kekonduksian
elektrik
electrostatic force of attraction – daya
tarikan elektrostatik
inert gas – gas adi
ionic bond – ikatan ion
Lewis structure – struktur Lewis
non-polar – tidak berkutub
organic solvent – pelarut organik
polar – berkutub
shell – petala
single bond – ikatan tunggal
solubility – kelarutan
triple bond – ikatan ganda tiga
valence electron – electron valens
volatility – kemeruapan
5 Chemical Bonds
aqueous solution – larutan akueus
giant molecules – molekul raksasa
intermolecular force – daya tarikan
antara molekul
noble gas – gas adi
6 Electrochemistry
alkaline cell – sel alkali
anode – anod
cathode – katod
concentration – kepekatan
v
decomposition – penguraian
discharge – nyahcas
displacement reaction – tindak balas
penyesaran
dry cell – sel kering
electrochemical series – siri
elektrokimia
electrochemistry – elektrokimia
electrode – elektrod
electrolysis – elektrolisis
electrolyte – elektrolit
electroplating – saduran elektrik
half-reaction – tindak balas setengah
non-electrolyte – bukan elektrolit
non-rechargeable cell – sel yang tidak
boleh dicas semula
potential difference – beza
keupayaan
primary cell – sel primer
rechargeable cell – sel yang boleh
dicas semula
secondary cell – sel sekunder
7 Acids and Bases
basicity – kebesan
degree of dissociation – darjah
penceraian
dilution – pencairan
diprotic acid – asid dwibes
end point – takat akhir
molarity – kemolaran
monoprotic acid – asid monobes
hydroxide ion – ion hidroksida
hydroxonium ion –ion hidroksonium
neutralisation – peneutralan
partial dissociation –penceraian
separa
standard solution – larutan piawai
titration – pentitratan
triprotic acid – asid tribes
universal indicator –penunjuk
semesta
8 Salts
brown ring test – ujian cincin perang
confirmatory test –ujian pengesahan
continuous variation –perubahan
berterusan
crystal – hablur
Key Words
KEY WORDS
FORM 4
decolourised – nyahwarna
double decomposition –penguraian
ganda dua
evaporation – sejatan
filtrate – hasil turasan
impurities – benda asing
insoluble salts –garam tak terlarutan
precipitate – mendakan
qualitative analysis – analisa kualitatif
recrystallisation – penghabluran
semula
residue – baki
soluble salts – garam terlarutan
solution – larutan
KEY WORDS
9 Manufactured Substances in
Industry
alloy – aloi
biodegradable – terbiodegradasikan
borosilicate glass – kaca borosilikat
brass – loyang
bronze – gangsa
catalyst – mangkin
ceramic – seramik
coagulation – penggumpalan
Contact process – proses sentuh
corrosion – kakisan
density – ketumpatan
ductility – kemuluran
explosive – bahan letupan
fibre optic – gentian optik
fused glass – kaca silika terlakur
lead glass – kaca plumbum
malleability – kebolehtempaan
photochromic glass –kaca fotokromik
polymerisation – pempolimeran
refrigerant – bahan penyejuk
rust – karat
soda glass – kaca soda kapur
solder – pateri
stainless steel – keluli nirkarat
superconductor – superkonduktor
synthetic fibre – gentian sintetik
FORM 5
energy profile diagram – rajah profil
tenaga
observable change – perubahan yang
dapat diperhatikan
rate of reaction – kadar tindak balas
2 Carbon Compounds
addition – penambahan
alkanes – alkana
alkenes – alkena
alkynes – alkuna
combustion – pembakaran
fractionating column –turus
pemeringkat
functional group – kumpulan
berfungsi
general formula – formula am
homologous series – siri homolog
hydration – penghidratan
hydrogenation – penghidrogenan
IUPAC nomenclature – sistem
penamaan IUPAC
saturated – tepu
sootiness – kejelagaan
straight chain – rantai lurus
structural formula – formula struktur
substitution – penukargantian
unsaturated – tak tepu
carboxylic acid – asid karboksilik
coagulation – penggumpalan
dehydration – pendehidratan
distillation – penyulingan
drying agent – agen pengontangan
elasticity – kekenyalan
esterification – pengesteran
extraction – pengekstrakan
fatty acid – asid lemak
fermentation – penapaian
hydroxonium ion – ion hidroksonium
hydroxyl group – kumpulan hidroksil
polyunsaturated fats –lemak poli tak
tepu
volatility – kemeruapan
vulcanised – tervulkan
1 Rate of Reaction
activation energy –tenaga
pengaktifan
average rate – kadar purata
catalyst – mangkin
collision frequency – frekuensi
perlanggaran
collision theory – teori perlanggaran
effective collision –perlanggaran
berkesan
energy barrier – rintangan tenaga
Key Words
3 Oxidation and Reduction
blast furnace – relau bagas
cast iron – besi tuangan
chemical cell – sel kimia
displacement reaction – tindak balas
penyesaran
electrolytic cell – sel elektrolisis
extraction – pengekstrakan
impurity – bendasing
vi
metal displacement –penyesaran
logam
oxidation state –keadaan
pengoksidaan
oxidising agent – agen pengoksidaan
reactivity series – siri kereaktifan
reducing agent – agen penurunan
sacrificial metal – logam korban
4 Thermochemistry
bond energy – tenaga ikatan
endothermic reaction –tindak balas
endotermik
energy content –kandungan tenaga
energy level diagram –gambar rajah
aras tenaga
exothermic reaction –tindak balas
eksotermik
fuel value – nilai haba bahan api
heat of combustion – haba
pembakaran
heat of displacement –haba
penyesaran
heat of formation – haba
pembentukan
heat of neutralisation –haba
peneutralan
law of conservation of energy
– hukum keabadian tenaga
precipitation – pemendakan
reversible reaction – tindak balas
berbalik
specific heat capacity –muatan haba
tentu
thermal dissociation –penceraian
terma
thermochemical equation –
persamaan termokimia
5 Chemicals for Consumers
additive – bahan tambahan
analgesic – analgesik
antioxidant – pengantioksida/
antipengoksida
antipsychotic – antipsikotik
biodegradable – terbiodegradasikan
biological enzyme – enzim biologi
codeine – kodeina
detergent – detergen
flavouring agent – agen perisa
preservative – pengawet
saponification – saponifikasi
soap – sabun
stabiliser – pengstabil
thickening agent – agen pemekat
FORM 4
THEME: Introducing Chemistry
CHAPTER
1
Introduction to Chemistry
SPM Topical Analysis
2008
Year
Paper
1
Section
Number of questions
–
2009
2
A
B
C
–
–
–
3
1
–
–
2010
2
A
B
C
–
–
–
3
1
–
–
2011
2
A
B
C
–
–
–
3
1
–
–
3
2
A
B
C
–
–
–
ONCEPT MAP
INTRODUCTION TO CHEMISTRY
History of chemistry
Importance of chemistry
Meaning of chemistry
The scientific method
Science that studies the
properties, composition and
structure of substances and
the changes they undergo
In the fields of:
• Food processing
• Medicine
• Agriculture
• Transportation
• Telecommunications
• Daily usage of
chemical products
Methodology in chemistry
Careers that need
knowledge of chemistry:
• Medicine and Dentistry
• Pharmacy
• Geology
• Biochemistry
• Engineering
• Observe a situation
• Identify all variables
• Suggest a problem
statement
• Form a hypothesis
• Select suitable apparatus
• Carry out an experiment
• Collect and tabulate data
• Interpret the data
• Write a report
Scientific attitudes
and values
•
•
•
•
Attitudes
Avoid wastage
Maintain cleanliness
Avoid accidents
–
1
1.1
(a) Medicine: to fight diseases and prolong life.
Chemistry and Its
Importance
1 Human beings used chemical processes before
500 BC to extract metals such as copper and
iron for making ornaments. They also found
ways to make ceramics from clay. However,
they could not explain the chemical processes
that took place.
2 The next 1700 years of chemical history were
dominated by a pseudo-science called alchemy
(pseudo means not genuine or false). The word
alchemy originated from the Arabic word ‘alkimiya’ (al === the; kimiya === art of changing).
The alchemists in Egypt believed they could
change cheap metals like lead into gold. Their
efforts were unsuccessful but along the way they
(a) discovered other substances like mercury,
sulphur, antimony and phosphorus,
(b) developed some reliable techniques of
chemical manipulation,
(c) learned to prepare some mineral acids such
as sulphuric, hydrochloric and nitric acids.
Medicine
(b) Fertilisers and pesticides: increase crop
yields.
(c) Preservatives: prolong the storage of food.
Food preservative
(d) Materials used for making clothing such as
cotton, silk and nylon.
A chemist carrying out research
3 Modern chemistry originated from an
Englishman named Robert Boyle. In 1661,
he wrote a book called The Sceptical Chymist
which introduced the modern concept of
chemical elements. An element is a substance
that cannot be broken down into simpler
substances by chemical means. In the
centuries that followed, many elements were
discovered.
Nylon
(e) Building materials
concrete and glass.
such
as
cement,
The Importance of Chemistry
1 Chemistry is the science concerned with the
composition of substances, the basic forms of
matter and the interactions between them.
2 Chemical substances or chemicals are very
important in our lives. The following are a
few examples of chemicals.
Introduction to Chemistry
Building
2
(b) how chemicals interact among each other,
and
(c) how to use the knowledge of the properties of
these chemicals to produce new substances.
(f) Components of automobiles and computers.
1 Many careers require knowledge of chemistry.
For example, a dentist uses hydrogen peroxide
gel (H2O2) to bleach teeth (making it whiter).
For extraction of a tooth, the dentist will
administer a local anaesthetic (procaine)
before extracting the tooth of a patient. To fill
a tooth, he/she will use amalgam which is an
alloy of mercury and silver. Hydrogen peroxide,
procaine and amalgam are all chemicals.
(g) Consumer products such as soap and
detergents.
Consumer products
3 Table 1.1 shows the uses of some chemical
substances in our daily life.
4 In chemistry, we study
(a) the basic units that make up these
materials,
A dentist at work
Table 1.1
Name of substance
Uses
Chemical formula
Oxygen
O2
Respiration and combustion
Nitrogen
N2
Manufacture of ammonia
Carbon dioxide
CO2
In photosynthesis and in making carbonated drinks
Sodium chloride
NaCl
Food preservation, for example, salted fish
Iron(II) sulphate
FeSO4
Iron pills to treat anaemia
Aspirin
Calcium sulphate
hemihydrate
Copper-nickel alloy
Urea
Sulphuric acid
Ethanol
Sodium stearate
Ethanoic acid (acetic acid)
Calcium carbonate
CH3COOC6H4COOH
An analgesic drug to treat pain and fever
2CaSO4. H2O
Used as a cast to support broken bones of accident
victims
25% Nickel + 75% Copper
CO(NH2)2
To make coins
A nitrogenous fertiliser
H2SO4
As an electrolyte in a lead-acid accumulator
C2H5OH
As a solvent and manufacture of industrial chemicals
C17H35COONa
Soap
CH3COOH
Preservation of fruits and manufacture of food
flavourings
CaCO3
Calcium supplement
3
Introduction to Chemistry
1
Chemistry Related Careers
2 A medical doctor needs a knowledge of
chemistry to administer the correct amount of
medicine to a patient. Categories of medicine
include antibiotics, hormones, psychiatric
medicine, analgesics, alkaloids and fungal
creams. All these medicine are chemicals.
Food processing
6 A farmer uses fertilisers to increase the yield of
his crops. Pesticides, herbicides and fungicides
are used to control pests. Therefore, even the
farmer is required to have a knowledge of
chemistry.
1
A doctor
administering
an injection
3 Pharmacy is a branch of science which deals
with the interaction of medicine with the
human body. It also finds ways to synthesise
new drugs. Most medicine are organic
compounds. Therefore a pharmacist must
have an understanding of organic chemistry.
A farmer spraying
pesticides
Chemical-based Industries in Malaysia and
their Contributions
Local chemical industries have contributed
greatly to Malaysia’s economy. These industries
not only provide job opportunities but also
earn foreign exchange for the country when
the chemicals produced are exported. Some
notable chemical industries in Malaysia are:
1 Plants in Pasir Gudang, Johor and Gebeng,
Pahang produce chemicals such as
polyethylene. Polyethylene and polypropylene
are used to make many household items
such as chairs, raincoats, pails and basins.
Table 1.2 shows the chemicals produced by
the petrochemical plants.
Pharmacist
4 The expertise of forensic chemists can help
the police to solve crimes. The analyses and
identification of samples of blood, drugs,
semen, poison, weapons and a host of other
items collected from the crime scene are used
as evidence to convict criminals.
Table 1.2 Chemicals produced by petrochemical
plants in Malaysia
Petrochemical plant
Analysis of DNA
5 Many types of chemicals, namely, preservatives,
colourings, antioxidants, flavour enhancers,
food stabilisers and artificial flavourings are
used in the food processing industry. Thus, food
technologists require knowledge of chemistry to
ensure the correct mixture of these chemicals.
Introduction to Chemistry
4
Product
BASF Petronas
Chemicals Sdn Bhd
Acrylic polymers
Titan Petrochemicals
(M) Sdn Bhd
Polyethylene
Petrochemicals (M)
Sdn Bhd
Expandable polystyrene
of the water affect the solubility of
sugar in water.
(ii) A constant variable is the factor
which is kept the same throughout
the experiment.
To study the effect of temperature
on the solubility of sugar in water,
the volume of the water used in the
experiment must be kept constant.
The volume of water is called the
constant variable.
(iii) A variable which is changed during the
experiment is called the manipulated
variable.
An experiment can be carried out by
heating the water to temperatures of
30 °C, 40 °C, 50 °C, 60 °C and 70 °C.
The mass of sugar that dissolves at
different temperatures of water is then
measured. The temperature of water
is called the manipulated variable.
(iv) A responding variable is the variable
that responds to the change made
by the manipulated variable. The
amount of sugar that dissolves in
water at different temperatures is
called the responding variable.
Thus the variables are:
Manipulated variable: Temperature
of the water
Responding
variable:
Amount
of sugar that dissolves in water at
different temperatures
Constant variable: Volume of water
(c) Suggesting a problem statement
This is a question which identifies the
problem related to the observation.
For example,
1.1
1 Name two examples of chemicals used in each of
the following fields.
Field
Chemicals used
Agriculture
Medicine
Food processing
1.2
Scientific Method
1 Chemistry is an experimental science similar
to Biology and Physics and requires scientific
research.
2 There are some basic guidelines in approaching
any scientific research. These guidelines are
known as the scientific method.
3 The scientific method is a systematic approach
to research. It consists of the following steps:
(a) Making an observation about a situation
A scientific research starts with an
observation. For example, a student would
have observed a situation as follows:
Does the solubility of sugar increase
proportionally with the increase in the
temperature of water?
When he adds 20 g of sugar to 100 cm3
of hot water and stirred, all the sugar
dissolved. However, when 20 g of sugar
is added to 100 cm3 of water at room
temperature and stirred, some sugar
remains undissolved in the water.
This will lead to the forming of a
hypothesis.
(d) Forming a hypothesis
A hypothesis is a proposition, idea, theory
or any other statement used as a starting
point for discussion, investigation or study.
For example, to study the effect of the
temperature of water on the amount of
sugar that dissolves, a probable hypothesis
would be:
(b) Identifying variables
(i) A variable is a factor which affects the
results of the experiment. The factors
that affect the solubility of sugar in
water are called variables. It is found
that the temperature and volume
5
Introduction to Chemistry
1
2 The Asean Bintulu Fertiliser (ABF) plant
in Sarawak produces urea. This is a project
undertaken by some Asean countries. Urea
is a nitrogenous fertiliser. Lack of nitrogen
in plants will cause chlorosis whereby the
leaves of the plants turn yellowish.
3 Composite Technology Research of Malaysia
(CTRM) in Malacca produces fibreglass used
in the making of aircraft and boats.
the scientist needs to draw a conclusion
based on the experimental results.
(j) Writing a report
Lastly, the scientist has to write a report of
his/her work. This will enable him/her to
communicate with other scientists.
The general format of a report:
1
The higher the temperature of the
water, the greater the amount of sugar
that can dissolve in it.
(e) Apparatus and materials
When planning an experiment, suitable
apparatus and materials that are required
to carry out the experiment are selected.
(f) Listing a work procedure
The procedure is the list of steps that needs
to be taken to carry out an experiment.
It is advisable to list the steps in point
form.
(g) Carrying out the experiment
After planning the experiment, a scientist
will carry out the experiment according to
the procedure.
(h) Data collection
The scientist will then record the results
of the experiment accurately. He or she
should not change the results of the
experiment and must be honest.
(i) Data interpretation and conclusion
After collecting the data, the scientist will
analyse the results of his/her experiment. The
results can be presented in various forms,
such as a table, graph or calculation. Then,
Title:
Aim:
Problem statement:
Hypothesis:
Variables:
(a) Manipulated variable:
(b) Responding variable:
(c) Constant variable(s):
Materials:
Apparatus:
Procedure:
Data and observation:
Interpreting data:
Discussion:
Conclusion:
4 The following is an example of an experimental
report.
Experiment 1.1
1.1
To investigate the effect of the temperature of water on the solubility of sugar
Procedure
Problem statement
1 100 cm3 of water is
Does the amount of sugar that dissolves in water increase
measured
using
a
when the temperature of the water increases?
measuring cylinder and
Hypothesis
is poured into a 250
The higher the temperature of the water, the greater
cm3 beaker.
the mass of sugar that dissolves in it.
2 The temperature of the
Variables
water is recorded using
a thermometer.
• Manipulated variable: Temperature of water
3
A 100 cm3 beaker is
• Responding variable: Amount of sugar that
filled with sugar. The
dissolves at different temperatures
Figure 1.1
beaker and its contents
• Constant variable: Volume of water and size of
are then weighed and recorded as a gram.
sugar
4 The sugar is added a little at a time to the water
Sugar and water.
Materials
in the beaker using a spatula. The mixture is then
Apparatus
stirred using a glass rod.
3
3
5
The process is continued until no sugar can
100 cm measuring cylinder, 250 cm beaker, 100
3
further dissolve in the water.
cm beaker, electronic balance, Bunsen burner,
6
The beaker and its contents (sugar) are weighed
tripod stand, wire gauze, spatula, thermometer and
again and recorded as b gram.
glass rod.
Introduction to Chemistry
6
7 The amount of sugar that dissolved in the water
at room temperature is (a – b) gram.
8 The experiment is repeated by heating the water
to temperatures of 40 °C, 50 °C, 60 °C and 70 °C
respectively.
9 The results are recorded in Table 1.3.
Results
Interpreting data
Room
temperature
40
50
60
70
Figure 1.2 Graph of mass of sugar dissolved
against temperature
Initial mass of
beaker and its
contents (g)
a
b
c
d
e
Final mass of
beaker and its
contents (g)
b
c
d
e
f
A graph of the mass of sugar dissolved against
temperature is plotted as shown in Figure 1.2.
(Note: Both axes must be labelled with their units
and the title of the graph must be stated)
Mass of sugar
dissolved (g)
(a – b)
Temperature
(°C)
Conclusion
(b – c) (c – d) (d – e) (e – f)
The amount of sugar that dissolves in the water
increases when the temperature of the water increases.
The hypothesis is accepted.
(Note: The unit of each reading must be
stated:temperature in °C and mass in gram)
1.2
(iii) the constant variable of the experiment.
(c) List the materials and apparatus needed to carry
out the experiment.
(d) Give a brief procedure of the experiment.
(e) Tabulate your results.
1 You are required to investigate whether table salt
dissolves in water and kerosene.
(a) State a hypothesis for the experiment.
(b) State
(i) the manipulated variable,
(ii) the responding variable,
1.3
1 A student must develop the following good
laboratory practices.
(a) Positive attitudes
A student should
(i) have an enquiring outlook,
(ii) cooperate with other students while
carrying out an experiment,
(iii) be honest and not alter the results of
an experiment.
(b) Safety
(i) Do not carry out an experiment
without the supervision of the
teacher.
(ii) Do not taste any chemicals.
(iii) Do not use burning paper to light a
Bunsen burner.
(iv) Always check the label of the chemical
before using it.
Scientific Attitudes and
Values in Conducting
Scientific Investigations
Scientific Attitudes and Values
Students carrying out an experiment
7
Introduction to Chemistry
1
Table 1.3
1
(e) Accidents
(i) Any chemical spilled on the body,
clothing or eyes must be washed
immediately with plenty of water.
(ii) Any chemical unintentionally ingeste­d
must be spat out immediately and
the mouth must be washed with plenty
of water.
(v) Dispose of all toxic waste in a proper
container.
(vi) Do not play with electrical
appliances.
(c) Wastage
(i) Do not waste chemicals. Take only
whatever is necessary.
(ii) Switch off the gas supply or electricity
when it is not required.
(d) Cleanliness
After carrying out an experiment,
(i) the apparatus must be cleaned and
returned to the same place,
(ii) the table must be wiped dry with a
towel or rag,
(iii) all solid waste must be thrown into
the dustbin and not into the sink.
1.3
1 What are the safety precautions that must be taken
when carrying out the following experiments?
(a) Diluting concentrated acid.
(b) Heating a solution in a test tube.
(c) Carrying out an experiment that involves the
release of a poisonous gas.
(b) Responding variable: A variable that responds
to the change of the manipulated variable.
(c) Constant variable: The factor that is kept
constant throughout the experiment.
5 After carrying out the experiment, you have to write
a report which includes the following:
(a) Write the aim or problem statement
(b) State the hypothesis
(c) List all the variables
(d) List the chemicals and apparatus used in the
experiment
(e) Tabulation of your data
(f) Interpret your result
(g) Make a conclusion
1 The scientific method is a systematic approach to
research.
2 The scientific approach begins with a hypothesis.
A hypothesis is an intelligent guess relating a
manipulated variable with a responding variable.
3 A variable is a factor that affects the result of a
reaction.
For example, the mass of salt that can dissolve in
water depends on the volume and the temperature
of the water. Volume and temperature are called
variables.
4 There are three types of variables:
(a) Manipulated variable: A variable that is changed
during the experiment.
Introduction to Chemistry
8
1
1.1
Chemistry and Its
Importance
1 The chemical used to neutralise
acidity in soil is
A potassium nitrate
B calcium hydroxide
C copper(II) oxide
D sodium carbonate
2 The chemical used in raising flour
is
A calcium carbonate
B sodium nitrate
C magnesium sulphate
D sodium bicarbonate
3 Which of the following careers
below do not need a knowledge
of chemistry?
A Geologist
B Forensic scientist
C Meteorologist
D Pharmacist
4 The branch of chemistry that
studies carbon compounds is
A organic chemistry
B polymer chemistry
C inorganic chemistry
D industrial chemistry
5 Chloroform has the formula of
CHCl3. Which of the following
statements are true about the
chloroform molecule?
I It is made up of three elements.
II It is made up of five elements.
III The molecule consists of five
atoms.
IV The molecule consists of four
atoms.
A I and III only
B I and IV only
C II and III only
D II and IV only
6 The substance that cannot be
broken down into simpler form is
called
A compound
C molecule
B element
D particle
7 Which of the following chemicals
is synthetic?
A Neon
B Protein
C Sodium hydroxide
D Citric acid
8 DDT is a chemical used as
pesticide. It is made up of carbon,
chlorine and hydrogen atoms.
The molecular formula of DDT is
CCl3CH(C6H4Cl)2.
What is the total number of
atoms in a DDT molecule?
A 3
C 18
B 17
D 28
9 Chemical X is used as electrolyte
in the accumulator.
Chemical Y is used in soap making.
What is chemical X and Y?
X
Y
A
Sulphuric
acid
Sodium
hydroxide
B
Sodium
hydroxide
Sulphuric
acid
C
Hydrochloric
acid
Sodium
hydroxide
D
Sodium
hydroxide
Hydrochloric
acid
1.2
Scientific Method
10 The factor that affects the result
of an experiment is called a
A solute
C result
B solution
D variable
For questions 11 – 13, use the
information given below:
Hydrogen peroxide decomposes as
represented by the equation:
2H2O2 → 2H2O + O2
A student is required to study the
effect of magnesium oxide and
manganese(IV) oxide on the rate of
decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.
9
11 What is the manipulated variable
of the experiment?
A Magnesium oxide and
manganese(IV) oxide
B Mass of magnesium oxide
and manganese(IV) oxide
C Temperature of hydrogen
peroxide solution
D Concentration of hydrogen
peroxide solution
12 What is the constant variable of
the experiment?
I Volume of oxygen released
II Mass of magnesium oxide
and manganese(IV) oxide
III Temperature of hydrogen
peroxide solution
IV Concentration of hydrogen
peroxide solution
A I, II and III only
B I, III and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
13 The responding variable for the
experiment is
A the rate of release of oxygen gas.
B the decreasing rate in volume
of hydrogen peroxide.
C the rate of increase in
concentration of hydrogen
peroxide.
D the decreasing rate in mass of
the metal oxide.
14 Magnesium ribbon reacts with
hydrochloric acid as shown.
Mg + 2HCl → MgCl2 + H2
If you are required to study
the effect of concentration of
hydrochloric acid on the rate of
reaction above, what variables
must be constant?
I Time of reaction
II Temperature of hydrochloric acid
III Size of beaker
IV Length of magnesium ribbon
A IV only
B II and IV only
C I, II and IV only
D II, III and IV only
Introduction to Chemistry
1
Multiple-choice Questions
15 “The greater the quantity of sodium chloride added to ice, the lower its
melting point”. If you are required to study the above hypothesis, what is the
manipulated variable?
A Mass of ice
B Types of salt added
C Mass of salt added
D Temperature of ice
16 “Without water iron will not rust”. Which of the following is correct in carrying
out the experiment to prove the statement above?
1
Manipulated variable
Constant variable
A
Presence or absence of water
Rusting of iron
B
Presence or absence of water
Presence or absence of air
C
Presence or absence of water
Presence of air
D
Presence or absence of air
Presence of water
17 A student wants to find out the effect of temperature on the solubility of
sugar in water. Which of the following is correct?
Manipulated variable
Responding variable
Constant variable
A
Temperature of
water
Mass of sugar
dissolved
Volume of water
B
Volume of water
Mass of sugar
dissolved
Temperature of water
C
Mass of sugar
dissolved
Temperature of
water
Volume of water
D
Temperature of
water
Mass of sugar
dissolved
Humidity of the air
18 An experiment is carried out to study the solubility of sodium chloride in
water and in benzene. What is the (i) manipulated variable (ii) constant
variable of the experiment?
Manipulated variable
Constant variable
A
Solvent
Rate of stirring
B
Solvent
Mass of sodium chloride
C
Solute
Volume of solvent
D
Solute
Rate of stirring
19 A hypothesis
I is a law of science.
II can be a true or false statement.
III is a conclusion derived from the result of the experiment.
IV is a statement that relates the manipulated variable and the responding
variable.
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C I, II and III only
D II, III and IV only
Introduction to Chemistry
10
20
Q
Analyse data
R
Observe a situation
S
Make a hypothesis
T
Carry out the experiment
U
Collect data
The steps above are the steps
taken to carry out a scientific
investigation. The correct order in
carrying out the investigation is
A S, R, T, U, Q
B R, S, T, U, Q
C R, T, U, Q, S
D R, T, U, S, Q
21 During electrolysis, the mass of
metal deposited at the cathode
is dependent on the time and
the amount of current passed
through the electrolyte. If you are
required to show that the mass of
metal deposited is proportional
to the current passed through the
electrolyte, what are the variables
in this experiment?
Manipulated
variable
Constant
variable
A
Time
Types of
electrodes
used
B
Time
Amount of
current
C
Amount of
current
Types of
electrodes
used
D
Amount of
current
Time
1.3
Scientific Attitudes and
Values
22 What precautions must you take
when storing concentrated nitric
acid?
A Store it in a dark place
B Store it in a fume cupboard
C Store it in a locked cupboard
D Store it away from any
Bunsen burner
23 What precaution must you take
when diluting concentrated
sulphuric acid?
A Add the concentrated
sulphuric acid to water
25
A bottle of chemical has a label
shown in the diagram. What does
this label represents?
A Flammable chemical
B Corrosive chemical
C Radioactive chemical
D Oxidising chemical
24
A bottle of chemical has a label
as shown in the diagram. What
precaution must be taken when
storing this chemical?
A Store it in a dark place
B Store it in a fume cupboard
C Store it in a locked cupboard
D Store it away from any
Bunsen burner
26 When heating a solution in a
boiling tube, what precaution
must you take?
A Never heat the solution too
strongly
B Never hold the boiling tube
vertically
C Never use a Pyrex boiling tube
to heat the solution
D Never direct the mouth
of the boiling tube at your
classmates
27 An experiment should be carried
out in the fume cupboard if it
involves
A the release of poisonous gas.
B the release of flammable gas.
C the use of corrosive
chemicals.
D the use of oxidising
chemicals.
28 Why is it important to understand
the experimental procedures
before carrying out the
experiment?
I To prevent wastage of
chemicals
II To prevent accidents from
happening
III To prevent repetition of the
experiment
IV To know what apparatus
is needed to carry out the
experiments
A I, II and III only
B I, III and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
Structured Questions
seconds. From the graph in (i), determine
the concentration of the hydrochloric acid
solution.
[1 mark]
1 Table 1 shows the time taken for a 5 cm length of
magnesium ribbon to dissolve in 50 cm3 of dilute
hydrochloric acid of different concentrations.
2 Table 2 shows the mass of two salts P and Q that
dissolved in 100 cm3 of water at different temperatures.
Concentration of
0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5
hydrochloric acid (mol dm–3)
Time taken for a 5 cm
magnesium ribbon to
dissolve (s)
Temperature
(°C)
30 26 22 18 14
Table 1
(a) State
(i) the manipulated variable,
(ii) the responding variable and
(iii) the constant variable of the experiment
above.
[3 marks]
(b) State a hypothesis for this experiment.
(c)
[1 mark]
Solubility of salt (mass of salt
soluble in 100 cm3 of water)
Salt P (g)
Salt Q (g)
30
5
7
40
10
14
50
15
21
60
20
28
70
25
35
Table 2
(i) Plot a graph of concentration of hydrochloric
acid against time taken for the magnesium
to dissolve.
[5 marks]
(ii) If a 5 cm length of magnesium ribbon is
added to a hydrochloric acid solution of
unknown concentration, the time taken for
the magnesium ribbon to dissolve is 17
(a) State one other variable, besides temperature,
that affects the solubility of salt.
[1 mark]
(b) In the experiment above, state
(i) the manipulated variable
(ii) the constant variable
(iii) the responding variable
11
[3 marks]
Introduction to Chemistry
1
B Add water to the concentrated
sulphuric acid
C Mix equal volumes of the
concentrated sulphuric acid
and water together
D Mix one volume of
concentrated sulphuric acid
to three volumes of water
together
(c) Plot a graph of the solubility of salts P and Q
against temperature on the same axis. [4 marks]
(a) State a hypothesis for the experiment above.
[1 mark]
(d) What can you conclude from the graphs in (c)?
(b) What is the
(i) manipulated variable
(ii) responding variable
(iii) constant variable when carrying out the
experiment?
[3 marks]
[2 marks]
1
3 The procedure below shows the sequence in
carrying out an experiment to study the effect of the
temperature of water on the mass of sugar that can
dissolve.
(c) Calculate the mass of sugar that dissolved in water
at various temperatures and write your answer in
the right column of the table.
[2 marks]
Procedure:
• Initial mass of beaker P and sugar is taken (a gram).
• 50 cm3 of water is poured into a separate 100 cm3
beaker. The water is heated to 30 °C.
• Sugar is added to the 50 cm3 of water at 30 °C
a little at a time while stirring the mixture until no
more sugar can further dissolve.
• The final mass of beaker P and sugar is taken (b
gram). The mass of sugar that dissolved is (a – b)
gram.
• The experiment is repeated by dissolving the sugar
in water heated to 40 °C, 50 °C, 60 °C and 70 °C.
(d) Plot a graph of the mass of sugar that dissolved
against the temperature of water.
[3 marks]
(e) From your graph, estimate the mass of sugar that
can dissolve in water at 45 °C.
[1 mark]
4 (a) Name four chemicals used in food processing.
[4 marks]
(b) Name six careers that need a knowledge of
chemistry.
[6 marks]
The results are tabulated in Table 3.
Initial mass Final mass
Temperature of beaker P of beaker P
of water (°C) and contents and contents
(g)
(g)
30
92.50
87.50
40
87.50
77.50
50
77.50
62.50
60
62.50
42.50
70
42.50
17.50
(c) Name three contributions of chemical industries
to the country.
[3 marks]
Mass of
sugar
dissolved
(g)
(d) Name five scientific values that must be observed
when carrying out scientific research.
[5 marks]
(e) Name two types of chemicals that can increase
the yield of crops.
[2 marks]
Table 3
Essay Questions
(b) The list below shows the steps involved in carrying
out scientific research:
1 ‘Without air, an iron nail will not rust’. You are required
to plan an experiment to verify the statement.
(a) List the apparatus and materials needed to carry
out the experiment.
[3 marks]
Making a hypothesis, making a conclusion, collecting data,
making an inference, making an observation, carrying out
an experiment, interpreting data, identifying variables and
planning the procedure of the experiment.
(b) State (i) the manipulated variable, (ii) the
responding variable and (iii) the constant variable
of the experiment above.
[3 marks]
(i) Arrange the steps in the correct order.
(c) Briefly write the procedure for the experiment.
[8 marks]
[10 marks]
(d) Tabulate your results.
(ii) Explain the difference between inference
and hypothesis.
[4 marks]
(iii) State three ways of presenting the
experimental results.
[6 marks]
[4 marks]
2 (a) Explain the meaning of the scientific method.
[2 marks]
Introduction to Chemistry
12
Experiments
1 ‘The greater the volume of water, the higher the solubility of salt’. Plan an experiment to prove the
statement. Your answer should include the following items:
(a) Aim of experiment
(b) Statement of hypothesis
(c) All variables
(d) List of materials and apparatus
(e) Procedure
(f) Tabulation of data
[3 marks]
[3 marks]
[3 marks]
[3 marks]
[3 marks]
[3 marks]
Concentration of sodium hydroxide solution
(mol dm–3)
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
pH value
13.0
13.3
13.5
13.6
13.7
1
2 The table shows the pH values of 25 cm3 sodium hydroxide solutions of different concentrations
measured by a student using a pH meter.
(a) State the variables of this experiment.
[3 marks]
(b) Suggest a hypothesis for the experiment.
[3 marks]
(c) Plot a graph of pH value against concentration of the NaOH solution.
[3 marks]
(d) Using the graph that you have plotted, determine
(i) the pH value of a sodium hydroxide solution with a concentration of 0.35 mol dm–3.
(ii) the concentration of NaOH solution with a pH value of 13.4.
[3 marks]
3 Manganese(IV) oxide is a catalyst that speeds up the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to form
water and oxygen gas as represented by the equation:
2H2O2(l) → 2H2O(l) + O2(g)
A student carried out an experiment by adding different amounts of manganese(IV) oxide to 50 cm3 of 0.2
mol dm–3 hydrogen peroxide solution.
The table shows the results obtained by the student.
Quantity of manganese(IV) oxide (g)
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
Time taken to collect 50 cm of oxygen (s)
30
25
20
15
10
3
(a) State the
(i) manipulated variable,
(ii) responding variable,
(iii) constant variable of the experiment.
[3 marks]
(b) What can you conclude from the results of the experiment?
13
[3 marks]
Introduction to Chemistry
FORM 4
THEME: Matter Around Us
CHAPTER
2
The Structure of the Atom
SPM Topical Analysis
2008
Year
1
Paper
3
2
Section
A
Number of questions
1
—
2
5
2009
B
–
1
2010
3
2
C
A
B
C
–
1
—
2
–
–
–
6
–
1
2
2011
2
3
A
B
C
1
–
–
1
–
2
3
A
B
C
1
–
–
3
–
ONCEPT MAP
MATTER
Kinetic theory of matter
Changes in states of
matter
Diffusion in a solid, liquid
and gas
Atomic structure
Particles in matter: atom, molecule and ion
Subatomic particles: proton, electron and neutron
Determination of the
melting and freezing
points of naphthalene
Electron arrangement in atoms
and valence electrons
Symbols of elements
A
Z
X
Isotopes
2.1
Matter
(b) When the gas tap in the laboratory is turned
on, the smell of the gas is immediately
detected. This shows that the gas is also
made up of particles in motion.
7 An element is a substance that cannot be
made into anything simpler by means of a
chemical reaction.
8 The particles in some elements are made
up of atoms. For example, metals like gold,
copper, iron, zinc are all made up of atoms.
SPM
’08/P1
1
Substance
2
1 Chemistry is the study of matter, its
composition and the changes it undergoes.
2 Matter is anything that occupies space and
has mass. In other words, matter is anything
that has volume and mass.
3 Examples of matter are books, pens, chairs,
water, air and plants. Examples of non-matter
are electricity and light.
4 The particle theory of matter states that matter
is made of very tiny discrete particles. The
particulate nature of matter is investigated in
Activity 2.1.
5 Elementary particles that make up matter may
be atoms, molecules or ions.
’04
Chemical formula
Naphthalene
C10H8
Iron
Fe
Sodium chloride
NaCl
Figure 2.1 Copper foil is made up of atoms
9 A compound is a substance that can be
made into something smaller by means of a
chemical reaction.
10 Compounds contain more than one element.
The elements in a compound are not just mixed
together. They are joined by strong forces called
chemical bonds. Compounds do not have the
same properties as the elements they contain.
Compounds are
(a) formed by chemical reactions, and
(b) they have different properties from the
elements they contain.
11 The particles in compounds may be molecules
or ions. Molecules are made up of two or
more atoms held together by chemical bonds.
Molecules are particles that are not charged.
12 A molecule may consists of atoms of the same
element, for example, oxygen molecules (O2),
nitrogen molecules (N2), hydrogen molecules
(H2) and sulphur molecules (S8) (Figure 2.2(a)).
13 A molecule may also consist of dissimilar
atoms of two or more elements. For
example, a water molecule (H2O) consists of
one oxygen and two hydrogen atoms, and a
carbon dioxide molecule (CO2) consists of
one carbon and two oxygen atoms (Figure
2.2(b)).
14 Some molecules can be very large. For example,
quinine which is a drug used to treat malaria
patients has the formula C20H24N2O2.
State the particles present in each of the above
substances.
Solution Naphthalene – molecules, iron – atoms,
sodium chloride – ions.
All metals and noble gases are made up of atoms.
A compound formed between non-metallic elements
(example: naphthalene, C10H8), is made up of molecules.
A compound formed between a metal and a non-metal
(example: sodium chloride, NaCl) is made up of ions.
6 The existence of these particles is supported
by some observations. Some examples are:
(a) When a drop of
ink falls into a
glass of water,
the colour of
the ink spreads
throughout the
water. This shows
that ink is made
up of particles in
Dropping ink into a
motion.
glass of water
15
The Structure of the Atom
(a) The particles (atoms, molecules or
ions) possess kinetic energy. They are in
constant motion and constantly collide
with each other.
(b) The velocities of the particles in the three
physical states of matter—solid, liquid
and gas—are different.
(c) The higher the temperature, the higher
the kinetic energy, as the velocity of the
particles increases.
(d) At a given temperature, the lighter particles
move faster than the heavier ones.
2 In 1827, Robert Brown (a botanist) made an
observation through a microscope. He found
that pollen grains on the surface of water are
in constant motion. He explained that the
pollen grains are moving because the moving
water molecules are constantly colliding
with the pollen grains. The visible motion
of these pollen grains is called the Brownian
motion.
3 The Brownian motion gives the evidence that
a liquid consists of particles in constant
movement.
(a) Model of nitrogen, oxygen and sulphur
molecules
(b) Model of carbon dioxide and water molecules
2
Figure 2.2
15 However, some compounds consist of atoms or
a group of atoms that carry positive or negative
charges. These charged particles are called
ions. For example, table salt, NaCl, consists
of sodium ions (Na+) and chloride ions (Cl–)
(Figure 2.3). The rust on an iron nail consists of
iron(III) ions (Fe3+) and oxide ions (O2–).
Figure 2.3 Model of sodium chloride crystal
16 Ions which are positively-charged are called
cations. For example, sodium ions (Na+) and
iron(III) ions (Fe3+) are cations.
17 Ions which are negatively-charged are called
anions. For example, chloride ions (Cl–) and
oxide ions (O2–) are anions.
18 Generally, metals form positive ions and nonmetals form negative ions. Some examples of
cations and anions are given in Table 2.1.
Figure 2.4 Pollen grain being bombarded by water
molecules
4 Another evidence of the movement of particles
is diffusion. Diffusion is the random
movement of particles from a region of high
concentration to a region of low concentration.
Table 2.1
Examples of positive
ions (cations)
You can smell perfume
while you walk past
cosmetic counters.The
perfume particles have
left the open perfume
bottles and spread
out through the air by
diffusion.
H+, K+, Cu2+, Al3+, NH4+,
Mg2+, Ca2+, Zn2+, Pb2+ and Ag+
Examples of negative Br–, I–, OH–, NO3–, SO42–,
CO32–, PO43–, O2–, S2–
ions (anions)
and S2O32–
The Kinetic Theory of Matter
1 The kinetic theory is an extension of the
particle theory of matter. According to the
kinetic theory:
The Structure of the Atom
5 There are three states of matter, namely,
solid, liquid and gas. Table 2.2 shows the
comparison between the three states of matter.
16
SPM
Table 2.2 Comparison between the three states of matter
solid
liquid
The particles are very closely
packed.
The particles are closely
packed but there are more
empty spaces between them
compared to the solid state.
The particles are very far
apart from each other.
Forces of
The very strong forces
attraction
of attraction restrict the
between particles movement of the particles.
The particles in a solid are
held in fixed positions.
The forces of attraction are
weaker than in the solid state.
The particles are no longer
held in fixed positions.
The forces of attraction are
very weak. The particles
move randomly in all
directions at great speed.
Volume and
shape
Solids have fixed volumes
and shapes.
Liquids have fixed volumes.
However, they do not have
fixed shapes but take the
shapes of the containers.
Gases do not have fixed
shapes or volumes.
Types of
movement
Vibration and rotation
Vibration, rotation and
translation
Vibration, rotation and
translation
Kinetic energy
of particles
The kinetic energy of the
particles are low.
The kinetic energy of
the particles are high, on
average.
The kinetic energy of the
particles are very high and
they move at high speed.
Compressibility
Very difficult to be
compressed because the
particles are packed closely
Not easily compressed
because the particles are
packed quite closely
Easily compressed because
the particles are very far
apart
Arrangement
of particles
Rate of diffusion
Very low
Average
Diffusion
gas
Very high
SPM
’08/P2
1 Diffusion refers to the process by which particles
intermingle as a result of their kinetic energy
of random motion.
2 Figure 2.5(a) shows a container that consists
of gases A and B. The two gases are separated
by a partition. The particles of both gases
are in constant motion and make numerous
collisions with the partition.
3 If the partition is removed as in Figure 2.5(b),
the gases will mix because of the random
motion of their particles.
In time, a uniform mixture of gases A and B
particles will be produced in the container.
4 The rate of diffusion depends on the
temperature and the molecular mass of the
particles. The higher the molecular mass, the
lower the rate of diffusion.
17
The Structure of the Atom
2
States of matter
’11/P2
To investigate the diffusion of particles in a gas, liquid
and solid
SPM
’09/P1
Apparatus
Two gas jars with plastic covers, beaker, teat pipette, boiling tube, spatula and rubber stopper.
Materials
Liquid bromine, potassium manganate(VII), KMnO4 crystals, water and hot jelly solution.
Procedure
(A) Diffusion in a gas
2
1 A few drops of liquid bromine are dropped into a gas jar using a teat
pipette.
2 The gas jar is covered with a gas jar cover.
3 An empty gas jar is placed upside down on top of the first jar.
4 The cover is removed and any colour change is recorded. The time
taken for the brown bromine vapour to spread into the second gas jar is
recorded.
Figure 2.6
(B) Diffusion in a liquid
2 filled with water.
1 A beaker is —
3
2 A few potassium manganate(VII) crystals are placed at the bottom of
the water using a spatula.
3 Any colour change is recorded. The time taken for the purple
manganate(VII) ions to spread throughout the water is recorded.
Figure 2.7
(C) Diffusion in a solid
1 Some freshly cooked jelly solution is poured into a boiling tube until it
is almost full.
2 The jelly is allowed to set.
3 A small potassium manganate(VII) crystal is placed on top of the jelly.
4 The boiling tube is then stoppered using a rubber stopper.
5 Any colour change is recorded. The time taken for the purple
manganate(VII) ions to spread throughout the solid jelly is recorded.
Figure 2.8
Results
Activity 2.1
Experiment
Observation
A
The brown bromine vapour spreads out into the upper gas jar. The time taken is very short.
B
After about 10 minutes, the purple colour of the manganate(VII) ions had spread throughout
the water.
C
After a week, the purple colour of the manganate(VII) ions had spread throughout the solid
jelly.
The Structure of the Atom
18
Discussion
2
1 Diffusion has taken place in the gas (air in experiment A), liquid (water in experiment B) and solid (jelly
in experiment C).
2 The rates of diffusion of the particles in the solid, liquid and gaseous states are different. It is highest in
gases, lower in liquids and lowest in solids.
3 This shows that there are more and bigger spaces between particles in the gas. The spaces between liquid particles
are smaller. The particles in the solid state are very close with little space between them.
4 The occurence of diffusion proves that matter (bromine and potassium manganate(VII)) consist of particles
in constant motion.
5 The diffusion experiments show that because particles possess kinetic energy, they are in constant motion.
SPM
The Changes in the States of Matter
’10/P2
1 A substance can be changed from one state into another when it is heated or cooled.
2 The changes in the state of the substance can be explained using the kinetic theory model.
Heating
Heating
Solid
Liquid
Gas
1 The particles in a solid are
packed closely in a fixed
pattern.
2 When the solid is heated,
the particles receive heat
energy. The kinetic energy
of the particles increases
and the particles vibrate
faster.
3 At the melting point, the
particles vibrate so much
that they break away from
their fixed positions. The
solid becomes a liquid.
4 The temperature at which
the solid changes into the
liquid state is called the
melting point.
1 When a liquid is continuously
heated, the par­­ti­­­cles receive more
energy and move even faster. They
collide with each other more often.
2 At the boiling point, the particles
receive enough energy to
overcome the forces of attraction
holding them together. The particles
in the liquid state break loose to
become the gaseous state.
3 When the liquid is cooled, the
movement of the particles slows
down. Stronger forces of attraction
between the particles are formed.
4 The particles are arranged in an
orderly ma­n­­ner in the solid state. The
process whereby the liquid changes
into a solid is called solidification.
The temperature at which this process
occurs is called the freezing point.
5 The melting point and the freezing
point of a substance have the same
value.
1 When a gas is cooled,
the particles lose kinetic
energy. The movement of
the particles slows down.
2 The forces of attraction
between the particles are
formed which hold the
particles together in the
liquid state.
3 The process whereby the
gas changes into a liquid
is called condensation.
4 The temperature at which
the gas condenses to the
liquid state is the
same as the boiling point.
Cooling
Cooling
19
The Structure of the Atom
3 Examples of substances that undergo sublima­
tion are iodine, ammonium chloride and
solid carbon dioxide (dry ice).
The process in which substances change
directly from the gaseous to the solid state is
also called sublimation.
2
Melting Point and Boiling Point
1 No two substances have the same melting
and boiling points. We can thus identify a
substance by its melting and boiling points.
2 The melting and boiling points of a substance
will change when there is a small amount of
impurity in it. For example, the melting point
of pure water is 0 °C and its boiling point is
100 °C. A small amount of salt added to the
water will decrease its melting point to –2 °C
and increase its boiling point to 102 °C.
3 As the melting and boiling points of an
impure substance will deviate slightly from its
standard values, we can determine the purity
of a substance by the melting and boiling
points of the substance.
When a state of matter gains or loses heat, it undergoes
a change.
A gain in heat is called an endothermic change. A loss
in heat is called an exothermic change.
Sublimation
1 Certain substances do not melt when heated.
They change directly from the solid to the
’11/P1
gaseous state.
2 This process is called sublimation.
SPM
To determine the melting and freezing points of
naphthalene
(A) Heating of naphthalene
1 3 spatulas of naphthalene powder are placed in a
boiling tube.
2 A 500 cm3 beaker is filled with water until it is
3
about — full. It is then placed on a tripod stand.
4
3 The boiling tube containing naphthalene is clamped
in the beaker of water, making sure the naphthalene
powder is below the water level of the water bath.
4 The water bath is heated until it reaches a
temperature of about 65 °C as shown in Figure
2.9. The water is then heated with a low flame.
5 A stopwatch is started and the temperature of the
naphthalene is recorded at 30-second intervals until
the temperature reaches 90 °C. The naphthalene is
stirred continuously during the experiment.
6 The results are recorded in a table.
Apparatus
Boiling tube, retort stand and clamp, tripod stand,
Bunsen burner, wire gauze, thermometer (0 – 110 °C),
500 cm3 beaker, 250 cm3 conical flask, test tube
holder and stopwatch.
Materials
Naphthalene and water.
Procedure
Figure 2.9
Heating of
naphthalene
Activity 2.2
Figure 2.10
Cooling of
naphthalene
The Structure of the Atom
(B) Cooling of naphthalene
1 The boiling tube containing the molten naphthalene
is removed from the hot water bath using a test
tube holder.
2 It is immediately transferred into a conical flask
to be cooled slowly as shown in Figure 2.10.
20
Discussion
1 In the heating of naphthalene, a water bath is
used instead of direct heating. This is to ensure
that an even heating process is carried out.
2 In the cooling of naphthalene, the boiling tube
containing the liquid naphthalene is cooled
inside a conical flask. This is to ensure that an
even cooling process is carried out.
3 Stirring the naphthalene continuously also
ensures even heating or cooling.
4 A water bath is suitable in this experiment
because the melting point of naphthalene is
below 100 °C, the maximum temperature that
can be attained by the water bath.
5 If the melting point of the substance is above
100 °C, the water bath will have to be replaced
by an oil bath or a sand bath.
6 Besides naphthalene, the other substance that is
suitable for heating by water bath is acetamide.
7 The heating curve of naphthalene consists of
three regions: AB, BC and CD as in Figure 2.11.
Results
(A) Heating of naphthalene
Time (s)
Temperature (°C)
0
30
60
90
120
150
180
210
(B) Cooling of naphthalene
Time (s)
Temperature (°C)
0
30
60
90
120
150
180
210
Region in
the graph
State of substance and the
energy change
Region AB Naphthalene is in the solid state. As
napthalene is heated, heat energy is
SPM
’04/07
converted to kinetic energy. Kinetic
P2
energy increases and the molecules
vibrate faster about their fixed
positions. Temperature increases as the
molecules receive more heat energy.
Analysis of data
Point B
1 A graph of temperature
SPM against time is plotted
’10/P1
for the heating of
naphthalene. The graph
is shown in Figure 2.11.
2 A graph of temperature
against time is plotted Figure 2.11 Heating curve Region BC
for the cooling of
of naphthalene SPM
’11/P1
naphthalene. The graph
is shown in Figure 2.12.
3 When plotting a graph,
make sure that:
(a) The axes are
labelled with their
units.
(b) The points are
transferred
correctly.
Figure 2.12 Cooling curve
(c) The curve is smooth.
of naphthalene
21
As the kinetic energy of the molecules
increases, the molecules vibrate
faster. At point B, some molecules
vibrate so much that they break away
from their fixed positions. The solid
naphthalene begins to melt.
Naphthalene now consists of a
mixture of solid and liquid. At
this region the temperature remains
constant because the heat energy
supplied by the water bath is the
same amount as the heat energy
absorbed. Heat energy is absorbed to
overcome the forces of attraction
holding the naphthalene molecules
together in the solid state. The heat
absorbed to overcome the forces of
attraction is called the latent heat
of fusion. Latent heat of fusion of
The Structure of the Atom
2
3 The stopwatch is started and the temperature of
the naphthalene is recorded at 30-second intervals
until it drops to about 70 °C. The naphthalene is
stirred continuously during the experiment.
4 The results are recorded in a table.
Region in
the graph
2
Point C
State of substance and the
energy change
Region in
the graph
State of substance and the
energy change
a substance is the heat required to
convert a solid into a liquid without
a change in temperature.
moving except for small vibrations.
At point Q, the liquid naphthalene
begins to solidify or freeze.
All the naphthalene has completely
melted.
Region QR Naphthalene now consists of a
mixture of liquid and solid. At
this region the temperature remains
constant because the heat energy
lost to the environment is the same
amount as the heat energy released.
Latent heat of fusion is released when
forces of attraction are formed
between the molecules as the liquid
naphthalene solidify (or freezes).
Region CD Naphthalene is in the liquid state. As
the liquid naphthalene is heated, the
molecules gain more heat energy. The
temperature continues to increase.
8 The cooling curve of naphthalene consists of
three regions: PQ, QR and RS as in Figure 2.12.
Point R
All the naphthalene has completely
solidified.
Region PQ Naphthalene is in the liquid state.
The liquid naphthalene loses heat to
the environment. The kinetic energy
of the molecules decreases as the
temperature decreases.
Region RS
Naphthalene is in the solid state. The
solid naphthalene continues to lose
heat to the environment and hence
the temperature drops down to room
temperature.
Point Q
Conclusion
The melting point and the freezing point of
naphthalene is 80 °C.
Region in
the graph
State of substance and the
energy change
As the kinetic energy of the molecules
decreases, the molecules move slower.
At point Q, some molecules stop
2
’09
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C I, II and III only
D I, II and IV only
Comment
From time 0 to t1 the substance loses heat to the
surroundings. Hence the temperature decreases.
(Statement I is incorrect)
From time t1 to t2 condensation takes place and heat
energy is released. The kinetic energy of particles
becomes lower and the forces of attraction become
stronger. (Statement II is correct)
The graph shows the cooling curve for gas X.
Which of the following statements are true?
I From time 0 to t1 heat energy is absorbed.
II From time t1 to t2 forces of attraction between
particles become stronger.
III From time t2 to t3 the kinetic energy of particles
increases.
IV From time t3 to t4 heat energy released is equal to
the heat lost to the surroundings.
The Structure of the Atom
From time t2 to t3 the particles continue to lose heat to
the surroundings. Hence the kinetic energy of particles
decreases. (Statement III is incorrect)
From time t3 to t4 freezing takes place. The temperature
of the substance remains constant because during
freezing, heat energy released is equal to the heat lost
to the surroundings. (Statement IV is correct)
Answer B
22
2.1
1 State the type of particles (atoms, molecules or
ions) that make up the substances below.
(a) Ammonia gas
(d) Potassium iodide
(b) Sodium chloride
(e) Copper wires
(c) Iron nail
(f) Cooking oil
the
heating
curve
for
Figure 2.13 John Dalton and his model
3 However, Dalton’s atomic model had its
weakness. It was found that:
(a) The atom is not the smallest particle in
an element. There are subatomic particles
(proton, electron and neutron) in an atom.
(b) A radioactive atom decomposes spon­
taneously, which means that an atom can
be destroyed. A new atom can also be
created by a process called transmutation.
(c) Not all atoms of an element are alike. They
may differ in atomic mass. For example,
hydrogen has three isotopes 11H, 21H and 31H.
4 In 1897 J. J. Thomson discovered negativelycharged particles which he called electrons.
Thomson then suggested that an atom is
a positively-charged sphere with electrons
embedded in it like a raisin pudding.
(a) State the melting point of naphthalene.
(b) What is the physical state of naphthalene at
time t second?
(c) Why does the temperature remain constant at
region BC although heating is carried on?
(d) Draw the cooling curve obtained when the
molten naphthalene is cooled from T3 to
room temperature.
2.2
The Atomic Structure
The Historical Development of the
Atomic Model
1 The concept of the atom originated from
Democritus, a Greek philosopher. He proposed
that if a piece of gold is divided repeatedly, it
will reach a state whereby the smallest particle,
which is indivisible, is obtained. He called
the smallest indivisible particle atomos, which
means ‘indivisible’ in Greek.
2 In 1808, John Dalton proposed the atomic
theory. In this theory, Dalton proposed that:
(a) All elements are made up of small
indivisible particles called atoms.
(b) Atoms are neither created nor destroyed
in chemical reactions.
(c) The atoms of an element are alike, but
differ from the atoms of other elements.
(d) When atoms combine, they do so in a
simple ratio.
(e) All chemical reactions result from the
combination or separation of atoms.
Figure 2.14 J. J. Thomson and his model
5 In 1911, Ernest Rutherford bombarded a thin
gold foil with alpha particles (helium nuclei,
He2+).
(a) It was found that most of the alpha particles
passed directly through the gold foil without
deflection. Rutherford then suggested that
most of the atom must be empty space.
Figure 2.15(a) Rutherford’s experiment
23
The Structure of the Atom
2
2 The graph shows
naphthalene.
7 In 1932, James Chadwick discovered rays of
electrically neutral subatomic particles which
he called neutrons. The neutron has a mass
almost the same as that of a proton. Chadwick
suggested that the nucleus of the atom contains
protons and neutrons, and the nucleus is
surrounded by a cloud of electrons.
2
Figure 2.15(b) Magnified view showing alpha
particles deflected by the
nuclei of gold atoms
(b) However, some of the alpha particles were
deflected at very acute angles. To explain
the deflection of the alpha particles,
Rutherford proposed that all the positive
charge of an atom is concentrated in the
nucleus, which repelled the positivelycharged alpha particles in the opposite
direction. Further experimental studies
led to the discovery of positive particles
in the nucleus. Rutherford called the
positively-charged particles protons.
(c) Rutherford proposed that an atom
consists of a positively-charged nucleus
with a cloud of electrons surrounding the
nucleus.
Figure 2.18 James Chadwick and his model
SPM
8 The atomic model in the present day is based
on the contributions of the above scientists.
In this atomic model:
(a) The nucleus of an atom consists of
protons and neutrons occupying a small
space in the centre of the atom.
(b) Electrons are moving around the nucleus
in permissible orbits or electron shells
(also known as quantum shells).
’08/P1
Figure 2.16 Ernest Rutherford and his model
Subatomic Particles of an Atom
6 In 1913, Niels Bohr proposed that the
electrons in the atom are arranged in permitted
orbits called electron shells surrounding the
nucleus.
An atom is made up of three smaller particles
which are called protons, neutrons and electrons.
These particles are called subatomic particles.
Table 2.3 shows the relative masses and charges of
these particles.
Table 2.3 The symbols, relative masses and the
charges of subatomic particles
Subatomic
particle
Figure 2.17 Niels Bohr and his model
The Structure of the Atom
24
Symbol
Relative
mass
Charge
Proton
p
1
+1
Electron
e
1
—
—
—
—
1840
–1
Neutron
n
1
0
3
that the number of neutrons in phosphorus is
31 – 15 = 16.
6 The relative masses of the proton and neutron
are almost similar. However, the relative mass
of the electron is very small. So the mass of an
atom is determined by the number of protons
and neutrons in the atom.
7 The nucleon number and proton number of
SPM an element is written in the following way:
’09/P2
’05
The diagram shows a model of an atom.
2
Who introduced this model?
A Niels Bohr
B J. J. Thomson
C John Dalton
D Rutherford
Answer A
Niels Bohr. He proposed that electrons are arranged
in shells surrounding the nucleus.
Proton Number and Nucleon Number
1 Protons and neutrons are located in the
nucleus and the electrons are arranged in
electron shells surrounding the nucleus.
2 The nucleus is positively-charged because
it contains protons, each of which carry a
positive charge.
3 The proton number of an element is the
number of protons in its atom. The proton
number is also known as the atomic number.
Each element has its own proton number.
No two different elements can have the same
proton number. For example, sodium, with
a proton number of 11 means that it has 11
protons in its nucleus and an element with 11
protons in its nucleus must be sodium.
4 In a neutral atom, the proton number
also tells us the number of electrons. For
example, the proton number of magnesium
is 12. Therefore, a magnesium atom has 12
protons and 12 electrons. The proton number
of nitrogen is 7 and hence a nitrogen atom
has 7 protons and 7 electrons.
5 The nucleon number (also known as the
SPM mass number) of an element is the sum of the
’11/P2
number of protons and neutrons in its atom.
A student need not memorise the proton number and
nucleon number. It will be given in the examination.
The proton number is smaller than the nucleon number.
4
’03
State the number of protons, electrons and neutrons
37
in a chlorine atom, 17
Cl.
Solution 17 protons, 17 electrons and 20 neutrons
(37 – 17 = 20)
Symbols of Elements
1 Each element is represented by a symbol,
consisting of either one letter or two letters of
the alphabet.
2 Some elements are represented by the first letter
of its name. Examples are in the following table.
Name of element
Hydrogen
Nitrogen
Oxygen
Fluorine
Sulphur
Nucleon Number of
Number of
=
+
number protons neutrons
OR
Nucleon
Proton
Number of
=
+
number number neutrons
Symbol
H
N
O
F
S
3 The names of some elements start with the same
letter. For example, the names of the elements
Nitrogen, Neon, Nickel and Nobium start
with the letter ‘N’. Therefore, a second letter is
added to differentiate between these elements.
The second letter used is always a small letter.
Examples are in the following table.
For example, a sodium atom has 11 protons
and 12 neutrons; hence the nucleon number
of sodium is 23.
The proton number of phosphorus is 15
while its nucleon number is 31. This means
25
The Structure of the Atom
and 53 stand for? How many protons, electrons
and neutrons are there in an iodine atom?
Symbol
Si
Ne
Cl
Ca
Br
Mg
Name of element
Silicon
Neon
Chlorine
Calcium
Bromine
Magnesium
2 (a) A list of elements are represented by the letters
given below:
11
5
Which two letters represent the same
element? Explain your answer.
(b) State four facts that you can derive from the
nuclear symbol, 27
Al.
13
2
4 Some elements are represented by the letters
of their Latin names. For example,
Name of
element
Silver
Copper
Iron
Gold
Lead
Tin
Potassium
Sodium
Mercury
Latin Name
Symbol
Argentum
Cuprum
Ferrum
Aurum
Plumbum
Stannum
Kalium
Natrium
Hydrargyrum
Ag
Cu
Fe
Au
Pb
Sn
K
Na
Hg
A, 126 B, 24
C, 23
D, 146 E and 147 F
12
11
2.3
Isotopes and Their
Importance
Isotopes
1 Isotopes are atoms of the same element with
the same proton number but different nucleon
’10/P1
numbers. Alternatively, isotopes can be defined
as atoms of an element with the same number
of protons but different numbers of neutrons.
2 Many elements exhibit the phenomenon of
isotropy, whereby an element can have more
than one type of isotope.
3 The isotopes of an element have the same
chemical properties because they have the
same electron arrangement but their physical
properties such as densities and melting
points differ.
4 Table 2.4 shows examples of isotopes of some
elements.
SPM
2.2
1 (a) An atom of uranium (U) has 92 protons and
143 neutrons. What is the proton number and
nucleon number? Write its atomic symbol.
(b) Seaweed is rich in the element iodine,
represented by 127
l. Lack of iodine in our diet
53
can cause goiter. What do the numbers 127
Table 2.4 Examples of isotopes of some elements
SPM
’07/P2
Hydrogen, 11H
Deuterium, 12H
Tritium, 13H
Proton
number
1
1
1
Nucleon
number
1
2
3
Number of
protons
1
1
1
Number of
neutrons
0
1
2
Percentage
abundance
99.985%
0.015%
Man-made isotope
Carbon-12, 126C
Carbon-13, 136C
Carbon-14, 146C
6
6
6
12
13
14
6
6
6
6
7
8
98.1%
1.1%
Trace amount
17
17
35
37
17
17
18
20
75.5%
24.5%
8
8
8
16
17
18
8
8
8
8
9
10
99.757%
0.038%
0.205%
Element
35
Cl
Chlorine-35, 17
37
Chlorine-37, 17
Cl
Oxygen-16, 168O
Oxygen-17, 178O
Oxygen-18, 188O
Same
Different
Same
Different
Nucleon number = Number of protons + Number of neutrons
The Structure of the Atom
26
5 Some elements, such as fluorine, F, have only
one isotope. However, most elements have
more than one isotope.
6 The relative atomic mass of an element is
based on the average mass of all the isotopes
of the element. For example, the relative
atomic mass of chlorine is 35.5 because
chlorine has 75% of 35
Cl and 25% of 37
Cl.
17
17
7 In an element, some isotopes are stable
while the rest are unstable isotopes. Unstable
isotopes are radioactive isotopes.
8 Radioactive isotopes will undergo spontaneous
decay to emit radioactive rays: alpha, beta
and gamma. After radioactive decay, the proton
Uses of Isotopes in Daily Life
Isotopes are atoms of an element with the same
number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.
Alternatively, isotopes can be defined as atoms of an
element with the same proton number but different
nucleon numbers.
SPM
’05/P2
Medicine
1 Cobalt-60 is a radioactive isotope of cobalt.
It decays by giving out gamma radiation. In
radiotherapy, malignant cancer cells are
killed by directing a beam of gamma rays
towards the cancer cells.
to the thyroid gland. The radiation given
out by the radioactive iodide ions will kill
the malignant cancer cells without affecting
the other parts of the body.
SPM
’09/P1
Radiotherapy is used to kill cancer cells
Patient suffering from thyroid cancer
2 Patients suffering from thyroid cancer are
given a drink containing sodium iodide,
(NaI) containing radioactive iodide ions. The
radioactive iodide ions move preferen­
tially
3 Some medicine, surgical gloves, bandages,
plastic hypodermic syringes are sterilised
by using gamma radiation. These materials
cannot be sterilised by boiling.
Agriculture
1 Using the radioactive carbon-14 (14C) in
carbon dioxide, the path of carbon during the
photosynthesis process can be determined.
The rate of absorption of phosphorus by the
plant can be determined by adding radioactive
phosphate ions (32PO3–
) to the ground.
4
2 Male pests can be attracted into traps using
female hormones (pheromone). The male
pests are then exposed to gamma radiation
which can cause genetic mutation to the
gametes (sperms). The male pests are then
released to be allowed to mate with the females.
The offsprings produced will have physical
defects such as undeveloped digestive
organs and wings. This will terminate the
survival of the following generation.
27
The Structure of the Atom
2
number and nucleon number of the isotope
may change.
9 There are many uses of radioisotopes, namely,
in the field of medicine, agriculture, industry,
archaeology, food preservation and electricity
generation.
Industry
1 Beta radiation is used to control the thickness
of paper, plastic, metals and rubber made in
industry. A radioactive source is located at the
bottom of the material being produced. A
detector is located on top of the material. Any
change in the reading of the recorder signifies
a change in thickness of the material.
partially filled in which case a higher reading
will be recorded.
2
Figure 2.20 Using radiation to detect if a container
is fully filled
3 Radioisotopes are used to detect leaks
in pipes carrying gas. A radioisotope (for
example, sodium-24) is added to the gas
so that it will be carried along by the gas
flowing through the pipe. A detector is then
moved along the external wall of the pipe.
The detection of a high radioactive reading
will signify the location of the leakage.
Figure 2.19 Using radiation to control the
thickness of materials
2 Gamma radiation is used to detect whether
canned food or bottled drink is completely
filled or only partially filled. A radioactive
source emitting gamma radiation is directed
to the bottled or canned food. More radiation
will pass through if the container is only
Figure 2.21 Using radiation to detect a leak
Archaeology
Carbon-14 is used to determine the age
of archaeological artifacts. Plants take in
carbon-14 in the form of carbon dioxide (14CO2)
during photosynthesis. Carbon-14 is incorpo­
rated into animals or human beings when the
plants are eaten. As long as the organism is alive,
the amount of carbon-14 in it remains constant.
This is because the intake of carbon-14 through
food is offset by its spontaneous decay. However,
when the organism dies, the intake of carbon-14
is stopped. The amount of C-14 ‘locked’ in the
body will continue to decay. The amount of
C-14 remaining (measured by its activity) is
inversely proportional to the age of the artifacts.
The age of bones dug
out from a historical site
can be estimated using
carbon-14 dating. For
very old bones, much
of the C-14 would have
decayed. The minute
amount of C-14 left will
show little radio­activity.
A recent archaeological
sample will have a high
reading of C-14.
Source: Jabatan Muzium Malaysia
The Structure of the Atom
SPM
’08/P1
28
Food preservation
1 Food such as vegetables, fruits and meat rot due to the
activity of fungus and bacteria. These microorganisms can
be kill­ed by irradiating the food with gamma radiation of
cobalt-60. The shelf-life of the food can be extended using
this method. Irradia­tion is better than chemical preserva­
tives because it does not have adverse effects on health.
2 Irradiation can also slow down budding in potatoes and
onions, thus extending their shelf-life. Gamma radiation
can also slow the ripening of fruits to be exported.
Radiation can be used to delay rotting of
fruits and vegetables
Nuclear energy is an alternative source of
energy to replace fossil fuels such as petroleum,
natural gas or coal. The nuclear fuel used is
uranium-235. The uranium atoms become
un­stable when bombarded with fast neutrons.
5
This causes the uranium nuclei to split,
producing heat energy. The heat energy released
is used to produce steam from water. The steam
drives the turbine of the generator, producing
electricity.
2.4
’05
Name an isotope and state its purpose for each of
the following fields:
(a) Medicine
(c) Archaeology
(b) Industry
(d) Food preservation
Solution
(a) Cobalt-60 (gamma radiation from decay of
Co-60 is used to kill cancer cells)
(b) Sodium-24 (beta radiation from decay of
Na-24 is used to detect leakages in pipes)
(c) Carbon-14 (it is used to estimate the age of
archaeological artifacts)
(d) Cobalt-60 (gamma radiation from decay of
Co-60 is used to kill fungus or bacteria that
can cause food to rot)
U,
234
92
U and
235
92
The Electronic Structure
of an Atom
Electron Arrangement in an Atom
1 Niels Bohr suggested that the electrons in an
atom occupy orbits with definite energy levels.
Each of these orbits or energy levels can hold
a certain number of electrons. The electrons
are not static but are moving around.
2 The electron orbits are also known as quantum
shells. The shells are labelled first shell, second
shell, third shell and so on, away from the
nucleus.
3 The first shell is the one nearest to the nucleus
and is filled first. It can hold a maximum of
two electrons.
4 After the first shell is full, the remaining electrons
are filled into the second shell. The second shell
can hold a maximum of eight electrons.
2.3
1 Uranium has three isotopes:
2
Generation of electricity
U.
238
92
What do you understand by the term isotopes?
State the differences between these isotopes.
2 A list of elements are represented by letters of the
alphabet as given below. Choose a pair of isotopes
from these elements. Explain your answer.
Figure 2.22 The electron shells of an atom is
labelled away from the nucleus
A, 127
B, 79
C, 131
D, 131
E, 55
F
53
34
55
53
25
23
11
5 After the first and second shells are full, the
remaining electrons are filled into the third shell.
The third shell can take a maximum of eight or
18 electrons. If the number of electrons of an
3 Give an example of a radioactive isotope of
carbon. What is meant by radioisotope? Give a
use of the isotope given in your example.
29
The Structure of the Atom
atom is more than 20, the third shell will hold
18 electrons. If the number of electrons is 20 or
less, the third shell will hold 8 electrons.
6 Table 2.5 shows the maximum number of
electrons permitted in each shell.
7 The way in which the electrons are distributed
in the shells of an atom is called the electron
arrange­­­­­­ment or electronic configuration of
the atom.
SPM
’11/P2
9 The electrons in the outermost occupied shell
are called the valence electrons. Therefore,
carbon atom has four valence electrons,
chlorine atom has seven valence electrons and
calcium atom has two valence electrons.
10 Elements with the same number of valence
electrons have the same chemical properties.
For example, lithium, sodium and potassium
of Group 1 of the Periodic Table have the
same chemical properties because each atom
has one valence electron.
Table 2.5 Maximum number of electrons
permitted in each shell of an atom
Maximum number of electrons
Shell
2
Eight electrons are filled in the second shell.
Eight electrons are filled in the third shell.
Two electrons are filled in the fourth shell.
The electron arrangement of calcium is 2.8.8.2.
First
2
Second
8
Third
8 or 18
Fourth
32
8 The examples below show the electron
arrangement of some elements:
1
The carbon atom, 126C has six protons.
In a neutral atom, the number of electrons =
the number of protons.
Hence there are six electrons and are arranged as
follows:
Two electrons are filled in the first shell.
Four electrons are filled in the second shell.
The electron arrangement of carbon is 2.4.
Electron
arrangement
Number of
valence electrons
Lithium
Sodium
Potassium
2.1
2.8.1
2.8.8.1
1
1
1
11 Group 17 elements have the same chemical
properties because each element has seven
valence electrons.
2
The chlorine atom, 3517Cl has 17 protons.
In a neutral atom, the number of electrons =
the number of protons.
The 17 electrons are arranged as follows:
Two electrons are filled in the first shell.
Eight electrons are filled in the second shell.
Seven electrons are filled in the third shell.
The electron arrangement of chloride is 2.8.7.
Group 17
element
Electron
arrangement
Number of
valence electrons
Fluorine
Chlorine
Bromine
Iodine
2.7
2.8.7
2.8.18.7
2.8.18.18.7
7
7
7
7
12 The inert or noble gases of Group 18 of the
Periodic Table are very stable. They have filled
outer shells of electrons.
3
Group 18
element
Electron
arrangement
Number of
valence electrons
Helium
Neon
Argon
2
2.8
2.8.8
2
8
8
13 Helium has exactly two electrons in the first
shell. It has attained the duplet electron
arrange­ment which is stable. Neon and argon
each has eight electrons in the outermost
shell. It has attained the octet electron
arrangement which is stable.
The calcium atom, 40
Ca has 20 protons.
20
In a neutral atom, the number of electrons =
the number of protons.
The 20 electrons are arranged as follows:
Two electrons are filled in the first shell.
The Structure of the Atom
Group 1
element
30
14 Table 2.6 shows the diagrammatic electronic structures and the electron arrangements of elements
with proton numbers 1 to 20.
SPM
’04,05
06/P1
’08/P1
2
Table 2.6 The diagrammatic electronic structure of elements with proton numbers 1 to 20
6
X, 3517Y, 126Z. Write the electronic configuration of
each of these elements.
Solution
23
11
’04
The atomic symbol of element X is 199X. Which of
the following is true about the subatomic particles
of element X?
Proton
number
Number Number
Electronic
of
of
configuration
protons electrons
Proton
number
Nucleon
number
Electronic
configuration
X
11
11
11
2.8.1
A
9
19
2.7
Y
17
17
17
2.8.7
B
9
19
2.8.8.1
Z
6
6
6
2.4
C
19
9
2.7
D
19
9
2.8.8.1
Comment
The proton number of X is 9. Hence it has 9 protons
and 9 electrons. The 9 electrons are arranged as
follows:
Two electrons in the first shell and the remaining
seven electrons are arranged in the second shell.
Its electronic configuration is 2.7.
Answer A
7
2.4
1 Write the electron arrangement and draw the
atomic structures of carbon and magnesium
atoms. [Proton number: C, 6; Mg, 12]
2 The diagram shows the atomic
structure of an element X.
(a) In an atom of X, how
many of the following
are there?
(i) Valence electrons
(ii) Protons
(b) What is the nucleon number of X if it has 16
neutrons?
(c) Write the atomic symbol of element X.
’04
The chemical symbols of three elements X, Y and Z
are shown as follows:
31
The Structure of the Atom
2
2.5
Rutherford discovered the proton in 1911 and
James Chadwick discovered the neutron in
1932. Niels Bohr explained the arrangement
of the electrons in an atom.
3 We now know that the protons and neutrons
are located at the center of the atom called the
nucleus. The electrons are arranged in orbits
around the nucleus.
4 The atomic structure of an atom can help us
understand the chemical properties of the
elements better and how they are bonded
together to form compounds.
Appreciating the
Orderliness and
Uniqueness of the
Atomic Structure
1 John Dalton proposed the atomic theory
about 200 years ago in 1807. Before that
scientists thought that atoms were solid
particles like marbles.
2 About 100 years later, other scientists discovered
the subatomic particles. J.J. Thomson
discovered the electron in 1897. Ernest
5 During freezing, the temperature remains constant
because heat energy is released and the energy
released is equals to the heat lost to the surrounding
during cooling.
6 The proton number is the number of protons in
the nucleus of an atom.
7 The nucleon number is the total number of
protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom.
8 Isotopes are atoms of the same element which
contain the same number of protons but different
numbers of neutrons.
9 The protons and neutrons are enclosed in the
nucleus whereas the electrons are arranged in shells
surrounding the nucleus.
(a) The first shell can hold a maximum of two
electrons.
(b) The second shell can hold a maximum of
eight or 18 electrons.
(c) The third shell can hold a maximum of 18
electrons.
However for atoms with proton numbers
1 – 20, the atom attains stability when its third
shell has eight electrons.
(d) The valence electron is the electron in the
outermost shell of the atom.
For example, the electronic configuration of the
calcium atom, 40
Ca is 2.8.8.2.
20
The calcium atom has two valence electrons.
1 There are three states of matter: solid, liquid and
gas.
2 When a substance is heated or cooled it will change
state.
3 The table shows the energy involved during the
change in state:
Change of
state
Process
Change in
energy
Solid to liquid
Melting
Heat energy is
absorbed
Liquid to gas
Boiling/
evaporation
Heat energy is
absorbed
Solid to gas
Sublimation
Heat energy is
absorbed
Liquid to solid
Freezing
Heat energy is
released
Gas to liquid
Condensation
Heat energy is
released
Gas to solid
Sublimation
Heat energy is
released
4 During melting the temperature remains constant
because heat energy absorbed is used to overcome
the forces of attraction between the molecules.
The Structure of the Atom
32
2
Multiple-choice Questions
Matter
1 What process and change in heat
energy takes place when iodine
’11 crystals are heated at room
temperature and pressure?
Process
A
Melting
B
Melting
C
Sublimation
D
Sublimation
Heat energy
absorbed
Heat energy
released
Heat energy
absorbed
Heat energy
released
3 The diagrams show the spacing
of the molecules of a substance
at two different temperatures.
at 85 °C
What is the likely melting point and
boiling point of the substance?
Melting point Boiling point
(°C)
(°C)
A
–125
90
B
–117
78
C
–102
75
D
–98
105
D The air particles diffuse out of
the balloon at a faster rate at
higher temperature.
5 Carbon dioxide(CO2), sulphur
dioxide(SO2) and nitrogen
dioxide(NO2) are three gases that
cause acid rain.
Which of the following lists the
molecules in order of increasing
average speed?
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12;
N, 14; O, 16; S, 32]
Change in
heat energy
2 Which statements below are true
about a gas?
I They move at low speed.
II They are easily compressed.
III They have a higher rate of
diffusion compared to a liquid.
IV They spread throughout the
vessel in which they are
contained.
A I, II and III only
B I, III and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
at –110 °C
4 An inflated balloon will shrink
faster at higher temperature than
at lower temperature.
Which of the following is the
best explanation for this
observation?
A The air particles liquefy at
lower temperature.
B The air particles react to form
other compounds at higher
temperature.
C The air particles come
closer together at lower
temperature.
Slowest
Fastest
A Sulphur Nitrogen Carbon
dioxide dioxide dioxide
B Sulphur Carbon
dioxide dioxide
Nitrogen
dioxide
C Nitrogen Sulphur Carbon
dioxide dioxide dioxide
D Carbon
dioxide
Sulphur Nitrogen
dioxide dioxide
6 The table shows the changes in physical states and energies of four
substances.
Process
Name of
process
Change of physical
state
Change of energy
I
Freezing
Solid to liquid
Heat is released
II
Melting
Solid to liquid
Heat is absorbed
III
Boiling
Solid to gas
Heat is absorbed
IV
Condensation
Gas to liquid
Heat is released
Which of the following processes above are correct?
A I and III only
C I, II and IV only
B II and IV only
D II, III and IV only
7 Which of the following statements is true about pentane molecules when it
is cooled to a temperature of –129 °C? [Melting point of pentane is –135 °C
and its boiling point is 36 °C].
A The pentane molecules remain static.
B The pentane molecules move randomly.
C The pentane molecules are arranged closely together.
D The distance between the pentane molecules increases.
33
The Structure of the Atom
2
2.1
8 The graph shows the
temperature against time of a
substance X when it is heated.
Magnesium oxide
’07
Sodium
Ammonia
A
Ions
Atoms
Molecules
B
Ions
Molecules
Molecules
C
Molecules
Molecules
Atoms
D
Ions
Ions
Ions
2.2
The Atomic Structure
11 Which of the following sets is correct? The scientists who discovered the
electron, proton and neutron are
2
’08
Which of the statements below
are true about X ?
I X starts to melt at Q.
II The melting point of X is
T1 °C.
III X exists in gaseous state at
region TU.
IV At region RS, there is a
mixture of solid and liquid X.
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C I, II and III only
D I, III and IV only
9 The diagram shows the graph of
temperature against time for the
heating of substance X.
temperature (°C)
65
t1
t2
time (s)
Which statements below are true
about substance X?
I It is a gas at room
temperature.
II It undergoes physical change
at 65 °C.
III It absorbs heat at time
intervals t1 and t2.
IV It exists as a mixture of liquid
and solid at time intervals t1
and t2.
A I and II only
B I and III only
C II and III only
D II and IV only
10 State the particles in magnesium
oxide, sodium and ammonia.
The Structure of the Atom
Electron
Proton
Neutron
A
Ernest Rutherford
J.J. Thomson
James Chadwick
B
J.J. Thomson
Ernest Rutherford
James Chadwick
C
J.J. Thomson
Ernest Rutherford
Niels Bohr
D
J.J. Thomson
James Chadwick
Ernest Rutherford
12 What can be deduced from the
symbol 31
P?
15
I Phosphorus atom has five
valence electrons.
II Phosphorus atom has 15
protons and 31 neutrons.
III Phosphorus atom has 16
neutrons.
IV Phosphorus atom has proton
number of 15 and nucleon
number of 31.
A I, II and III only
B I, III and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
I It belongs to Group 15 in the
Periodic Table.
II It belongs to Period 3 of the
Periodic Table.
III It forms an ion with a charge
of –3.
IV It is a metal.
A I, II and III only
B I, III and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
15 The diagrams show three models
of the atom.
13 Two particles P and Q have the
following compositions:
Particle Electron Neutron Proton
P
10
10
9
Q
10
12
11
It follows that
A P and Q are both negativelycharged
B P and Q have the same
nucleon number.
C P and Q are particles of the
same element.
D P is negatively-charged and Q
is positively-charged.
14 An atom X has an electron
arrangement of 2.8.5. Which of
the following statements about X
are correct?
34
Name the scientists who proposed
these models?
I
II
III
A
James
J.J.
Chadwick Thomson
Ernest
Rutherford
B
Niels Bohr John
Dalton
Ernest
Rutherford
C
Niels Bohr J.J.
Thomson
Ernest
Rutherford
J.J.
D Niels Bohr Ernest
Rutherford Thomson
17 The atoms 126 C and 115 B have the
same
A number of protons
B number of neutrons
C physical properties
D chemical properties
2.3
Isotopes and Their
Importance
18 Two uranium isotopes are 235
U
92
and 238
U.
Which
of
the
following
92
statements below is true?
A The 235
U atom has fewer
92
electrons than 238
U atom.
92
B The 235
U
atom
has
92
92
protons and 235 neutrons.
C The 238
U atom has 92
92
protons and 146 neutrons.
D The 235
U atom and 238
U atom
92
92
have the same number of
neutrons.
19 Isotopes are different atoms with
the same number of
A protons but different number
of neutrons.
B electrons but different
number of protons.
C protons, electrons and
neutrons.
D protons but different number
of electrons and neutrons.
20 Which of the following pairs are
correct?
Isotope
Use
I Uranium-235 To generate
electricity
II Iodine-131
To kill cancerous
thyroid cells
Isotope
Use
III Carbon-14
To estimate the age
of archaeological
artifacts
IV Sodium-24
A
B
C
D
To detect leakages
in pipes
I, II and III only
I, II and IV only
II, III and IV only
I, II, III and IV
21 Which of the following statements
are true about isotopes?
I They have the same chemical
properties.
II They have different physical
properties.
III The have a different number
of neutrons.
IV They have the same number
of valence electrons.
A I, II and III only
B I, III and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
22 Oxygen has the isotope 16 O, 17 O
and 18 O. Which of the following
oxygen gas has the lowest rate of
diffusion?
A 16 O = 16 O
B 17 O = 17 O
C 18 O = 18 O
D 17 O = 18 O
23
X
Y
Which term describes the
particles X and Y shown above?
A Isotopes
C Anions
B Isomers
D Cations
24 An element has two isotopes,
which are represented by 127 X
and 131 X. How does 127 X differ
from 131 X ?
A It has four less neutrons and
three less electrons.
B It has four less neutrons.
C It has four less protons and
three less electrons.
D It has four less protons.
35
25 Which of the following
comparisons between 79
Br and
35
81
Br
are
correct?
35
Bromine-79
Bromine-81
I
Has 35
protons
Has 35
protons
II
Has 35
electrons
Has 35
electrons
III
Has 35
neutrons
Has 35
neutrons
IV
Has 44
neutrons
Has 46
neutrons
A
B
C
D
I and IV only
II and III only
I, II and IV only
I, III and IV only
26 The radioisotope that is used to
kill cancerous cells is
A uranium-235
B cobalt-60
C carbon-14
D phosphorus-32
2.4
The Electronic Structure
of an Atom
27 Which of the following particles
have eight valence electrons?
I 168 W
III 40
Y
18
23 +
II 11 X
IV 35
Z–
17
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C I, II and III only
D II, III and IV only
28 Which of the following particles
contains 18 electrons, 19 protons
and 20 neutrons?
A 39
X+
C 39
X–
19
18
B
40
20
D
X 2+
39
19
X
29 How many protons and neutrons
are there in one tin atom with
nucleon number 119?
Protons
Neutrons
A
50
68
B
50
69
C
50
71
D
50
119
The Structure of the Atom
2
16 An atom has the symbol
11
X. Which of the following
5
statements about X are correct?
I It has 5 valence electrons in
its atom.
II It has 6 neutrons in its atom.
III It belongs to Group 13 of
the Periodic Table.
IV It belongs to Period 2 of the
Periodic Table.
A I, II and III only
B I, II and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
2
30 The symbol of an element X is
40
X. We can deduce that an atom
18
of element X
I has eight valence electrons.
II has 22 neutrons in its nucleus.
III has three electron shells.
IV has a total of 18 electrons in
its atom.
A I, II and III only
B I, III and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
31 Two particles X and Y have the
following composition:
Particle Electrons Neutrons Protons
X
10
12
11
Y
11
12
11
Which of the following statements
are true about X and Y?
I Both X and Y are negativelycharged.
II Both X and Y are positivelycharged.
III Both X and Y have the same
nucleon number.
IV Both X and Y are particles of
the same element.
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C III and IV only
D II, III and IV only
32 An element 39
X
19
A has one valence electron.
B forms a positively-charged ion
of charge +2.
C is located in Group 17 of the
Periodic Table.
D has 19 protons and 39
neutrons.
33 Which of the following elements
given below have the same
number of valence electrons?
19
9
A
B
C
D
V ; 27
W; 35
X; 39
Y; 40
Z
13
17
19
20
Element
W
X
Y
Z
Proton
number
6
7
12
15
A
B
C
D
W and Y only
X and Z only
V and X only
V and Y only
34 Which of the following list are the
electron arrangements of all nonmetals?
A 2.6
2.7
2.8.5
B 2
2.5
2.8.3
C 2.1
2.7
2.8.6
D 2.1
2.8.2
2.8.3
35 An atom 39
Y
19
I has 20 neutrons.
II has 19 protons.
III has one valence electron.
IV has four electron shells.
A I, II and III only
B I, II and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
36 What is the number of subatomic
particles in 60
Co2+ ion?
27
Protons Neutrons Electrons
A
27
33
27
B
27
33
25
C
33
27
27
D
33
27
25
37 The table shows the proton
numbers of four elements. Which
of the following pairs of elements
has the same number of valence
electrons?
Y and Z only
X and Z only
X and Y only
W and Z only
38 The electronic configuration of
arsenic is 2.8.18.5.
Which of the following
statements is true?
A Arsenic has three valence
electrons.
B Arsenic is in Group 14 of the
Periodic Table.
C The nucleon number of the
arsenic atom is 33.
D Arsenic is in the same group
of the Periodic Table as an
element with proton number
7.
39 The electronic configuration of
the ion X– is 2.8.18.18.8.
The ion X– has 74 neutrons.
Determine the nucleon number
of element X.
A 127
B 128
C 129
D 130
40 The electronic configuration
of the strontium ion, Sr2+ is
2.8.18.8. The Sr2+ ion has 49
neutrons. Determine the nucleon
number of strontium.
A 85
B 86
C 87
D 88
Structured Questions
1 Carbon has two isotopes as shown in Table 1 below.
Atom
Proton number
Nucleon number
(b) Draw the atomic structure of
represent an electron.
C
12
6
C
14
6
’08
Table 1
(a) (i) Complete Table 1 with the proton numbers
and nucleon numbers of the two different
carbon isotopes.
[2 marks]
The Structure of the Atom
(ii) What is the difference between the two
isotopes 126C and 146C?
[1 mark]
36
(c) Give one use of 146C.
C using, x, to
14
6
[2 marks]
[1 mark]
(d) What is the number of valence electrons in both
of the carbon atoms above?
[1 mark]
(g) (i) Explain the meaning of the term isotope.
2 Diagram 1 shows a graph of temperature against time
of substance M when it is heated until it boils.
[2 marks]
(ii) State a pair of isotopes from the particles in
Table 2.
[1 mark]
4 Table 3 shows four substances and their respective
formulae.
’04
Chemical formula
Bromine
Br2
Iron
Fe
Diagram 1
Naphthalene
C10H8
(a) State the physical state of M at the region
(i) PQ
(iii) RS
(ii) QR
(iv) ST
[3 marks]
Sodium chloride
NaCl
(b) When does M begin to boil?
[1 mark]
(c) What is the melting point of M?
[1 mark]
2
Substance
Table 3
(a) State two substances that consist of molecules.
[1 mark]
(b) Which of the following substances has the highest
melting point: bromine, iron or naphthalene?
(d) Explain why the temperature of M remains
constant from time t1 to t2.
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
(e) Sketch the graph obtained when molten M is
cooled from 450 °C to room temperature. [2 marks]
(c) (i) State the substance that can conduct
electricity in the solid state.
[1 mark]
(ii) Draw the arrangement of the particles of this
substance.
[1 mark]
3 Table 2 shows the proton numbers and nucleon numbers
of five particles represented by the letters V, W, X, Y and Z.
Particle
Proton
number
Nucleon
number
V
6
12
W
8
16
X
8
18
Y
11
23
Z
16
32
Electron
arrangement
(d) Name the particles present in sodium chloride.
[1 mark]
(e) Diagram 2 shows the graph of temperature against
time obtained when solid naphthalene is heated.
Table 2
(a) Write the electron arrangements of all the
particles in Table 2.
[2 marks]
(b) What is the number of valence electrons in
particle V ?
[1 mark]
(c) Draw the atomic structure of particle Y.
Diagram 2
[2 marks]
(d) State the number of electron shells in particle Z.
[1 mark]
(e) Explain the meaning of nucleon number. [1 mark]
(f) What is the number of neutrons in particle Y ? [1 mark]
(i) State the melting point of naphthalene. [1 mark]
(ii) Explain why there is no change in temperature
from Q to R.
[2 marks]
(iii) State how the movement of naphthalene
particles changes between R and S during
heating.
[1 mark]
Essay Questions
You are given two substances X and Y. They are
either naphthol or naphthalene.
You are required to carry out an experiment
to identify X and Y. Design an experiment to
determine X and Y.
1 (a) Compare the three physical states of matter
in terms of particle arrangements, forces of
attraction between the particles, kinetic energy of
the particles and compressibility.
[8 marks]
(b) Table 1 shows the melting points of naphthol and
naphthalene.
37
The Structure of the Atom
Chemical
2 (a) Define the following terms:
(i) Proton number
(ii) Nucleon number
(iii) Valence electron
Melting point (°C)
Naphthol
65
Naphthalene
80
Table 1
[3 marks]
(b) (i) What are isotopes?
[3 marks]
(ii) Give an example of a pair of isotopes. [2 marks]
(iii) Discuss six uses of isotopes.
[12 marks]
[12 marks]
2
Experiments
1 An experiment is carried out to determine the melting point of naphthalene. Solid naphthalene is heated
and its temperature is recorded every 30 seconds.
’05 Diagram 1 shows the recorded temperature readings at 30-second intervals.
Diagram 1
(a) Record the temperatures in the spaces provided in Diagram 1.
[3 marks]
(b) Draw a labelled diagram of the apparatus used to carry out the experiment.
[3 marks]
(c) Plot a graph of temperature against time for the heating of naphthalene.
[3 marks]
(d) State the melting point of naphthalene.
[3 marks]
(e) What is the physical state of naphthalene at time 90 seconds?
[3 marks]
(f) Explain why the temperature between time 60 s to 120 s remained constant.
[3 marks]
(g) Sketch a graph you expect to obtain if the molten naphthalene is cooled to room temperature.
[3 marks]
2 ‘The melting point of a substance is lowered by the presence of impurities’.
Using naphthalene and a mixture of naphthalene with some acetamide, describe an experiment to prove
the statement above. Your answer should include the following items:
(a) Aim of experiment
[3 marks]
(b) All variables involved
[3 marks]
(c) List of apparatus and materials used
[3 marks]
(d) Procedure of experiment
[3 marks]
(e) Tabulation of results
[3 marks]
The Structure of the Atom
38
FORM 4
THEME: Matter Around Us
CHAPTER
3
Chemical Formulae and
Equations
SPM Topical Analysis
2008
Year
1
Paper
2009
3
2
Section
A
B
C
Number of questions
1
—
2
–
–
4
–
1
9
2010
2
3
A
B
C
1
–
–
–
1
2011
2
4
3
A
B
C
–
–
–
1
–
4
2
3
A
B
C
–
–
–
–
ONCEPT MAP
FORMULAE AND CHEMICAL EQUATIONS
Atom
Molecule
Relative atomic mass
Relative molecular mass
Relative atomic mass,
Ar in gram
Relative molecular mass,
Mr in gram
Molar mass
Mass of matter
3 Molar mass
4 Molar mass
4 Molar volume
Volume of gas
3 Avogadro constant
Number of moles
3 Molar volume
Number of particles
4 Avogadro constant
Reactants
Chemical equation
Products of reaction
Empirical formula
Chemical formula
Molecular formula
3.1
Relative Atomic Mass and Relative Molecular Mass
1 It is impossible to weigh an atom in gram. So
chemists compared how heavy one atom is to
another atom which is taken as the standard.
The comparison of the mass of an atom to
another is called the relative atomic mass
(r.a.m.).
Relative
Mass
of
one
atom
of
the
element
atomic mass = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1
of an element —  mass of one carbon-12 atom
12
3
For example, a sodium atom, Na is 23 times
heavier than one-twelfth of the mass of one
carbon-12 atom. Thus the relative atomic mass
of Na is 23.
Mass of one Na atom
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— = 23
1
—  mass of one carbon-12 atom
12
(Note: the mass of one carbon-12 atom is 12
units)
5 A molecule is a small group of atoms joined
together. The simplest being diatomic
molecules like O2, N2 and Cl2. Examples of
triatomic molecules are CO2 and H2O. Some
examples of larger molecules are ammonia
(NH3), methane (CH4), sulphur (S8),
phosphorus (P4) and ethanol (C2H5OH).
6 The relative molecular mass (Mr) of a
compound is defined as the number of times
one molecule of the compound is heavier than
one-twelfth of the mass of a carbon-12 atom.
The relative atomic mass of atoms or relative
molecular mass of molecules can be determined
using the mass spectrometer with carbon-12 as the
standard
2 In 1961, scientists agreed to use carbon-12 as
the standard. The mass of a carbon-12 atom
is assigned a value of exactly 12 units.
3 Carbon is chosen as the standard because
(a) the abundance of carbon-12 isotope is
almost 99%. Carbon-13 and carbon-14
isotopes make up about only 1%.
Thus the mass of a carbon atom using
carbon-12 isotope or using the average
mass of the three isotopes of carbon is
still 12.00 units.
(b) carbon is a solid at room temperature.
Unlike hydrogen and oxygen which are
gases, it does not require a container with
a lid to contain it.
(c) carbon is present in many organic
substances, namely, wood, natural gas and
petroleum. Thus carbon is easily available.
Carbon can be obtained by burning these
organic substances in a limited supply of
oxygen.
4 The relative atomic mass (Ar) of an element
SPM is defined as the number of times one atom
’11/P1
of the element is heavier than one-twelfth of
the mass of a carbon-12 atom, that is:
Chemical Formulae and Equations
Relative
Mass of one molecule
molecular
of the compound
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
mass of a = —
1
—­

mass
of
one
compound
12
carbon-12 atom
For example, a molecule of methane, CH4,
is 16 times heavier than one-twelfth of the
mass of a carbon-12 atom. Thus the relative
molecular mass of CH4 is 16.
A student need not memorise the relative atomic mass
of elements. They will be given in the examination.
However, one must know how to calculate the relative
molecular mass of compounds from the Ar given. To
determine the Mr of a molecule, we sum up the relative
atomic mass of every atom present in the molecule.
40
Concept of relative atomic mass and relative molecular mass
using analogy
Apparatus
Twin-pan balance
3
Ball bearings, iron nails, screws and nuts.
Figure 3.1(a)
Figure 3.1(b)
1 An iron nail is put into the pan on the right of the
balance (Figure 3.1(a)).
2 Ball bearings are added to the pan on the left of
the balance until it is balanced.
3 The number of ball bearings needed to balance
the small nail is counted.
4 The procedure is repeated for a screw, a nut,
a screw and a nut (Figure 3.1(b)) and a screw
and two nuts. For each sample the number of ball
bearings required to balance the object is counted
and recorded in the table as follows:
OR
Mass of one iron nail
——————————————————— = 5
Mass of one ball bearing
Hence, relative mass of one iron nail = 5
2 If we assume that a ball bearing represents onetwelfth of the mass of carbon-12 atom and the
nail, screw and nut represent the atoms of other
elements, then the relative atomic mass of these
elements will be 5, 12 and 7 respectively.
3 If we assume that the screw and the nut form a
molecule, relative molecular mass of the molecule
= relative atomic mass of a screw +
relative atomic mass of a nut
= 12 + 7 = 19
4 A total of 26 ball bearings are required to balance
the mass of one screw and two nuts. Hence, Mr
of a screw and two nuts
= r.a.m. of a screw + r.a.m. of two nuts
= 12 + 7 + 7 = 26
Therefore to determine the relative molecular
mass of a molecule, we sum up the relative atomic
mass of each atom present in the molecule.
5 In this experiment, we do not need to know the
actual mass of a ball bearing to determine the
relative mass of other objects. Similarly, we do
not need the actual mass of a carbon atom to
determine the relative atomic mass of an element
or the relative molecular mass of a molecule.
Number of Relative mass
ball bearings
of object
needed to
(compared to
balance object a ball bearing)
Iron nail
5
5
Screw
12
12
Nut
7
7
Screw + nut
19
19
Screw + 2 nuts
26
26
(Assuming the relative mass of a ball bearing is
1 unit)
1 If we assume that the ball bearing has a mass of 1
unit, then the iron nail which is equivalent to five
ball bearings has a relative mass of five units.
41
Chemical Formulae and Equations
Activity 3.1
Object
Mass of 1 iron nail = mass of five ball bearings
Solution
1
24
(a) Z is heavier than Y by —
— times = 1.5 times.
16
(b) Assume that n atoms of X has the same mass as
the sum of 3 atoms of Y and 2 atoms of Z.
12n = 3(16) + 2(24)
12n = 96
96
n =—
—
12
=8
3
Iridium is a very dense metal and was discovered in
1804 by Smithson Tennant. Determine how many
carbon atoms will have the same mass as one iridium
atom.
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12; Ir, 192]
Solution
Assuming n carbon atoms has the same mass as one
iridium atom.
12n = 192
192
n=—
—
—
12
= 16
2
5
Adrenaline is produced by the adrenal gland.
Adrenaline has the formula C9H13NOx. If its r.m.m.
is 183, determine the value of x. Then write the
molecular formula of adrenaline.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; N, 14; O, 16]
SPM
’08/P1
Three cobalt atoms have the same mass as fifteen
carbon atoms. Determine the relative atomic mass of
cobalt. [Relative atomic mass: C, 12]
Solution
Relative molecular
C9H13NOx= 183
Solution
Assume that the relative atomic mass of Co = a
mass
of
adrenaline
is
9(12) + 13(1) + 14 + x(16) = 183
108 + 13 + 14 + 16x = 183
16x = 183 – 135
48
x=—
—
16
x=3
Co + Co + Co = 15 C
3a = 15  12
15  12
a =—
—
—
—
—
—
—
3
= 60
The formula of adrenaline is C9H13NO3.
3
1
The mass of a rutherfordium (Rf) atom is equal to the
sum of three sodium atoms and six sulphur atoms.
What is the relative atomic mass of rutherfordium?
[Relative atomic mass: Na, 23; S, 32]
The relative formula mass of X3(PO4)2 is 310.
Determine the relative atomic mass of element X.
[Relative atomic mass: O, 16; P, 31]
Solution
Relative atomic mass of Rf = 3(23) + 6(32)
= 69 + 192
= 261
Solution
Assume that the relative atomic mass of the
element X is p.
Relative formula mass of X3(PO4)2 = 310
3(p) + 2[31 + 4(16)] = 310
3p + 2[31 + 64] = 310
3p + 190 = 310
3p = 310 – 190
120
p=—
—
3
= 40
4
The relative atomic mass of elements X, Y and Z are
12, 16 and 24 respectively.
(a) How much is an atom of Z heavier than an atom
of Y?
(b) How many atoms of X will have the same mass as
the sum of 3 atoms of Y and 2 atoms of Z?
Chemical Formulae and Equations
’09
42
1 (a) A platinum atom is five times heavier than a
potassium atom. What is the relative atomic
mass of platinum? [Relative atomic mass: K, 39]
(b) Calculate the number of carbon atoms that
has the same mass as one molybdenum
atom. [Relative atomic mass: C, 12; Mo, 96]
(c) Five aluminium atoms have the same mass
as the sum of six lithium atoms and three
phosphorus atoms. Determine the r.a.m. of
phosphorus. [Relative atomic mass: Li, 7; Al, 27]
(d) The relative atomic mass of elements W, X, Y
and Z are 7, 39, 56 and 195 respectively.
(i) One atom of thorium (Th) has the same
mass as the sum of six W atoms, two
X atoms and two Y atoms. What is the
r.a.m. of thorium?
(ii) How many W atoms will have the same
mass as the sum of two X atoms, one Y
atom and one Z atom?
2 Determine the relative molecular mass (or relative
formula mass) of the following compounds:
(a) Sodium stearate, C17H35COONa (Soap molecule)
(b) Complex ion Cu(NH3)4SO4
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; N, 14; O, 16;
Na, 23; S, 32; Cu, 64]
3 Borax is a compound used to kill cockroaches.
Its molecular formula is X2B4O7. If the relative
molecular mass of borax is 202, determine the
relative atomic mass of the element X. Identify the
element X from the list of elements given below.
[Relative atomic mass: B, 11; C, 12; O, 16; F, 19;
Na, 23; Mg, 24]
3.2
Amedeo Avogadro
Amedeo Avogadro was a professor of physics at the
University of Turin, Italy. In 1811, he proposed the
hypothesis which states that under the same temperature
and pressure, equal volumes of different gases contain
equal numbers of molecules. He showed that 22.4 dm3
of any gas at a temperature of 0 °C and a pressure of 1
atmosphere contains 6.02  1023 molecules. Therefore
the value of 6.02  1023 is called Avogadro’s number
or the Avogadro constant in honour of him.
Relationship between
the Number of Moles
and the Number of
Particles
Definition of the Mole
Concept of the Mole
SPM
’08/P1
1 One mole is the amount of substance which
contains the same number of particles as
there are in 12 grams of carbon-12.
2 The number of atoms in 12 grams of
carbon-12 is 6.02  1023.
3 This number, 6.02  1023, is called Avogadro’s
number or the Avogadro constant (NA).
4 The particles in matter can be atoms, ions or
molecules.
5 For elements, the particles are atoms. For
example, 1 mol of gold contains 6.02  1023
gold atoms.
1 The relative atomic mass of carbon atom is 12
and the relative atomic mass of helium atom
is 4. This means that a carbon atom is three
times heavier than a helium atom.
2 Thus, a sample containing 12 grams of carbon
and four grams of helium will contain the
same number of atoms, that is,
number of atoms in 12 grams of carbon
= number of atoms in 4 grams of helium
43
Chemical Formulae and Equations
3
3 Let us extend the reasoning to other elements.
The number of atoms in a sample of any
element with its relative atomic mass in grams
is equal to the number of atoms in 12 g of
carbon-12.
For example, 1 g of hydrogen, 14 g of nitrogen,
23 g of sodium, 56 g of iron will all contain the
same number of atoms as in 12 g of carbon-12.
4 Now the question that arises is: how many
atoms are there in 4 g of helium, 1 g of
hydrogen, 14 g of nitrogen, 23 g of sodium,
56 g of iron and 12 g of carbon-12?
Through several experiments scientists have
found that this number is 602 000 000 000
000 000 000 000 or 6.02  1023.
5 In Chemistry, the number 6.02  1023 is called
one mole (or mol in short).
3.1
3
Conversion of the Number of Moles to the Number
of Particles
6 For ionic compounds, the particles are ions.
For example,
1 mol of magnesium ions contains 6.02  1023
Mg2+ ions.
1 mol of potassium iodide, KI contains 6.02
 1023 K+ ions and 6.02  1023 I– ions.
1 mol of magnesium chloride, MgCl2 contains
6.02  1023 Mg2+ ions and 2  6.02  1023
Cl– ions.
7 For covalent compounds, the particles are
molecules. For example,
1 mol of carbon dioxide contains 6.02  1023
CO2 molecules.
6
Calculate the number of particles in:
(a) 0.75 mol of aluminium atoms, A1,
(b) 1.2 mol of chloride ions, Cl–,
(c) 0.07 mol of carbon dioxide molecules, CO2.
[Assume NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
Solution
(a) 1 mol of aluminium contains 6  1023 Al atoms.
0.75 mol of aluminium contains
Make sure that the
0.75 mol
———————  6  1023 Al atoms numerator and the
1 mol
denominator have
the same unit.
= 4.5  1023 Al atoms
(b) 1 mol of chloride ions contains 6  1023 Cl– ions.
1.2 mol of chloride ions contain
1.2 mol
—
—
—
—
—
—  6  1023 Cl– ions.
1 mol
= 7.2  1023 Cl– ions
(c) 1 mol of carbon dioxide contains 6  1023 CO2
molecules.
0.07 mol of carbon dioxide contains
0.07 mol
—
—
—
—
—
—
—  6  1023 CO2 molecules
1 mol
= 4.2  1022 CO2 molecules
Conversion of the Number of Moles to
the Number of Particles and Vice Versa
1 Since one mole of any substance contains
6.02  1023 particles, n moles of the substance
will contain n  6.02  1023 particles.
2 Hence,
number of particles = number of mole 3 NA
(where NA = 6.02 3 1023)
3 If 6.02  1023 particles are found in 1 mol,
then one particle is found in
1 particle
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—  1 mol
6.021023 particles
1
=—
—
—
—
—
—
­­—
—
—
— mol
6.021023
7
Therefore, x particles are found in
x
—————————
mol
6.02  1023
4 Thus, the
Solution
(a) 0.2 mol of SO2 contains 0.2  6  1023
molecules = 1.2  1023 molecules.
1 sulphur dioxide molecule (SO2) has 3 atoms
(one sulphur and two oxygen atoms).
Therefore the number of atoms
= 3  1.2  1023
= 3.6  1023 atoms
5 Generally,
 NA
 NA
mol
(b) 0.125 mol of CH4 contains 0.125  6  1023
molecules = 7.5  1022 molecules.
1 methane molecule (CH4) has 5 atoms (one
carbon and four hydrogen atoms). Therefore the
number of atoms = 5  7.5  1022
= 3.75  1023 atoms
A student need not memorise that the Avogadro constant
is 6.02  1023. It will be given in the examination.
However in most cases, the value of NA given is
6  1023 for easy calculation.
Chemical Formulae and Equations
SPM
’11/P1
Calculate the number of atoms in:
(a) 0.2 mol of sulphur dioxide gas, SO2,
(b) 0.125 mol of methane gas, CH4.
[NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
number of moles = number of particles  NA
(where NA = 6.02  1023)
number of
particles
SPM
’09/P1
44
Conversion of the Number of Particles to the
Number of Moles
3 The mole-atom is the relative atomic mass of
an atom expressed in gram.
’10/P1
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12; Al, 27; S, 32]
SPM
1
=
1
=
1
=
Calculate the number of moles of the following
substances:
(a) 6  1021 iron atoms,
(b) 7.5  1023 carbon monoxide molecules.
[NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
mole-atom of carbon
12 g
mole-atom of aluminium
27 g
mole-atom of sulphur
32 g
Each sample
contains
6.02  1023
atoms
4 The mole-molecule is the relative molecular
mass of a compound expressed in gram.
[Relative molecular mass: H2O, 18; CO2, 44;
NH3, 17; C2H5OH, 46; CH4, 16]
Solution
(a) 1 mol of iron contains 6  1023 atoms.
Therefore 6  1021 iron atoms
6  1021 atom
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—  1 mol
6  1023 atom
= 0.01 mol
(b) 1 mol contains 6  1023 molecules.
Therefore 7.5  1023 CO molecules contain
7.5  1023 molecules
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—  1 mol
6  1023 molecules
= 1.25 mol
1 mole-molecule of water,
H2O = 18 g
1 mole-molecule of carbon
dioxide, CO2 = 44 g
1 mole-molecule of ethanol,
C2H5OH = 46 g
Each sample
contains
6.02  1023
molecules
Conversion of the Number of Moles of a
Substance to Its Mass
3.2
1 Since 1 mol of an element is the relative
atomic mass in gram, x mol of the element
has x  relative atomic mass in gram.
1 Calculate the number of particles in
1
(a) — mol of copper,
6
(b) 0.0625 mol of water molecule, H2O,
(c) 1.3 mol of sodium ions, Na+.
[NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
Number of mole-atom
mass in gram
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
relative atomic mass
2 Calculate the number of atoms in
(a) 0.012 mol of ethane gas, C2H6,
(b) 1.1 mol of sulphur trioxide, SO3.
[NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
2 Similarly, since 1 mol of a compound is the
relative molecular mass in gram, x mol of
the compound has x  relative molecular
mass in gram.
3 Calculate the number of moles of the following
substances:
(a) 6  1022 sodium ions,
(b) 1.8  1024 H2S molecules.
[NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
3.3
SPM
’07/P2
Number of mole-molecule
mass in gram
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
relative molecular mass
Relationship between the
Number of Moles of a
Substance and Its Mass
3 Generally,
mole
1 The mass of a substance that contains one mole
of the substance is called the molar mass.
2 One mole of substance contains 6.02  1023
particles. Therefore the molar mass of any
substance contains 6.02  1023 particles.
 Ar or Mr
4 Ar or Mr
mass in gram
number of moles
45
Chemical Formulae and Equations
3
8
Conversion of the Number of Moles of a
Substance to Its Mass
Conversion of the Number of Particles of a
Substance to Its Mass and Vice Versa
1 Two steps are involved in the conversion of the
mass of substance to the number of particles.
Step 1: Mass in gram is converted to number
of moles by dividing the mass by
the relative atomic mass or relative
molecular mass.
Step 2: Number of moles is converted to
number of particles by multiplying
the number of moles by the Avogadro
constant.
2 Two steps are involved in the conversion of
the number of particles to mass.
Step 1: Number of particles is converted to
the number of moles by dividing the
number of particles by the Avogadro
constant.
Step 2: Number of moles is converted to mass
in gram by multiplying the number of
moles by the relative atomic mass or
relative molecular mass.
3 In general,
 Ar
 NA
or
Mr mass in
number of
mole
particles
gram
 NA
 Ar
or Mr
3
9
Determine the mass for each of the following
substances:
2
(a) — mol of aluminium atoms,
3
(b) 0.08 mol of ascorbic acid, C6H8O6,
(c) 0.125 mol of magnesium hydroxide, Mg(OH)2.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; O, 16; Mg, 24;
Al, 27; Cl, 35.5]
Solution
(a) 1 mol of Al = 27 g
2
2
— mol of Al = — 27 g = 18 g
3
3
(b) 1 mol of C6H8O6 = 6(12) + 8(1) + 6(16) g
= 176 g
0.08 mol C6H8O6 = 0.08  176 g
= 14.08 g
(c) 1 mol of Mg(OH)2 = 24 + 2(16 + 1) g
= 58 g
0.125 mol of Mg(OH)2 = 0.125  58 g
= 7.25 g
Conversion of the Mass of a Substance to the
Number of Moles
10
Conversion of the Mass of a Substance to the
Number of Particles
SPM
’08/P1
11
Calculate the number of moles of the following
substances:
(a) 23.5 g of copper(II) nitrate, Cu(NO3)2,
(b) 0.97 g of caffeine, C8H10N4O2 (a stimulant).
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; N, 14; O, 16; Si,
28; S, 32; Cu, 64]
Calculate the number of particles in:
(a) 12.8 g of copper,
(b) 8.5 g of ammonia, NH3.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; N, 14; O, 16;
Fe, 56; Cu, 64; NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
Divide mass
Solution
(a) 1 mol of Cu(NO3)2 = 64 + 2[14 + 3(16)] g
= 188 g
23.5
23.5 g of Cu(NO3)2 = —
—
—
—  1 mol
188
= 0.125 mol
(b) 1 mol of C8H10N4O2
= 8(12) + 10 + 4(14) + 2(16) g = 194 g
in gram by the
Solution
relative atomic
12.8
to find the
(a) 12.8 g of Cu = —
—
— mol = 0.2 mol mass
number of moles
64
1 mol contains 6  1023 atoms.
0.2 mol contains 0.2  6  1023 atoms
= 1.2  1023 atoms
Number of moles
is converted to
(b) 1 mol of NH3 = 17 g
number of particles
by multiplying the
8.5
8.5 g of NH3 = —
— mol = 0.5 mol number of moles
17
by the Avogadro
1 mol contains 6  1023 molecules. constant
0.5 mol contains 0.5  6  1023 molecules
= 3  1023 molecules
0.97 g of C8H10N4 O2
0.97
= ———  1 mol
194
= 0.005 mol
Chemical Formulae and Equations
46
Conversion of the Number of Particles of a
Substance to Its Mass
3.3
12
Calculate the mass of the following substances:
(a) 1.2  1022 zinc atoms,
(b) 3  1023 ethanol (C2H5OH) molecules.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; O, 16; Zn,
65; NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
Solution
(a) 1 mol contains 6  1023 atoms.
1.2  1022 atoms
Number of particles is
converted to the number of
1.2  1022
moles by dividing the number
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— mol
23
6  10
of particles by the Avogadro
constant
= 0.02 mol
1 mol of Zn = 65 g
0.02 mol of Zn = 0.02  65 g
= 1.3 g
Number of moles is
(b) 1 mol contains
converted to mass in
23
6  10 molecules.
gram by multiplying
3  1023 C2H5OH molecules the number of moles
by the relative atomic
3  1023
mass
is contained in —
—
—
—
—
—
mol
6  1023
= 0.5 mol
1 mol of C2H5OH = 46 g
0.5 mol of C2H5OH = 0.5  46 g = 23 g
2
2 Calculate the number of moles of the following
substances:
(a) 2.8 g of iron,
(b) 4.05 g of nicotine, C10H14N2 (an addictive
substance in cigarette),
(c) 1.49 g of ammonium phosphate, (NH4)3PO4
(a fertiliser),
(d) 2.3 g of ethanol, C2H5OH.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; N, 14; O,
16; P, 31; Fe, 56]
3 Calculate the mass of the following substances:
(a) 3  1023 titanium atoms,
(b) 1.2  1024 argon atoms,
(c) 7.5  1022 citric acid (C12H16O14) molecules.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; O, 16; Ar,
40; Ti, 48; NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
4 Calculate the number of particles in the following
substances:
(a) 4 g of sulphur,
(b) 2.24 g of cadmium,
(c) 36 g of glucose, C6H12O6.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; O, 16;
S, 32; Cd, 112; NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
’04
The relative atomic mass of X and Y is 64 and 16
respectively. Which of the following is about the
atoms of X and Y?
The mass of one atom of Y is 16 g.
The number of protons in X is 64.
4 mol of Y have the same mass as 1 mol of X.
The density of one atom of X is 4 times that of
an atom of Y.
5 Geranial is a compound found in lemon grass
(daun serai). Its molecular structure is shown
below.
CH3
H H H CH3 H H
⎮ ⎮ ⎮ ⎮ ⎮ ⎮
C == C –– C –– C –– C == C –– C == O
⎮ ⎮
CH3 H H
Solution
16
The mass of one atom of Y is —
—
—
—
—
—
— g.
6  1023
(A is incorrect)
The nucleon number of X is 64.
(B is incorrect)
Mass of 4 mol of Y = 4  16 g
= 64 g
(C is correct)
Mass of 1 mol of X is 64 g.
(a) Determine the mass of 1 mol of geranial.
(b) Determine the mass of 0.02 mol of geranial.
(c) Determine the number of molecules present
in 7.6 g of geranial.
(d) Determine the mass of 7.5  1022 geranial
molecules.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; O, 16;
NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
Densities cannot be determined because the volume
of the atom is not given.
(D is incorrect)
47
Chemical Formulae and Equations
3
1 Calculate the mass of each of the following
substances:
(a) 1.25 mol of helium gas,
2
(b) — mol of cobalt, Co,
5
(c) 0.15 mol of hydrated copper(II) sulphate,
CuSO4.5H2O,
(d) 0.05 mol of potassium manganate(VII),
KMnO4.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; He, 4; O, 16; S,
32; K, 39; Mn, 55; Co, 59; Cu, 64]
3.4
Conversion of the Number of Moles of
a Gas to Its Volume and Vice Versa
Relationship between
the Number of Moles of
a Gas and Its Volume
1 Since 1 mol of any gas occupies 22.4 dm3 at
s.t.p. (or 24 dm3 at r.t.p.), n mol of the gas
will occupy n  22.4 dm3 at s.t.p. (or n 
24 dm3 at r.t.p.)
2 Hence,
volume of gas = number of moles of gas 
molar volume
where the molar volume is 22.4 dm3 at s.t.p.
or 24 dm3 at room temperature.
3 If a volume of 22.4 dm3 (or 22 400 cm3) is
occupied by 1 mol of gas,
1
1 cm3 of gas is occupied by —
—
—
—
—
—
‑ mol.
22 400
4 Conversely,
volume of gas
number of moles of gas = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
‑
molar volume
3
Conversion of the Number of Particles of
a Substance to Its Volume
1 The volume occupied by a gas depends on
the temperature. As the temperature increases,
the gas expands and occupies a larger volume.
If the gas is cooled, the gas contracts and
occupies a smaller volume.
2 The volume occupied by a gas also depends
on the pressure. If a gas is compressed (with
increased pressure), the volume of the gas
decreases. If the pressure is decreased, the
volume of the gas increases.
3 At the same temperature and pressure,
equal volumes of all gases contain the
same number of particles. Accordingly, one
mole of any gas (which contains 6.02  1023
particles) will occupy the same volume at a
particular temperature and pressure.
4 It is found that one mole of any gas at
room temperature (25°C) and pressure of 1
atmosphere occupies a volume of 24 dm3 (or
24 000 cm3).
5 At standard temperature and pressure
(s.t.p.), that is, at a temperature of 0 °C
and pressure of 1 atmosphere, one mole of
any gas occupies a volume of 22.4 dm3 (or
22 400 cm3).
6 The volume occupied by one mole of any gas
SPM is called the molar volume.
’11/P1
Example
• 1 mol of oxygen gas,
O2(32 g)
• 1 mol of carbon
dioxide gas, CO2(44 g)
A student need not memorise that molar volume is
22.4 dm3 at s.t.p. or 24 dm3 at r.t.p. It will be given in
the examination.
Conversion of the Number of Moles to Volume
of Gas
13
Calculate the volume of 0.75 mol of nitrogen gas
at s.t.p.
[1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 22.4 dm3 at s.t.p.]
Solution
1 mol of gas occupies a volume 22.4 dm3 at s.t.p.
0.75 mol of N2 gas occupies
Make sure that
the numerator and
0.75 mol
3
3
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—  22.4 dm = 16.8 dm denominator have the
1 mol
same unit
occupies 24
dm3 at room
temperature or
occupies 22.4
dm3 at s.t.p.
[Relative molecular mass: O2, 32; CO2, 44]
Conversion of Volume of Gas to Number of Moles
7 One mole of gas contains 6.02  10
molecules and therefore at s.t.p.
23
22.4 dm3 of oxygen gas,
O2(32 g)
22.4 dm3 of carbon
dioxide gas, CO2(44 g)
Chemical Formulae and Equations
SPM
’04/P2
14
Calculate the number of moles of the following
gases at room temperature and pressure.
(a) 4.8 dm3 of chlorine gas,
(b) 1200 cm3 of methane gas.
[1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at
room temperature]
each contains
6.02  1023
molecules
48
Solution
(a) 1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at
room temperature.
4.8 dm3
4.8 dm3 Cl2 gas contain —
—
—
—
—
—  1 mol
24 dm3
= 0.2 mol
(b) 1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24 000 cm3 at
room temperature.
1200 cm3 of CH4 gas contain
1200 cm3
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—  1 mol
24 000 cm3
= 0.05 mol
Solution
1 mol of NH3 gas = 17 g
3.4 g
3.4 g of NH3 = —
—
—
— 1 mol = 0.2 mol
17 g
1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 22.4 dm3 at s.t.p.
0.2 mol of ammonia gas occupies a volume of
0.2  22.4 dm3 = 4.48 dm3.
Conversion of Volume of Gas to Mass
Conversion of the Volume of Gases to
Mass and Vice Versa
SPM
Calculate the mass of the following gases at room
temperature and pressure:
(a) 7.2 dm3 of sulphur dioxide gas, SO2,
(b) 600 cm3 of methane gas, CH4.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; O, 16; S,
32; 1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3
at room temperature]
’06/P2
’08/P2
1 Two steps are involved in the conversion of
volume of gas to mass.
Step 1: Volume of gas is converted to
number of moles (by dividing the
volume of gas by the molar volume).
Step 2: Number of moles is converted to
mass in gram (by multiplying the
number of moles by the relative
atomic mass or relative molecular
mass of the gas).
2 Two steps are involved in the conversion of
mass to volume of gas.
Step 1: Mass in gram is converted to
number of moles (by dividing the
mass by the relative atomic mass or
relative molecular mass).
Step 2: Number of moles is converted
to volume of gas (by multiplying
the number of moles by the molar
volume).
3 In general:
 22.4 dm3
volume
 22.4 dm3
(at s.t.p.)
number
of moles
 Ar or Mr
3
16
Solution
(a) 1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at
room temperature.
7.2 dm3
7.2 dm3 of SO2 = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— 1 mol = 0.3 mol
24 dm3
1 mol of SO2 = (32 + 32) g = 64 g
0.3 mol of SO2 = 0.3  64 g = 19.2 g
(b) 1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24 000 cm3 at
room temperature.
600 cm3
600 cm3 of CH4 gas = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—  1 mol
24 000 cm3
= 0.025 mol
1 mol of CH4 = 16 g
0.025 mol of CH4 = 0.025  16 g = 0.4 g
Conversion of the Volume of Gases to
the Number of Particles and Vice Versa
mass in
gram
 Ar or Mr
SPM
’04,06
/P2
1 Two steps are involved in the conversion
of the volume of gas to the number of
particles.
Step 1: Volume of gas is converted to
number of moles (by dividing the
volume of gas by the molar volume).
Step 2: Number of moles is converted to
number of particles (by multiplying
the number of moles by the Avogadro
constant).
2 Two steps are involved in the conversion of
the number of particles to volume of gas.
Conversion of Mass to Volume of Gas
15
Calculate the volume occupied by 3.4 g of ammonia
gas, NH3 at standard temperature and pressure.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; N, 14; 1 mol of gas
occupies a volume of 22.4 dm3 at s.t.p.]
49
Chemical Formulae and Equations
Solution
1 mol contains 6  1023 molecules.
1.5  1023 molecules
1.5  1023 molecules
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—  1 mol = 0.25 mol
6  1023 molecules
Step 1: Number of particles is converted to
number of moles (by dividing the
number of particles by the Avogadro
constant).
Step 2: Number of moles is converted
to volume of gas (by multiplying
the number of moles by the molar
volume).
3 In general:
3
volume
of gas
 22.4 dm3
number
of moles
 22.4 dm3
(at s.t.p.)
 NA
 NA
1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at room
temperature.
0.25 mol of gas occupies a volume of 0.25  24 dm3
= 6 dm3
number of
particles
volume
Conversion of Volume of Gas to Number of
Particles
 22.4 dm
(or 24 dm3)
3
number of
moles
 (61023)
17
 Mr
 Mr
mass in
gram
 (61023)
number of particles
Calculate the number of molecules present at s.t.p. in
(a) 0.28 dm3 of N2 gas,
(b) 448 cm3 of carbon monoxide, CO gas.
[1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 22.4 dm3 at
s.t.p., NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
3
’03
Which of the following gases contain 6  1022
molecules?
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; N, 14; O, 16;
Avogadro constant = 6  1023 mol–1]
I 1.0 g of hydrogen gas
II 2.8 g of nitrogen gas
III 4.4 g of carbon dioxide
IV 1.8 g of water vapour
I, II and III only II, III and IV only
I, III and IV only I, II, III and IV
Solution
(a) 1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 22.4 dm3 at s.t.p.
0.28 dm3
0.28 dm3 of nitrogen gas = —
—
—
—
—
—
—  1 mol
22.4 dm3
= 0.0125 mol
1 mol of N2 contains 6  1023 molecules.
0.0125 mol of N2 contains
0.0125  6  1023 molecules = 7.5  1021 molecules
(b) 1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 22 400 cm3 at
s.t.p.
448 cm3
448 cm3 of CO gas = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—  1 mol
22 400 cm3
= 0.02 mol
1 mol of CO contains 6  1023 molecules.
0.02 mol of CO contains
0.02  6  1023 molecules = 1.2  1022 molecules
Solution
6  1022
6  1022 molecules = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
‑  1 mol = 0.1 mol
6  1023
I 1 mol of H2 = 2 g
1
1 g of H2 = — mol = 0.5 mol
(I is incorrect)
2
II 1 mol of N2 = 28 g
2.8
2.8 g of N2 = —
— mol = 0.1 mol (II is correct)
28
III 1 mol of CO2 = 44 g
4.4
4.4 g of CO2 = —
— mol = 0.1 mol (III is correct)
44
IV 1 mol of H2O = 18 g
1.8
1.8 g of H2O = —
— mol = 0.1 mol (IV is correct)
18
Answer
Conversion of Number of Particles to Volume of
Gas
18
Calculate the volume of 1.5  1023 molecules of
ethane, C2H6 gas at room temperature and pressure.
[1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at r.t.p.,
NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
Chemical Formulae and Equations
 22.4 dm3
(or 24 dm3)
50
3.5
’05
The activity of microorganisms on waste products
at dump sites produces methane gas. If 180 dm3
of methane gas is collected, calculate the mass of
methane obtained.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; 1 mol of gas
occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at room temperature
and pressure]
Chemical Formulae
SPM
’05/P2
’08/P1
1 A chemical formula is used to represent a
chemical compound.
The chemical formula shows
(a) the elements, denoted by their symbols,
present in the compound.
(b) the relative numbers, indicated by
subscripts written after the symbols, of
each element present in the compound.
2 For example, the chemical formula of
sulphuric acid is H2SO4. The chemical formula
indicates that
(a) the elements present in sulphuric acid are
hydrogen, sulphur and oxygen.
(b) two hydrogen atoms, one sulphur atom
and four oxygen atoms combine to form
the compound.
3 Table 3.1 shows the chemical formulae of
some covalent compounds.
Solution
1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at room
temperature.
180 dm3
180 dm3 of CH4 gas = —
—
—
—
—  1 mol
24 dm3
= 7.5 mol
1 mol of CH4 = 16 g
7.5 mol of CH4 = 7.5  16 g
= 120 g
Table 3.1 The chemical formulae of some covalent
compounds
3.4
Name of
compound
1 Calculate the volume of 0.55 mol of oxygen gas at
room temperature and pressure.
[1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at
room temperature]
Oxygen
2 Calculate the number of moles of 672 cm3 of
carbon dioxide gas at s.t.p.
[1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 22.4 dm3 at
s.t.p.]
3 Calculate the volume occupied by 1.4 g of ethene
gas, C2H4 at room temperature and pressure.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; 1 mol of
gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at room
temperature]
Chemical
formula
O2
Number of each element
in the compound
2 oxygen atoms
Water
H2O
2 hydrogen atoms and
1 oxygen atom
Ammonia
NH3
1 nitrogen atom and
3 hydrogen atoms
Sulphuric
acid
H2SO4
2 hydrogen atoms,
1 sulphur atom and
4 oxygen atoms
4 The chemical formula of an ionic compound
can be written if the charge of the cation
(positively-charged ion) and the anion
(negatively-charged ion) forming the ionic
compound are known.
5 Table 3.2 shows the charges of some ions.
4 Calculate the mass of each of the following gases
at standard temperature and pressure:
(a) 16.8 dm3 of methane, CH4,
(b) 6720 cm3 of carbon monoxide gas, CO.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; O, 16; 1
mol of gas occupies a volume of 22.4 dm3 at
s.t.p.]
Table 3.2 Charges of some cations and anions
5 Calculate the number of molecules present in:
(a) 3.6 dm3 of N2 gas,
(b) 1200 cm3 of ammonia gas at room
temperature and pressure.
[1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3
at room temperature, NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
Charge
+1
6 Calculate the volume of 9  1021 molecules of
CO at standard temperature and pressure.
[1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 22.4 dm3 at
s.t.p., NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
51
Cation
Sodium ion
Potassium ion
Lithium ion
Silver ion
Copper(I) ion
Hydrogen ion
Ammonium ion
Nickel(I) ion
Symbol
Na+
K+
Li+
Ag+
Cu+
H+
NH4+
Ni+
Chemical Formulae and Equations
3
4
Charge
+2
3
+3
Cation
Magnesium ion
Calcium ion
Zinc ion
Iron(II) ion
Copper(II) ion
Manganese(II) ion
Lead(II) ion
Nickel(II) ion
Mg2+
Ca2+
Zn2+
Fe2+
Cu2+
Mn2+
Pb2+
Ni2+
Iron(III) ion
Aluminium ion
Chromium(III) ion
Fe3+
Al3+
Cr3+
Charge
must be equal to the total negative charge of
the anion.
7 To write the chemical formula of an ionic
compound, the following steps can be used:
(a) Write the formulae of the ions involved in
forming the compound and their charges.
(b) Then, balance the positive and negative
charges. This can be done by writing the
numerical charge of the cation next to the
anion as a subscript and the numerical
charge of the anion next to the cation as a
subscript.
(c) Finally write the chemical formula of the
ionic compound without the charges.
8 Generally, if the ionic compound is formed by
the ions Xm+ and Yn–, then the chemical formula
of the compound is XnYm.
If m = n, then the chemical formula is XY.
Examples,
(a) Chemical formula of sodium sulphate
Charge of ion
+1
–2
SO42–
Formula of ion
Na+
Ratio
2
1
Chemical formula is Na2SO4.
(b) Chemical formula of iron(III) chloride
Charge of ion
+3
–1
Formula of ion
Fe3+
Cl–
Ratio
1
3
Chemical formula is FeCl3.
(c) Chemical formula of magnesium oxide
Charge of ion
+2
–2
2+
Formula of ion
Mg
O2–
Ratio
2
2
Chemical formula is MgO.
Note that if the charges of the ions are the
same, the ratio of the ions that combine
is 1 : 1.
9 In general, the chemical formulae of
compounds formed between the ions are
summarised in Table 3.3.
Symbol
Anion
Symbol
–1
Fluoride ion
Chloride ion
Bromide ion
Iodide ion
Hydroxide ion
Nitrate ion
Nitrite ion
Bicarbonate ion
Permanganate ion
Hydride ion
F–
Cl–
Br–
I–
OH–
NO3–
NO2–
HCO3–
MnO4–
H–
–2
Oxide ion
Sulphide ion
Sulphate ion
Sulphite ion
Carbonate ion
Thiosulphate ion
Chromate(VI) ion
Dichromate(VI) ion
O2–
S2–
SO42–
SO32–
CO32–
S2O32–
CrO42–
Cr2O72–
–3
Phosphide ion
Phosphate ion
Nitride ion
P3–
PO43–
N3–
6 Since a chemical compound is always electrically
neutral, the total positive charge of the cation
Table 3.3 Formulae of ionic compounds
Cation
Anion
Chemical formula
Examples
X+
X+
X+
Y–
Y 2–
Y 3–
XY
X2Y
X3Y
Sodium chloride, NaCl
Potassium dichromate(VI), K2Cr2O7
Ammonium phosphate, (NH4)3PO4
X 2+
X 2+
X 2+
Y–
Y 2–
Y 3–
XY2
XY
X3Y2
Calcium chloride, CaCl2
Copper(II) sulphate, CuSO4
Magnesium nitride, Mg3N2
X 3+
X 3+
X 3+
Y–
Y 2–
Y 3–
XY3
X2Y3
XY
Iron(III) chloride, FeCl3
Chromium(III) sulphate, Cr2(SO4)3
Aluminium nitride, AlN
Chemical Formulae and Equations
52
Name of compound
Cu+
Cu2+
O2–
O2–
Copper(I) oxide
Copper(II) oxide
Cu2O
CuO
Fe2+
Fe3+
Cl–
Cl–
Iron(II) chloride
Iron(III) chloride
FeCl2
FeCl3
Mn2+
Mn4+
O2–
O2–
Manganese(II) oxide
Manganese(IV) oxide
MnO
MnO2
All transition elements are metals. Many of them
like iron, manganese, copper, silver, gold, nickel and
titanium are of major technological importance. A large
number of the transition elements combine with each
other to form useful alloys.
1 The empirical formula of a compound shows
the simplest ratio of the atoms of the elements
’07/P2
that combine to form the compound.
2 The molecular formula of the compound
shows the actual numbers of the atoms of the
elements that combine to form the compound.
3 Table 3.5 shows the molecular and empirical
formulae of some compounds.
Compound
Molecular
formula
C:H:O
=1:2:1
CH2O
C20H24N2O2 C : H : N : O C10H12NO
= 10: 12 : 1 : 1
’09
The table shows the mass of elements M and O in
an oxide, and relative atomic mass of M and O.
SPM
Simplest
ratio of the
elements
C6H12O6
Empirical
formula
5
Empirical and Molecular Formulae
Table 3.5 The molecular and empirical formulae
of some compounds
Glucose
Simplest
ratio of the
elements
4 The following steps can be used to determine
the empirical formula of a compound:
Step 1: Write the mass or percentage of each
element in the compound.
Step 2: Calculate the number of moles of
each element in the compound by
dividing the mass or percentage of the
element by the relative atomic mass of
the element.
Step 3: Next, divide each number by the
smallest number to obtain the
simplest ratio.
Step 4: Finally write the empirical formula
of the compound based on the ratio
of the elements.
Chemical
formula
Anion
Molecular
formula
Quinine
Table 3.4 Formulae of some compounds of transition
elements
Cation
Compound
Element
M
O
Mass (g)
2.4
1.6
Relative atomic mass
48
16
What is the empirical formula of this compound?
Solution
Element
SPM
Step 1
Mass
Step 2
Number of
moles
Step 3
Simplest
ratio
M
O
2.4 g
1.6 g
2.4
—— mol
48
= 0.05
1.6
—
— mol
16
= 0.1
0.05
—
—
—
0.05
=1
0.10
—
—
—
0.05
=2
’09/P1
Empirical
formula
Water
H2O
H:O=2:1
H2O
Ethene
C2H4
C:H=1:2
CH2
Butane
C4H10
C:H=2:5
C2H5
Ethane
C2H6
C:H=1:3
CH3
Empirical formula of compound is MO2.
53
Chemical Formulae and Equations
3
10 Transition elements can form ions with
different charges. In the IUPAC (International
Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) system,
the standardised chemical nomenclature is
denoted by Roman numerals in brackets to
indicate the charge of the ion. For example,
iron(II) represents Fe2+ ion and iron(III)
represents Fe3+ ion. Table 3.4 shows examples
of some compounds of transition elements.
6
Simplest
ratio
’05
2.5 g of X combined with 4 g of Y to form a
compound with the formula XY2. If the relative
atomic mass of Y is 80, determine the relative
atomic mass of X.
4.8
——
1.6
=3
1.6
——
—
1.6
=1
4.84
———
1.6
=3
Empirical formula of boric acid is H3BO3.
Solution
Assume the relative atomic mass of X is a.
Element
X
Y
2.5
4
2.5
—— mol
a
4
—
— mol
80
= 0.05
1
2
3
Mass
Number of moles
Simplest ratio
20
A gaseous hydrocarbon X contains 85.7% of carbon
by weight. 4.2 g of the gas X occupies a volume of
3.36 dm3 at standard temperature and pressure.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; 1 mol of gas
occupies a volume of 22.4 dm3 at s.t.p.]
(a) Determine the empirical formula of X.
(b) Determine the relative molecular mass of X.
(c) What is the molecular formula of X?
Since the empirical formula is XY2, the ratio of X :
Y=1:2
2.5
—
—
a
1
—
—
—= —
0.05 2
2.5 0.05
—
—= —
—
—
a
2
2.5  2
a=—
—
—
—
—
—
0.05
= 100
Solution
19
Boric acid is used to preserve prawns and fish.
Chemical analysis of the compound shows that it
contains 4.8% hydrogen, 17.7% boron and the rest
is oxygen. Determine the empirical formula of boric
acid. [Relative atomic mass: H, 1; B, 11; O, 16]
Element
H
B
O
Percentage
4.8%
17.7%
100 – 4.8 – 17.7%
= 77.5%
Number
of moles
4.8
17.7
——
— 100 g ——
—100 g
100
100
= 4.8 g
= 17.7 g
4.8
—— mol
1
= 4.8
17.7
——— mol
11
= 1.6
Chemical Formulae and Equations
Element
C
H
Percentage
85.7%
100 – 85.7%
= 14.3%
Number of
moles
85.7
—
—
—
— mol
12
= 7.14
14.3
—
—
— mol
1
= 14.3
Simplest ratio
7.14
—
—
—
7.14
=1
14.3
—
—
—
—
7.14
=2
(a) Empirical formula of X is CH2.
(b) 4.2 g of the gas has a volume of 3.36 dm3 at s.t.p.
1 mol of the gas (22.4 dm3) has a mass of
22.4 dm3
—
—
—
—
—
—
—  4.2 g
3.36 dm3
= 28 g
Solution
Mass in
100 g of
compound
SPM
’04/P2
Therefore the relative molecular mass of X is 28.
(c) Assume the molecular formula of X is (CH2)n.
The relative molecular mass of X is
(12 + 2)n = 28
28
n=—
—
14
=2
77.5
———  100 g
100
= 77.5 g
77.5
——— mol
16
= 4.84
Thus the molecular formula of X is C2H4.
54
To determine the empirical formula of magnesium oxide by
experiment
combustion of the magnesium. Care is taken
to prevent white smoke (magnesium oxide
powder formed) from escaping by closing the lid
immediately after it is lifted.
6 When the magnesium is completely burnt, the
crucible is cooled and is weighed again with its
lid. The weight is recorded.
7 The heating, cooling and weighing process is
repeated until a constant mass is obtained.
Procedure
Results
Mass of crucible + lid
= a gram
Mass of crucible + lid + magnesium
= b gram
Mass of crucible + lid + magnesium oxide = c gram
Calculations
Mass of magnesium used
Mass of oxygen that combined with
magnesium
1 The 20 cm length of magnesium ribbon is polished
with sandpaper to remove the oxide layer on its
surface.
2 The magnesium ribbon is rolled into a loose coil.
3 An empty crucible with its lid is first weighed
and its weight is recorded.
4 The rolled magnesium ribbon is placed in the
crucible. The crucible is weighed again and its
weight recorded.
5 The crucible is placed on a clay pipe triangle and
then heated strongly. The lid is lifted at intervals
to allow the oxygen from the air to enter for the
= (b – a) gram
= (c – b) gram
Element
Mg
O
Mass (g)
(b – a)
(c – b)
Number of
moles
Simplest ratio
(b – a)
—
—
—
— mol
24
(c – b)
—
—
—
— mol
16
x
y
Conclusion
The empirical formula is MgxOy.
To determine the empirical formula of copper oxide
Materials
SPM
’09/P2
1 The combustion tube with a porcelain dish is
weighed. The weight is recorded.
2 A spatula of copper oxide powder is placed in
the porcelain dish. The combustion tube with its
contents is weighed again. The weight is recorded.
3 Dry hydrogen gas is passed through the tube for
a few minutes to expel all the air.
4 The copper oxide is then heated strongly and
the hydrogen gas passing through the end of the
combustion tube is lit.
5 When all the copper oxide is reduced to copper
metal (the black copper oxide has all become
brown), heating is stopped.
6 A continuous stream of hydrogen gas is allowed
to pass through the tube until it is cooled.
The empirical formula of copper oxide is determined
by reducing the copper oxide using hydrogen gas.
Apparatus
3
Materials
Crucible with lid, tripod stand,
sandpaper, Bunsen burner, clay pipe
triangle, electronic balance and tongs.
A magnesium ribbon of about 20
cm in length and oxygen.
Porcelain dish, combustion tube and
electronic balance.
Copper oxide powder and dry
hydrogen gas.
Procedure
55
Chemical Formulae and Equations
Activity 3.2 & 3.3
Apparatus
7 The combustion tube with its contents is weighed
and the weight recorded.
8 The heating, cooling and weighing process is
repeated until a constant weight is obtained.
3
Results
Mass of combustion tube + empty porcelain dish
= 54.31 g
Mass of combustion tube + porcelain dish + copper
oxide
= 62.32 g
Mass of combustion tube + porcelain dish + copper
= 60.71 g
Calculations
Mass of copper obtained = (60.71 – 54.31)g = 6.40 g
Mass of oxygen that combined with the copper
= (62.32 – 60.71)g = 1.61 g
Element
Cu
O
Mass (g)
6.40
1.61
6.4
—
—
— mol = 0.1
64
1.61
—
—
— mol = 0.1
16
0.1
—
—
—= 1
0.1
0.1
—
—
—= 1
0.1
Number of
moles
Simplest ratio
Precautions taken
1 Hydrogen gas must be allowed to pass through
SPM the combustion tube for a few minutes before the
’11/P1
copper oxide is heated. This is to remove the air
in the tube. A mixture of air and hydrogen can
explode when lit.
2 The flow of hydrogen gas must be continued
throughout heating. This is to ensure that air
does not enter the combustion tube. Hence
the hydrogen gas must be seen to be burning
continuosly at the end of the combustion tube.
3 The hot copper metal is allowed to cool in a
stream of hydrogen gas. This is to ensure that
oxygen from the air does not oxidise the hot
copper to copper oxide again.
4 The heating, cooling and weighing process is
repeated until a constant weight is obtained. This
is to ensure that all the copper oxide has been
reduced.
Conclusion
The empirical formula of copper oxide is CuO.
3.5
1 Write down the chemical formulae of the following
ionic compounds:
(a) Silver nitrate
(b) Sodium thiosulphate
(c) Ammonium phosphate
(d) Calcium hydroxide
(e) Magnesium carbonate
(f) Zinc phosphide
(g) Iron(III) hydroxide
(h) Aluminium oxide
(i) Chromium(III) chloride
(j) Copper(II) sulphate
(k) Nickel(I) chloride
(l) Magnesium nitride
4 10.2 g of vanadium metal combined with 8 g of
oxygen to form a compound with empirical formula
V2O5. Determine the relative atomic mass of
vanadium. [Relative atomic mass: O, 16]
5 Hydrazine is used as a rocket fuel. It contains 87.5%
nitrogen and 12.5% hydrogen. [Relative atomic
mass: H, 1; N, 14]
(a) Determine the empirical formula of the
compound.
(b) If the relative molecular mass of hydrazine is 32,
determine its molecular formula.
6 x g of iron combined with 5.04 g of oxygen to form
an oxide with empirical formula Fe2O3. Determine
the value of x. [Relative atomic mass: O, 16; Fe, 56]
2 Silicon hydride contains 87.5% silicon by mass.
Determine the empirical formula of silicon hydride.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; Si, 28]
7 A gaseous hydrocarbon Q contains 20% hydrogen.
6 g of this hydrocarbon occupies a volume of 4.48
dm3 at s.t.p. [Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; 1
mol of gas occupies 22.4 dm3 at s.t.p.]. Determine:
(a) The empirical formula of Q
(b) Relative molecular mass of Q
(c) Molecular formula of Q
3 Reduction of 7.55 g of tin oxide using hydrogen gas
yields 5.95 g of tin metal. Determine the empirical
formula of tin oxide. [Relative atomic mass: Sn, 119;
O, 16]
Chemical Formulae and Equations
56
3.6
Chemical Equations
Remember that a chemical equation cannot be
balanced by altering the formulae of the reactants or
products. You can only balance the equation by putting
a number in front of each of the formulae.
Reactants and Products of Chemical
Equations
1 A chemical reaction can be represented by a
chemical equation. For example, when sodium
hydroxide reacts with sulphuric acid, sodium
sulphate and water are produced. The reaction
can be represented symbolically by the equation:
1 Lets’s look at a chemical reaction to practice
these rules. During combustion, magnesium
reacts with the oxygen in air to produce a
white powder, magnesium oxide. You might
start by writing an equation for this reaction
by writing the symbols for the reactants and
products.
2NaOH + H2SO4 → Na2SO4 + 2H2O
(a) The reactants are the chemicals that
are reacting and they are written on the
left-hand side of the equation. Hence,
sodium hydroxide and sulphuric acid are
the reactants.
(b) The products are the chemicals formed in
a reaction and they are written on the righthand side of the equation. Hence, sodium
sulphate and water are the products.
(c) 2 mol of NaOH react with 1 mol of H2SO4
to produce 1 mol of Na2SO4 and 2 mol of
H2O.
2 Some symbols which appear in a chemical
equation are:
Symbol
Meaning
∆
Heating of substance
↑ or (g)
Gas evolved
↓ or (s)
Precipitate formed
reactants
Mg
+
yield
O2
⎯→
product
MgO
2 On the left-hand side of the equation there
is 1 atom of magnesium and there is also
1 atom of Mg on the product side of the
equation. However, there are 2 oxygen atoms
on the left and only 1 on the right. To balance
the number of atoms of each type you will
need to add coefficients. If you multiply Mg on
the left-hand side of the equation by 2 then
you must do the same to the Mg atom on the
right which will mean doubling the number
of oxygen atoms on the right-hand side of the
equation too since you may not change the
ratio of atoms within a molecule because it
will change the identity of the substance. The
new equation will look like this:
Reversible reaction
2Mg + O2
3 When writing a chemical equation, the
following steps are followed:
(a) Write the correct formulae of all reactants
on the left-hand side of the equation.
(b) Write the correct formulae of all products
on the right-hand side of the equation.
(c) The equation is then balanced. This
involves making sure that the number of
atoms of each element before and after
the reaction are the same.
(d) Finally the physical state of each of the
reactants or products is written as:
(s) – represents solid state
(l) – represents liquid state
(g) – represents gaseous state
(aq) – represents aqueous state, that is,
the substance is dissolved in water.
⎯→ 2MgO
3 Now the equation is balanced. There are the same
number of Mg and O atoms on both sides of the
equation. A balanced equation is the source of a
great deal of information about both products
and reactants during a chemical change.
Examples of Chemical Equations
1 (a) When green copper(II) carbonate is heated,
it decomposes to form black copper(II)
oxide and carbon dioxide gas which turns
limewater cloudy.
CuCO3(s) ⎯→ CuO(s) + CO2(g)
reactant
57
products
Chemical Formulae and Equations
3
Writing Chemical Equations
If 0.12 g of magnesium is added to excess
hydrochloric acid, calculate
(a) the mass of magnesium chloride salt formed.
(b) the volume of hydrogen gas evolved at room
temperature and pressure.
[Relative atomic mass: Mg, 24; Cl, 35.5; 1 mol
of gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at r.t.p.]
(b) When calcium carbonate is reacted with
hydrochloric acid, the products formed are
calcium chloride, carbon dioxide and water.
CaCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) →
CaCl2(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)
(c)When an aqueous solution of potassium iodide is
added to an aqueous solution of lead(II) nitrate,
a yellow precipitate of lead(II) iodide is formed.
Solution
(a) Referring to the equation, 1 mol of Mg (24 g)
produces 1 mol of MgCl2(95 g).
Hence 0.12 g of Mg will produce
0.12 g Mg
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—  95 g MgCl2
24 g Mg
3
2KI(aq) + Pb(NO3)2(aq) →
PbI2(s) + 2KNO3(aq)
Interpreting Chemical Equations
Qualitatively and Quantitatively
= 0.475 g of MgCl2
SPM
’11/P1
(b) 1 mol of Mg (24 g) produces 1 mol of H2 gas
(24 dm3) at r.t.p.
Hence 0.12 g of Mg will produce
0.12
—
—
—  24 dm3 of H2
24
= 0.12 dm3 of H2
= 120 cm3 of H2
1 From a chemical equation, we can obtain
information on
(a) the reactants taking part in the reaction
(on the left-hand side of the equation).
(b) the products formed in the reaction (on
the right-hand side of the equation).
(c) the number of moles of each substance
taking part in the reaction and the
number of moles of the products formed
(from the coefficients/numbers before
the substances).
(d) the physical states of all the reactants and
products (from the symbols in bracket
after the substance).
For example:
2Na(s) + 2H2O(l) → 2NaOH(aq) + H2(g)
The chemical equation shows that:
2 mol of solid sodium react with 2 mol
of liquid water to form 2 mol of aqueous
sodium hydroxide and 1 mol of hydrogen
gas.
Solving Numerical Problems Using
Chemical Equations
8
3.2 g of copper(II) oxide powder is reacted with
excess dilute nitric acid.
(a) Write a chemical equation for the reaction.
(b) Calculate the mass of copper(II) nitrate salt
formed in the reaction.
[Relative atomic mass: N, 14; O, 16; Cu, 64]
Solution
(a) CuO(s) + 2HNO3(aq) → Cu(NO3)2(aq) + H2O(l)
(b) 1 mol of CuO produces 1 mol of Cu(NO3)2.
80 g of CuO produces 188 g of Cu(NO3)2.
Hence 3.2 g of CuO will produce
3.2 g CuO
——————  188 g of Cu(NO3)2
80 g CuO
= 7.52 g of Cu(NO3)2
SPM
’08/P1
The quantity of reactants and products can be
calculated using stoichiometric equations when
numerical information is given (stoichiometry).
7
21
Ethanol burns in air as represented by the equation
C2H5OH(g) + 3O2(g) → 2CO2(g) + 3H2O(l)
Calculate the mass of ethanol burnt if 2.4 dm3 of
carbon dioxide is produced at room temperature.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; O, 16; 1 mol of
gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at room temperature]
’09
Magnesium reacts with hydrochloric acid as
represented by the equation
Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq) → MgCl2(aq) + H2(g)
Chemical Formulae and Equations
’04
58
Solution
Referring to the equation, 1 mol of C2H5OH
(46 g) produces 2 mol (2  24 dm3) of CO2.
Therefore 2.4 dm3 of CO2 is produced from
2.4 dm3
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—  46 g of C2H5OH
2  24 dm3
= 2.3 g of ethanol, C2H5OH
3 Iron metal reacts with excess hydrochloric acid to
produce iron(II) chloride and hydrogen gas.
(a) Write a balanced chemical equation for the
reaction.
(b) If 2.8 g of iron metal is used in the reaction,
calculate
(i) the maximum mass of iron(II) chloride
formed.
(ii) the volume of hydrogen gas produced at
room conditions.
[Relative atomic mass: Cl, 35.5; Fe, 56;
1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3
at r.t.p.]
22
The chemical name of baking powder is sodium
bicarbonate (NaHCO3). When sodium bicarbonate
is heated, it decomposes to sodium carbonate,
carbon dioxide and water.
(a) Write a balanced chemical equation for the
decomposition of sodium bicarbonate when it is
heated.
(b) If 2.1 g of sodium bicarbonate is heated,
calculate the volume in cm3 of CO2 produced at
room temperature.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; O, 16; Na, 23;
1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at room
temperature]
4 Acetylene gas (C2H2) is used in metal welding. This
gas can be prepared by reacting calcium carbide
with excess water as represented by the equation
CaC2(s) + 2H2O(l) → Ca(OH)2(aq) + C2H2(g)
If 4.8 g of calcium carbide is reacted with excess
water, calculate
(a) the volume of acetylene gas evolved at room
temperature.
(b) the mass of calcium hydroxide formed.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; O, 16;
Ca, 40; 1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24
dm3 at r.t.p.]
Solution
(a) 2NaHCO3(s) ⎯→ Na2CO3(s) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)
∆
(b) 2 mol of NaHCO3 (2  84 g) produces 1 mol of
CO2 (24 dm3) at r.t.p.
2.1 g of NaHCO3 will produce
2.1
—
—
—
—
—
—  24 dm3 of CO2 = 0.3 dm3 of CO2
2  84
= 300 cm3 of CO2
5 Hydrogen gas is prepared by reacting methane gas
with steam using platinum as catalyst. The reaction
is represented by the equation
CH4(g) + H2O(g) → CO(g) + 3H2(g)
If 60 dm3 of hydrogen gas is produced at room
temperature and pressure, calculate
(a) the mass of methane that is used in the
reaction.
(b) the number of carbon monoxide molecules
released.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; 1 mol
of gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at r.t.p;
NA = 6 1023 mol–1]
3.6
1 Balance the following chemical equations:
(a) Na(s) + H2O(l) → NaOH(aq) + H2(g)
(b) Zn(s) + HCl(aq) → ZnCl2(aq) + H2(g)
(c) CuCO3(s) + HNO3(aq) →
Cu(NO3)2(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)
(d) HCl(aq) + Na2S2O3(aq) →
NaCl(aq) + SO2(g) + S(s) + H2O(l)
(e) Pb(NO3)2(s) ⎯⎯→ PbO(s) + NO2(g) + O2(g)
∆
6 Zinc phosphide (Zn3P2) is used as a rat poison.
This substance can be prepared by reacting excess
zinc powder with phosphorus.
(a) Write a balance chemical equation for the
reaction.
(b) Calculate the mass of phosphorus needed to
react with the excess zinc to produce 51.4 kg
of zinc phosphide.
[Relative atomic mass: P, 31; Zn, 65]
2 Write balanced equations for the following reactions:
(a) Reaction between sulphur dioxide and oxygen
to form sulphur trioxide.
(b) Neutralisation reaction between potassium
hydroxide and sulphuric acid to form
potassium sulphate and water.
(c) Burning of ethane (C2H6) in air to form carbon
dioxide and water.
59
Chemical Formulae and Equations
3
(d) Displacement reaction between zinc metal
and copper(II) sulphate solution to form
copper metal and zinc sulphate salt.
(e) Decomposition of zinc carbonate to zinc oxide
and carbon dioxide gas when heated.
(f) Reduction of solid lead(IV) oxide, PbO2 by
hydrogen gas to form lead metal and water.
3.7
Scientific Attitudes and Values in Investigating Matter
3
1 In the 19th century, scientists introduced a
simple way to represent an element.
Each element is represented by a letter or
two letters of the alphabet; the first letter is a
capital letter and the second letter is a small
letter. For example, the reaction between
carbon and oxygen to form carbon dioxide
can be represented by the following equation:
to produce 2 mol of magnesium oxide, we
need to burn 2 mol of magnesium in air.
If we need to produce 1 mol of MgO (40 g),
then we have to burn 1 mol of Mg (24 g) in
air.
Similarly, to produce 40 kg of MgO, the
required amount of Mg needed is 24 kg.
Any excess amount of magnesium used is
considered a wastage.
5 The use of relative mass by scientists enabled
the mass of atoms and molecules to be
determined although they are too small to
be measured by any weighing machines. The
development of the standard to be used in the
determination of relative atomic mass and
relative molecular mass started with the use
of the hydrogen atom, followed by the oxygen
atom, and finally carbon-12 which is now
used as the standard.
6 The Italian scientist, Amedeo Avogadro
proposed the hypothesis that equal volumes of
all gases at the same temperature and pressure
contain the same number of molecules. With
perseverance and ingenuity, he calculated that
22.4 dm3 of any gas contains 6.02  1023
particles at standard temperature and pressure.
The number of 6.02  1023 is now known as
Avogadro’s number or the Avogadro constant
in honour of him.
7 Some products can be produced by different
processes. For example, calcium oxide can be
produced by
(a) burning calcium in air:
2Ca(s) + O2(g) → 2CaO(s) or
(b) heating calcium carbonate:
CaCO3(s) → CaO(s) + CO2(g)
C(s) + O2(g) → CO2(g)
2 The symbols of elements using letters of
the alphabet are universal in that they are
agreed upon by all scientists, regardless of the
countries of origin. They become a tool of
communication between chemists although
the spoken languages may be different.
3 Many chemical reactions involve the formation
of compounds. However, the names of some
compounds are long. This makes the writing
of equations in words cumbersome.
For example,
Sulphuric acid + sodium hydroxide →
sodium sulphate + water
To simplify the writing of the chemical
equations, scientists used chemical formulae
to represent compounds. The above reaction
can then be represented by
H2SO4(aq) + 2NaOH(aq) →
Na2SO4(aq) + 2H2O(l)
Thus the writing of chemical equations is
made easy.
4 In the formation of a desired product through
a chemical reaction, it is important to calculate
the correct amount of reactants required so as
to prevent wastage. This is made possible
by the mole concept used by chemists in the
quantitative calculations of chemical reactions.
For example, in the reaction between magnesium
and oxygen,
8 The ideal process is one in which
(a) a high percentage yield is obtained.
For example, a process which produces
80% yield is superior to one which
produces only 45% yield.
The mole concept makes it possible to
calculate the percentage yield.
(b) the cost of reactants used is cheap.
In general, the cheaper the reactants, the
better the process is because the cost of
producing the product is lower. Thus, the
product can be priced competitively.
2Mg + O2 → 2MgO
Chemical Formulae and Equations
60
3.7
2 Explain the meaning of the following chemical
equations:
(a) CuO(s) + H2SO4(aq) → CuSO4(aq) + H2O(l)
(b) 2Mg(NO3)2(s) ⎯→ 2MgO(s) + 4NO2(g) +
∆
O2(g)
(c) H2(g) + PbO(s) → Pb(s) + H2O(l)
(d) CaCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) →
CaCl2(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)
1 The relative atomic mass of an element is the
number of times one atom of the element is heavier
than one-twelfth the mass of one carbon-12 atom.
2 The relative molecular mass of a compound is the
number of times one molecule of the compound is
heavier than one-twelfth the mass of one carbon-12
atom.
3 One mole is the quantity of substance which
contains the same number of particles as there are
in 12.00 grams of carbon-12.
4 One mole of element is the relative atomic mass
of the element expressed in gram.
For example,
6 The molar volume of a gas is the volume occupied
by one mole of the gas.
At standard temperature and pressure, one mole of
gas occupies a volume of 22.4 dm3.
7 The interconversion between mole, mass, volume
and number of particles can be summarised
below:
3
1 Write the chemical formulae for the following
compounds:
(a) Hydrobromic acid
(b) Zinc hydroxide
(c) Potassium nitrate
(d) Sodium sulphate
(e) Silver nitrate
(f) Magnesium chloride
 22.4 dm3
Volume
3 22.4 dm3
1 mol of C = 12 g
1 mol of Na = 23 g
3 (6 3 1023)
All contain
6.02 3 1023 atoms
1 mol of S = 32 g
1 mol of CO2 = 44 g
Mass in
gram
 RAM
or RMM
 (6 3 1023)
Number
of
particles
5 One mole of compound is the relative molecular
mass of the compound expressed in grams. For
example,
1 mol of H2O = 18 g
Number
of
moles
3 RAM
or RMM
All contain
6.02 3 1023 molecules
1 mol of C2H6 = 30 g
61
Chemical Formulae and Equations
3
Multiple-choice Questions
3
3.1
Relative Atomic Mass
and Relative Molecular
Mass
1 The relative formula mass of
Mg(XO3)2 is 148. Determine the
relative atomic mass of element
X. [Relative atomic mass: O, 16;
Mg, 24]
A 10
C 14
B 12
D 18
2 A compound with formula
M2S2O3.5H2O has a relative
formula mass of 248.
What is the relative atomic mass
of M? [Relative atomic mass:
H, 1; O, 16; S, 32]
A 23
C 27
B 24
D 39
3 Veronal is a barbiturate used
to induce sleep in psychiatric
patients. The molecular formula
of veronal is C4H2N2O3(C2H5)2.
Determine the relative molecular
mass of veronal. [Relative
atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; N, 14;
O, 16]
A 160
C 186
B 184
D 196
4 The diagram shows the molecular
structure of vanillin molecule
which gives vanilla its taste.
H
C
|
C
H
H
O
H
C
C
C
H
|
C–O–C–H
|
H
C
|
O–H
Determine the relative molecular
mass of vanillin.
Chemical Formulae and Equations
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1;
C, 12; O, 16]
A 136
B 140
C 151
D 152
3.2
Relationship between the
Number of Moles and
the Number of Particles
5 Three elements are represented
by the letters X, Y and Z. One
’08 atom of Z is two times heavier
than one atom of Y. One atom
of Y is three times heavier than
one atom of X. If the relative
atomic mass of X is 39, what is
the relative atomic mass of Z?
A 78
C 195
B 117
D 234
8 Which of the following samples
contain 3.0 3 1022 molecules?
[Relative atomic mass: H,1;
C, 12; N, 14; O,16; S, 32; 1 mol
contains 6 3 1023 molecules]
I 0.9 g of H2O
II 0.85 g of NH3
III 1.4 g of C2H4
IV 1.6 g of SO2
A I, II and III only
B I, III and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
6 Which compound in the table
below is correctly matched with
its relative formula mass?
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1;
C, 12; N, 14; O, 16; Na, 23;
P, 31; S, 32; Cl, 35.5; Ca, 40;
Co, 59]
9 Calculate the number of molecules
in 0.88 g of vitamin C, C6H8O6.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12;
O, 16; NA = 6 3 1023 mol–1]
A 3.0 3 1021
B 3.0 3 1022
C 7.5 3 1021
D 7.5 3 1022
Compound
Relative
formula mass
I Ca3(PO4)2
310
II C14H18N2O5
294
III C17H35COONa
306
IV CoCl2.6H2O
170
A
B
C
D
I and III only
II and IV only
I, II and III only
I, III and IV only
7 Calculate how many beryllium
atoms that will have the same
mass as one quinine molecule,
C20H24N2O2 (an anti-malarial
drug). [Relative atomic mass:
H,1; Be,9; C,12; N,14; O,16]
A 35
C 37
B 36
D 38
62
10 Calculate the number of atoms
in 0.96 g of titanium.
[Relative atomic mass: Ti, 48;
NA = 6 3 1023 mol–1]
A 1.2 3 1021
B 1.5 3 1021
C 1.2 3 1022
D 1.5 3 1022
11 Which of the following has the
most number of molecules?
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1;
C, 12; O, 16; Br, 80]
A 3.6 g of water, H2O
B 4.0 g of methane, CH4
C 19.6 g of sulphuric acid, H2SO4
D 13.2 g of ethanoic acid,
CH3COOH
12 The relative atomic mass of
oxygen and sulphur are 8 and
32 respectively. Which of the
following statements is/are true
about oxygen and sulphur?
13 What is the total number
of atoms present in 6.05 g
dichlorodifluoromethane, CCl2F2.
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12;
F, 19; Cl, 35.5; NA = 6 3 1023
mol–1]
C 1.2 3 1023
A 1.2 3 1022
B 3.0 3 1022
D 1.5 3 1023
14 Pyrethrin is an insecticide with
molecular formula of C19H26O3.
Calculate the number of
pyrethrin molecules contained
in a spray with 15.1 g of the
compound.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1;
C, 12; O, 16; NA = 6 3 1023
mol–1]
C 1.5 3 1023
A 1.5 3 1022
B 3.0 3 1022
D 3.0 3 1023
15 If m is the number of atoms in
3 g of carbon, the number of
atoms in 3 g of magnesium in
terms of m is [Relative atomic
mass: C, 12; Mg, 24]
1
A —m
C m
2
1
B —m
D 2m
3
3.3
Relationship between the
Number of Moles of a
Substance and Its Mass
16 Which of the following
substances contain the same
’09 number of atoms as in 36 gram
of carbon? [Relative atomic
mass: H, 1; C, 12; O, 16; S, 32]
I 3 g of hydrogen
II 64 g of sulphur
III 18 g of water
IV 22 g of carbon dioxide
A
B
C
D
I and III only
I and IV only
II and III only
II and IV only
17 Calculate the mass of 7.5 3 1021
aspirin, C9H8O4 molecules.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1;
C, 12; O, 16; NA = 6 3 1023
mol–1]
A 1.25 g
C 2.25 g
B 1.44 g
D 3.00 g
18 Caffeine is found in coffee beans.
Its molecular formula is C4H5N2O.
A pill contains 0.05 mol of
caffeine. Determine the mass
of the compound in the pill.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1;
C, 12; N, 14; O, 16]
A 1.94 g
C 4.85 g
B 2.42 g
D 9.70 g
19 A cockroach repellent has the
formula CH3(CH2)5CHCHCHO.
Determine the mass of
0.02 mol of this substance.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1;
C, 12; O, 16]
A 1.40 g
C 3.50 g
B 2.80 g
D 5.60 g
20 Acetaminophen is a medicine
used to relieve pain. 0.0002
mol of acetaminophen has a
mass of 0.0302 g. Which of
the following is the molecular
formula of acetaminophen?
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1;
C, 12; N, 14; O, 16]
C C8H9NO
A C8H9NO2
D C8H9N2O
B C8H8NO2
21 Ethyl ethanoate is a liquid used
as nail varnish remover. If 0.025
mol of ethyl ethanoate has a
mass of 2.20 g, determine the
relative molecular mass of ethyl
ethanoate.
A 44
C 77
B 55
D 88
22 The diagram shows the molecular
structure of allicin which is a
compound obtained from garlic.
Allicin have powerful antibiotic
and antifungal properties.
O
i
S
C
H
C
H2
C
H2
S
allicin
63
C
H2
C
H
C
H2
Calculate the number of moles
in 4.86 g allicin.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1;
C, 12; O, 16; S, 32]
A 0.02 mol
C 0.03 mol
B 0.025 mol
D 0.05 mol
23 Cocaine, C17H21O4N is a drug.
Calculate the mass of 1.2 3 1021
cocaine molecules.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1;
C, 12; N, 14; O, 16;
NA = 6 3 1023 mol–1]
A 0.202 g
C 0.404 g
B 0.303 g
D 0.606 g
3.4
Relationship between
the Number of Moles of
a Gas and Its Volume
24 1.0 g of calcium carbonate is
added into excess hydrochloric
acid.
CaCO3 + 2HCl →
CaCl2 + H2O + CO2
Determine the volume of
carbon dioxide gas evolved at
room temperature.
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12;
O, 16; Ca, 40; 1 mol of gas
occupies a volume of 24 dm3
at r.t.p.]
C 180 cm3
A 120 cm3
B 150 cm3
D 240 cm3
25 Which of the following gases will
occupy the same volume as 2.42
g dichlorodifluoromethane, CCl2F2?
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1;
C, 12; N, 14; O, 16; F, 19;
S, 32; Cl, 35.5]
I 0.34 g of ammonia, NH3
II 0.88 g of carbon dioxide, CO2
III 1.28 g of sulphur dioxide, SO2
IV 0.40 g of methane, CH4
A I, II and III only
B I, II and IV only
C I, III and IV only
D II, III and IV only
26 Which of the following gases
occupy a volume of 600 cm3 at
room temperature and pressure?
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1;
C, 12; O, 16; S, 32; 1 mol of
gas occupies a volume of 24
dm3 r.t.p.]
I 0.64 g of oxygen, O2
II 0.75 g ethane, C2H6
III 0.56 g of carbon monoxide,
CO
Chemical Formulae and Equations
3
I 4 g of oxygen and 8 g of
sulphur contain the same
number of atoms.
II The sulphur atom has four
times more neutrons than an
oxygen atom.
III The sulphur atom is four times
denser than the oxygen atom.
IV 8 g of oxygen contain two
times more atoms than 8 g
of sulphur.
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C II and III only
D IV only
3
IV
A
B
C
D
1.15 g nitrogen dioxide, NO2
I and III only
II and IV only
I, II and III only
II, III and IV only
27 Which of the following gases
has the heaviest mass at room
temperature and pressure?
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1;
C, 12; N, 14; O, 16; S, 32;
1 mol of gas occupies a volume
of 24 dm3 r.t.p.]
A 3 dm3 of sulphur dioxide, SO2
B 6 dm3 of nitrogen dioxide, NO2
C 15 dm3 of methane, CH4
D 96 dm3 of hydrogen, H2
28 Which of the following gases
occupies the greatest volume at
room temperature and pressure?
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1;
C, 12; N, 14; O, 16; 1 mol of
gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3
r.t.p.]
A 0.64 g oxygen, O2
B 0.70 g nitrogen, N2
C 1.10 g carbon dioxide, CO2
D 0.51 g ammonia, NH3
29 What is the number of atoms in
0.05 mol of ammonia gas, NH3?
[Avogadro number : 6 3 1023
mol–1]
A 1.2 3 1022
B 3.0 3 1022
C 1.2 3 1023
D 3.0 3 1023
30 Which of the statements below
are true?
I 1.10 g of CO2 and 1.25 g of
SO2 gases occupy the same
volume at s.t.p.
II 0.42 g of N2 and 0.66 g of
CO2 gases occupy the same
volume at s.t.p.
III 2.24 dm3 of C2H6 and 1.12
dm3 of SO2 gases at s.t.p.
have the same mass.
IV 4.48 dm3 of O2 and 8.96
dm3 of CH4 gases at s.t.p.
have the same mass.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12;
N, 14; O, 16; S, 32; 1 mol of
gas occupies 22.4 dm3 at s.t.p.]
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C I, II and IV only
D II, III and IV only
Chemical Formulae and Equations
3.5
Chemical Formulae
31 1.04 g of element X reacted
with 0.48 g of oxygen to form an
oxide with the empirical formula
X2O3. Determine the relative
atomic mass of element X.
[Relative atomic mass: O, 16]
A 24
C 52
B 48
D 56
32 When 3.64 g of a metal oxide
of M is reduced, 2.04 g of the
metal is obtained.
Determine the empirical formula
of the metal oxide.
[Relative atomic mass: O, 16;
M, 51]
A MO2
C M3O2
B M2O3
D M2O5
33 2.75 g of metal M combines
with 1.6 g of oxygen to form an
’10 oxide with the empirical formula
of MO2. Determine the relative
atomic mass of M.
[Relative atomic mass: O, 16]
A 48
C 55
B 52
D 56
34 x gram of antimony (Sb)
combines with 0.48 g of
oxygen to form an oxide with
the empirical formula of Sb2O3.
Determine the value of x.
[Relative atomic mass: O, 16;
Sb, 122]
A 1.22 g
B 2.44 g
C 3.66 g
D 4.88 g
35 An element E forms a fluoride
compound with the formula
EF3, which contains 16.2 % of
E by mass. What is the relative
atomic mass of E?
[Relative atomic mass; F, 19]
A 11
B 24
C 27
D 31
3.6
Chemical Equations
36 Calculate the mass of zinc
required to react with excess
’09 nitric acid to produce 360 cm3
of hydrogen at room conditions.
64
[Molar volume: 24 dm3 mol–1 at
room conditions; Relative atomic
mass: Zn, 65]
A 0.325 g
B 0.650 g
C 0.975 g
D 4.333 g
37 0.31 gram of copper(II)
carbonate is heated. Determine
the volume of carbon dioxide
gas released at room conditions.
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12; O,
16; Cu, 64; Molar volume : 24
dm3 at room conditions]
A 60 cm3
B 120 cm3
C 240 cm3
D 360 cm3
38 Calculate the mass of aluminium
oxide, Al2O3 formed if 5.4 g of
aluminium is heated in air.
[Relative atomic mass: O, 16;
K, 39]
A 8.4 g
B 8.6 g
C 10.2 g
D 11.8 g
39 Magnesium oxide reacts with
nitric acid to form magnesium
nitrate and water.
If 8.0 g of magnesium oxide
is reacted with excess nitric
acid, calculate the mass of salt
formed.
[Relative atomic mass: N, 14;
O, 16; Cu, 64]
A 14.8 g
B 17.2 g
C 20.4 g
D 29.6 g
40 Iron reacts with chlorine
according to the equation
’09 below:
2Fe + 3Cl2 → 2FeCl3
If 1.68 gram of iron burns
completely in chlorine, calculate
the mass of product formed.
[Relative atomic mass: Cl, 35.5,
Fe, 56]
A 2.438 g
B 4.875 g
C 6.555 g
D 9.750 g
Structured Questions
(i) Determine the empirical formula of M oxide.
1 A hydrocarbon X contains 82.76% carbon by mass.
2.9 g of hydrocarbon X occupies a volume of 1.2
’10 dm3 at room temperature and pressure.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; O, 16; 1 mol of
gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at r.t.p.;
NA = 6  1023 mol–1]
(a) What is a hydrocarbon?
[1 mark]
[2 marks]
(ii) Write a chemical equation for the reduction
of M oxide to metal M using hydrogen gas.
[2 marks]
(e) Can the empirical formula of magnesium oxide
be determined using the same arrangement of
apparatus as above? Explain your answer. [2 marks]
(b) Determine the empirical formula of hydrocarbon
X.
[2 marks]
relative
molecular
mass
3 Table 1 shows the positive and negative ions in three
salt solutions.
of
[2 marks]
’05
Name of salt
(d) Determine the molecular formula of hydrocarbon X.
[2 marks]
Positive ion
Copper(II) sulphate
(e) Combustion of X in air produces carbon dioxide
and water. Write a chemical equation for the
reaction.
[2 marks]
(f) If 11.6 g of X is burnt, calculate
(i) the mass of water formed.
[1 mark]
(ii) the number of carbon dioxide molecules
produced at room temperature.
[1 mark]
Negative ion
Cu
SO42–
2+
Potassium iodide
K+
I–
Lead(II) nitrate
Pb2+
NO3–
Table 1
(a) What is another name for a positively-charged
ion?
[1 mark]
(b) Write the formula of lead(II) nitrate.
2 The apparatus shown is used to determine the
empirical formula of the oxide of metal M by reducing
’07 the metal oxide with dry hydrogen gas.
[Relative atomic mass: O, 16; M, 55]
[1 mark]
(c) When aqueous lead(II) nitrate solution is added
to aqueous potassium iodide solution, a yellow
precipitate is formed.
(i) Write a chemical equation for the reaction.
[2 marks]
(ii) Describe the chemical equation in (i).
[1 mark]
(iii) Name the yellow precipitate.
[1 mark]
(iv) If 0.04 mol of aqueous potassium iodide
solution is added to excess lead(II) nitrate
solution, calculate the maximum mass of
the yellow precipitate formed. [Relative
atomic mass: I, 127; Pb, 207]
[2 marks]
Diagram 1
(a) State one precaution that must be taken when
carrying out the experiment.
[1 mark]
4 Table 2 shows the descriptions and observations of
two experiments, I and II.
(b) How can you ensure that all the oxide of metal
M has been reduced?
[1 mark]
(c)
’05
Experiment
(i) Name two chemicals used to prepare
hydrogen gas in the laboratory.
[1 mark]
(ii) Write an equation for the reaction in (i).
Combustion
of 1.2 g of
magnesium
powder in
excess oxygen
Magnesium burns
brightly and a
white powder is
formed
II
Heating
copper(II)
carbonate
strongly in a
test tube
Black solid X is
formed and a
gas P which turns
limewater cloudy
is evolved
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
Mass of combustion tube + asbestos paper
= 39.25 g
Mass of combustion tube + asbestos paper +
oxide of metal M before heating = 47.95 g
Mass of combustion tube + asbestos paper +
metal M after heating
= 44.75 g
Observation
I
(iii) Name a chemical used to dry hydrogen gas.
(d) The information below shows the results of the
experiment:
Description
Table 2
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12; O, 16; Mg, 24; Cu, 64;
1 mol of gas occupies a volume of 24 dm3 at room
temperature and pressure]
65
Chemical Formulae and Equations
3
(c) Calculate the
hydrocarbon X.
3
(a) Based on Experiment I:
(i) The white powder formed is magnesium
oxide. Write the chemical equation for the
[2 marks]
reaction that takes place.
(ii) Calculate the mass of magnesium oxide
formed if 3 g of magnesium is completely
[2 marks]
burnt in excess oxygen.
(iii) State one use of magnesium oxide. [1 mark]
(iv) The magnesium oxide is basic and reacts
with nitric acid (HNO3) to form magnesium
nitrate and water. Write a chemical equation
[2 marks]
for this reaction.
(a) Write a balanced chemical equation for the
decomposition of sodium bicarbonate on heating.
[2 marks]
(b) State a chemical test for carbon dioxide gas.
[2 marks]
(c) If 8.4 g of sodium bicarbonate decomposes,
calculate
(i) the volume of carbon dioxide gas envolved
at room temperature and pressure. [3 marks]
(ii) the mass of sodium carbonate formed.
[3 marks]
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; O, 16;
Na, 23; 1 mol of gas occupies a volume of
24 dm3 at room temperature and pressure]
(b) Based on Experiment II:
(i) Name the black solid X and gas P formed
when copper(II) carbonate is heated strongly.
(d) Sodium bicarbonate reacts with nitric acid (HNO3) to
form sodium nitrate, carbon dioxide and water.
(i) Write a balanced chemical equation for this
reaction.
[2 marks]
(ii) Calculate the mass of sodium bicarbonate
that reacts with the excess acid to produce
17 g of sodium nitrate.
[3 marks]
(iii) State one use of sodium nitrate. [2 marks]
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; C, 12; N, 14;
O, 16; Na, 23]
[2 marks]
(ii) Write the chemical equation for the reaction
[1 mark]
that takes place.
(iii) If 6.2 g of copper(II) carbonate had reacted,
calculate
[1 mark]
(a) the mass of solid X formed.
(b) the volume of gas P formed at room
[1 mark]
temperature and pressure.
5 When sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) is heated, it
decomposes to sodium carbonate, carbon dioxide
and water.
(e)
(i) Name another chemical that reacts with
nitric acid to form sodium nitrate.
[1 mark]
(ii) Write an equation for this reaction. [2 marks]
Essay Questions
(d) Describe a laboratory method of determining
the empirical formula of lead oxide. Your answer
should include
(i) the procedure of the experiment [4 marks]
(ii) tabulation of result
[3 marks]
(iii) calculation of the results obtained. [4 marks]
[Relative atomic mass: O, 16; Pb, 207]
1 (a) Using a suitable example, explain the meaning of
the following terms:
(i) Empirical formula
[2 marks]
(ii) Molecular formula
[2 marks]
(b) State a suitable method that can be used to
determine the empirical formula of lead(II) oxide.
[2 marks]
(c) Can the same method in (b) be used to
determine the empirical formula of magnesium
oxide? Explain your answer.
[3 marks]
Experiment
1 You are required to plan an experiment to determine the empirical formula of magnesium oxide.
Your explanation should include the following:
(a) Statement of the problem
(b) All the variables
(c) List of materials and apparatus
(d) Procedure
(e) Tabulation of data
Chemical Formulae and Equations
66
[17 marks]
FORM 4
THEME: Matter Around Us
CHAPTER
4
Periodic Table of Elements
SPM Topical Analysis
2008
Year
1
Paper
3
2
Section
A
Number of questions
1
—
2
4
2009
B
–
1
2010
3
2
C
A
B
C
–
1
—
4
–
–
1
3
–
1
3
2011
2
3
A
B
C
1
–
–
1
1
6
2
3
A
B
C
1
–
–
–
ONCEPT MAP
PERIODIC TABLE
Historical development of the
Periodic Table
Transition elements
J. W. Dobereiner
John Newlands
Lothar Meyer
Dmitri Mendeleev
Henry G. J. Moseley
Metallic
properties
of transition
elements
Group
Physical and chemical properties
of elements in:
Group 1
Group 17
Inert property and uses of
Group 18 elements
Special
characteristics
of transition
elements
Period
Identifying the group and period of
an element based on the electron
arrangement of the element
• Changes in the properties of
the elements and their oxides
across Period 3
• Uses of semi-metals such as
silicon and germanium in the
microelectronics industry
4.1
3 This systematic method of classification of the
elements will enable us to
(a) study and generalise the chemical and
physical properties of elements in the
same group.
(b) predict the position of an element in the
Periodic Table from its properties.
(c) identify and compare elements from
different groups.
(d) predict the chemical and physical pro­per­
ties of new elements in the same group.
4 Chemists such as Lavoisier, Dobereiner,
New­lands, Meyer, Mendeleev and Moseley
contributed to the development of the
Periodic Table in use today.
Periodic Table of
Elements
4
Historical Development of the Periodic
Table
1 Many of the elements known today were disco­
vered from the years 1800 to 1900. Chemists
noted that certain elements have similar chemi­
cal properties. For example: chlorine, bromine
and iodine; potassium and sodium; magnesium
and calcium have similar chemical properties.
2 Chemists then tried to group the elements with
the same chemical properties together. This led
to the development of the Periodic Table.
Contribution of Scientists to the Development of the Periodic Table
Antoine Lavoisier
1 Antoine Lavoisier, a Frenchman, was the first chemist who attempted to
classify the elements into four groups as in Table 4.1.
2 The four groups consisted of gases, metals, non-metals and metal oxides.
3 His classification was not accurate as light and heat, which are not elements,
were inclu­­ded. Furthermore, some elements in each group did not have the
same chemical properties.
Table 4.1 Lavoisier’s Periodic Table
Group I
Group II
Group III
Group IV
Oxygen
Nitrogen
Hydrogen
Light
Heat
Sulphur
Phosphorus
Carbon
Chlorine
Fluorine
Arsenic
Bismuth
Cobalt
Lead
Zinc, Nickel, Tin, Silver
Calcium oxide
Barium oxide
Silicon(IV) oxide
Magnesium oxide
Aluminium oxide
Antoine Lavoisier
(1743–1794)
Johann W. Dobereiner
1 Dobereiner classified the elements with the same chemical properties into
groups of three called triads.
Example:
2 Dobereiner discovered the
relationship between the relative
Element in the
Relative atomic
atomic mass (r.a.m.) of elements in
triad
mass (r.a.m.)
each triad. He found that the r.a.m.
Lithium
(Li)
7
of the element in the middle of each
Sodium (Na)
23
triad is approximately equal to the
average of the total r.a.m. of the
Potassium (K)
39
Johann W. Dobereiner
other two elements.
Average of the total r.a.m. of Li and K is
(1780–1849)
3 However, this relationship did
7 + 39
not apply to most of the other
⎯⎯⎯ = 23
2
elements.
Periodic Table of Elements
68
John Newlands
1 John Newlands arranged the elements in order of increasing nucleon number
(mass number) in horizontal rows. Each row consisted of seven elements.
2 He found that the chemical properties of every eighth element are similar.
This was known as the law of octaves.
3 Table 4.2 shows the arrangement of elements by John Newlands.
Table 4.2 The classification of elements by Newlands (law of octaves)
Be
B
C
N
O
F
Na
Mg
Al
Si
P
S
Cl
K
Ca
John Newlands
(1837–1898)
4
Li
4 The classification of elements by Newlands was not successful because:
(a) The law of octaves was only accurate for the first 16 elements (from Li to Ca).
(b) There were no positions allocated for elements yet to be discovered.
5 Nevertheless, Newlands was the first scientist who discovered the existence of periodicity in the
elements.
Lothar Meyer
SPM
’09/P1
1 Meyer, a German chemist,
Volume of an atom
calculated the volume of
mass of one mole-atom of the element
an atom of an element
= ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
density of the element
using the formula:
2 He plotted a graph of
volume of atoms of elements against their relative atomic masses. The
graph obtained is shown in Figure 4.1.
Lothar Meyer
(1830–1895)
Figure 4.1 Lothar Meyer’s atomic volume curve
3 From the shape of the atomic volume curve, Meyer showed that elements occupying the
corresponding positions of the curve exhibit similar chemical properties. For example:
(a) Li, Na, K and Rb which are located at the peak of the curve show similar chemical properties.
(b) Be, Mg, Ca and Sr which are located at positions after the maximum points also show similar
chemical properties.
4 Just like Newlands, Meyer showed that the properties of the elements recur periodically.
69
Periodic Table of Elements
Dmitri Mendeleev
1 Dmitri Mendeleev, a Russian chemist, arranged the elements in order of
increasing atomic mass.
2 Table 4.3 below shows the Periodic Table suggested by Mendeleev.
4
Table 4.3 The partial Periodic Table by Mendeleev
1
2
3
4
5
6
I
II
H
Li
Na
K
Cu
Rb
Be
Mg
Ca
Zn
Sr
III
IV
V
VI
B
C
N
O
Al
Si
P
S
()
Ti
V
Cr
()
()
As
Se
Y
Zr
Nb
Mo
( ) represents unknown elements yet to be discovered
VII
VIII
F
Cl
Mn
Br
()
Fe, Co, Ni
Dmitri Mendeleev
(1834–1907)
Ru, Rh, Pd
3 Dmitri Mendeleev was more successful for several reasons.
(a) First, he left gaps for elements yet to be discovered. He even used the table to predict the
existence and properties of undiscovered elements. Mendeleev correctly predicted the properties
of the elements gallium, scandium and germanium which were only discovered much later.
(b) Secondly, although the elements were arranged in order of increasing atomic mass, he changed
the order of the elements if the chemical properties are not similar.
Henry G. J. Moseley
1 Moseley was a British physicist. He bom­barded different elements with high
energy electrons and measured the frequency (f) of the X-ray emitted by the
element.
2 He then plotted the square-root of the frequency of the X-ray ( ⎯
f ) against
the proton number (atomic number) of the element and obtained a straight
line graph (Figure 4.2).
3 Thus from the square-root of the frequency of the X-ray emitted by an
unknown element, he could determine its proton number.
4 After obtaining the proton number of the elements, Moseley went on to
arrange the elements in the Periodic Table in order of increasing proton
number (atomic number).
5 Just like Mendeleev did, Moseley left gaps ( ) for elements yet to be
discovered. He reasoned that there should be an element corresponding to
each proton number.
6 Moseley successfully predicted the existence of four undiscovered elements
from the atomic numbers. These elements were later determined to be
technetium, promethium, hafnium and rhenium. With this prediction,
Moseley was able to prove the separate existence of each element in the
lanthanide series.
Henry G. J. Moseley
(1887–1915)
Figure 4.2
Modern Periodic Table
2 In the modern Periodic Table, the elements
are arranged in order of increasing proton
number. This order is also related to the
electron arrangement of the elements.
1 There are 117 discovered elements now. Most of
these elements are naturally occurring elements.
However, a few of these elements are made
artificially in nuclear reactors.
Periodic Table of Elements
70
(b) Periods 2 and 3 have eight elements each.
The first three periods are called the short
periods.
(c) Periods 4 and 5 have 18 elements each.
They are called the long periods.
(d) Period 6 has 32 elements. Not all the
elements can be listed on the same
horizontal row. The elements with proton
numbers 58 to 71 are separated and are
grouped below the Periodic Table. These
elements are called the Lanthanide Series.
(e) Period 7 has 31 elements and not all can
be listed on the same horizontal row. The
elements with proton numbers 90 to 103
are grouped below the Periodic Table.
They are called the Actinide Series.
The Electron Arrangement of Elements in the
Periodic Table
1 Table 4.4 shows the electron arrangement of
the elements with proton numbers 1–20.
2 All members of the same group have the
same number of valence electrons. Valence
electrons are electrons in the outermost shell.
For example:
(a) Group 1 elements (Li, Na, K) each has
one valence electron.
(b) Group 2 elements (Be, Mg, Ca) each has
two valence electrons.
(c) Group 17 elements (F, Cl, Br, I, At) each
has seven valence electrons.
3 (a) The number of valence electrons of Group
1 and Group 2 elements is the same as its
group number.
SPM
’11/P1,
P2
Table 4.4 The electron arrangement of the first 20 elements in the Periodic Table
Group
Period
1
2
13
14
15
16
17
18
He
2
1
H
1
2
Li
2.1
Be
2.2
B
2.3
C
2.4
N
2.5
O
2.6
F
2.7
Ne
2.8
3
Na
2.8.1
Mg
2.8.2
Al
2.8.3
Si
2.8.4
P
2.8.5
S
2.8.6
Cl
2.8.7
Ar
2.8.8
4
K
2.8.8.1
Ca
2.8.8.2
71
Periodic Table of Elements
4
3 The Periodic Table is a classification of
elements whereby elements with the same
chemical properties are placed in the same
group. This makes the study of the chemistry
of these elements easier and more systematic.
4 The modern Periodic Table is shown on page
78.
5 The vertical columns of the Periodic Table
are called groups. There are 18 groups in the
Periodic Table.
6 Each member of a group shows similar
chemi­
cal properties although their physical
properties such as density, melting point and
colour may show a gradual change when
descending the group.
• Group 1 elements (Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, Fr) are
called alkali metals.
• Group 2 elements (Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Ra)
are called alkaline earth metals.
• Group 17 elements (F, Cl, Br, I, At) are
called halogens.
• Group 18 elements (He, Ne, Ar, Kr, Xe, Rn)
are called noble gases.
7 A block of elements called the transition
elements separates Group 2 and Group 13.
(a) The elements in Groups 1, 2, 13 and the
transition elements are metals.
(b) The elements in Groups 15, 16 and 17 are
non-metals.
(c) Group 14 consists of non-metals at the
top of the group, followed by semi-metals
(or metalloids) and metals lower down in
the group.
8 The horizontal rows are called periods. There
are seven periods.
(a) Period 1 has two elements only: hydrogen
and helium.
4
3
(b) Except for helium, the elements with more
than 2 valence electrons (Groups 13 to
18), the group number = 10 + (number of
valence electrons).
4 The period number is indicated by the number
SPM of filled electron shells. For example:
’05/P2
(a) Elements in Period 1 (H and He) each
has only one electron shell filled with
electrons.
(b) Elements in Period 2 (Li, Be, B, C, N, O,
F, Ne) each has two electron shells filled
with electrons.
(c) Elements in Period 3 (Na, Mg, Al, Si, P,
S, Cl, Ar) each has three electron shells
filled with electrons.
(d) Elements in Period 4 (K and Ca) each has
four electron shells filled with electrons.
5 All elements in the same period have the same
number of filled electron shells.
1
The proton number of element X is 20. Which of
the following statements are true concerning the
element X?
I X can conduct electricity.
II X belongs to Group 2 of the Periodic Table.
III X belongs to Period 4 of the Periodic Table.
IV X belongs to Period 3 of the Periodic Table.
A II and III only
B II and IV only
C I, II and III only
D I, II and IV only
Comment
X has 20 electrons. The electronic configuration of
X is 2.8.8.2.
X belongs to Group 2 of the Periodic Table because
it has two valence electrons. (II is correct)
Group 2 elements are metals and can conduct
electricity. (I is correct)
’05
X belongs to Period 4 of the Periodic Table because
it has four electron shells filled with electrons. (III
is correct, IV is incorrect)
Answer C
Which of the following represents the electron
arrangement of an element in Group 17?
A
B
C
D
4
Element
Answer D (The element has seven valence electrons)
2
Electron
arrangement
’03
R
S
2.8.6
2.8.8
2
Determine the group in which Q, R and S belong to
in the Periodic Table.
In the Periodic Table, Y is below Z in the same
group. If the proton number of atom Z is 11, what is
the electron arrangement of atom Y ?
A 2.2
C 2.8.3
B 2.7
D 2.8.8.1
Solution
For elements with one or two valence electrons,
Group number = Number of valence electrons
Comment
In an atom, the number of protons is equal to the
number of electrons.
Thus Z has 11 electrons. The electron arrangement
of Z is 2.8.1.
The elements in the same group have the same
number of valence electrons.
Therefore the electron arrangement of Y is 2.8.8.1
because each atom of Y and Z has one valence
electron.
Answer D
Periodic Table of Elements
Q
For elements with more than two valence electrons,
Group number = 10 + Number of valence electrons
Therefore element Q belongs to Group 16 and
element R belongs to Group 18 of the Periodic
Table. S has two electrons in the first electron shell.
It is helium and belongs to Group 18 of the Periodic
Table.
72
1
Q
R
T
X
Z
3
15
18
19
35
Element
Electron
arrangement
The proton numbers of elements Q, R, T, X and Z
are given in the table above. Which of the following
statements are true?
I Elements Q and X belong to the same group in
the Periodic Table.
II Elements T and X belong to the same period.
III Elements Q and X are metals.
IV Elements R and Z are non-metals.
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C I, III and IV only
D II, III and IV only
Q
R
2.1
T
X
Z
2.8.5 2.8.8 2.8.8.1 2.8.18.7
Comment
Elements Q and X belong to the same group in the
Periodic Table because they have the same number
of valence electrons. (Statement I is correct)
Element T belongs to Period 3 (it has 3 electron
shells), whereas element X belongs to Period 4 (it
has four electron shells). (Statement II is wrong)
Elements in Groups 1, 2 and 13 have one, two
and three valence electrons and they are metals.
(Statement III is correct)
Elements with five, six, seven or eight valence
electrons are non-metals. (Statement IV is correct)
Answer C
4.1
3 Arsenic is represented by the symbol 75
As. In which
33
group and period does arsenic belong to in the
Periodic Table? Name two elements that have the
same chemical properties as arsenic. Explain your
answer.
1 Explain the term valence electrons.
State the number of valence electrons of the
elements in the following groups in the Periodic
Table.
(a) Group 1
(b) Group 2
(c) Group 15
(d) Group 17
2
Element
W
X
Y
4 The following table shows the proton numbers of 10
elements represented by the letters A to K:
Element
Z
A
Proton number 2
Electron
2.8.5 2.1 2.8.8.3 2.8.18.32.18.7
arrangement
B
C D
E
F
G H
J
K
9 13 19 18 16 7 20 17 6
Electron
arrangement
The table shows the electron arrangement of four
elements.
(a) State the group of each element:
(i) W
(ii) X
(iii) Y
(iv) Z
Group number
Period number
(a) Write the electron arrangement of each element.
Then state the group number and period
number of each element.
(b) State the period of each element:
(i) W (ii) X (iii) Y (iv) Z
(b) Pick a pair of elements which have the same
chemical properties.
73
Periodic Table of Elements
4
Element
Proton
number
’04
4.2
Group 18 Elements
’05
General
He
Ne
Ar
Kr
Xe
Rn
4
Figure 4.3 The elements of Group 18 in the
Periodic Table
• The noble gases are also known as the inert gases.
They are elements of Group 18, at the far right of the
Periodic Table (Figure 4.3).
• The group consists of six elements: helium (He), neon
(Ne), argon (Ar), krypton (Kr), xenon (Xe) and radon
(Rn).
• The atomic radius of the noble gases increases down
the group. This is because as the number of filled
electron shells increases down the group, the valence
electron is further from the nucleus.
Physical Properties
This is because as the size of the atoms increases
Physical properties of noble gases:
down the group, the van der Waals forces of
• All noble gases are insoluble in water and do
attraction become stronger.
not conduct electricity or heat.
• All noble gases have low melting points and • The noble gases have very low densities. This is
low boiling points. This is because the noble
because the atoms are very far apart. The density
of the noble gases increases when descending
gases exist as monatoms which are attracted by
the group. This is due to the increase in the
very weak van der Waals forces of attraction.
The melting points and boiling points of the
relative atomic mass of the element.
noble gases increase when descending the group.
Chemical properties
stable duplet electron arrangement.
Chemical properties of noble gases:
– The other noble gases have eight electrons in
• Noble gases are chemically inert which means
their outermost electron shells. They are said
that they are unreactive in nature. They do not
to have attained the stable octet electron
react with any other elements.
arrangement.
• Noble gases are the only elements which exists
• Therefore the noble gases do not need to
as monatoms (as single atoms).
accept, donate or share electrons with other
• Noble gases are unreactive because they all
elements.
have filled outer shells of electrons which are
a stable electron arrangement.
(All chemical reactions involve either gaining,
– Helium has only one filled electron shell and
losing or sharing electrons.)
it has exactly two electrons in this outermost
electron shell. It is said to have attained the
Table 4.5 The proton numbers, relative atomic mass, electron arrangement and physical properties of inert gases
Element
He
Ne
Ar
Kr
Xe
Rn
Proton Relative atomic
Electron
number
arrangement
mass
2
10
18
36
54
86
Periodic Table of Elements
4
20
40
84
131
222
2
2.8
2.8.8
2.8.18.8
2.8.18.18.8
2.8.18.32.18.8
74
Melting
Atomic
radius (nm) point (°C)
0.06
0.07
0.094
0.109
0.130
–
–270
–248
–189
–156
–112
–71
Boiling point
(°C)
Density
(g dm–3 )
–269
–246
–186
–152
–107
–62
0.17
0.84
1.66
3.54
5.45
–
4.2
’04
1 2P, 11Q, 13R, 18S, 20T.
The above is a set of elements with their proton
numbers. Choose two elements that exist as
monatomic gases. Explain your answer.
A car distributor wants to use colourful electric
lamps to attract customers. Which of the following
substances A, B, C or D in the Periodic Table is
suitable for use in the lamps?
2 Inert gases are the elements of Group 18 of the
Periodic Table. Name two inert gases and state
one use of each.
3 All the inert gases have low melting and boiling
points. Explain why as we go down Group 18, the
melting points and boiling points increase.
Comment
B is neon gas. Neon-filled electric bulbs produce
an attractive bright red light which is used in
advertising.
Answer B
4.3
4 One of the characteristics of Group 18 gases is that
they exist as monatoms. Explain why neon does
not form compounds with other elements.
Group 1 Elements
General
Figure 4.4 The elements of Group 1 in the
Periodic Table
• Group 1 elements are also known as the alkali metals.
• The elements in Group 1 are lithium (Li), sodium
(Na), potassium (K), rubidium (Rb), caesium (Cs)
and francium (Fr).
• All Group 1 elements are soft metals. The metals are
grey in colour and are silvery when the surface is freshly
cut, before being exposed to air.
Physical Properties
Physical properties of Group 1 elements:
between the atoms becomes weaker down the
• All Group 1 elements are metals; hence they
group as the atomic radius increases.
are good conductors of heat and electricity.
• The electropositivity of the metals increases
• The atomic radius increases down the group.
down the group. Electropositivity is a measurement
The reason is that as the number of filled
of the ability of an atom to lose an electron
electron shells increases when descending
and form a positive ion.
the group, the distance between the outermost
M → M+ + e– (M = Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, Fr)
electron shell and the nucleus increases.
• The density increases down the group. The
densities of Li, Na and K is lower than that
As the atomic radius becomes larger down
of water, and hence these metals can float on
the group, the force of attraction between
water.
the nucleus and the single valence electron
• The melting point decreases when descending
becomes weaker. Hence the elements lose
the group. This is because the metallic bond
the single valence electron more easily when
descending the group.
75
Periodic Table of Elements
4
2
SPM
4
Reactivity
’07/P2, ’11/P2
Reactivity of Group 1 elements
M(s) → M+ + e– (M = Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, Fr)
• All Group 1 elements are very reactive. The
Li(s) → Li+ + e–
reactivity increases down the group.
2.1
2
• The elements in Group 1 have one valence
Na(s) → Na+ + e–
electron each. During a chemical reaction,
reactivity increases
2.8.1
2.8
an atom of a Group 1 element will donate a
valence electron to form a univalent positive
K(s) → K+ + e–
ion to attain the stable duplet or octet in its
2.8.8.1
2.8.8
electron arrangement.
• The reactivity of Group 1 elements depends on how easily it can donate its valence electron. The
atomic radius of Group 1 elements increases down the group. This causes the force of attraction
between the nucleus and the valence electron to become weaker, making it easier for a metal
lower in the group to donate its valence electron. Therefore, the reactivity of Group 1 elements
increases when descending the group.
Chemical Properties
Chemical properties of Group 1 elements
• The elements in Group 1 have the same chemical
properties because each has one valence
electron.
• Group 1 elements react with
– cold water to produce hydrogen gas and
alkalis,
– oxygen to produce metal oxides,
– halogen to produce metal halides.
Table 4.6 Some physical properties of Group 1 elements
SPM
’06/P2, ’08/P1
Element
Colour
Electron
arrangement
Atomic
radius (nm)
Density
(g dm–3)
Li
Silvery
2.1
0.15
0.53
Conductor
181
Na
Silvery
2.8.1
0.16
0.97
Conductor
98
K
Silvery
2.8.8.1
0.23
0.86
Conductor
63
Ru
Silvery
2.8.18.8.1
0.25
1.53
Conductor
39
Cs
Silvery
2.8.18.18.8.1
0.26
1.87
Conductor
29
Fr
Silvery
2.8.18.32.18.8.1
0.29
–
Conductor
27
Electrical
Melting
Electro­positivity
conductivity point (°C)
⏐
⏐
⏐
Increases
⏐
⏐
⏐
↓
4.1
Experiment 4.1
To study the reaction of alkali metals with oxygen
Problem statement
How do lithium, sodium and potassium differ in
reactivity with oxygen?
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : The alkali metals used
(b) Responding variable : Reactivity of the metals
with oxygen
(c) Constant variable
: Excess supply of oxygen
and the size of the metal
piece used
Materials
Small pieces of Li, Na and K metals, oxygen gas,
filter paper and phenolphthalein indicator.
Hypothesis
The alkali metals show similar chemical properties in
their reactions with oxygen but the reactivity of the
alkali metals with oxygen increases down the group
(in the order from lithium, sodium to potassium).
Periodic Table of Elements
76
3 The lithium metal is heated until its starts to burn.
The spoon is then put into a gas jar containing
oxygen gas.
4 The observation is recorded.
5 After the reaction has stopped, about 20 cm3
of water is added to the gas jar. The gas jar is
shaken so that the product of the combustion is
dissolved in the water. The solution is tested with
a few drops of phenolphthalein indicator. The
observation is recorded.
6 The experiment is repeated using sodium and
potassium metals.
Apparatus
Pen knife, tongs, gas jar with cover, gas jar spoon and
Bunsen burner.
Safety precautions
Alkali metals, especially sodium and potassium, are
very reactive. Therefore we have to
(a) use small pieces of each metal.
(b) use goggles while carrying out the experiment.
(c) ensure that we do not handle the metal with our
bare hands.
4
Procedure
1 A piece of lithium metal is removed from the
bottle with tongs. A small piece of the metal is
cut using a pen knife. A piece of filter paper is
used to absorb the paraffin oil from the piece of
metal.
2 The lithium metal is then transferred onto a gas
jar spoon using tongs.
Figure 4.5 Reaction of Group 1 metals with
oxygen
Results
Observation
Metal
Lithium
The lithium metal burns with a red flame forming a white metal oxide. The metal oxide
dissolves in water producing a solution which turns phenolphthalein indicator red.
Sodium
The sodium metal burns with a bright yellow flame forming a white metal oxide. The metal
oxide dissolves in water producing a solution which turns phenolphthalein indicator red.
Potassium
The potassium metal burns with a very bright purplish flame forming a white metal oxide.
The metal oxide dissolves in water producing a solution which turns phenolphthalein indicator
red.
Discussion
1 Alkali metals burn in oxygen to form white
metal oxides
4Li(s) + O2(g) → 2Li2O(s)
4Na(s) + O2(g) → 2Na2O(s)
4K(s) + O2(g) → 2K2O(s)
Reactivity
increases down
the group
⎯⎯→
SPM
’11/P1
The presence of hydroxide ions, OH– causes the
solution to be alkaline.
Conclusion
All alkali metals burn in oxygen gas to produce
white metal oxides. Group 1 elements show similar
chemical properties. Their reactivity increases down
the group from lithium, sodium to potassium.
2 These metal oxides dissolve in water to form
alkaline solutions which turn phenolphthalein
indicator red.
4M(s) + O2(g) → 2M2O(s),
Li2O(s) + 2H2O(l) → 2LiOH(aq)
Na2O(s) + 2H2O(l) → 2NaOH(aq)
K2O(s) + 2H2O(l) → 2KOH(aq)
where M = Group 1 element.
77
Periodic Table of Elements
Periodic Table of Elements
Periodic Table of Elements
4
Periodic Table of Elements
Periodic Table of Elements
78
SPM
4.2
’05/P2
’08/P3
’09/P1
’10/P3
To study the reaction of alkali metals with water
Problem statement
How do lithium, sodium and potassium differ in
reactivity with water?
Figure 4.8 Reaction of
potassium with water
Hypothesis
The alkali metals show similar chemical properties
in their reactions with water but the reactivity of
alkali metals with water increases down the group
(in the order from lithium, sodium to potassium).
Results
Metal
Observation
The lithium metal moves slowly on
the surface of the water (Figure 4.6).
A colourless solution is produced. This
solution turns red litmus paper blue.
Sodium
The sodium metal moves at a fast
speed on the surface of the water with
a ‘hissing’ sound. It is ignited during
the reaction and burns with a yellow
flame (Figure 4.7). A colourless
solution is obtained. This solution
turns red litmus paper blue.
Potassium The potassium metal moves at a very
fast speed on the surface of the water.
It is ignited during the reaction and
burns with a purple flame with a
‘pop’ sound (Figure 4.8). A colourless
solution is obtained. This solution
turns red litmus paper blue.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : The alkali metals used
(b) Responding variable : Reactivity of the metal
with water
(c) Constant variable
: Size of alkali metal and
the temperature of water
Materials
Small pieces of lithium, sodium and potassium
metals, basin filled with water, filter paper and red
litmus paper.
Apparatus
Pen knife and tongs.
Procedure
1 A piece of lithium metal is removed from the
bottle. A small piece of the metal is cut using
a pen knife. A piece of filter paper is used to
absorb the paraffin oil from the piece of metal.
2 The lithium metal is then dropped into a basin of
water carefully using a pair of tongs.
3 The observation is recorded.
4 The solution formed in the basin is tested with a
piece of red litmus paper.
5 The experiment is repeated using small pieces of
sodium and potassium metals.
4
Lithium
2 The metal hydroxides are alkaline and turn the
colour of red litmus paper blue.
Conclusion
1 Elements of Group 1 have similar chemical
properties. All of them react with cold water to
produce an alkaline solution and hydrogen gas.
2M(s) + 2H2O(l) → 2MOH(aq) + H2(g),
where M = Group 1 element.
2 The reactivity increases down the group from
lithium, sodium to potassium.
Figure 4.6 Reaction of
lithium with water
Figure 4.7 Reaction of
sodium with water
79
Periodic Table of Elements
Experiment 4.2
Discussion
1 Alkali metals are reactive with water and can
SPM displace hydrogen from water. They react with
’11/P2
water to produce hydrogen gas and aqueous
solutions of metal hydroxides.
2Li(s) + 2H2O(l) →
2LiOH(aq) + H2(g)
Reactivity
2Na(s) + 2H2O(l) →
increases down
2NaOH(aq) + H2(g)
the group
2K(s) + 2H2O(l) →
2KOH(aq) + H2(g)
react vigorous­ly with water forming hydrogen gas
and alkali solutions. If the size of the metal is
quite large, it will ignite and start to burn giving
out ‘pop’ sounds.
When carrying out an experiment on the reaction
of alkali metals with water, we must ensure that
no flam­mable organic solvents are nearby because
the fire from the burning alkali metals can spread
to the organic solvents.
Therefore alkali metals must be kept in paraffin
oil in bottles to prevent them from reacting with
water.
When the Group 1 elements react with water they give
off hydrogen gas. The heat generated by the chemical
reaction sets the hydrogen gas alight and it burns with
a coloured flame. Sodium burns with a yellow flame.
Safety Precaution to be Taken When
Handling Alkali Metals
4
Alkali metals are extremely reactive. With the
exception of lithium, the rest of the alkali metals
4.3
SPM
’09/P1
To study the reaction of alkali metals with halogens
Results
Problem statement
How do lithium, sodium and potassium differ in
reactivity with chlorine gas?
Metal
Hypothesis
The alkali metals show similar chemical properties
in their reactions with chlorine but the reactivity of
alkali metals with chlorine increases down the group
(in the order from lithium, sodium and potassium).
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : The alkali metals used
(b) Responding variable : Reactivity of the metal
with chlorine
(c) Constant variable
: Supply of chlorine gas and
size of metal pieces used
Lithium burns slowly with a reddish
flame. A white solid is obtained.
Sodium
Sodium burns brightly with a
yellowish flame. A white solid is
obtained.
Potassium
Potassium burns very brightly with
a purplish flame. A white solid is
obtained.
2Li(s) + Cl2(g) → 2LiCl(s)
2Na(s) + Cl2(g) → 2NaCl(s)
2K(s) + Cl2(g) → 2KCl(s)
Procedure
1 A small piece of lithium is cut and the paraffin
oil on it is blotted using filter paper.
2 The lithium metal is then transferred onto a gas
jar spoon using tongs.
3 The lithium metal is heated until it starts to burn.
The spoon is then put into a gas jar containing
chlorine gas.
4 The observation is recorded.
5 The experiment is repeated using sodium and
potassium metals.
⎯⎯⎯→
Apparatus
Pen knife, tongs, gas jar with cover, gas jar spoon
and Bunsen burner.
Reactivity
increases down
the group
2 If the experiments are repeated using bromine gas,
the brown colour of bromine gas will disappear
and white metal bromides will be formed.
2Li(s) + Br2(g) → 2LiBr(s)
2Na(s) + Br2(g) → 2NaBr(s)
2K(s) + Br2(g) → 2KBr(s)
⎯⎯→
Experiment 4.3
Lithium
Discussion
1 All alkali metals react with chlorine gas to
form white metal chlorides
The reactivity of the metal increases down the
group from Li, Na to K.
Materials
Small pieces of lithium, sodium and potassium
metals chlorine gas and filter paper.
Periodic Table of Elements
Observation
Reactivity
increases down
the group
3 Similarly, Group 1 elements will react with
iodine vapour to produce white metal iodides.
The purple colour of iodine vapour will
disappear in the reactions.
80
4 Generally, all alkali metals react with halogens
to produce metal halides.
2M(s) + X2(g) → 2MX(s)
where M = Group 1 elements, X = halogen.
2M(s) + Cl2(g) → 2MCl(s)
where M = Group 1 elements
2 The reactivity increases down the group from
lithium, sodium to potassium.
Conclusion
1 Elements of Group 1 have similar chemical
properties. All react with chlorine to produce
white metal chlorides.
’05
An atom of element X has three electron filled
shells. When element X reacts with chlorine, it forms
a compound with the formula XCl. Which of the
following is element X?
[Proton number of Li, 3; Na, 11; Mg, 12; K, 19]
A Lithium
C Magnesium
B Sodium
D Potassium
Element
Electron arrangement
X
2.8.1
Y
2.8.8.1
The atomic radius of Y is larger than X. Hence Y
can donate its valence electron more easily than X.
Thus Y is more reactive.
(I is correct)
Both X and Y have one valence electron. Both are
alkali metals which can conduct electricity.
(II and III correct)
Alkali metals react with water to form metal
hydroxides and hydrogen gas.
(IV is incorrect)
Answer A
Comment
Alkali metals react with chlorine to form metal
chloride with formula XCl.
X is sodium because sodium has three electron
shells.
Answer B
4.3
4
’03
1 Imagine that a new element is discovered. It is
named Pentium (Pn) and is below sodium metal
in Group 1 of the Periodic Table.
(a) Predict three physical and three chemical
properties of pentium.
(b) Which is more reactive, pentium or sodium?
Explain your answer.
The table below shows the proton numbers of two
elements:
Element
Proton number
X
11
Y
19
2 List the alkali metals in order of decreasing reactivity.
3 How do each of the following properties of alkali
metals change as we go down the group?
(a) Melting point
(b) Density
(c) Hardness
(d) Chemical reactivity
Which of the following statements are true?
I Y is more reactive than X.
II Both X and Y can conduct electricity.
III Both X and Y are in the same group of the
Periodic Table.
IV Both X and Y react with water to form metal
oxides and hydrogen gas.
A I, II and III only
B I, II and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
4 When a piece of burning sodium metal is placed in
a gas jar containing bromine gas, the brown colour
of bromine gas will disappear and white powder
will be formed. Explain the above observation with
a suitable equation.
81
Periodic Table of Elements
4
Comment
3
4
4.4
SPM
Group 17 Elements
’08/P2
General
Physical properties
• The elements in Group 17 are also
known as the halogens.
• The elements in Group 17 are fluorine
(F), chlorine (Cl), bromine (Br),
iodine (I) and astatine (At).
• Halogens are very reactive elements
and most of them exist naturally as
halide salts.
• The halogen molecules exist as diatomic
molecules: F2, Cl2, Br2, I2 and At2.
Physical properties of the halogens
• All Group 17 elements are non-metals. Hence,
they are non-conductors of heat and electricity.
• The atomic radius increases down the group.
The reason is that as the number of filled
electron shells increases down the group, the
distance between the outermost electron shell
and the nucleus increases.
• The density increases down the group. This is
due to the increase in relative molecular mass.
• Halogens have low boiling points. The forces of
attraction between the molecules are weak.
• The melting points and boiling points of the
halogens increase down the group. This is
because the molecular size increases down the
group. As the size increases, the van der Waals
forces of attraction between the molecules
become stronger. More heat is required to
overcome the forces of attraction and therefore
the melting points and boiling points increase.
The first two elements (fluorine and chlorine) are
gases at room temperature. Bromine is a liquid
whereas iodine and astatine are solids at room
temperature.
• The colour of the halogen becomes darker
down the group. Fluorine is a colourless gas;
chlorine is a yellowish-green gas; bromine is a
dark brown liquid and iodine is a black solid.
• All halogens have high electro­negativities. They
are electronegative non-metals. Electronegativity
is a measurement of the tendency of an element
to attract electrons. The electronegativity
decreases down the group from fluorine to
iodine. As the atomic radius becomes larger
down the group, the force of attrac­tion between
the nucleus and the electrons becomes weaker
and thus electronegativity decreases.
Figure 4.9 The elements of Group 17 in the
Periodic Table
Halothane (CHClBrCF3) is used as a general
anaesthetic during a major operation. Can you
name the halogens present in this compound?
Answer Bromine, chlorine and fluorine
Chemical properties
Chemical properties of Group 17 elements
• The elements in Group 17 have the same chemical properties because each has seven valence
electrons.
• Group 17 elements react with
– water to produce acids,
– metals such as iron to produce metal halides,
– sodium hydroxide to produce salts and water.
Periodic Table of Elements
82
SPM
Reactivity
Reactivity of Group 17 elements
X2 + 2e– → 2X–, where X = F, Cl, Br or I
• All Group 17 elements are very reactive. However, the
Cl2 + 2e– → 2Cl–
reactivity decreases down the group.
2.8.7
2.8.8
• The elements in Group 17 have seven valence electrons
–
each. During a chemical reaction, the atom of a
Br2 + 2e → 2Br–
Group 17 element will accept a valence electron to
2.8.18.7
2.8.18.8
form univalent negative ion to attain the stable octet
–
I2 + 2e → 2I–
in its electron arrangement.
2.8.18.18.7
2.8.18.18.8
• The reactivity of Group 17 elements depends on
its ability to gain an electron. The atomic radius of Group 17 elements increases down the group.
Thus the force of attraction between the nucleus and the valence electrons become weaker. As a
result, the halogen lower in the group has a lower tendency to attract an electron to form a negative
ion. Therefore, the reactivity of halogens decreases down the group.
Table 4.7 Some physical properties of three halogens
2.8.7
Atomic
radius
(nm)
0.099
Melting
point
(°C)
–101
Boiling
point
(°C)
–35
Physical
state at room
temperature
Gas
2.8.18.7
2.8.18.18.7
0.114
0.133
–7
114
58
183
Liquid
Solid
Halogen
Proton
number
Electron
arrangement
Chlorine
17
Bromine
Iodine
35
53
4
’06/P2, ’08/P2
SPM
’08/P2
Electro­
negativity
3.0
2.8
2.5
Colour
Yellowishgreen gas
Brown liquid
Black solid
4.4
To study the reactions of chlorine, bromine and iodine with water
Materials
Chlorine gas, liquid bromine, iodine crystals and blue
litmus paper.
Problem statement
How do chlorine, bromine and iodine react with water?
Hypothesis
The halogens show similar chemical properties when
they react with water but the reactivity decreases
down the group from chlorine to iodine.
Apparatus
Test tube, rubber stopper, test tube holder, delivery
tube and teat pipette.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Types of halogens used
(b) Responding variable : The rate at which the
halogen dissolves in water
and products of reactions
(c) Constant variable
: Temperature of water
Figure 4.10 Reaction
of halogen with water
(a)
(b)
(c)
83
Periodic Table of Elements
Experiment 4.4
Safety precautions
(a) Chlorine gas and bromine vapour are poisonous.
The experiments should be carried out in a fume
cupboard.
(b) The chlorine gas and bromine vapour irritate the
eyes. So goggles should be worn while carrying
out the experiments.
4
Procedure
(A) Reaction of chlorine with water
1 Chlorine gas is passed into a test tube containing
water.
2 The solution produced is tested with blue litmus
paper.
(B) Reaction of bromine with water
1 A few drops of liquid bromine are added to some
water in a test tube.
Results
2 The test tube is tightly closed with a rubber
stopper and then shaken.
3 The solution produced is tested with blue litmus
paper.
(C) Reaction of iodine with water
1 Some iodine crystals are added to some water in
a test tube.
2 The test tube is tightly closed with a rubber
stopper and then shaken.
3 The solution produced is tested with blue litmus
paper.
SPM
’11/P1
Observation
Halogen
Solubility
Effect on litmus paper
Chlorine
Dissolves quickly in the water to form a light
yellowish solution
The solution first turns the blue litmus paper
red, then it quickly decolourises it.
Bromine
Dissolves slowly in water to form a brown
solution
The solution first turns the blue litmus paper
red. The red colour of the litmus takes a
longer time to be decolourised.
Iodine
A little of the iodine crystals dissolves
slightly in water to form a pale brown
solution
The solution turns the litmus paper from
blue to red. The red litmus paper is not
decolourised.
Discussion
1 Chlorine, bromine and iodine dissolve in water
to form acidic solutions which turn blue litmus
paper red. The solubility of halogens decreases
from chlorine to iodine.
2 Chlorine dissolves in water to form hydrochloric
acid and hypochlorous(I) acid.
Hypobromous(I) acid is a weak bleaching agent
and takes a longer time to decolourise the red
colour of litmus paper.
4 Iodine is only very slightly soluble in water. It
forms hydroiodic acid and hypoiodous(I) acid.
I2(s) + H2O(l) → HI(aq)
+ HOI(aq)
hydroiodic
hypoiodous(I)
acid
acid
Cl2(g) + H2O(l) → HCl(aq) + HOCl(aq)
hydrochloric hypochlorous(I)
acid
acid
Hydroiodic acid, HI is an acid and it turns blue
litmus red.
Hypoiodous(I) acid has a very weak bleaching
property.
Hydrochloric acid, HCl is an acid and it turns
blue litmus red.
Hypochlorous(I) acid, HOCl is a strong bleaching
agent. It decolourises the red colour of litmus
paper quickly.
3 Bromine dissolves slowly in water to form
hydrobromic acid and hypobromous(I) acid.
Conclusion
1 Chlorine, bromine and iodine show similar
chemical properties. They dissolve in water to
form acidic solutions.
2 The solubility of halogens in water decreases
down the group.
3 Aqueous chlorine and bromine solutions have
bleaching properties.
Aqueous iodine solution does not bleach the
colour of litmus paper.
Br2(l) + H2O(l) → HBr(aq) +
HOBr(aq)
hydrobromic hypobromous(I)
acid
acid
Hydrobromic acid, HBr is an acid and it turns
blue litmus red.
Periodic Table of Elements
84
4.5
SPM
To study the reactions of halogens with aqueous sodium hydroxide solution
’06/P2
Hypothesis
The halogens show similar chemical properties when
they react with sodium hydroxide solution but the
reac­tivity decreases down the group from chlorine to
iodine.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Types of halogens used
(b) Responding variable : The products of the
reactions
(c) Constant variable
: Concentration of sodium
hydroxide solution
Halogen
Observation
Chlorine
The greenish chlorine gas dissolves
quickly in NaOH solution to form a
colourless solution.
Bromine
The brownish liquid bromine
dissolves steadily in NaOH
solution to form a colourless
solution.
Iodine
The dark iodine crystal dissolves
slowly in NaOH solution to form a
colourless solution.
4
Results
Problem statement
How do chlorine, bromine and iodine react with
aqueous sodium hydroxide solution?
Discussion
1 Chlorine gas reacts rapidly with sodium
hydroxide solution to produce sodium chloride
salt, sodium chlorate(I) salt and water.
Cl2(g) + 2NaOH(aq) →
NaOCl(aq) + NaCl(aq) + H2O(l)
Materials
Chlorine gas, liquid bromine, iodine crystals and
sodium hydroxide solution.
sodium
chlorate(I)
Apparatus
Test tube, rubber stopper, test tube holder and teat
pipette.
sodium
chloride
2 Bromine reacts moderately fast with sodium
hydroxide solution to produce sodium bromide
salt, sodium bromate(I) salt and water.
Br2(l) + 2NaOH(aq) →
NaOBr(aq)
+ NaBr(aq)
+ H2O(l)
Procedure
(A) Reaction of chlorine with aqueous sodium
hydroxide solution
1 Chlorine gas is bubbled into aqueous sodium
hydroxide solution.
2 The colour change of chlorine is recorded.
sodium bromate(I) sodium bromide
3 Solid iodine reacts slowly with sodium
hydroxide solution to produce the salts sodium
iodide, sodium iodate(I) and water.
I2(s) + 2NaOH(aq) →
NaOI(aq)
+ NaI(aq) + H2O(l)
(B) Reaction of bromine with aqueous sodium
hydroxide solution
1 Two drops of liquid bromine are added to
aqueous sodium hydroxide solution using a teat
pipette.
2 The test tube is tightly closed with a rubber
stopper and the mixture is shaken.
3 The colour change of bromine is recorded.
sodium iodate(I) sodium iodide
Conclusion
1 Chlorine, bromine and iodine react with
sodium hydroxide solution to form two types
of salts and water.
(C) Reaction of iodine with aqueous sodium
hydroxide solution
1 Some iodine crystals are added to aqueous
sodium hydroxide solution.
2 The test tube is tightly closed with a rubber
stopper and the mixture is shaken.
3 The colour change of iodine crystal is recorded.
X2(g) + 2NaOH(aq) → NaX(aq) + NaOX(aq) +
H2O(l), where X = Cl, Br, I
2 The reactivity of halogens with sodium
hydroxide solution decreases down the group
from chlorine to iodine.
85
Periodic Table of Elements
Experiment 4.5
[Sodium chlorate(I), sodium bromate(I), sodium
iodate(I) are also called sodium hypochlorite, sodium
hypobromite and sodium hypoiodite respectively]
4.6
SPM
To study the reactions of halogens with iron ’06/P2
Problem statement
How do chlorine, bromine and iodine react with
iron?
(B) Reaction of bromine gas with iron wool
4
Hypothesis
The halogens show similar chemical properties when
they react with iron but the reactivity decreases down
the group from chlorine to iodine.
Figure 4.12 Reaction of
bromine with iron
wool
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Types of halogen used
(b) Responding variable : Products of reactions and
rate of the reactions
(c) Constant variable
: Iron wool
1 A small roll of iron wool is placed in the middle
of a combustion tube and is heated strongly.
2 The liquid bromine is warmed up by using a
Bunsen burner.
3 The bromine is vaporised and bromine gas
passed through the heated iron wool.
4 The excess bromine gas is absorbed by the soda
lime.
Materials
Chlorine gas, liquid bromine, iodine crystals, soda
lime, potassium manganate(VII), concentrated
hydro­chloric acid and iron wool.
(C) Reaction of iodine with iron wool
Apparatus
Combustion tubes, Bunsen burner, retort stand and
clamp, conical flask and thistle funnel.
Procedure
(A) Reaction of chlorine gas with iron wool
1 A small roll of iron wool is placed in the middle
of a combustion tube. The iron wool is then
heated strongly.
2 Chlorine gas is prepared in the laboratory
by adding concentrated hydrochloric acid to
potassium manganate(VII).
3 The chlorine gas produced is allowed to pass
through the heated iron wool.
4 The excess chlorine gas is absorbed by the soda
lime.
Figure 4.13 Reaction of iodine
with iron wool
1 A few crystals of iodine are placed in a boiling tube.
2 A small roll of iron wool is then placed in the
middle of a combustion tube.
3 The iron wool is heated strongly first, followed by
the iodine crystals (sublimation will take place).
4 The iodine vapour produced is allowed to pass
through the hot iron wool.
Results
Experiment 4.6
Halogen
Chlorine Hot iron wool glows brightly when
chlorine gas is passed over it. A brown
solid is formed.
Bromine Hot iron wool glows moderately
bright when bromine gas is passed
over it. A brown solid is formed.
Iodine
Hot iron wool glows dimly when
iodine vapour is passed over it. A
brown solid is formed.
Figure 4.11 Reaction of chlorine with
iron wool
Periodic Table of Elements
Observation
86
Discussion
1 The halogens react with hot iron wool to form
iron(III) halides which are brown in colour but
the reactivity of the halogen decreases down
the group.
reactivity
decreases
down the
group
Conclusion
1 Chlorine, bromine and iodine show the same
chemical properties when they react with iron
wool, producing brown iron(III) halides.
2 The reactivity of the halogen decreases down the
group from chlorine to iodine.
2 The reaction between concentrated hydrochloric
acid and potassium manganate(VII) produces
chlorine gas:
X and Y reacts with water to form two kinds of
acids.
(III is correct)
Safety Precaution to be Taken When
Handling Group 17 Elements
X2 + H2O → HX + HOX
1 Fluorine, chlorine and bromine gases are very
poisonous. In fact chlorine was used in the
First World War to kill people.
2 Hence the experiments which involve the use
of these gases should be carried out in a fume
cupboard.
5
Answer C
4.4
1 Explain why a solution of chlorine is (a) acidic (b)
able to bleach things.
’05
2 Aqueous bromine and iodine solutions are both
brown.
(a) How do you differentiate between the two
solutions?
(b) Carry out an experiment to show that bromine
is more reactive than iodine.
X
Y
Which of the following statements below are true
concerning the elements X and Y in the above
Periodic Table?
I Y is more reactive than X.
II X is more electronegative than Y.
III They react with water to produce two kinds of
acids.
IV Both form univalent negative ions of charge
–1 when reacted with sodium.
A I, II and III only
B I, III and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
3 Iodine is an element below chlorine in Group 17
of the Periodic Table.
(a) Does iodine show similar chemical properties
as chlorine? Explain your answer.
[Proton number of iodine is 53 and proton
number of chlorine is 17]
(b) How does the
(i) density
(ii) melting point of iodine compare to
chlorine?
(c) Write equations for the reaction of iodine with
(i) aqueous sodium hydroxide solution
(ii) iron wool
Comment
X has a smaller atomic radius. Thus it has a higher
tendency to accept an electron to form a univalent
negative ion of charge –1. Thus X is more reactive
and more electronegative.
(I is incorrect)
4 Explain why the reactivity of Group 17 elements
decreases down the group.
5 Name five compounds containing halogens and
state their uses.
87
Periodic Table of Elements
4
2Fe(s) + 3Br2(g) → 2FeBr3(s)
iron(III) bromide
2Fe(s) + 3I2(g) → 2FeI3(s)
iron(III) iodide
3 Soda lime is a mixture of calcium hydroxide
and sodium hydroxide. It is used to absorb the
excess halogen gas. The excess chlorine and
bromine gas have to be absorbed because they
are poisonous.
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→
2Fe(s) + 3Cl2(g) → 2FeCl3(s)
iron(III) chloride
2KMnO4(s) + 16HCl(aq) →
2KCl(aq) + 2MnCl2(aq) + 5Cl2(g) + 8H2O(l)
4
Modern Periodic Table
(a) Elements are arranged in order of increasing proton numbers.
(b) The vertical column is known as Group whereas the horizontal rows are called Periods.
(c) The number of valence electrons in the element corresponds to the group the element is in.
(d) The number of filled electron shells of an element corresponds to the period of the element.
Group 18 elements
(a) Group 18 elements are inert.
(b) They have attained the duplet or octet electronic configuration.
(c) Thus they do not need to share, donate or receive electrons from other elements.
Group 1 elements (Alkali metals)
(a) As we go down Group 1,
(i) melting point decreases,
(ii) density increases,
(iii) reactivity and electropositivity increases.
(b) Chemical properties of Group 1 elements:
(i) Alkali metals react with chlorine to form metal halide salts.
2M(s) + Cl2(g) → 2MCl(s)
(M = Li, Na, K, …)
(ii) Alkali metals react with water to form metal hydroxides and hydrogen gas.
2M(s) + 2H2O(l) → 2MOH(aq) + H2(g)
(M = Li, Na, K, …)
(iii) Alkali metals burn in air to form metal oxides which are soluble in water.
4M(s) + O2(g) → 2M2O(s)
(M = Li, Na, K, …)
M2O(s) + H2O(l) → 2MOH(aq)
Group 17 elements (Halogen)
(a) As we go down group 17,
(i) melting point and density increases,
(ii) reactivity and electronegativity decreases.
(b) Chemical properties of Group 17 elements:
(i) Halogens dissolve in water to form two types of acids.
X2(g) + H2O(l) → HX(aq) + HOX(aq)
(X = F, Cl, Br, …)
(ii) Halogens react with iron to form brown iron(III) halide salts.
2Fe(s) + 3X2(g) → 2FeX3(s)
(X = F, Cl, Br, …)
(iii) Halogens react with sodium hydroxide to form two types of salts and water.
2NaOH(aq) + X2(g) → NaX(aq) + NaOX(aq) + H2O(l)
Periodic Table of Elements
88
(X = F, Cl, Br, …)
period, other than Period 3, based on the changes
in the properties of elements in Period 3.
4 Table 4.8 shows the trends across Period 3.
Elements in a Period
Elements in Period 3
1 The elements in Period 3 are sodium (Na),
magnesium (Mg), aluminium (Al), silicon
(Si), phosphorus (P), sulphur (S), chlorine
(Cl), and argon (Ar).
2 The study of the elements in Period 3 will show
a gradual change of physical and chemical
properties across the period from left to right.
3 Period 3 is a typical period. Thus we can predict
the trend of changes in properties across a
Figure 4.14 The elements in Period 3 of the Periodic
Table
SPM
Table 4.8 The trends across Period 3
Group
’11/P1
1
2
13
14
15
16
17
18
Element
Na
Mg
Al
Si
P
S
Cl
Ar
Proton number
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
2.8.1
2.8.2
2.8.3
2.8.4
2.8.5
2.8.6
2.8.7
2.8.8
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
0.156
0.136
0.125
0.117
0.111
0.104
0.099
0.094
Electro­negativity
0.9
1.2
1.5
1.8
2.1
2.5
3.0
—
Melting point (°C)
98
649
660
1410
590
119
–101
–189
Boiling point (°C)
883
1107
2467
2355
Ignites
445
–35
–186
Nature of elements Metal
Metal
Metal
Formula of oxide
Na2O
MgO
Al2O3
SiO2
P4O10
SO2
Cl2O7
None
Character of oxide
Basic
Basic
Ampho­teric
Acidic
Acidic
Acidic
Acidic
—
Electron
arrangement
Number of valence
electrons
Atomic radius
(nm)
Metalloid Non-metal Non-metal Non-metal Non-metal
Trends of Changes across Period 3
SPM
’05/P2
’09/P2
Atomic Radius
Valence Electrons
The atomic radius decreases across the period.
• All the elements in Period 3 have three filled
electron shells but the proton number increases
by one unit across the period.
• As a result, the increase in the number of protons
increases the electrostatic force between the
nucleus and the valence electrons.
• The valence electrons are pulled closer to the
nucleus, causing the atomic radius to decrease.
The number of valence electrons increases
across the period.
• As the proton number increases, the
number of electrons increases.
• The number of valence electrons
increases by 1 from one element to the
next across the period.
89
Periodic Table of Elements
4
4.5
4
Electronegativity
Melting & Boiling Points
The electronegativity increases across the
period. Electronegativity is a measurement of the
tendency of an atom to attract electrons.
• The atomic radius decreases across the period.
• The proton number increases across the
period.
• The increase in the number of protons (positive
charge in the nucleus) and the decrease in the
distance between the nucleus and the outermost
electron shell across the period cause an increase
in the force of attraction of the nucleus.
The atoms will have a higher tendency to attract
electrons. Therefore electronega­tivity increases.
• Elements on the left side of the period tend to
lose electrons to form positive ions. Elements
on the right side of the period tend to gain
electrons to form negative ions.
• Thus the elements on the left side of the period
(such as Na) are electropositive while the
elements on the right side of the period (such
as Cl) are electronegative.
The melting points and boiling points
of the elements increase from the left
of the period to the middle of the
period and then decrease again.
• Sodium,
magnesium
and
aluminium are metals with strong
metallic bonds between the metal
atoms. Hence they have high melting
and boiling points. The strength of
the metallic bonds increase with the
increase in the number of valence
electrons in the order: Na < Mg < Al.
• Silicon has very high melting and
boiling points. It has strong covalent
bonds between atoms forming a
3-dimensional gigantic network.
• Phosphorus, sulphur, chlorine and
argon are non-metals with weak van
der Waals forces of attraction between
molecules. They are lowest at the right
with chlorine and argon existing as
gases at room temperature.
Nature of Metals
As the electronegativity of the elements increases, the elements change from metals to metalloid and
finally to non-metals across the period.
• The elements on the left of the period are metals (Na, Mg and Al).
• Silicon has some metallic and some non-metallic properties. It is called a metalloid or semi-metal.
• The elements on the right of the period are non-metals (P, S, Cl and Ar).
Nature of Oxides
SPM
’08/P1, ’10/P1
The oxides of the elements change from basic to • Acidic oxides react with alkali to form salts and
amphoteric and then to acidic across the period.
water.
• Elements on the left of the period, which are
For example, sulphur trioxide reacts with
metals, form metal oxides. The metal oxides
sodium hydroxide to form sodium sulphate
are usually basic oxides.
salt and water:
• Basic oxides react with acids to form salts and
water.
SO3(g) + 2NaOH(aq) → Na2SO4(aq) + H2O(l)
For example, magnesium oxide reacts with
sulphuric acid to form a salt and water:
• An amphoteric oxide can react with both acids
and bases to form salt and water. Aluminium
MgO(s) + H2SO4(aq) → MgSO4(aq) + H2O(l)
oxide is an example of an amphoteric oxide.
Aluminium oxide can react with both acids and
• Elements on the right of the period are nonalkalis to form salts and water.
metals. Non-metallic oxides are acidic oxides. • Argon as an inert gas, does not form oxide.
Periodic Table of Elements
90
4.7
To determine the properties of the oxides of elements in Period 3
Problem statement
How do the properties of the oxides of elements in
Period 3 change across the period?
Hypothesis
The oxides change from basic to amphoteric and
then to acidic across Period 3.
4
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Oxides of Period 3
(b) Responding variable : Reaction with acid or
alkali
(c) Constant variable
: Concentrations of sodium
hydroxide and nitric acid
solutions
Figure 4.15 Reaction of oxides of Period 3 with
(a) an acid, (b) an alkali
3 Two drops of universal indicator are added and
the pH of the solution is noted.
4 The experiment is repeated with magnesium oxide,
aluminium oxide, silicon(IV) oxide, phosphorus(V)
oxide, sulphur dioxide and dichlorine heptoxide
respectively in place of sodium oxide.
(B) Reaction of the oxides of Period 3 elements
with 2 mol dm–3 nitric acid and 2 mol dm–3
sodium hydroxide solutions
1 A little sodium oxide powder is put into two
separate test tubes.
2 5 cm3 of nitric acid and 5 cm3 of sodium hydroxide
are added separately to the contents in each test tube.
3 The contents in each test tube are heated slowly
while being stirred with glass rods.
4 The solubility of sodium oxide in the two
solutions is recorded.
5 The experiment is repeated with magnesium oxide,
aluminium oxide, silicon(IV) oxide, phosphorus(V)
oxide, sulphur dioxide and dichlorine heptoxide
respectively in place of sodium oxide.
Materials
Sodium oxide, magnesium oxide, aluminium oxide,
silicon(IV) oxide, phosphorus(V) oxide, sulphur
dioxide, dichlorine heptoxide, nitric acid solution
and sodium hydroxide solution of 2 mol dm–3,
distilled water and universal indicator.
Apparatus
Test tube, test tube holder, Bunsen burner, rubber
stopper and glass rod.
Procedure
(A) Reaction of the oxides of Period 3 elements
with water
1 A little sodium oxide powder is added to some
distilled water in a test tube.
2 The test tube is tightly closed with a rubber
stopper and the contents are shaken.
Results
Experiment A
Observation
Solubility in water
pH value of solution
13 – 14
Al2O3
Dissolves in water to form
a colourless solution
Slightly soluble in water
to form a colourless
solution
Insoluble in water
SiO2
Insoluble in water
Na2O
MgO
Inference
Solution obtained is a strong alkali. Sodium
oxide is basic. Sodium shows metallic properties.
Solution obtained is a weak alkali.
Magnesium oxide is basic.
Magnesium shows metallic properties.
pH measured is pH of water as the oxide is
insoluble in water.
pH measured is pH of water as the oxide is
insoluble in water.
8–9
7
7
91
Periodic Table of Elements
Experiment 4.7
Oxide
Oxide
P4O10
SO2
Cl2O7
Observation
Solubility in water
pH value of solution
Dissolves in water to
form a colourless solution
Dissolves in water to
form a colourless solution
Dissolves in water to
form a colourless solution
2–3
Inference
Solution obtained is acidic. P4O10 is acidic.
Phosphorus shows non-metallic properties.
Solution obtained is acidic. SO2 is acidic.
Sulphur shows non-metallic properties.
Solution obtained is a strong acid. Cl2O7 is
acidic. Chlorine shows non-metallic properties.
2–3
1
4
Experiment B
Oxide
Reaction with 2 mol
dm–3 NaOH
Reaction with 2 mol dm–3
HNO3
Inference
Na2O
Does not react
Reacts with nitric acid to
form a colourless solution
Sodium oxide is basic because it reacts with the
acid. Sodium shows metallic properties.
MgO
Magnesium oxide
does not dissolve
Dissolves in nitric acid
forming a colourless
solution
Magnesium oxide is basic because it reacts with
the acid. Magnesium shows metallic properties.
Al2O3
Dissolves in sodium Dissolves in nitric acid
hydroxide forming a forming a colourless
solution
colourless solution
SiO2
Reacts with sodium
hydroxide solution
Does not dissolve in nitric
acid
Silicon(IV) oxide is acidic because it reacts with
an alkali. Silicon shows non-metallic properties.
P4O10
Reacts with sodium
hydroxide solution
Does not react with nitric
acid
Phosphorus(V) oxide is acidic because it reacts
with an alkali. Phosphorus shows non-metallic
properties.
SO2
Reacts with sodium
hydroxide solution
Does not react with nitric
acid
Sulphur dioxide is acidic because it reacts
with an alkali. Sulphur shows non-metallic
properties.
Cl2O7
Reacts with sodium
hydroxide solution
Does not react with nitric
acid
Dichlorine heptoxide is acidic because it reacts
with an alkali. Chlorine shows non-metallic
properties.
SiO2(s) + 2NaOH(aq) → Na2SiO3(aq) + H2O(l)
Discussion
1 (a) Metallic oxides are basic. Metal oxides react
with acids to form salts and water.
P4O10(s) + 12NaOH(aq) → 4Na3PO4(aq) + 6H2O(l)
SO2(g) + 2NaOH(aq) → Na2SO3(aq) + H2O(l)
Na2O(s) + 2HNO3(aq) → 2NaNO3(aq) + H2O(l)
Conclusion
1 Across Period 3 from left to right,
(a) the element changes from being a metal, to a
metalloid and a non-metal.
(b) the oxides change from being basic to
amphoteric and acidic.
2 Silicon is classified as a metalloid because it is
a very weak conductor of electricity. However,
its oxide is acidic.
3 Aluminium is classified as a metal because it is
a very good conductor of electricity. However, its
oxide is amphoteric. Aluminium oxide shows
both metallic and non-metallic properties.
MgO(s) + 2HNO3(aq) → Mg(NO3)2(aq) + H2O(l)
(b) Aluminium oxide is amphoteric because it
can react with both acids and alkalis.
SPM
’05/P2
Al2O3(s) + 6HNO3(aq) →
2Al(NO3)3(aq) + 3H2O(l)
Al2O3(s) + 2NaOH(aq) + 3H2O(l) →
2NaAl(OH)4(aq) (sodium aluminate)
Other examples of amphoteric oxides are
lead(II) oxide and tin(II) oxide.
(c) Non-metallic oxides are acidic. Non-metallic
oxides react with alkalis to form salts and water.
Periodic Table of Elements
Aluminium oxide is amphoteric because it
reacts with both acid and alkali.
92
Uses of Semi-metals (or Metalloids)
1 A semi-metal or metalloid is an element with
properties intermediate between those of
metals and non-metals.
2 For example, silicon is a non-metal and is a
very poor conductor of electricity. However,
the conductivity increases with temperature. It
becomes a good conductor of electricity at
high temperatures.
3 This type of substance is known as a
semi-metal. Examples of semi-metals are
silicon, germanium, boron, antimony,
and arsenic. These elements are important
industrial materials and are used to make
semiconductors.
4 Adding of foreign elements (called doping)
can increase the conductivity of semi-metals.
(a) If silicon is doped with Group 13 elements
such as boron, a p-type semiconductor is
produced.
(b) If it is doped with Group 15 elements
such as arsenic or antimony, a n-type
semiconductor is produced.
5 Semiconductors are very important in the
microelectronic industry and are used to
make transistors, diodes, rectifiers, thermistors
and microprocessors. Hundreds of these
electronic components can be built onto a
crystal of silicon to make a microchip.
Microchip wafer
4
Do you know that
a silicon wafer can
contain hundreds
of microchips? Each
microchip itself
contains hundreds of
electronic components.
Our earth contains
about 27.7% silicon
and a large portion is
found in sand.
4.6
Transition Elements
Figure 4.16 The transition elements in the Periodic
Table
1 The transition elements are elements in a
block located in-between Group 2 and Group
13 in the Periodic Table.
2 There are 10 elements in each series. The
first series is in Period 4 and consists of
the elements: scandium(Sc), titanium(Ti),
vanadium(V), chromium(Cr), manganese
(Mn), iron(Fe), cobalt(Co), nickel(Ni),
copper(Cu) and zinc(Zn).
3 Table 4.9 shows some physical properties of
the transition elements in the first series in
Period 4.
4 The transition elements are all metals with
the following physical properties:
(a) High density
(b) High hardness
(c) High electrical conductivity
(d) High tensile strength
(e) Silvery surface
(f) Ductile and malleable
(g) High melting point
(h) High boiling point
5 The atomic radius and electronegativity of the
transition elements are almost the same.
4.5
1 Predict the changes in the properties of the
elements across Period 3 in the Periodic Table.
(a) Atomic radius
(b) Electronegativity
(c) Acidic-base property of the oxides
2 The proton numbers of element X and Y are 3
and 9 respectively.
(a) To which period of the Periodic Table do X
and Y belong?
(b) Which is more electronegative? Explain your
answer.
3 Write the formula of the oxides of the elements in
Period 3. State whether the oxide is basic, acidic
or amphoteric.
4 Silicon is a semi-metal. State one difference
between
(a) silicon and sulphur,
(b) silicon and iron.
93
Periodic Table of Elements
Table 4.9 Some physical properties of the transition elements in the first series
4
Element
Sc
Ti
V
Cr
Mn
Fe
Co
Ni
Cu
Zn
Atomic radius (nm)
0.162
0.147
0.134
0.130
0.135
0.126
0.125
0.124
0.128
0.138
Melting point (°C)
1539
1668
1900
1875
1245
1536
1495
1453
1083
419
Boiling point (°C)
2730
3260
3450
2665
2150
3000
2900
2730
2959
906
Density (g cm–3)
3.0
4.51
6.1
7.19
7.43
7.86
8.9
8.9
8.96
7.14
Electronegativity
1.3
1.5
1.6
1.6
1.5
1.8
1.8
1.8
1.9
1.6
Hardness
(Mohs’ scale)
soft
6.0
7.0
8.5
6.0
4.0
5.0
4.0
3.0
2.5
(Note: Hardness is measured using Mohs’ scale. Diamond, which is the hardest substance known, has a hardness of 10 on Mohs’ scale.)
Titanium alloy is corrosion
resistant and lightweight. It is
used in orthopaedic and dental
implants.
Vanadium steel alloy is used in
making gears and crankshafts of
vehicles.
Titanium alloy
is light and
have very
high tensile
strength. It is
used to make
aircraft engines.
An engine of
a A380 Airbus
uses 11 tons
of titanium.
Uses of transition
metals
Cobalt is alloyed with iron, nickel
and other metals to make Alnico,
an alloy of unusual magnetic
strength.
Nickel is used in many industrial
and consumer products, including
stainless steel, magnets, coinage
and special alloys.
Chromium is used to make
stainless steel and for the
electroplating of iron.
Periodic Table of Elements
Iron is alloyed with carbon to
make steel which is used in
making cars, ships and in building
industries.
94
Copper is used as electrical
conductors and in piping.
Special Properties of Transition Elements
Transition elements have variable oxidation numbers
1 Unlike elements in the main group of the
Periodic Table in which each has only one
oxidation number, a transition element has
more than one oxidation number in its
compounds.
2 Oxidation number is the charge on the ion.
In other words, a transition element can form
ions with different charges.
For example, magnesium (in Group 2),
can form only Mg2+ ion, with an oxidation
number of +2.
Iron, however, as a transition element, can
form Fe2+ ion (oxidation number of +2) and
Fe3+ ion (oxidation number of +3).
3 Table 4.10 shows the different oxidation
numbers of transition elements in their
compounds.
Table 4.10 The oxidation numbers of transition
elements in their compounds
Chromium(III) chloride
Potassium dichromate(VI)
CrCl3
K2Cr2O7
+3
+6
Manganese(II) chloride
Manganese(IV) oxide
Potassium manganate(VI)
Potassium manganate(VII)
MnCl2
MnO2
K2MnO4
KMnO4
+2
+4
+6
+7
Iron(II) sulphate
Iron(III) chloride
FeSO4
FeCl3
+2
+3
Nickel(II) sulphate
Nickel(III) chloride
NiSO4
NiCl3
+2
+3
Copper(I) oxide
Copper(II) oxide
Cu2O
CuO
+1
+2
Transition elements form coloured com­pounds
1 Unlike main group metal compounds which
are usually white, transition elements can
form compounds of different colours.
2 Unlike aqueous solutions of main group
compounds or ions which are usually
colourless, aqueous solutions of transition
element compounds or their ions are
coloured.
3 Table 4.11 shows the colours of some aqueous
solutions of ions of transition elements.
Formula of ion
of transition
element
Colour of
aqueous
solution
Manganese(II) ion
Mn2+
Pink
Chromium(III) ion
3+
Cr
Green
Nickel(II) ion
Ni2+
Green
4 Precious stones are coloured due to the
presence of com­pounds of transition elements.
Table 4.12 shows the transition elements
present which are responsible for the
colours of some precious stones.
Table 4.11 The colours of some aqueous solutions
of ions of transition elements
Name of ion of
transition
element
Name of ion of
transition
element
Formula of ion
of transition
element
Colour of
aqueous
solution
Chromate ion
CrO
Yellow
Dichromate ion
Cr2O
Orange
Permanganate ion
MnO4–
Purple
Precious
stone
Colour
Transition element
present
Iron(II) ion
Fe2+
Green
Ruby
Red
Chromium
Iron(III) ion
Fe
Brown
Sapphire
Blue
Iron and Titanium
Copper(II) ion
Cu2+
Blue
Emerald
Green
Chromium
Cobalt(II) ion
Co2+
Pink
Amethyst
Purple
Manganese
2–
4
2–
7
3+
Table 4.12 Examples of some precious stones and
the transition elements which give
them their distinctive colours
95
Periodic Table of Elements
4
Compounds of transition Chemical Oxidation
elements
formula number
Transition metals or their compounds have catalytic properties
1 A catalyst is a substance that speeds up the
rate of a reaction. A catalyst does not change
chemically after a reaction. Catalysts are used
in almost all chemical manufacturing plants.
2 Many catalysts are transition elements or
their compounds.
SPM
’08/P1/P2
3 Table 4.13 shows the uses of transition
elements or their compounds as catalysts in
industries.
Table 4.13 The uses of transition elements or their compounds as catalysts in industries
4
Transition element or its
compound
Fine iron powder, Fe
Industrial process which use the catalyst
Haber process in the manufacture of ammonia. Iron catalyses the
reaction between nitrogen and hydrogen gas to produce ammonia.
Fe
N2(g) + 3H2(g) ⎯⎯→ 2NH3(g)
Vanadium(V) oxide, V2O5
SPM
’10/P1
Contact process in the manufacture of sulphuric acid. V2O5 catalyses the
oxidation of sulphur dioxide to sulphur trioxide.
V2O5
2SO2(g) + O2(g) ⎯⎯→ 2SO3(g)
SO3 is used to manufacture sulphuric acid.
Nickel
Manufacture of margarine. Nickel catalyses the hydrogenation of
unsaturated vegetable oil into saturated oil in the production of
margarine.
Platinum
Ostwald process in the manufacture of nitric acid.
Transition elements can form complex ions
1 A complex ion is a polyatomic cation or anion
consisting of a central metal ion with other
groups bonded to it.
2 Table 4.14 shows some examples of complex
ions formed by transition elements.
Table 4.14
Complex ions
Reaction of Aqueous Solutions of Transition
Element Compounds with Sodium Hydroxide
and Ammonia Solutions
Tetraamminecopper(II)
Cu(NH3)2+
4
Hexaamminechromium(III)
Cr(NH3)3+
6
Hexaaquocobalt(II)
Co(H2O)2+
6
Hexacyanoferrate(II)
Fe(CN)64–
Hexacyanoferrate(III)
Fe(CN)63–
2 The ions of transition elements react with
the hydroxide ions to form coloured metal
hydroxide precipitates.
3 Table 4.15 gives some examples of the
reactions of aqueous solutions of ions of
transition elements with sodium hydroxide
solution and ammonia solution.
1 The presence of ions of transition elements in
a solution can be confirmed by using sodium
hydroxide solution or ammonia solution.
Periodic Table of Elements
Formula
96
Table 4.15
Aqueous sodium hydroxide solution, NaOH(aq)
Fe2+
Green precipitate of iron(II) hydroxide is
formed. Precipitate is insoluble in excess NaOH
solution.
Green precipitate of iron(II) hydroxide is formed.
Precipitate is insoluble in excess aqueous NH3
solution.
Fe2+(aq) + 2OH–(aq) → Fe(OH)2(s)
(from NaOH) (green precipitate)
Fe2+(aq) + 2OH–(aq) → Fe(OH)2(s)
(from NH3) (green precipitate)
Brown precipitate of iron(III) hydroxide is
formed. Precipitate is insoluble in excess NaOH
solution.
Brown precipitate of iron(III) hydroxide is formed.
Precipitate is insoluble in excess aqueous NH3
solution.
Fe3+(aq) + 3OH–(aq) → Fe(OH)3(s)
(from NaOH) (brown precipitate)
Fe3+(aq) + 3OH–(aq) → Fe(OH)3(s)
(from NH3) (brown precipitate)
Blue precipitate of copper(II) hydroxide is
formed. Precipitate is insoluble in excess NaOH
solution.
Blue precipitate of copper(II) hydroxide is formed.
Fe3+
Cu2+
Cu2+(aq) + 2OH–(aq) → Cu(OH)2(s)
(from NH3) (blue precipitate)
Cu2+(aq) + 2OH–(aq) → Cu(OH)2(s)
(from NaOH) (blue precipitate)
6
Aqueous ammonia solution, NH3(aq)
4
Ions
Precipitate is soluble in excess NH3 solution to form
a complex ion which is dark blue in colour.
Cu(OH)2(s) + 4NH3(aq) → Cu(NH3)2+
(aq) + 2OH–(aq)
4
(dark blue solution)
Cu(NH3)2+
is a dark blue complex ion. Thus, Q is
4
copper(II) oxide.
Answer A
’03
Q is a compound. Study the flowchart below and
identify Q.
Solid Q
+ HNO3(aq)
+NaOH(aq)
Blue solution is formed
+ NaOH(aq)
Blue precipitate
+ excess ammonia
solution
A Copper(II) oxide
B Iron(III) oxide
Aqueous ammonia contains hydroxide ions:
NH3 + H2O
NH4+ + OH–
Not soluble
Dark blue
solution
C Copper(II) sulphate
D Iron(II) sulphate
Have high melting,
boiling points and
densities
Comment
Q is a base, since it dissolves in nitric acid. Metal
oxides are bases. Since it forms a blue precipitate,
Q must contain copper(II) ions. The above reactions
can be represented by the equations
CuO(s) + 2HNO3(aq) → Cu(NO3)2(aq) + H2O(l)
Cu(NO3)2(aq) + 2NaOH(aq) →
2NaNO3(aq) + Cu(OH)2(s)
(blue precipitate)
Cu(OH)2(s) + 4NH3(aq) → Cu(NH3)2+
(aq) + 2OH–(aq)
4
Form
coloured
compounds
Have more
than one
oxidation state
Transition elements
The presence of
their ions can be
confirmed using
NaOH(aq) or
NH3(aq)
97
Used as catalysts
in chemical
reactions
Form
complex
ions
Periodic Table of Elements
in a table for easy studying. Scientists who
played prominent roles in the development of
the Periodic Table were J. W. Dobereiner, John
Newlands, Lothar Meyer, Dmitri Mendeleev
and Henry Moseley.
4.6
1 You are given two blue aqueous solutions; one
containing Cu2+ ions and another containing a blue
food colouring. Explain how you can differentiate
between the two solutions.
2 The body of U-2 spy plane is made of titanium
alloy. Give three reasons why titanium alloy is
used?
4
4.7
Uses of the Elements and Compounds in
Our Daily Life
1 An element is a substance that cannot be
broken down into simpler substances.
Table 4.17 shows the uses of some of these
elements in daily life.
2 A compound is a substance made by
chemically combining atoms of two or more
elements.
3 Many compounds have been synthesised by
chemists to improve our standard of living.
Many items in our home are made up of
elements. The shirt you are wearing may be
made of Terylene, your sofa may be made of
polyvinyl chloride, the cooking utensils in
your kitchen are made of stainless steel, glass
or ceramics, part of the motor of your ceiling
fan is made of copper and the microprocessors
in the computer are made of silicon and
germanium. Elements are used to make
vehicles, medicine and communication tools
like the handphone. Imagine our life without
these elements. Coloured compounds of
transition elements are used as paint pigments
and they make our homes more colourful.
Table 4.18 shows the uses of some of these
compounds.
Appreciating the
Existence of Elements
and Their Compounds
1 In ancient times, gold, mercury, copper,
iron, sulphur, tin, antimony, lead, diamond,
and graphite were already discovered. Credit
should be given to the scientists who, through
their persistent efforts, discovered and isolated
other elements. Table 4.16 below shows the
scientists who isolated some of these elements.
2 Then about a century (100 years) later,
scientists discovered the subatomic particles of
atoms. Credit is given to J. J. Thomson, Ernest
Rutherford, James Chadwick and Niels Bohr
in helping us understand the atomic structure
of atoms in elements. The atomic structure
of atoms helps us understand how elements
react to form compounds.
3 As more elements are isolated, there is a need
to classify the elements. Elements with the
same chemical properties are grouped together
Table 4.16
Element
Scientist
Symbol
Isolated in
Hydrogen
H
Henry Cavendish (British)
1766
Nitrogen
N
Daniel Rutherford (British)
1772
Oxygen
O
Carl Wilhelm Scheele (Swedish)
1774
Sodium
Na
Sir William Ramsay (British)
1807
Potassium
K
Sir Humphry Davy (British)
1807
Magnesium
Mg
Sir Humphry Davy (British)
1808
Aluminium
Al
Hans Christian Orsted
1825
Uranium
U
Eugene Melchior Peligot (French)
1841
Helium
He
Sir William Ramsay (British)
1895
Radium
Ra
Pierre Curie and Marie Curie (French)
1898
Periodic Table of Elements
98
Table 4.17 Uses of some elements
Formula
Uses
Hydrogen
H2
Used in the hydrogenation of unsaturated oil to produce margarine.
Used in the manufacture of ammonia.
Aluminium
Al
Used in the production of duralumin alloy for use in the construction of
aeroplane bodies.
Silicon
Si
To make microchips
Sulphur
S
To make matches, fireworks and for the manufacture of sulphuric acid
Chlorine
Cl2
To kill germs in drinking water
Iron
Fe
Production of steel
Copper
Cu
To make electrical wire, electrical motor, dynamo and coins (cupronickel alloy)
Cobalt-60
Co
The gamma rays emitted from this radioactive element is used to kill cancer cells.
Table 4.18 Uses of some chemical compounds
Chemical Formula
Uses
Magnesium oxide
MgO
In antacid drugs to treat gastric patients. Also used to treat acid
poisonings.
Tin fluoride
SnF2
Is added to toothpaste.
Fluoride ions can strengthen the teeth.
Compound
Sodium bicarbonate
NaHCO3
Silver bromide
AgBr
Vinyl chloride
CH2CHCl
Ammonia
Sodium hydroxide
NH3
NaOH
Used as a baking powder. Also used to treat acid burns.
Used in the making of photographic films.
To make PVC pipes, toys, raincoats and cushions
To manufacture fertiliser, nitric acid and explosives
To make soap
Preventing Wastage
pollution because many of these items are
non-biodegradable.
3 We can minimise wastage in the school
laboratory by practising the following:
(a) Weigh or use the correct amount of
chemicals that is required to carry out an
experiment.
(b) Read the label of the chemicals carefully,
so that we do not take the wrong
substance.
(c) Read the procedure of the experiment
and plan the experiment carefully before
carrying them out, so as to avoid the need
to repeat the experiment.
1 Most of the elements needed to keep life
going are obtained from the Earth’s crust. A
number of these elements are obtained from
the oceans and the air. After extraction, these
chemicals cannot be replaced and will be
depleted one day. So it is important that we
avoid wastage in using these elements.
2 Recycling of used materials is an alternative
method. Used glass bottles, plastic bottles
and aluminium cans should be separated
and thrown into different bins provided by
the government. This will also help to reduce
99
Periodic Table of Elements
4
Element
4
Cl2(g) + H2O(l) → HCl(aq) + HOCl(aq)
(b) Halogens react with alkali metals to form halide
salts, e.g.
2Na(s) + Cl2(g) → 2NaCl(s)
(c) Halogens react with hot iron wool to form brown
iron(III) halide salt, e.g.
2Fe(s) + 3Cl2(g) → 2FeCl3(s)
5 The reactivity of Group 17 element increases up
the group because the atomic radius decreases.
The smaller the atomic radius, the stronger the
electrostatic force of attraction between the nucleus
and the electron. Thus the elements higher in the
group can accept electrons more easily.
6 Group 18 elements exist as monatoms because
they have attained the duplet or octet electronic
configuration. They do not need to donate, accept
or share electrons with other elements.
7 Transition elements are a block of elements
between Group 2 and Group 13 in the Periodic
Table. The characteristics of transition elements are
(a) they form coloured compounds
(b) they have more than one oxidation number
(c) they catalyse chemical reactions
(d) they form complex ions
1 Chemical elements are classed into groups in the
Periodic Table, with elements in the same group
having the same chemical properties.
2 Group 1 elements are called alkali metals.
(a) They react with cold water to produce an
alkaline solution and hydrogen gas, e.g.
2Na(s) + 2H2O(l) → 2NaOH(aq) + H2(g)
(b) They react with halogen gas to form halide
salts, e.g.
2Na(s) + Cl2(g) → 2NaCl(s)
(c) They burn in air to form metal oxides, e.g.
4Na(s) + O2(l) → 2Na2O(s)
All oxides of Group 1 metals can dissolve in
water to form alkaline solutions.
Na2O(s) + H2O(l) → 2NaOH(aq)
3 The reactivity of Group 1 elements increases down the
group because the valence electron is further from the
nucleus. The electrostatic force of attraction between
the nucleus and the valence electron becomes weaker.
Thus the elements lower in the group can release their
valence electrons more easily.
4 Group 17 elements are called halogens.
(a) Halogens dissolve in water to form acidic
solutions, e.g.
4
Multiple-choice Questions
4.1
Periodic Table of Elements
1 The diagram below shows the
electron arrangement of atom Y.
2 The structure of a compound
containing element Q and
hydrogen is shown as follows.
H
H
x
xx
x
x xx
Y
x x
x
x
xx
Which of the following is the
position of atom Y in the
Periodic Table?
A
B
C
D
Group
Period
TC 52
2
3
3
3
2
13
3
13
Periodic Table of Elements
xo
H ox
Q
xo
x
x
xo
Q
xo
x
oH
H
H
To which group of the Periodic
Table does element Q belong?
A 14
C 16
B 15
D 17
3 Which of the following elements
belong to the same group in the
Periodic Table?
7
3
P
9
4
Q
27
13
A P and R
B R and T
R
35
17
S
40
20
C P and S
D Q and T
100
T
4 Atom of element X has proton
number of 19. Which of the
following statements are true
concerning X ?
I X has one valence electron.
II The oxide of element X is
soluble in water.
III X is in Period 4 of the
Periodic Table.
IV X has the same chemical
properties as fluorine.
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C I, II and III only
D I, III and IV only
5 An atom of element Y has a
nucleon number of 31 with 16
neutrons.
4.2
7 The symbols for four elements
are shown below.
4
2
Period
A
16
2
B
17
2
C
16
3
D
17
3
W
16
8
24
12
X
Y
40
18
Z
Which of the following statements
is true?
A Both elements W and Z are
monatomic.
B Element Z is more reactive
than element X.
C Elements W and Y react to
form a compound with the
formula YW.
D Elements X and Y react to
form a compound with the
formula YX2.
6 An element X has a proton
number of 9. In which group
and period does X belong to in
the Periodic Table?
Group
Group 18 Elements
8 Which of the inert gases below
is used in a diver’s oxygen tank?
A Neon
C Helium
B Argon
D Krypton
9 Which element, as represented by the symbols below, exists as
monatoms?
A W
B X
C Y
D Z
10 The element which does not form compound with other elements is likely
to have a proton number of
’06 A 4
B 6
C 8
D 10
11 As
I
II
A
B
we go down Group 18,
the density increases.
the reactivity decreases.
I and III only
II and IV only
III
IV
C
D
the boiling point increases.
the atomic size decreases.
I, II and III only
I, III and IV only
12 Argon does not form compound with chlorine because
A it has three filled electron shells.
B it has low melting and boiling points.
C it has eight electrons in the outermost electron shell.
D the atoms have the same number of protons and neutrons in the
nucleus.
4.3
Group 1 Elements
13 Rubidium is below sodium in Group 1. Which statements below about
rubidium are correct?
’08
I It is more reactive than sodium.
II It burns in air to form rubidium oxide which is insoluble in water.
III It is produced from the electrolysis of molten rubidium chloride.
IV It reacts with cold water to form rubidium hydroxide and hydrogen.
A I and III only
C I, III and IV only
B II and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
101
14 Which of the following explains
why sodium is more reactive
’06 than lithium?
A Sodium has more protons
than lithium.
B Sodium has less valence
electrons than lithium.
C Sodium has a lower melting
point than lithium.
D Sodium can release its
valence electron more easily.
15 An element X is burned in air.
The product of combustion is
then dissolved in water.
The solution gives a pH value of
14. The element X is
A potassium
B phosphorus
C aluminium
D sulphur
16 Which statement below is true
about sodium?
A It burns in air to form sodium
oxide of formula NaO which
is soluble in water.
B It burns in air to form sodium
oxide of formula Na2O which
is soluble in water.
C It burns in air to form sodium
oxide of formula NaO which
is insoluble in water.
D It burns in air to form sodium
oxide of formula Na2O which
is insoluble in water.
17 Which statement concerning the
ions of Group 1 elements is
correct?
A Each contains more protons
than electrons.
B Each contains more electrons
than protons.
C Each has one electron in its
outer electron shell.
D Each contains the same
number of protons and
electrons.
18 As
I
II
III
IV
A
B
C
D
we go down Group 1,
the density increases
the melting point increases
the reactivity increases
the electropositivity decreases
I and II only
I and III only
II and III only
II and IV only
Periodic Table of Elements
4
Which of the following statements
is true concerning element Y?
A Atom of element Y has 16
protons.
B Atom of element Y has two
filled electron shells.
C Atom of element Y has six
valence electrons.
D Element Y is in Group 15 of
the Periodic Table.
4
19 The element X has a proton
number of 19. Element X
A forms a basic oxide that is
insoluble in water.
B reacts with cold water to
form an acidic solution.
C reacts with chlorine to form a
compound with formula
XCl2.
D is more reactive than an
element with a proton
number of 11.
4.4
Group 17 Elements
20 Which of the following explains
why chlorine is more reactive
than bromine?
A Chlorine is less dense than
bromine.
B Chlorine has a lower boiling
point than bromine.
C Chlorine atom accepts an
electron more easily than
bromine atom.
D Chlorine atom contains
less protons than bromine
atom.
21 Which of the following halogens
dissolve in water to produce
an acidic solution which can
decolourise the colour of litmus
paper?
I Chlorine
II Bromine
III Iodine
IV Astatine
A I and II only
B I and III only
C II and IV only
D III and IV only
22 An element from Group X can
dissolve in water to form an
acidic solution.
This resulting solution reacts
with silver nitrate reagent to
form a white precipitate.
In which group of the Periodic
Table does the element belong
to?
A 1
B 2
C 16
D 17
Periodic Table of Elements
23 Which of the statements below
is not true concerning Group 17
elements?
A Bromine is a gas at room
temperature.
B Chlorine is more reactive
than bromine.
C As we go down Group 17,
the density increases.
D Chlorine is more
electronegative than bromine.
24 As
I
II
III
IV
A
B
C
D
we go down Group 17,
the reactivity decreases
electronegativity increases
the melting point increases
the solubility of the element
in water decreases
I, II and III only
I, III and IV only
II, III and IV only
I, II, III and IV
25 Which statement about ions of
Group 17 elements is correct?
A Each has eight valence
electrons.
B Each contains more protons
than electrons.
C Each contains more protons
than neutrons.
D Each has an odd number of
electrons.
26 Which of the following statements
are true about chlorine and
bromine?
I Both are gases at room
temperature.
II They react with sodium to
form soluble salts.
III They react with heated iron
wool to form iron(II) halides
IV They dissolve in water to
form solutions with pH
values of less than 7.
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C I, II and IV only
D II, III and IV only
27 An element X has a proton
number of 35. Which statement
about X is true?
A X forms a positive ion during
chemical reactions.
B It belongs to Group 15 of
the Periodic Table.
102
C Reacts with iron wool to
form a compound with the
formula FeX3.
D Reacts with sodium to form
a compound with formula
NaX2.
28 Which of the following
statements about the Periodic
Table is true?
A All inert gases have eight
valence electrons.
B All Group 1 elements are
equally reactive.
C The atomic radius increases
in size across a period from
left to right.
D The electronegativity of
Group 17 elements increases
up the group.
4.5
Elements in a Period
29 The table shows the proton
numbers of four elements.
Element
P
Q
R
S
T
Proton
10 11 14 17 19
number
Arrange the atomic radii of the
elements in increasing order.
A P, Q, R, S, T
B P, S, R, Q, T
C T, S, R, Q, P
D T, Q, R, S, P
30 Which of the following metallic
oxides can react with both acid
’06 and alkaline solutions?
I Aluminium oxide
II Tin(II) oxide
III Lead(II) oxide
IV Copper(II) oxide
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C I, II and III only
D I, III and IV only
31 X, Y and Z are elements in the
same period of the Periodic
Table.
The oxide of X is acidic, the
oxide of Y is basic and the oxide
of Z is amphoteric.
Arrange the elements X, Y and Z
in increasing proton number.
A Z, X, Y
C Y, X, Z
B X, Z, Y
D Y, Z, X
Metal
oxides
X oxide
Y oxide
Z oxide
Observation
Sodium
hydroxide
solution
Nitric acid
solution
Dissolves
to form
colourless
solution
Dissolves
to form
colourless
solution
No change
Dissolves
to form
colourless
solution
No change
Dissolves
to form
colourless
solution
What is the correct arrangement
in increasing proton number of
the elements?
A X, Y, Z
B Y, X, Z
C Z, Y, X
D Z, X, Y
33 The graph shows the change
in a property as we go across
Period 3 of the Periodic Table.
Element
X
Y
Z
Proton number
11 13 17
Which of the following
statements is true?
A X, Y and Z are all conductors
of electricity.
B All the elements above are
made up of atoms.
C The atomic radius decreases
in the order Z, Y, X.
D The electronegativity
increases in the order X, Y, Z.
4.6
Transition Elements
35 Which of the following elements
will form coloured compounds?
I Cobalt
III Aluminium
II Nickel
IV Manganese
A I, II and III only
B I, II and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
36 The diagram shows part of a
Periodic Table.
Which of the following
statements below are true
about the elements in the
Periodic Table?
I Element W is inert.
II Element Y has more than
one oxidation state.
III Element X reacts with cold
water to form X oxide and
hydrogen.
IV Element Z reacts with iron
to form a compound with
formula FeZ3.
A II and IV only
B I, II and III only
C I, II and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
37 The properties of the transition
metals include
’08
I they form white compounds.
II they act as catalysts in
chemical reactions.
III they have more than one
oxidation state.
IV they form complex ions.
A I, II and III only
B I, II and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
38 The table shows the properties of four elements. Which element is most
likely to be a transition element?
Element
Electrical conductivity
Melting point (°C) Density (g cm–3)
360
6.8
Good
B
620
3.1
Good
C
3500
3.5
Poor
D
3400
8.1
Good
A
39 An element X forms two oxides with the formula XO and X2O. Which of
the following statements is true about the element X ?
A It is a transition metal.
B It is a Group 1 element.
C It is a Group 17 element.
D The oxides of element X are amphoteric.
Which of the properties below
corresponds to the change as
shown in the graph above?
A Atomic radius
B Electropositivity
C Electrical conductivity
D Density
34 The table shows the proton
numbers of three elements X, Y
and Z.
40 Which of the following shows correctly the colour of the ions of the
transition elements?
Colour
Fe2+
Cr2O72–
MnO4–
Co2+
Brown
Orange
Purple
Pink
B
Green
Orange
Purple
Pink
C
Brown
Purple
Orange
Blue
D
Green
Purple
Orange
Blue
A
103
Periodic Table of Elements
4
32 X, Y and Z are elements in
Period 3 of the Periodic Table.
The table shows the properties
of the oxides of X, Y and Z
when reacted with sodium
hydroxide and nitric acid
solutions.
Structured Questions
4 A list of elements represented by the letters with the
nucleon numbers and proton numbers are given
below:
1 Bromine is an element of Group 17 in the Periodic
Table.
(a) What is the physical state of bromine at room
temperature?
[1 mark]
P, 126Q, 199R, 27
S, 35
T, 39
U
13
17
19
1
1
(b) Write an equation for the reaction between
bromine and water.
[1 mark]
(a) Choose two elements from the list above that
belong to the same group in the Periodic Table.
4
(c) Draw a labelled diagram for the apparatus that
can be used to carry out a reaction between
bromine and iron wool.
[2 marks]
[1 mark]
(b) State the (i) group and (ii) period of element U.
[2 marks]
(d) What is the number of valence electrons in
bromine?
[1 mark]
(c) Give one use of the element P.
(d) Draw the atomic structure of element R.
[2 marks]
(e) Iodine is below bromine in Group 17. Which of
the two elements, iodine or bromine, is more
reactive? Explain your answer.
[3 marks]
(e)
2 Rubidium is placed below potassium in Group 1 in
the Periodic Table.
(i) Which of the elements in the list reacts with
cold water to produce hydrogen gas?
[1 mark]
(ii) Write a balanced chemical equation for the
reaction in (i).
[1 mark]
(a) Give two physical properties of rubidium.
[2 marks]
(f) Write the formula of the ion formed by the
element U.
[1 mark]
(b) How is rubidium stored in the laboratory?
[1 mark]
(g)
(c) Write the equations for the reactions of rubidium
(Rb) with (i) water and (ii) chlorine gas.
[2 marks]
(i) What is electronegativity?
(ii) Which is the more electronegative element
between R and T? Explain your answer.
[3 marks]
(d) Explain why rubidium is more reactive than
potassium.
[2 marks]
5 A list of the symbols of the transition elements in
Period 4 is given below:
(e) Write the formula of (i) rubidium nitrate and (ii)
rubidium sulphate.
[2 marks]
(f) What is the colour of rubidium nitrate?
[1 mark]
Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu
[1 mark]
(a) Give two physical properties of the transition
[2 marks]
elements.
3 Diagram 1 shows a portion of the Periodic Table.
The letters in the Periodic Table do not represent the
’05 actual symbols of the elements.
(b) What is the colour of the aqueous Cu2+ ion
solution?
[1 mark]
(c) Name a transition element in the list which is
used as a catalyst in the
(i) Haber process to manufacture ammonia.
[1 mark]
Diagram 1
(a) Choose two elements which are metals in the
Periodic Table above.
[2 marks]
(ii) hydrogenation of unsaturated oil to make
margarine.
[1 mark]
(d) Other than forming coloured compounds and
having catalytic properties, name two other
properties of transition elements.
[2 marks]
(b) Write the formula of the ions formed by the
elements (i) E and (ii) Q.
[2 marks]
(c) Choose an element from the Periodic Table
above that can form a coloured compound.
[1 mark]
(e) Name a reagent that can be used to differentiate
between the ions of transition elements in the list
above.
[1 mark]
(d) Choose an element that exists as monatoms.
Give a use of this element.
[2 marks]
6 The symbols of the elements in Period 3 of the
Periodic Table are given below:
(e) Which element from the Periodic Table above
can form an acidic oxide?
[1 mark]
Na, Mg, Al, Si, P, S, Cl, Ar
(f) Which is the more reactive element between E
and R? Explain your answer.
[2 marks]
(a) Name an element that can conduct electricity in
Period 3.
[1 mark]
Periodic Table of Elements
104
(b) How does the atomic radius change across the
period? Explain your answer.
[3 marks]
(f)
(c) Name an element that exists as monatoms in
Period 3. Explain your answer.
[2 marks]
(d) Write the formulae of the oxides of the elements
in Period 3.
[3 marks]
(g) The oxide of aluminium can react with both acid
and alkali solutions. What is the term given to
such an oxide?
[1 mark]
(i) Name a basic oxide of Period 3 that can
dissolve in water.
[1 mark]
(ii) Write an equation for the reaction that takes
place when its basic oxide in (i) is dissolved
in water.
[1 mark]
(h) Give a use of the element silicon.
[1 mark]
4
(e)
(i) Name an acidic oxide of Period 3 that can
dissolve in water.
[1 mark]
(ii) Write an equation for the reaction that
takes place when the acidic oxide in (i) is
dissolved in water.
[1 mark]
Essay Questions
1 (a)
(b) Explain why Group 18 elements exist as
monatoms.
[5 marks]
II
(c)
Iron(III) chloride
Chlorine
The reactivity of alkali metals increases down
the group in the order:
lithium < sodium < potassium
Explain the statement given above.
I
[7 marks]
Sodium chloride
(b) Rubidium (Rb) is placed below potassium in
Group 1 of the Periodic Table. Predict three
physical properties and three chemical properties
of rubidium.
[10 marks]
The flowchart shows the conversion of chlorine to
sodium chloride and iron(III) chloride.
Explain a method to carry out an experiment
(i) to obtain sodium chloride from chlorine in
conversion I.
[5 marks]
(ii) to obtain iron(III) chloride from chlorine in
conversion II.
[5 marks]
(c) The nucleon number of sodium is 23 and its
atom has 12 neutrons. The nucleon number of
chlorine atom is 35 and it has 18 neutrons. Prove
that sodium and chlorine belong to the same
period in the Periodic Table.
[3 marks]
4 (a) Using a suitable period in the Periodic Table as
an example, explain the trend in the properties of
the elements in terms of metals, non-metals and
semi-metals.
[5 marks]
2 (a) Explain the following statements:
(i) The reactivity of Group 17 elements
’06
decreases down the group.
[7 marks]
(ii) The atomic radius of Period 3 elements
decreases across Period 3 from left to right.
(b) Using a suitable period in the Periodic Table as
an example, explain why the electronegativity of
the elements increases across a period from left
to right.
[5 marks]
[5 marks]
(b) With suitable examples, discuss the four properties
of transition elements in the Periodic Table.
(c) Write the formulae of all the oxides of the elements
in Period 3. Describe a suitable experiment to show
that the oxides change from basic to amphoteric
and then to acidic across Period 3.
[10 marks]
[8 marks]
3 (a) Name three elements in Group 18 and state their
uses.
[5 marks]
Experiments
1 The reactivity of a halogen in the reaction with
iron wool depends on its position in Group 17.
Diagram 1 shows the set-up of apparatus for an
experiment to determine the reactivity of halogens
in Group 17.
Diagram 1
105
Periodic Table of Elements
The experiment is carried out using bromine gas, chlorine gas and iodine vapour to react with
heated iron wool respectively. Observation of the experiment is shown in Table 1 below.
Halogen
Observation
Bromine
Hot iron wool glows moderately bright when bromine gas is passed over it.
Chlorine
Hot iron wool glows brightly when chlorine gas is passed over it.
Iodine
Hot iron wool glows dimly when iodine vapour is passed over it.
Table 1
(a) Complete Table 2 below based on the experiment.
4
Variables
Action to be taken
(i) Manipulated variable :
(i) The way to manipulate variable :
(ii) Responding variable :
(ii) What to observe in the responding variable :
(iii) Constant variable :
(iii) The way to maintain the constant variable :
Table 2
2
’08
[6 marks]
(b) State one hypothesis for the experiment.
[1 mark]
(c) Based on the observation, arrange bromine, chlorine and iodine in descending order of reactivity of
halogens with iron wool.
[1 mark]
(d) The proton numbers of the halogens increase in the order: chlorine < bromine < iodine.
Make a conclusion regarding the positions of halogens in Group 17 in relation to their reactivities.
[1 mark]
(e) Astatine is a halogen below iodine in Group 17. Predict the reactivity of astatine with iron wool.
[1 mark]
Lithium, sodium and potassium are in Group 1 of the Periodic Table.
The reactivity of Group 1 elements increases down the group from lithium to potassium.
You are required to design a laboratory experiment to prove the statements above. Your explanations
should include the following:
(a) Problem statement
[3 marks]
(b) Hypothesis
[3 marks]
(c) List of materials and apparatus
[3 marks]
(d) Procedure
[3 marks]
(e) Tabulation of data
[3 marks]
Periodic Table of Elements
106
FORM 4
THEME: Interaction between Chemicals
CHAPTER
5
Chemical Bonds
SPM Topical Analysis
2008
Year
1
Paper
Section
Number of questions
2009
3
2
5
A
B
C
1
—
3
–
–
–
1
3
2010
3
2
A
B
C
1
—
4
–
–
1
–
6
2011
2
3
A
B
C
1
–
–
1
–
5
2
3
A
B
C
–
–
1
—
2
–
ONCEPT MAP
CHEMICAL BONDS
To attain the stable electron arrangement of the noble gases
Ionic bonds
Covalent bonds
Formed by transfer of electrons from
metal atoms to non-metal atoms
Formed by sharing of electrons
between non-metal atoms
Metal atoms donate electrons
Non-metal atoms share electrons
Non-metal atoms accept electrons
Example: CH4
Example: NaCl
/
/
¶
/
5H
*S
5H
*
*S
/
/
*
/
/
Differences in physical properties
Melting point and boiling point
Solubility
Electrical conductivity
/
5.1
9 Helium has only one electron shell filled with
2 electrons (a duplet electron arrangement).
All other noble gases have 8 electrons in
the valence shell. This is known as an octet
electron arrangement.
10 A duplet electron arrangement (as in helium)
or an octet electron arrangment (as in the
other noble gases) is very stable. As such,
atoms of noble gases do not donate, accept
or share electrons with other elements. Thus,
atoms of noble gases do not combine with
other elements or with itself. They exist as
monatoms.
Formation of Compounds
5
Stability of Noble Gases
1 A compound is a chemical substance that is
formed by combining two or more elements
chemically in fixed proportions.
2 Almost all chemical substances exist as
compounds in nature. Examples of compounds
are water (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2), table
salt sodium chloride (NaCl) and minerals
such as metal silicates, metal oxides, metal
carbonates and metal sulphides.
3 Only noble gases and a few minerals such as
gold, diamond and platinum exist as pure
elements.
4 The tendency of elements to combine with
other elements to form compounds shows that
compounds are more stable than elements.
5 The formation of compounds proves that
chemical bonds hold atoms of elements
together.
6 Noble gases are elements in Group 18 of the
Periodic Table. They are also known as inert
gases which consists of helium, neon, argon,
krypton, xenon and radon.
7 Noble gases exist as elements. They are very
stable and are inert, which means they are
non–reactive chemically.
8 The stability of noble gases is due to their electron
arrangements (or electronic configurations) as
shown in Table 5.1.
Conditions for the Formation of
Chemical Bonds
1 Noble gases do not form chemical bonds
because they have the stable duplet or octet
electron arrangement.
2 Atoms of elements from Group 1 to Group
17:
(a) Have less than 8 valence electrons
(b) Each atom will tend to donate, accept
or share electrons to achieve the stable
duplet or octet electron arrangement as
that of a noble gas
3 In the process of attaining the stable duplet or
octet electron arrangement, chemical bonds
will form between atoms of these elements.
4 The two types of chemical bonds are
(a) ionic bonds (formed by transfers of
electrons), and
(b) covalent bonds (formed by sharing of
electrons).
5 In the formation of chemical bonds, only
valence electrons are involved in the donation,
acceptance or sharing of electrons. Electrons
in the inner shells are not involved.
6 The valence shell will then achieve an octet
electron arrangement or a duplet electron
arrangement (in the case where there is only
one electron shell).
Table 5.1 Electron arrangements of noble gases
Noble gas
Symbol
Electron
arrangement
Helium
He
2
Neon
Ne
2.8
Argon
Ar
2.8.8
Krypton
Kr
2.8.18.8
Xenon
Xe
2.8.18.18.8
Radon
Rn
2.8.18.32.18.8
Chemical Bonds
Neon is inert not just because it is a Group 18 element
but because it has a stable octet electron arrangement
with eight electrons in the outermost shell.
108
electrons respectively. In chemical reactions,
these metal atoms tend to donate all their
valence electrons to achieve the stable duplet
or octet electron arrangement.
6 A negative ion (or anion) is formed when an
atom accepts one or more electrons. The ion
formed is negatively-charged because there are
more electrons than protons. For instance,
5.1
1 The proton numbers of neon and argon are 10 and
18 respectively. Write the electron arrangements of
neon and argon. Explain why these two elements
exist as monatoms.
2 The electron arrangements of atoms P, Q and R
are given in the table below.
Electron arrangement
P
2.8.2
Q
2.8.7
R
2.8.8
2–
accepts 2
electrons
8p
Oxygen atom (O)
(8p, 8e)
3 State two types of chemical bonds.
Formation of Ionic Bonds
SPM
’08/P1
Formation of Ions
1 Atoms are neutral because the number of
protons is the same as the number of electrons.
2 An ion is formed when an atom donates or
receives one or more electrons.
3 A positive ion or cation is formed when an
atom donates one or more electrons. The
ion formed has less electrons than protons
and is positively-charged. For example,
11p
Sodium atom (Na)
(11p,11e)
donates an
electron
Oxide ion (O2–)
(8p, 10e)
7 Generally,
(a) non–metals usually form negative ions,
(b) charge of negative ion =
number of electrons received by an atom
X + ne– → Xn–
8 Non–metal atoms from Groups 15, 16 and 17
in the Periodic Table have 5, 6 and 7 valence
electrons respectively. In chemical reactions,
non-metal atoms will accept electrons so
that the ion formed achieves the stable octet
electron arrangement.
• The term electron arrangement is used interchangeably
with electronic configuration.
• Donate electrons can also be explained as lose electrons
or release electrons.
• Accept electrons can also be explained as gain
electrons or receive electrons.
• The name of a metal ion is the same as the metal
atom. Examples: sodium ion (Na+), magnesium ion
(Mg2+), aluminium ion (Al3+).
• The name of the non-metal ion ends with -ide or
-ate (when oxygen is attached to the non-metal).
Examples: chloride ion (Cl–), sulphide ion (S2–),
sulphate ion (SO42–), carbonate ion (CO32–).
+
11e
8p
8e
(a) Which atom is chemically inert? Explain your
answer.
(b) Which atom will take part in chemical bonding?
Explain your answer.
5.2
10e
5
Atom
10e
11p
Sodium ion (Na+)
(11p,10e)
4 Generally,
(a) metal atoms usually form positive ions,
(b) charge of positive ion =
number of electrons released by an atom
M → Mn+ + ne–
5 Metal atoms from Groups 1, 2 and 13 in
the Periodic Table have 1, 2 and 3 valence
• The duplet or octet electron arrangement of noble
gases are very stable.
• Atoms form positive ions or negative ions so as to
attain the electron arrangement as that of the noble
gases.
109
Chemical Bonds
5
To prepare ionic compounds
Materials
Magnesium
ribbon,
sodium,
chlorine gas, iron wool and sodium
hydroxide solution.
Apparatus
Tripod stand, clay pipe triangle,
Bunsen burner, crucible and lid,
sandpaper, gas jar, gas jar spoon,
combustion tube, filter funnel, retort
stand, clamp and beaker.
2 The ignited sodium is placed in a gas jar filled with
chlorine gas. Any changes that occur are recorded.
(A) Preparation of magnesium oxide
Procedure
1 A 5 cm length of magnesium ribbon is cleaned
with a piece of sandpaper.
2 The magnesium ribbon is placed in the crucible.
3 The magnesium ribbon is heated strongly. Any
changes that occur are recorded.
Figure 5.2 Preparation of sodium chloride
(C) Preparation of iron(III) chloride
Procedure
1 A little iron wool is placed inside a combustion
tube.
2 The end of the combustion tube is connected to
a filter funnel inverted into a beaker with some
sodium hydroxide solution.
3 The iron wool is heated strongly until it glows.
4 Chlorine gas is passed through the iron wool
while being heated. Any changes that occur are
recorded.
Figure 5.1 Preparation of magnesium oxide
(B) Preparation of sodium chloride
Procedure
1 A small piece of sodium metal is placed in a gas
jar spoon and is heated carefully until it begins
to ignite.
Figure 5.3 Preparation of iron(III) chloride
Results
Activity 5.1
Method
Observation
Inference
Heating of magnesium in air
• The magnesium ribbon burns with a
bright flame
• White powder is formed
The white powder formed is
magnesium oxide
Burning of sodium in chlorine
gas
• Sodium burns with a bright yellow flame
• The yellowish-green colour of chlorine
gas is decolourised.
• White fumes are produced and deposited
as white powder
The white powder formed is
sodium chloride
Heating of iron in chlorine gas
• The iron wool continues to glow brightly
in the chlorine gas
• A brown powder is formed
The brown powder formed is
iron (III) chloride
Chemical Bonds
110
2Mg(s) + O2(g) → 2MgO(s)
2 Magnesium oxide is an ionic compound that
contains Mg2+ ions and O2– ions.
3 When sodium burns in chlorine gas, the white
powder formed is sodium chloride.
Conclusion
1 Generally, the reaction between metals and nonmetals produces ionic compounds.
2 Ionic compounds such as magnesium oxide,
sodium chloride and iron(III) chloride can be
prepared by direct combination of the metal and
non-metal elements.
2Na(s) + Cl2(g) → 2NaCl(s)
4 Sodium chloride is an ionic compound that
contains Na+ ions and Cl– ions.
5 When iron burns in chlorine gas, the brown
powder formed is iron(III) chloride.
Metal
Magnesium +
Sodium
+
Iron
+
2Fe(s) + 3Cl2(g) → 2FeCl3(s)
6 Iron(III) chloride is an ionic compound that
contains Fe3+ ions and Cl– ions.
Formation of Ionic Bonds
Non-metal
oxygen →
chlorine →
chlorine →
Ionic compound
magnesium oxide
sodium chloride
iron(III) chloride
SPM
’09/P1
(c) non–metal atoms receive electrons to
form negative ions (anions).
(d) positive ions and negative ions are then
attracted to each other by the strong
electrostatic force of attraction. The bond
formed between ions of opposite charges
is known as ionic bond or electrovalent
bond.
1 Metals from Groups 1, 2 or 13 react with
non–metals from Groups 15, 16 or 17 in the
Periodic Table to form ionic compounds.
2 In the formation of an ionic bond,
(a) electrons are transferred from a metal
atom to a non–metal atom.
(b) metal atoms donate valence electrons to
form positive ions (cations).
Formation of ionic bond in sodium chloride
1 A sodium atom with an electron
arrangement of 2.8.1 achieves stability after
it donates one valence electron to form a
sodium ion, Na+. The electron arrangement
of the sodium ion, Na+, is 2.8, with an octet
of valence electrons.
SPM
’06/P2
Cl + e– ⎯→ Cl–
2.8.7
2.8.8
3 Sodium ions, Na+ and chloride ions, Cl–
with opposite charges are attracted to
each other by the electrostatic force of
attraction. This force of attraction is called
the ionic bond.
Na ⎯→ Na+ + e–
2.8.1
2.8
2 A chlorine atom with an electron
arrangement of 2.8.7 achieves stability after
it accepts one electron from a sodium atom
–
to form a chloride ion, Cl­
. The electron
arrangement of the chloride ion, Cl–, is
2.8.8, with an octet of valence electrons.
111
Chemical Bonds
5
7 Sodium hydroxide solution is used to absorb the
excess chlorine gas. Besides sodium hydroxide,
soda lime can also be used.
8 A filter funnel is used to prevent the sodium
hydroxide solution from being suctioned back
into the combustion tube as chlorine gas is very
soluble in water.
Discussion
1 When magnesium is heated, magnesium
atom combines with oxygen in the air to form
magnesium oxide.
Formation of ionic bond in magnesium oxide
1 A magnesium atom with the electron arrangement
of 2.8.2 achieves the stable octet electron
arrangement when it donates two valence
electrons to form a magnesium ion, Mg2+.
O + 2e– ⎯→ O2–
2.6
2.8
3 The electrostatic force of attraction that exists
between the oppositely-charged magnesium
ions, Mg2+ and oxide ions, O2– forms the
ionic bond.
Mg ⎯→ Mg2+ + 2e–
2.8.2
2.8
5
SPM
’09/P1
2 An oxygen atom with an electron arrangement
of 2.6 achieves the stable octet electron
arrangement when it accepts two electrons to
form an oxide ion, O2–.
Formation of ionic bond in potassium oxide
electrons from two potassium atoms to
form an oxide ion, O2–.
3 Hence each of the two potassium atoms donates
one valence electron to be accepted by one
oxygen atom. Ionic bonds are formed between
the two potassium ions and the oxide ion.
1 A potassium atom with an electron arrangement
of 2.8.8.1 achieves the stable electron
arrangement of an octet when it donates one
valence electron to form a potassium ion, K+.
K
⎯→ K+ + e–
2.8.8.1
2.8.8
2 An oxygen atom with an electron arrangement
of 2.6 achieves the stable octet electron
arrangement when it accepts two valence
How to Predict the Formula of an Ionic Compound
When drawing the electron
arrangements to show the formation
of ionic bonds,
• do not overlap the outermost
electron shells of atoms.
• the outermost shells of all ions
must have eight electrons except
Li+ and H+.
• use ‘dots‘ or ‘crosses‘ to represent
the electrons from different atoms.
• show the charge of the ions clearly
outside the brackets of the ions.
The chemical formula of sodium
chloride, NaCl, tells us that 1 mol
of sodium ions combines with 1
mol of chloride ions and it is not 1
molecule of sodium chloride.
Chemical Bonds
1 Metal atoms will donate their valence electrons to achieve
the stable duplet or octet electron arrangement of the noble
gases.
2 Non-metal atoms will accept electrons in order to achieve
the stable octet electron arrangement of the inert gases.
3 For cations Mb+ and anion Xa–, the formula of an ionic
compound formed between them is written as
MaXb
Number of electrons
that will be received by
X (or charge of X ion)
Number of electrons
that will be donated by
M (or charge of M ion)
4 The overall positive charge of the cation must be equal to the
overall negative charge of the anion in an ionic compound.
Hence the formula of an ionic compound formed between
them can also be derived as
aMb++ bXa– → MaXb
112
1
2
Atoms in element J and element Q have proton
numbers 12 and 17 respectively. Explain what type
of bond will form between J and Q. Predict the
formula of the compound formed.
Element M is an element from Group 13 and element
X is an element from Group 16 in the Periodic
Table. What is the formula of the compound formed
between element M and element X?
Solution
An atom of J, with a proton number of 12 and
an electron arrangement of 2.8.2, will achieve the
stable octet electron arrangement by donating two
electrons to form a J 2+ ion.
Solution
M from Group 13 has three valence electrons and
will form M 3+ ion. X from Group 16 will receive
two electrons to form X 2– ion. The formula of the
compound formed is
Charge of X 2– ion
Charge of M 3+ ion
An atom of element Q with proton number 17 and
an electron arrangement of 2.8.7 will achieve the
stable octet electron arrangement by accepting one
electron to form a Q– ion.
5.2
Q + e ⎯⎯→ Q
2.8.7
2.8.8
–
5
M2X3
J
⎯⎯→ J 2+ + 2e–
2.8.2
2.8
–
1 Give the formulae of the ions formed by the
following elements:
(a) Calcium
(b) Phosphorus
(c) Sulphur
(d) Potassium
(e) Nitrogen
Two Q atoms will accept one electron each from the
two electrons donated by every J atom. Ionic bonds
are formed between J 2+ ions and Q – ions to produce
a compound with formula JQ2.
[Proton number: N, 7; P, 15; S, 16; K, 19; Ca, 20]
1
2 The proton numbers of element P and element Q
are 9 and 20 respectively.
(a) Write the equations that show the transfer of
electrons and the formulae of the ions formed
by atom P and atom Q respectively.
(b) Draw the valence electron arrangement to
show the formation of a compound formed
between P and Q.
’02
R reacts with S to form an ionic compound with
the formula R2S3. Which of the following electron
arrangements of atoms R and atoms S is true?
Electron
arrangement
of atom R
Electron
arrangement
of atom S
A
2.8.2
2.8.3
B
2.8.3
2.8.2
Group
1
2
16
17
C
2.8.2
2.5
Element
E
F
G
H
D
2.8.3
2.6
3 The table shows the groups of four elements in
the Periodic Table represented by the letters E, F, G
and H.
(a) Write the formulae of the ions formed by the
elements E, F, G and H.
(b) What is the formula of the compound formed
from
(i) E and G ?
(ii) E and H ?
(iii) F and G ?
(iv) F and H ?
Comments
Since an ionic compound is formed, R must be
a metal and S must be a non-metal. The formula
of R2S3 shows that R will donate three electrons
whereas S will accept two electrons to achieve the
octet electron arrangement. Hence, R has three
valence electrons and S has six valence electrons.
Answer D
113
Chemical Bonds
3 A Lewis structure is a diagram which shows
only the valence electrons of the atoms
represented by dots. The Lewis structure of
the hydrogen molecule is
Formation of Covalent
Bonds
1 A covalent bond is a bond that is formed from
the sharing of valence electrons between
’08/P1
non-metal atoms to achieve the stable octet
or a duplet electron arrangement.
2 Non-metals from Groups 15, 16 or 17 in the
Periodic Table react with other non-metals of
the same group or different groups to form
covalent compounds.
3 Hydrogen is a non-metal element. It can form
covalent bonds with other non-metal atoms
from Groups 14, 15, 16 and 17. Examples are
CH4, NH3, H2S and HCl.
4 Molecules with covalent bonds can be formed
from:
(a) Atoms of the same element
Examples: Hydrogen (H2), chlorine (Cl2),
oxygen (O2) and nitrogen (N2).
(b) Atoms of different elements
Examples: Water (H2O), ammonia (NH3),
carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4),
tetrachloromethane (CCl4).
5 The types of covalent bond formed depend
on the number of pairs of electrons shared
between two atoms. There are three types of
covalent bonds.
(a) Single bond: One pair of electrons
shared between two atoms.
(b) Double bond: Two pairs of electrons
shared between two atoms.
(c) Triple bond: Three pairs of electrons
shared between two atoms.
H• + H• → H •• H (or H — H)
Formation of a chlorine molecule, Cl2
1 A chlorine atom with an electron arrangement
of 2.8.7, needs to share one electron to achieve
the stable octet electron arrangement of 2.8.8.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
2 Each chlorine atom contributes one valence
electron to be shared. The sharing of one pair of
electrons results in the formation of one single
covalent bond between two chlorine atoms.
3 The Lewis structure showing the formation
of chlorine molecule is
•
•
5
SPM
•
•
5.3
Cl • + • Cl •• → •• Cl •• Cl ••
Formation of methane molecule, CH4
Formation of Single Covalent Bonds
1 A carbon atom with an electron arrangement
of 2.4 needs to share four electrons to achieve
the stable octet electron arrangement of 2.8.
2 A hydrogen atom needs to share one
electron to achieve the stable duplet electron
arrangement.
3 One carbon atom contributes four valence
electrons to be shared with four hydrogen
atoms respectively to form four single covalent
bonds in the methane molecule, CH4.
Formation of a hydrogen molecule, H2
1 A hydrogen atom with an electron arrangement
of 1, needs to share one electron to achieve
the stable duplet electron arrangement.
2 Each hydrogen atom will contribute one
valence electron to be shared between two
hydrogen atoms. One pair of electrons
shared between two hydrogen atoms form a
single covalent bond.
Chemical Bonds
114
4 The Lewis structure for the formation of
methane molecule is
⏐
4H • + • C • → H •• C •• H or H ⎯ C ⎯H
⏐
H
Formation of tetrachloromethane
(carbon tetrachloride), CCl4
SPM
’10/P1,
’11/P1
1 A carbon atom with an electron
arrangement of 2.4 needs to share four
electrons to achieve the stable octet electron
arrangement of 2.8.
2 A chlorine atom with an electron
arrangement of 2.8.7 needs to share one
electron to achieve the stable octet electron
arrangement of 2.8.8.
3 Four chlorine atoms contribute one valence
electron each to be shared with one carbon
atom to form four single covalent bonds in
the tetrachloromethane molecule, CCl4.
4 The Lewis structure showing the formation
of ammonia molecule, NH3 is
•
•
•
•
•
⎯
⎯
3H • + N → H •• N
• H or H N H
• •
⏐
H
H
•
•
• •
H
•
•
•
Formation of water molecule, H2O
1 An oxygen atom with an electron arrangement
of 2.6 needs to share two electrons to achieve
the stable octet electron arrangement of 2.8.
2 A hydrogen atom needs to share one
electron to achieve the stable duplet electron
arrangement.
3 One oxygen atom contributes two valence
electrons to be shared with two hydrogen
atoms (which contributes one electron
respectively) to form two single covalent
bonds in the water molecule, H2O.
4 The Lewis structure showing the formation
of water molecule, H2O is
•
•
•
•
4 The Lewis structure of the formation of
tetrachloromethane molecule is
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
H
H
⏐
•
• •
•
•
•
⎯O •
H
O
H
or
2H • + •• O
→
•
•
•
•
•
• •
• •
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Cl ••
• Cl •
⏐
4 •• Cl • + • C • → •• Cl •• C •• Cl •• or •• Cl ⎯ C⏐ ⎯ Cl ••
•
•
•
•
• Cl •
• Cl •
•
•
115
Chemical Bonds
5
1 A nitrogen atom with an electron
arrangement of 2.5 needs to share three
electrons to achieve the stable octet electron
arrangement of 2.8.
2 A hydrogen atom needs to share one
electron to achieve the stable duplet electron
arrangement.
3 One nitrogen atom contributes three valence
electrons to be shared with three hydrogen
atoms (which contributes one electron
respectively) to form three single covalent
bonds in the ammonia molecule, NH3.
H
• •
•
H
•
Formation of ammonia molecule, NH3
Formation of Double Covalent Bonds
Formation of carbon dioxide molecule,
CO2
1 A carbon atom with an electron arrangement
of 2.4 needs to share four electrons to achieve
the stable octet electron arrangement of 2.8.
2 An oxygen atom with an electron arrangement
of 2.6 needs to share two electrons to achieve
the stable octet electron arrangement of 2.8.
3 One carbon atom contributes four valence
electrons to be shared with two oxygen atoms
(which contribute two electrons each) to form
two double bonds in the carbon dioxide
molecule, CO2 as shown in the diagram below.
1 An oxygen atom with an electron
arrangement of 2.6 needs to share two
electrons to achieve the stable octet electron
arrangement of 2.8.
2 Each oxygen atom will contribute two
valence electrons to be shared between two
oxygen atoms.
3 The sharing of two pairs of electrons between
two atoms results in the formation of a double
covalent bond in an oxygen molecule, O2.
4 The Lewis structure below shows the formation
of a carbon dioxide molecule, CO2.
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •
•
•
•
••
••
2O
• + • C • → O • • C • • O or O == C == O
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •
Formation of Triple Covalent Bonds
Formation of nitrogen molecule, N2
•
•
• •
•
•
1 Each nitrogen atom with an electron
arrangement of 2.5 will contribute three
valence electrons to be shared between two
nitrogen atoms so as to achieve the stable
octet electron arrangement of 2.8.
2 The sharing of three pairs of electrons
results in the formation of a triple covalent
bond in the nitrogen molecule, N2.
In the formation of a covalent bond
• an atom that requires one more electron to achieve
the stable electron arrangement as in the noble gases
will form one single covalent bond. For example:
hydrogen and chlorine form single covalent bonds in
H – H; Cl – Cl; H – Cl.
• an atom (such as oxygen and sulphur) that requires
two electrons to achieve the stable electron arrangement
will form two single covalent bonds or one double
covalent bond. For example:
1 double covalent bond
per oxygen atom
•
Chemical Bonds
116
•
•
3 The Lewis structure for nitrogen molecule,
N2 is shown below.
O=O
••
N • + • N • → ••N •• •• N •• or •• N ≡ N ••
•
2 single covalent bonds
per oxygen atom
;
•
•
H–O–H
SPM
’10/P1
•
•
•
•
••
•
== O ••
O
• + • O → O • • O or • O
• •
• •
•
• •
•
•
4 The Lewis structure showing the formation
of oxygen molecule is
•
•
5
Formation of oxygen molecule, O2
SPM
’06/P2
’08/P1
How to Predict the Formula of a Covalent
Compound
2
Comments
P, with 6 valence electrons, will need to share 2
electrons in order to achieve the stable octet electron
arrangement. Q, with 4 valence electrons, will need
to share 4 electrons to achieve the octet electron
arrangement. Hence the formula of the compound is
Table 5.2
Number of valence
electrons (x)
Valency
(8–x)
Group 14
4
4
Group 15
5
3
Group 16
6
2
Group 17
7
1
Q2P4 or QP2
2 electrons to be shared
with Q by P
Answer A
3
4 If a non-metal element M, with a valency of
SPM x, combines with another non-metal element,
’09/P1
N, with a valency of y, the formula of the
covalent compound formed will be MyNx.
Element X is from Group 14, element Y is from
Group 16 and element Z is from Group 17 of
the Periodic Table. What is the formula of the
compound formed between
(a) element X and element Y?
(b) element X and element Z?
MyNx
valency of N
valency of M
Solution
(a) An atom of element X from Group 14 with 4
valence electrons needs to share 4 electrons in
order to achieve the octet electron arrangement.
An atom of element Y from Group 16 has 6
valence electrons and needs to share 2 electrons in
order to achieve the octet electron arrangement.
The formula of the compound formed is
5 Table 5.3 below shows the formulae of covalent
compounds formed between elements from
different groups.
Table 5.3
Non-metal
element,
M
Non-metal
element, N
Formula
of covalent Examples
compound
MN4
CH4, CCl4,
SiCl4
M2N4
or MN2
CO2, SiO2
Group 15 H or Group 17
(valency 3) (valency 1)
MN3
NH3, PH3,
PCl3
Group 16 H or Group 17
(valency 2) (valency 1)
MN2
H2O, H2S,
SCl2
Group 14 H or Group 17
(valency 4) (valency 1)
Group 14
(valency 4)
Group 16
(valency 2)
4 electrons to be shared
with P by Q
X2Y4 or XY2
2 electrons required by Y to
be shared to achieve the octet
electron arrangement
4 electrons required by X to
be shared to achieve the octet
electron arrangement
(b) An atom of element Z from Group 17 requires 1
electron to be shared, hence the formula of the
compound is
X1Z4 or XZ4
Z shares 1 electron with X
117
X shares 4 electrons with Z
Chemical Bonds
5
The electron arrangement of atom P is 2.8.6 and
atom Q has four valence electrons. What is the formula
of the compound formed between P and Q?
A QP2
B QP4
C Q2P
D Q4P
1 Covalent compounds are formed from the
non-metal elements (from Group 14 to
Group 17).
2 The number of electrons required by a nonmetal atom to achieve the stable octet electron
arrangement as that of a noble gas is known
as the valency.
3 The valency of a non-metal is (8–x) where x
is the number of valence electrons. Table 5.2
shows the valency of non-metal elements.
Element
’03
4
The proton numbers of element J and element Q
are 16 and 17 respectively. Explain the type of bond
and the formula of the compound formed between
J and Q.
The electron arrangement of an atom of Q is 2.8.7.
Both J and Q are non-metals and they will form a
covalent compound.
An atom J needs to share 2 electrons and an atom
Q needs to share 1 electron in order to achieve the
stable octet electron arrangement. The formula of the
compound formed is JQ2.
Solution
The electron arrangement of an atom of J is 2.8.6.
5
Guidelines in drawing the electron arrangement of a covalent compound formed by atom M and atom N.
Step 1
Step 2
Determine the number of valence electrons
and the valency of atom M and atom
N, then determine the formula of the
compound.
Example
Atom M has 5 valence electrons and valency
is 3. Atom N has 7 electrons and valency is
1. Formula of compound is M1N3.
[Proton number: M, 7; N, 9]
Draw the positions of atom M and atoms
N in the formula with atoms N (more
number of atoms) surrounding atom M.
Example:
Step 4
Step 3
Determine the number of electrons to
be shared (= 8 – x) where x = number of
valence electrons.
Draw the electrons to be shared as dot or
crosses at the
overlapped area.
Example:
Draw the valence electron shells overlapping
between the two types of atoms.
Step 5
Step 6
Draw the balance of the valence electrons
not shared (x – number of electrons shared)
on the shell outside the overlapped area.
Draw the inner electron shells for atom M
and atoms N and the electrons as dots and
crosses.
N has 7 valence
electrons:
1 shared,
remainder 6
unshared.
Chemical Bonds
118
How to predict the type of chemical bonds formed and the formula of the compound formed
from two elements, X and Y.
Step 1
Step 2
Write the electron arrangement to
determine the number of valence
electrons of elements X and Y.
5
• If one of the elements (say X) has 1, 2 or 3
valence electrons and the other element (say
Y) has 5, 6 or 7 valence electrons then X and Y
form an ionic bond.
• If both elements have 4, 5, 6 or 7 valence
electrons, or one of the elements is hydrogen,
X and Y form a covalent bond.
Step 3
Determine the number of electrons X or Y needs to donate/
accept/share to achieve the stable octet electron arrangement.
Ionic Bonding
Covalent Bonding
Formula is Xa Yb.
Number of
electrons that atom
Y needs to accept
to achieve an
octet electron
arrangement
Formula is Xa Yb.
Number of
electrons that
atom X needs to
donate to achieve
an octet electron
arrangement
Number of electrons
that atom Y needs
to share to achieve
an octet electron
arrangement
Number of electrons
that atom X needs
to share to
achieve an octet
electron
arrangement
1 Elements with 1, 2 or 3 valence electrons can only form ionic bonds with non-metals (elements with 5, 6 or 7
valence electrons).
2 Elements with 4 valence electrons can only form covalent bonds.
3 Elements with 5, 6 or 7 valence electrons can form both ionic and covalent bonds.
119
Chemical Bonds
3
5.3
’04
1 Write the Lewis structures for the following
compounds:
(a) Hydrogen chloride, HCl
(b) Water, H2O
(c) Hydrogen cyanide, HCN
(d) Phosphorus trichloride, PCl3
[Proton number: H, 1; C, 6; N, 7; P, 15; Cl, 17]
5
The diagram shows the electron arrangement of a
compound formed between atoms X and Y.
Which of the following
statements is true about the
compound?
A The compound is formed
by ionic bonds.
B The compound is formed
by electron transfer.
C Atom X is a metal and atom Y is a non-metal.
D It is a covalent compound.
2 The table shows four elements in different groups
of the Periodic Table represented by the letters V, X,
Y and Z.
Comments
The diagram shows the overlap of the outermost
electron shells of atoms X and Y where the sharing
of electrons is represented by dots and crosses. The
diagram represents a covalent compound formed by
the sharing of electrons between non-metal atoms.
Answer D
Similarity
15
16
17
Element
V
X
Y
Z
3 The proton numbers of elements P and Q are 6
and 9 respectively. Draw the electron diagrams for
the formation of compounds between
(a) Q and hydrogen
(b) Q and P
(c) Q and Q
Covalent bonding
Atoms achieve the stable (duplet or
octet) electron arrangement after the
formation of bonds.
Difference Involves the
transfer of
electrons from
metal atoms to
non-metal atoms.
Chemical Bonds
14
(a) Write the formula of the compound formed
between
(i) V and Z
(ii) V and Y
(iii) X and Z
(b) Draw the Lewis structures for the compounds
formed in (a).
(c) What type of compounds are formed in (a)?
Comparison between Ionic Bonding and
Covalent Bonding
Ionic bonding
Group
Involves the
sharing of
electrons between
non-metal atoms.
Positivelycharged ions
and negativelycharged ions are
formed.
No charged ions
are formed.
Molecules are
formed.
Strong
electrostatic force
of attraction holds
the oppositelycharged ions
together.
Van der
Waals forces
of attraction
exist between
the covalent
molecules.
CFCs (chlorofluorocarbon) are covalent compounds
that consist of chlorine, fluorine and carbon atoms
bonded by covalent bonds. Two examples of CFCs
are CF2Cl2 and CFCl3. CFCs are colourless, odourless
and non-toxic gases with low boiling points. CFCs are
used in aerosol and as refrigerants in air-conditioners.
However, since 1992, the usage of CFC was banned
because it was believed to deplete the ozone layer
which protects the earth from getting too much
harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun.
• Metals only form ionic bonding.
• Non-metals form both ionic and covalent bondings.
120
8 The differences between the physical properties
of ionic compounds and covalent compounds
’09/P1
are shown in Table 5.4.
SPM
The Properties of
Ionic Compounds and
Covalent Compounds
Properties of Ionic Compounds and
Covalent Compounds
’08/P1
SPM
Table 5.4 Comparison of properties of ionic and
covalent compounds
Ionic
compound
Covalent
compound
(simple
molecules)
High
Low
(b) Volatility
Non-volatile
Volatile (can
change to
vapour when
heated)
(c) Solubility
Usually
soluble in
water and
polar solvents
but insoluble
in organic
solvents
Usually
soluble in
organic
solvents such
as benzene
but insoluble
in water
(d) Electrical
conductivity
Conducts
electricity in
the molten
state or
aqueous
solution
Does not
conduct
electricity in
any state
SPM
’10/P2
Properties
1 The physical properties of ionic and covalent
compounds are different because of the
different types of bonds formed and the
difference in the structures of the compounds.
2 An ionic compound is formed when ions
of opposite charges are held by the strong
electrostatic force of attraction.
3 The ions of ionic compounds are arranged
in an orderly and compact manner and form
large ionic structures.
4 Figure 5.4 shows the arrangement of ions in
a three-dimensional network forming a large
structure in an ionic compound.
(a) Melting point
and boiling
point
Figure 5.4 Three-dimensional network of ions
5 Most covalent compounds consist of simple
molecules.
6 The covalent bond within a molecule is strong
but the intermolecular forces (van der Waals
forces of attraction) are weak.
7 Figure 5.5 shows the intermolecular forces
(van der Waals forces of attraction) between
methane molecules and the intramolecular
bonds (covalent bonds) in the methane
molecules. The dotted line represents the weak
intermolecular forces (van der Waals forces).
5
5.4
Most ionic compounds are soluble in water. However
there are some ionic compounds that are insoluble in
water. For example, lead(II) bromide, lead(II) chloride
and calcium carbonate are insoluble in water. There
are also some covalent compounds that are polar and
are soluble in water. For example, ethanol, ethanoic
acid and sugar are soluble in water.
• The low melting and boiling points of covalent
compounds are due to the weak intermolecular
forces between covalent molecules.
• They are not due to the strength of covalent bonds
inside the molecules.
Figure 5.5 Types of bonds in methane molecules
121
Chemical Bonds
To study the physical properties of ionic and covalent
compounds
(A) To investigate the melting point and volatility
of compounds
Apparatus
5
Materials
SPM
’06/P2
3 Steps 1 and 2 are repeated with naphthalene
and hexane respectively to replace magnesium
chloride.
Crucible, spatula, tripod stand, wire
gauze and Bunsen burner.
Magnesium chloride, naphthalene
and hexane.
Procedure
1 A spatula of magnesium chloride solid is placed
in a crucible.
2 Magnesium chloride solid is heated slowly
at first and then strongly. The change in the
physical state of the compound is recorded.
Figure 5.6 To investigate the melting point of a
compound
Results
Compound
Observation
Physical state
Magnesium chloride
Solid
No change
High melting point
Naphthalene
Solid
Melts rapidly
Low melting point
Hexane
Liquid
Vaporise rapidly
Low melting point and very volatile
Conclusion
1 Magnesium chloride is an ionic compound and
has high melting and boiling points. Naphthalene
and hexane are covalent compounds and they
have low melting and boiling points.
2 Ionic compounds are non-volatile whereas
covalent compounds are volatile.
(B) To investigate the solubility of compounds
Activity 4.2
Inference
Action of heat
Apparatus
Boiling tubes and spatula
Materials
Magnesium chloride, naphthalene,
hexane, water and cyclohexane.
Procedure
1 A boiling tube is filled with 5 cm3 of distilled
water.
2 Half a spatula of magnesium chloride solid is
added to the distilled water and shaken. The
solubility of magnesium chloride in water is noted.
3 Steps 1 to 2 are repeated with naphthalene and
hexane to replace magnesium chloride.
4 Another boiling tube is filled with 5 cm3 of
cyclohexane (an organic solvent).
5 Half a spatula of magnesium chloride is added
to the cyclohexane and shaken. The solubility of
magnesium chloride in cyclohexane is noted.
6 Steps 4 and 5 are repeated with naphthalene and
hexane in turn to replace magnesium chloride.
Chemical Bonds
Results
Compound
Solubility
In water
In organic solvent
Magnesium
chloride
Soluble
Insoluble
Naphthalene
Insoluble
Soluble
Hexane
Insoluble
Soluble
Conclusion
1 Magnesium chloride is an ionic compound and is
soluble in water but insoluble in organic solvents.
2 Naphthalene and hexane are covalent compounds
and are insoluble in water but soluble in organic
solvents.
3 Hexane and water form two layers of liquid in a
test tube. This shows hexane is insoluble in water.
(C) To investigate the electrical conductivity of
compounds
Apparatus
Crucible, spatula, graphite rods,
batteries,
light
bulb,
switch,
connecting wires, tripod stand, clay
triangle and Bunsen burner.
Materials
Lead(II) bromide, magnesium chloride,
sugar and naphthalene.
122
Figure 5.7 To investigate the
electrical conductivity of
compounds
Results
Compound
Lead(II) bromide
Naphthalene
Magnesium chloride
Sugar
State of compound
Observation
Inference
Solid
Light bulb does not
light up
Conducts electricity in the liquid but
not in the solid state
Molten
Light bulb lights up
Solid
Light bulb does not
light up
Molten
Light bulb does not
light up
Solid
Light bulb does not
light up
Aqueous solution
Light bulb lights up
Solid
Light bulb does not
light up
Aqueous solution
Light bulb does not
light up
Does not conduct electricity in any
state
Conducts electricity in aqueous state
but not in the solid state
Does not conduct electricity in any
state
an electric current flows through the liquid or
aqueous solution.
2 Lead(II) bromide has a lower melting point than
magnesium chloride. Therefore, lead(II) bromide
is more suitable for use in the investigation of the
electrical conductivity of ionic compounds in the
liquid state compared to magnesium chloride.
3 Lead(II) bromide is insoluble in water whereas
magnesium chloride is soluble in water. Therefore,
magnesium chloride is more suitable for the
investigation of the electrical conductivity of
ionic compound in an aqueous solution.
4 Naphthalene does not dissolve in water. Some
covalent compounds such as sugar are soluble in
water but they still do not conduct electricity.
Conclusion
1 Ionic compounds such as lead(II) bromide and
magnesium chloride do not conduct electricity
in the solid state but conduct electricity in the
molten state or in aqueous solution due to the
presence of mobile ions.
2 Covalent compounds such as naphthalene and
sugar do not conduct electricity in any state due
to the absence of mobile ions.
Discussion
1 Besides light bulbs, galvanometers and ammeters
can be used to determine the electrical conductivity.
The needle of a galvanometer will deflect if
123
Chemical Bonds
5
SPM
Procedure
’04/P2
1 Three spatulas of lead(II) bromide solid is placed in a crucible.
2 Two graphite rods are dipped in the lead(II) bromide solid and
the circuit is completed by connect­ing to the batteries and switch.
3 The switch is turned on and the bulb is checked if it lights up.
4 Lead(II) bromide is heated strongly until it melts. The switch is
turned on again to check if the bulb lights up.
5 Steps 1 to 4 are repeated using naphthalene to replace lead(II)
bromide.
6 Three spatulas of magnesium chloride solid is placed in a crucible.
7 The switch is turned on to check if the bulb lights up.
8 Water is added to the magnesium chloride. The mixture is stirred
with a glass rod until all the magnesium solid dissolves in water.
9 The switch is turned on again to check if the bulb lights up.
10 Steps 6 to 9 are repeated using sugar to replace magnesium
chloride.
Explanation for the Differences between
the Physical Properties of Ionic and
Covalent Compounds
consist of a covalent network of molecules
forming a giant molecular structure. Some
examples are carbohydrates, proteins and
silicon dioxide. Strong covalent bonds hold
the atoms together in these giant molecules.
A lot of heat energy is required to overcome
the strong covalent bonds of these giant
molecules.
5
Melting points, boiling points and volatility
1 Ionic compounds have higher melting and
boiling points than covalent compounds.
This is because the electrostatic force of
attraction between oppositely charged
ions is very strong. A lot of heat energy is
required to overcome this strong force of
attraction.
2 There are two types of covalent
compounds:
(i) Simple molecules
(ii) Giant molecules
3 Below are some examples of simple
molecules and giant molecules. Most simple
molecules exist as gases or liquids while
giant molecules exist as solids.
Simple covalent
molecules
Solubility
1 Ionic compounds are soluble in water
because they can form bonds with water
molecules but are insoluble in organic
solvents.
2 Covalent compounds are soluble in
organic solvents because they can form
bonds with organic solvent molecules but
are insoluble in water.
3 Some covalent molecules can dissolve in
water because they form hydrogen bonds
with water. Some examples of these covalent
compounds are sugar, ethanol, acetone and
carboxylic acids.
4 Most giant covalent molecules are in­soluble
in both water and organic solvents.
Giant covalent
molecules
Carbon dioxide, CO2
Graphite
Tetrachloromethane, CCl4
Diamond
Ammonia, NH3
Silicon
Hydrogen gas, H2
Silicon dioxide
Oxygen gas, O2
Carbohydrates
Water, H2O
Protein
Electrical conductivity
1 All ionic compounds can conduct electricity
in the molten state and in aqueous solution
because the charged ions can move freely.
Ionic compounds in the solid state do not
conduct electricity because the ions are held
by the strong electrostatic force of attraction
in the lattice structure and are not free to
move.
2 Covalent compounds do not conduct
electricity in any state because they consist
of molecules. There are no freely moving
charged particles.
3 A few covalent compounds can dissociate
into ions when dissolved in water. So, they
can conduct electricity in aqueous solution.
Some examples are ammonia (NH3),
hydrogen chloride (HCl) and sulphur
dioxide (SO2).
4 Electrical conductivity in the molten or
liquid state is the best physical property to
differentiate between ionic compounds
and covalent compounds.
4 Melting and boiling points of covalent
compounds of simple molecules such as
tetrachloromethane, naphthalene, chlorine,
bromine and iodine are low because
the intermolecular forces of attraction
between molecules (van der Waals forces
of attraction) are very weak. Little heat
energy is required to overcome the weak
intermolecular forces.
5 The low boiling points of the covalent
compounds cause the covalent compounds
to be volatile (easily changed to the
vapour state when heated). Hence covalent
compounds should be kept far away from a
heat source.
6 Some covalent compounds have high
melting and boiling points because they
Chemical Bonds
124
1 The flowchart below helps us to determine the type of chemicals.
Chemical
Does it conduct electricity in the solid state?
No
Yes
Metal
Ionic compound or covalent compound
Does it conduct electricity in the liquid state?
No
5
Yes
Ionic compound
Covalent compound
Does it have high melting and boiling points?
No
Yes
Giant covalent compound
Simple covalent compound
Does it dissolve in water?
No
Yes
Polar covalent compound
Non-polar covalent compound
4
’07
The table shows electrical condutivity and melting points of three substances X, Y, and Z.
Substance
Electrical conductivity
Melting point (°C)
Solid
Molten
Aqueous
X
No
No
No
–117
Y
No
No
No
80
Z
No
Yes
Yes
801
(a) State the types of structure and bonding of
substances X, Y and Z.
(b) Explain why substance X has a low melting point.
(c) Show how the bonds are formed in substance Y
and substance Z.
(d) Based on the information in the table, predict the
solubility of substances X, Y and Z in water.
Solution
(a) Substances X and Y are covalent molecules with
covalent bonds.
Substance Z is an ionic compound with a giant
network of ions held by ionic bonds.
(b) Substance X consists of simple covalent molecules
held by weak intermolecular forces of attraction
that requires little energy to overcome them.
(c) The bonds in substance Y are formed by the
sharing of valence electrons to achieve the
stable octet electron arrangement. The bonds in
substance Z are formed by the transfer of electrons
to achieve the stable octet electron arrangement.
(d) Substances X and Y are insoluble in water.
Substance Z is soluble in water.
125
Chemical Bonds
5
Uses of Covalent Compounds as Organic
Solvents
• Covalent bonds formed between atoms are very
strong. When a covalent compound is heated, heat
energy is used to overcome the weak intermolecular
forces of attraction which is the van der Waals forces
of attraction. The covalent bonds are not broken.
• Some covalent compounds are polar (examples: ethanol,
hydrogen chloride, ammonia) and can dissolve in water.
• Some ionic compounds are insoluble in water
(examples: Al2O3, PbCl2).
1 Organic solvents are liquids consisting of
simple covalent compounds.
2 Examples of organic solvents are ethanol,
ether, acetone, benzene, turpentine, petrol and
tetrachloromethane.
3 Organic solvents are used
(a) to clean or remove stains that cannot be
cleaned by water.
(b) to extract organic compounds.
(c) as solvents for drugs in medicine or
compounds used in cosmetics.
4 Some common useful organic solvents and
their uses are given in Table 5.5.
Property
Table 5.5 Uses of some organic solvents
Organic solvents
Uses
Petrol, kerosene and
turpentine
To remove grease and
paint stains
Ethanol, acetone
To prepare medicated
solution, perfume and
ink
Acetone, turpentine
To dissolve varnish
compounds such as
shellacs, lacquer and
paints
Ether
Ionic
compound
Simple
molecule
Giant
molecule
High
Low
High
(b) Volatility
Non-volatile
Very volatile
Non-volatile
(c) Solubility
Soluble in
water, insoluble
in organic
solvents
Soluble
in organic
solvents,
insoluble
in water
Insoluble
in both
water and
organic
solvents
(d) Electrical
conductivity
Conducts
electricity in
liquid and
in aqueous
solution
Does not conduct electricity
in any state
(a) Melting and
boiling points
To extract organic
compounds
Covalent compound
5.4
2 The table shows the number of valence electrons of
three elements represented by the letters Q, R and S.
Aluminium oxide, silicon dioxide, bromine,
ethanol, ammonium nitrate, barium sulphate,
naphthalene, tetrachloromethane, hydrogen
iodide, copper(II) chloride
1 Based on the chemicals in the list above, choose
(a) two compounds with high melting points.
(b) two compounds which can conduct electricity in
the aqueous state.
(c) one compound which dissolves in water but
cannot conduct electricity.
(d) one covalent compound with a high melting point.
(e) two compounds which can be used as organic
solvents.
(f) one compound which cannot dissolve in water
but can conduct electricity in the molten state.
Chemical Bonds
Element
Q
R
S
No. of valence electrons
2
4
7
Choose two elements which can combine to form a
compound that
(a) has low melting and boiling points,
(b) conducts electricity in the liquid state,
(c) is soluble in water.
3 Explain clearly why carbon dioxide is a gas whereas
magnesium chloride is a solid at room temperature.
Which compound can conduct electricity in the
liquid state? Explain your answer.
126
(b) Double bond: Sharing of two pairs of
electrons between two atoms.
(c) Triple bond: Sharing of three pairs of
electrons between two atoms.
14 For a covalent compound formed by a non-metal
element P combined with another non-metal
element, Q, the formula of the covalent compound
formed will be PYQX. where
1 Inert gases are non-reactive because they have either
a stable duplet or octet electron arrangement.
2 Inert gases do not release, accept or share
electrons with other elements.
3 Atoms of elements from Group 1 to Group 17 have
less than eight electrons. These elements will form
chemical bonds.
4 Ionic bonds are formed between atoms of metals
and atoms of non-metals.
5 Metal atoms from Groups 1, 2 and 13 will release
their valence electrons to achieve the stable duplet
or octet electron arrangement.
6 A positive ion (cation) is formed when an atom
releases electrons.
7 Non-metal atoms from Groups 15, 16 and 17
will accept electrons to achieve the stable octet
electron arrangement.
8 A negative ion (anion) is formed when an atom
receives electrons.
9 The positive ions and negative ions are attracted
to each other by strong electrostatic force of
attraction in ionic bonds.
10 The total positive charge of the cation must be equal
to the total negative charge of the anion in an ionic
compound.
11 For an ionic compound consisting of cations Mb+
and anions Xa–, the formula of the ionic compound
formed between them is written as
Number of electrons
required by Q to
achieve duplet or octet
electron arrangement
Number of electrons
required by P to achieve
duplet or octet electron
arrangement
15 The differences in physical properties between ionic
compounds and covalent compounds:
Property
Melting point
and boiling
point
MaXb
Number of electrons
that will be received by
X (or charge of X ion)
5
PYQX
Number of electrons
that will be released by
M (or charge of M ion)
12 A covalent bond is formed between atoms of nonmetals.
13 Non-metal atoms share valence electrons to achieve
the stable duplet or octet electron arrangement
in covalent compounds. There are three types of
covalent bond.
(a) Single bond: Sharing of one pair of electrons
between two atoms.
127
Ionic
compound
Covalent
compound
(simple
molecule)
High
Low
Volatility
Non-volatile
Volatile
Solubility
Soluble
in water,
insoluble
in organic
solvents
Soluble
in organic
solvents,
insoluble in
water
Electrical
conductivity
Conducts
electricity
in molten
form and
in aqueous
solution
Does not
conduct
electricity in
any state
Chemical Bonds
5
Multiple-choice Questions
5
5.1
Formation of Compounds
1 Which of the statements below
best explains why elements of
Group 18 of the Periodic Table
such as neon, argon and krypton
are chemically inert?
A Exists as monatoms
B Have 8 valence electrons
C Have 8 electrons in every
electron shell
D Have weak covalent bonds
between atoms
2 Which of the following proton
numbers belong to an element
that does not form chemical
bonds?
I 8
II 10
III 18
IV 20
A I and II only
B I and III only
C II and III only
D II and IV only
3 Which of the following
statements best explains the
formation of chemical bonds
between elements?
A The elements have high
reactivities.
B The atoms of the elements
have less than eight valence
electrons.
C The atoms of the elements
have too many electrons.
D The elements are
either electropositive or
electronegative.
5.2
Formation of Ionic Bonds
4 Oxide and fluoride ions have the
same number of
’03 [Proton number: O, 8; F, 9]
A charge
C neutrons
B electrons
D protons
Chemical Bonds
5 Which of the following substances
has particles bonded with very
strong electrostatic forces?
A Carbohydrate
B Graphite
C Napthalene
D Magnesium sulphide
6 The proton numbers of three
elements represented by the letters
P, Q and R are given as follows:
P: 4
Q: 13
R: 16
What will be the charges of the
most stable ions of P, Q and R?
P ion
Q ion
R ion
A
+4
+3
+6
B
+2
+3
+6
C
+2
+3
–2
D
+4
–3
+2
7 The table shows the proton
numbers for four elements R, S,
T and U.
Element
R
S
Proton number
8
11 13 20
T
U
Which of the following ions have
the same number of electrons
as the sulphide ion?
[Proton number of S = 16]
C T 3+
A U 2+
+
B S
D R 2–
8 The proton number of sodium and
oxygen are 11 and 8 respectively.
’07 Which of the following occurs
when sodium metal is burned in
air to produce sodium oxide?
A One oxygen atom receives one
electron from one sodium atom.
B One oxygen atom receives
two electrons from one
sodium atom.
C One oxygen atom receives
two electrons, one from each
sodium atom.
D One sodium atom and one
oxygen atom share two
electrons.
128
9 Element P and element Q
are located in Group 2 and
’10 Group 17 in the Periodic
Table respectively. Element
P reacts with element Q to
form a compound. What is
the chemical formula of the
compound?
A PQ
B P2Q
C PQ2
D P2Q3
10 Element P reacts with element Q
to form an ionic compound with
formula P2Q3. If the electronic
configuration for Q is 2.8.6,
what is the possible electron
arrangement of P?
A 2.8.2
C 2.8.5
B 2.8.3
D 2.8.6
11 An ionic nitride compound has
formula X3N2. What is the possible
proton number of atom X if nitrogen
is in Group 15 of the Periodic Table?
A 2
C 13
B 12
D 15
12 Which of the following represents
the valence electron arrangement
’06 for the compound sodium oxide?
[Proton number: O, 8; Na, 11]
A
B
C
D
What is the nucleon number of
element J ?
A 18
C 38
B 20
D 40
14 G is an element in Group 2 and X is
an element in Group 16. Which of
the following is the formula of the
compound formed by G and X?
A GX
C G3X
D GX2
B G2 X6
5.3
Formation of Covalent
Bonds
15 The diagram shows the electron
arrangement of an atom of
element X.
18 The following diagram shows the
electron arrangements of atoms
’11 X and Y. X and Y are not the
actual symbols of the elements.
X
Y
Which pair of formula and the
type of compounds is correct?
Formula
Type of
compound
A
XY3
Ionic
B
XY3
Covalent
C
X3Y
Ionic
D
X3Y
Covalent
19The electronic configuration
of the atoms of four elements
represented by the letters P, Q,
R and S are shown in the table
below.
Element
P
Q
R
S
Electronic
1 2.7 2.8 2.8.8.2
configuration
The atom of element X can
form a covalent bond with
another atom through the
A acceptance of two electrons.
B donation of two electrons.
C sharing of two pairs of
electrons.
D sharing of six electrons.
16 An element forms a covalent
compound with hydrogen.
Atoms of this element also form
covalent molecules themselves.
This element may be
I sodium
III chlorine
II oxygen
IV nitrogen
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C I, II and IV only
D II, III and IV only
17 How many pairs of electrons are
shared by the oxygen atoms in a
molecule of oxygen gas? [Proton
number: O, 8]
A 1
C 3
B 2
D 4
Which of the following pairs of
elements will form a covalent
compound?
A P and Q
C Q and S
B Q and R
D P and R
20 Which of the following
compounds have covalent
double bonds?
I O2
III CCl4
II N2
IV CO2
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C I and IV only
D I, II and IV only
21 The diagram shows the electron
arrangement in a compound
’05 formed by elements X and Y.
X
Y
A
2
14
B
4
6
C
14
16
D
18
18
22 Element R reacts with element S
to produce a covalent compound
with the formula R2S3. Which
of the following electron
arrangements of atoms R and S
are true?
Electron
Electron
arrangement arrangement
of atom R
of atom S
A
2.8.2
2.3
B
2.8.2
2.5
C
2.8.3
2.6
D
2.8.5
2.6
23 The electronic configuration of
atom E is 2.8.6 and atom G has
’03 four valence electrons. What is
the formula of the compound
formed between E and G?
A GE2
C G2E
B G4E2
D G2E4
24 The diagram shows the symbols
of atoms P and Q.
28
16
P
14
Q
8
Atom P reacts with atom Q to
form a compound. Calculate the
relative molecular mass for the
compound formed.
A 21
C 60
B 43
D 113
5.4
Properties of Ionic and
Covalent Compounds
25 Element W and element Y have
proton numbers 17 and 19 as
shown below.
Which of the following is the
correct groups of X and Y in the
Periodic Table of Elements?
129
Chemical Bonds
5
13 The following diagram shows the
electron arrangement for the J 2+
’07 ion. An atom of element J has 20
neutrons.
5
Which of the following are true of
the compound formed between
element W and element Y?
I Has high melting point
II Dissolves in organic solvents
III Dissolves in water
IV Conducts electricity in the
solid state
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C III and IV only
D I, III and IV only
26 Which of the following elements
will form an oxide that conducts
electricity when dissolved in
water?
A Potassium
B Silicon
C Hydrogen
D Aluminium
27 The electronic configuration of
element X is 2.5. Which of the
following statements are true of
element X?
I X forms a hydride with formula
XH3.
II Molecule X has a triple bond.
III X forms an oxide with high
melting point.
IV Chlorine and X form a
covalent compound.
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C III and IV only
D I, II and IV only
28 Which of the following
statements best explains why
bromine liquid is very volatile?
A Bromine consists of diatomic
covalent molecules.
B Intermolecular forces of
attraction between bromine
molecules are weak.
C Size of bromine molecules is
small.
D The covalent bond in bromine
molecules is weak.
29 Covalent compounds do not
conduct electricity because
A they do not have free moving
ions.
B they have strong covalent
bonds.
Chemical Bonds
C they are insoluble in water.
D they can become vapour
easily when heated.
30 Covalent compounds have
low melting and boiling points
because
A they have weak covalent
bonds.
B they have weak
intermolecular forces of
attraction.
C they are very volatile.
D they cannot withstand strong
heating.
31 Two elements represented by
the letters X and Y have proton
numbers as given in the table.
Element
X
Y
Proton number
16
20
From the information given in the
table, it can be deduced that
I X and Y will form a compound
with formula XY2.
II Y can form ionic compounds
but X can form both ionic and
covalent compounds.
III element X is a non-conductor
of electricity whereas element
Y is a conductor of electricity.
IV the compound formed
between element X and
element Y has a high melting
point.
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C I, II and III only
D II, III and IV only
32 Both carbon and magnesium
form compounds with oxygen.
Which of the following is the
difference between magnesium
oxide and carbon dioxide?
A Magnesium oxide is soluble in
water whereas carbon dioxide
is insoluble in water.
B Magnesium oxide solid
conducts electricity whereas
carbon dioxide solid does
not.
C Magnesium oxide is basic
whereas carbon dioxide is
neutral.
130
D Magnesium oxide has a high
melting point whereas carbon
dioxide has a low melting
point.
33 Element X and element Y form a
compound that has a low melting
point and does not conduct
electricity. Element X and Y
maybe
I hydrogen and sulphur
II chlorine and oxygen
III sodium and sulphur
IV potassium and oxygen
A I and II only
B I and III only
C II and IV only
D III and IV only
34 Which of the following
compounds have a high melting
point and are soluble in water?
I Calcium chloride
II Sulphur dichloride
III Copper(II) chloride
IV Tetrachloromethane
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C I and III only
D II and IV only
35 Element X has an electronic
configuration of 2.8.2. Which of
the following are true of element
X?
I It can form negative ions.
II It is a metallic element.
III It can form a covalent
compound with chlorine.
IV It can form a basic oxide.
A I and II only
B II and IV only
C I and III only
D III and IV only
36 Which of the following
compounds can be used
as solvents for covalent
compounds?
I Water
II Ethanol
III Benzene
IV Tetrachloromethane
A I and II only
B II and IV only
C III and IV only
D II, III and IV only
Structured Questions
1 Diagram 1 shows the Periodic Table of elements. The letters P, Q, R, S, T, U, V and W represent elements
and are not the symbols of the actual elements.
1
2
13
14
15
16
17
18
1
2
P
3
R
4
V
Q
U
S
T
W
5
5
6
Diagram 1
Answer the following questions with reference only to the letters given above.
(a) (i) State the type of chemical bond found in the compound formed between R and T.
(ii) Draw a diagram showing the electron arrangement of the compound formed in (i).
(iii) State a physical property of the compound formed in (i).
[1 mark]
[2 marks]
[1 mark]
(b) (i) Write the electronic arrangement of an ion formed by element Q.
(ii) Q exists as diatomic molecules. Draw a diagram that shows the electron arrangement of
the diatomic molecule.
[1 mark]
[2 marks]
(c) Can element U form a compound? Explain your answer.
[2 marks]
(d) Write the equation for the reaction between V and water.
[1 mark]
2 Diagram 2 shows two elements represented by the letters P and Q.
(a) Write the electron arrangement of atom P and atom Q.
(b) State the groups of elements P and Q in the Periodic Table.
16
23
P
[2 marks]
Q
11
8
[2 marks]
(c) Write an equation for the formation of
(i) ion P.
(ii) ion Q.
Diagram 2
[2 marks]
(d) P can combine with Q to form a compound.
(i) Write the formula of the compound formed.
(ii) What type of bond is formed in this compound?
(iii) Draw the electron arrangement of this compound.
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
(e) Q can combine with itself to form a compound. State a physical property of the compound formed.
[1 mark]
3 Table 1 shows a few properties of substances P, Q, R and S.
Conductivity
Substance
Melting point
(°C)
Solubility in
water
Solubility in
organic solvent
Solid state
Liquid state
P
114
Insoluble
Soluble
Non-conducting
Non-conducting
Q
782
Soluble
Insoluble
Non-conducting
Conducting
R
840
Insoluble
Insoluble
Conducting
Conducting
S
2750
Insoluble
Insoluble
Non-conducting
(Does not exist in
the liquid state)
Table 1
Based on the information given in Table 1, answer the questions below.
(a) What type of bond is found in the particles of
(i) substance P?
(ii) substance Q?
(b) Explain why P has a low melting point.
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
[2 marks]
131
Chemical Bonds
(c) Name a substance that has the same physical
property as Q.
[1 mark]
(d) (i) State two atoms in Table 2 that are elements
in the same group in the Periodic Table.
(d) Which of the above substances is a metal?
(e) Z can react with heated iron to form a compound.
(i) Write the formula of this compound.
(e) Give reasons why Q conducts electricity in the
liquid state but does not do so in the solid state.
[2 marks]
[1 mark]
(ii) State one
compound.
5
(f) Suggest one difference between the types of
particles in substance R and in substance S.
Give an example each for substance R and
substance S.
[2 marks]
physical
property
of
this
[1 mark]
5 Diagram 3 shows the diagram of the valence electron
arrangement of a compound formed by two types of
atoms represented by the letters P and Q.
4 Table 2 shows the number of protons and neutrons
for a few atoms represented by the letters V, W, X, Y
and Z.
Atoms
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
(ii) Explain your answer in (i).
[1 mark]
Number of protons Number of neutrons
V
3
4
W
6
6
X
6
7
Y
9
10
Z
17
18
Diagram 3
Table 2
(a) What is the formula of this compound?
[1 mark]
Use the information in Table 2 to answer the
questions below.
(b) Predict the groups to which the atoms P and Q
belong to in the Periodic Table.
[2 marks]
(a) What is the nucleon number of element Y?
[1 mark]
(c) Name the type of bond formed in the compound
shown in Diagram 3.
[1 mark]
(b) W can combine with Y to form a compound.
(i) Name the type of chemical bond found in
this compound.
[1 mark]
(ii) Write the formula of this compound. [1 mark]
(iii) Predict the relative molecular mass of this
compound.
[1 mark]
(d) State three physical properties of this compound.
[3 marks]
(e) Q is an element that exists as diatomic
molecules.
(i) Draw a diagram to show the valence electron
arrangement of the molecule.
[2 marks]
(ii) Explain why element Q has a low boiling
point.
[1 mark]
(c) Name two atoms that are isotopes. Explain your
answer.
[2 marks]
Essay Questions
1 Diagram 1 shows the chemical symbols for three elements: carbon, sodium and chlorine:
Diagram 1
(a) Construct a table to compare the three elements in terms of the number of protons, the number
of neutrons, the electron arrangement and the number of valence electrons.
[4 marks]
(b) Carbon reacts with chlorine to form a covalent compound whereas sodium reacts with
chlorine to form an ionic compound. Explain how these ionic and covalent compounds are formed.
[8 marks]
(c) State four differences in physical properties between the two types of compounds formed in (b).
[4 marks]
Chemical Bonds
132
2
Group
Period
W
1
3
Y
14
2
Z
17
3
Element
Table 1
(a) With the help of an electron arrangement diagram, explain how two elements from Table 1 can
combine to form
(i) an ionic compound, and
(ii) a covalent compound.
[14 marks]
(b) State the differences between an ionic compound and a covalent compound.
[15 marks]
(b) Explain why ionic compounds can conduct electricity in the liquid state and in aqueous solution
whereas covalent compounds cannot.
[5 marks]
Experiments
1 A group of students carried out an experiment to determine the types of particles in three compounds X, Y
and Z. The results obtained is recorded in Table 1.
Chemical compound
Physical state
X
Observation when shaken with
Water
Acetone
Solid
Forms a colourless solution
X does not dissolve in acetone
Y
Liquid
Forms two immiscible layers
Y and acetone mix completely
Z
Liquid
Z and water mix completely
Z and acetone mix completely
Potassium chloride
Table 1
(a) If the experiment is repeated using potassium chloride, predict what will be observed and complete
Table 1.
[3 marks]
(b) Deduce the solubility of X, Y and Z in water and in acetone.
[3 marks]
(c) Classify the four chemical compounds used in Table 1 into
(i) ionic compound,
(ii) covalent compound.
[3 marks]
(d) Potassium nitrate is used as a nitrogenous fertiliser in agriculture. Which of the compounds X, Y and Z
in the experiment may be potassium nitrate? Explain your answer.
[3 marks]
(e) Compound Z is used as a solvent in medicine and perfume. Name a substance that may be compound Z. Explain
your answer.
[3 marks]
2
Covalent compounds and ionic compounds differ in their ability to conduct electricity in the liquid state.
By referring to the statement above, design a laboratory experiment relating to the difference in electrical conductivity of
ethanol and sodium nitrate. In designing your experiment, the following aspects must be included:
(a) Problem statement
(b) Hypothesis
(c) All the variables
(d) List of substances and apparatus
(e) Experimental procedures
(f) Tabulation of data
[17 marks]
133
Chemical Bonds
5
[6 marks]
3 (a) Using suitable examples, explain the meaning of single covalent bond, double covalent bond and
triple covalent bond.
FORM 4
THEME: Interaction between Chemicals
CHAPTER
6
Electrochemistry
SPM Topical Analysis
2008
Year
1
Paper
Section
Number of questions
5
2009
2
A
B
C
–
1
–
3
1
–
6
2010
2
A
B
C
–
1
–
3
1
1
4
2011
2
A
B
C
1
–
1
3
1
–
5
3
2
A
B
C
1
–
–
–
ONCEPT MAP
ELECTROCHEMISTRY
types of substances
Electrolytes and non-electrolytes
conversion of electrical energy
into chemical energy
conversion of chemical
energy into electrical energy
Electrolysis
Electrolysis of molten
compounds
Electrolysis of aqueous
solution
products
• Metals are formed at
the cathode
• Non-metals are formed
at the anode
Voltaic cells
products
Selective discharge of ions
determined by:
• Position of ions in the
electrochemical series
• Concentration of ions
• Types of electrodes
Uses of electrolysis:
• Extraction of metals
• Purification of metals
• Electroplating of metals
can be used
to determine
Various types of voltaic cells:
• non-rechargeable cell and
• rechargeable cell
To construct the
electrochemical series:
• Potential difference
between two different
metals
• Displacement reaction
of metals
Electrochemical
series
Uses of the
electrochemical series:
• Predict the products of
electrolysis
• Determine the terminals
of cells
• Prediction of
displacement reactions
6 Metals which are conductors are not regarded as
electrolytes because they are not de­composed
by the passage of an electric current.
7 The electrical conductivity of any substance is
based on the movement of charged particles.
(a) In metals, electricity is conducted by freely
moving electrons.
Introduction
1 Electrochemistry is the study of the inter­
conversion of chemical energy and electrical
energy.
2 The energy change in electrochemistry consists
of the
(a) conversion of electrical energy into
chemical energy (in electrolysis),
(b) conversion of chemical energy into
electrical energy (in voltaic cells).
8 Most covalent substances are non-electrolytes
because they consist of molecules, which do
not form ions in aqueous solution.
9 Some covalent substances such as hydrogen
chloride and ammonia are electrolytes
because they react with water to produce
freely moving ions.
Examples:
Electrolytes and NonSPM
electrolytes
’08/P1
1 An electrolyte is a chemical compound which
conducts electricity in the molten state or in
an aqueous solution and undergoes chemical
changes.
2 When an electrolyte conducts electricity, chemical
changes occur and the electrolyte decomposes
into its component elements at the electrodes.
Electrolysis is said to have taken place.
3 Examples of electrolytes are acid solutions,
alkali solutions, molten salts or aqueous salt
solutions.
4 A non-electrolyte is a chemical compound
which does not conduct electricity in any state.
5 Examples of non-electrolytes are metals and
covalent substances such as naphthalene,
latex and sugar solution.
6
6.1
(b) In electrolytes, electricity is conducted
by freely moving ions: positive ions
and negative ions.
HCl(g) + H2O(l) → H3O+(aq) + Cl–(aq)
NH3(g) + H2O(l) → NH4+(aq) + OH–(aq)
10 Ions are charged (positive or negative)
particles. All metal ions and hydrogen ions
are positive ions (also known as cations). All
non-metal ions are negative ions (also known
as anions). All electrolytes will dissociate into
cations and anions in the molten states or
aqueous solutions.
6.1
Problem statement
How to identify electrolytes and non-electrolytes?
Hypothesis
Substances that, in the molten state or in aqueous
solution, conduct electricity and then undergo chemical
reactions are electrolytes. Substances that do not
conduct electricity in any state are non-electrolytes.
Apparatus
Crucible, spatula, carbon (graphite)
electrodes, batteries, light bulb,
switch, rheostat, connecting wires,
tripod stand, clay pipe triangle and
Bunsen burner.
Materials
Glucose, naphthalene, lead(II) bromide
and potassium iodide.
Procedure
(A) To investigate the electrical conductivity of
substances in the solid state and in the molten
state
1 A crucible is half-filled with lead(II) bromide
solid.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Types of compounds
(b) Responding variable : Electrical conductivity
(c) Constant variable
: Numbers of batteries,
type of light bulb and
amount of substance used
135
Electrochemistry
Experiment 6.1
To identify electrolytes and non-electrolytes
6
2 The crucible with its contents is placed on a clay
triangle on a tripod stand.
3 Two carbon electrodes are dipped in the lead(II)
bromide solid and are connected to the batteries,
rheostat, switch and a light bulb with connecting
wires (Figure 6.1).
4 The switch is turned on and the light bulb is
checked if it lights up.
5 The lead(II) bromide solid in the crucible is
heated up until it melts. The switch is turned on
again to check if the light bulb lights up.
6 Steps 1 to 5 of the experiment are repeated using
naphthalene in place of lead(II) bromide.
(B) To investigate the electrical conductivity of
substances in the solid state and in aqueous
solutions
1 Three spatulas of potassium iodide solid are put
in a beaker.
2 Two carbon electrodes are dipped in the
potassium iodide solid and then connected to the
batteries, rheostat, switch and a light bulb with
connecting wires (Figure 6.2).
3 The switch is turned on and the light bulb is
checked if it lights up.
4 Distilled water is added to the beaker and the
mixture is stirred until all the potassium iodide
has dissolved.
5 The switch is turned on again and the light bulb
is checked if it lights up.
6 Steps 1 to 5 of the experiment is repeated using
glucose in place of potassium iodide.
Figure 6.1 To investigate the conductivity of
substances in the solid state and in
the molten state
Figure 6.2 To investigate the conductivity of
substances in the solid state and in
aqueous solution
Results
Chemical
substance
Lead(II) bromide
Naphthalene
Potassium iodide
Glucose
Physical state
Does the light
bulb light up?
Inference
Solid
No
No noticeable change
Non-electrolyte
Liquid (molten)
Yes
Brown gas is evolved
Electrolyte
Solid
No
No noticeable change
Non-electrolyte
Liquid (molten)
No
No noticeable change
Non-electrolyte
Solid
No
No noticeable change
Non-electrolyte
Aqueous solution
Yes
Solution turns to a brown
colour
Electrolyte
Solid
No
No noticeable change
Non-electrolyte
Aqueous solution
No
No noticeable change
Non-electrolyte
Disscussion
1 Electrolytes can conduct electricity because they
have freely moving charged ions.
2 In the solid state, an ionic compound is not an
electrolyte because the ions are held together by
strong ionic bonds and are not free to move.
3 When an ionic compound is heated to its melting
point, the heat energy supplied overcomes
Electrochemistry
Observation:
Does reaction occur?
the ionic bond. The ions are free to move in
the molten state. Hence ionic compounds are
electrolytes in the molten state.
4 When ionic compounds are dissolved in water,
the water molecules separate the ions into freely
moving ions. Hence aqueous solutions of ionic
compounds are electrolytes.
136
5 Covalent compounds such as glucose and
naphthalene do not conduct electricity because
they consist of molecules which are uncharged
particles.
6 When electricity passes through molten lead(II)
bromide, the brown gas evolved is bromine gas.
7 When electricity passes through aqueous potassium
iodide solution, the brown iodine solution is formed.
8 The presence of freely moving ions enable a
molten compound or aqueous solution to conduct
electricity.
6
Conclusion
1 Lead(II) bromide is an electrolyte in the liquid
state but not in the solid state.
2 Potassium iodide is an electrolyte in aqueous
solution but not in the solid state.
3 Lead(II) bromide and potassium iodide are ionic
compounds. Ionic compounds are electrolytes
in the molten state or aqueous solution but are
non-electrolytes in the solid state.
4 Naphthalene and glucose are covalent compounds
and are non-electrolytes in any state.
6.2
All liquid or aqueous solutions of ionic compounds are
electrolytes.
All covalent compounds (except those that can dissociate
to form ions when dissolved in water) are non-electrolytes.
An electrolyte can conduct electricity because it has
freely moving ions.
Electrolysis of Molten
Compounds
Meaning of Electrolysis and Electrolytic
Cell
• Electrolysis is a process of decomposition of an
electrolyte by an electric current.
• An electrolytic cell consists of batteries, a
cathode, an anode and an electrolyte consisting
of cations and anions.
• During electrolysis, anions (negatively-charged
ions) move towards the anode and cations
(positively-charged ions) move towards the
cathode.
• Graphite or platinum is usually used as
electrodes because they are inert; they do not
react with the electrolyte or the products of
electrolysis.
6.1
1 (a) (i) What is meant by the term electrolyte?
Give two examples of electrolytes.
(ii) What is meant by the term non-electrolyte?
Give two examples of non-electrolytes.
(b) State the difference between a conductor and
an electrolyte.
2 Classify the ten substances below into electrolytes
and non-electrolytes.
Molten sulphur, molten zinc oxide, zinc oxide solid,
aqueous zinc chloride solution, zinc metal, molten
zinc, acetone, aqueous glucose solution, aqueous
ethanoic acid solution, molten sodium chloride.
3 Explain why magnesium chloride solid cannot
conduct electricity but becomes an electrolyte
when it is in the molten state.
Electrons flow from the anode to the
cathode through the connecting wire
in the external circuit.
A rheostat can be used to control the quantity
of electric current that flows through the
electrolyte.
An ammeter or a bulb can be used to
indicate the flow of electric current.
• Anode is the electrode connected to the
positive terminal of the batteries.
• At the anode, anions discharge by
donating electrons.
Example: 2Cl– → Cl2 + 2e–
• Cathode is the electrode that
is connected to the negative
terminal of the batteries.
• At the cathode, cations discharge
by accepting electrons,
Example: Na+ + e– → Na
An electrolyte conducts electricity in aqueous solution or in
the molten state as a result of the presence of freely moving
cations (positive ions) and anions (negative ions).
Figure 6.3 Electrolytic cell
137
Electrochemistry
Electrolysis Process
1 In the solid state, the cations and anions
of an electrolyte are unable to move freely
because they are held together by strong
ionic bonds in fixed positions in a lattice.
6
3 Generally, a molten compound
produces Am+ cations and Bn– anions.
SPM
’09/P1
2 When the solid is heated until it melts (in
the molten form), the heat energy supplied
is used to overcome the electrostatic force
of attraction between the ions. Hence, the
cations and the anions are free to move.
AnBm
AnBm(s) → nAm+(l) + mBn–(l)
cation anion
4 Two steps occur during electrolysis.
(a) Movement of ions to the electrodes
Cations (positive ions) move towards
the cathode (negative electrode) whereas
anions (negative ions) move towards
the anode (positive electrode).
(b) Discharge of ions at the electrodes
Cations are discharged by accepting
(gaining) electrons. Generally:
An+ + ne– → A
Anions are discharged by donating
(losing) electrons. Generally:
Bn– → B + ne–
Example:
PbBr2(s) →
Pb2+(l) + 2Br–(l)
lead(II) ion bromide ion
• Examples of cations are hydrogen ions,
H+, ammonium ions, NH4+ and metal
ions such as K+, Mg2+, Pb2+ and Al3+.
• Examples of anions are Cl–, Br–, I–, OH–,
SO42– and NO3–.
5 The electrons donated by anions at the anode are accepted by the cations at the cathode.
The discharge of ions at the anode and cathode results in the
(a) conduction of electricity by the electrolyte.
(b) decomposition of the electrolyte into its component elements.
Writing Half-equations for the Discharge of Ions at the Anode and the Cathode
4 Addition of the two half-equations at the
anode and cathode gives the overall chemical
equation for the reaction.
1 The reactions that take place at the anodes
or the cathodes involve ions and electrons.
The equations representing these reactions are
known as half-equations.
2 The half-equation of the anode shows the
discharge of the anions by the loss of electrons
to produce neutral atoms.
Half-equation at the anode:
Half-equation at the anode:
Bn– → B + ne–
Half-equation at the cathode:
Bn– → B + ne–
An+ + ne– → A
3 The half-equation of the cathode shows
the discharge of the cations by the gain of
electrons to produce neutral atoms.
Half-equation at the cathode:
Electrochemistry
………… equation 1
………… equation 2
Overall chemical reaction equation:
An+ + Bn– → A + B …… equation 1 + equation 2
An+ + ne– → A
138
1
Step 2: Balance the number of atoms on both sides
of the equation.
Write the half-equation for the discharge of oxide
ions, O2– at the anode.
2O2– → O2
Solution
Step 1: Write the formulae of the reactant and the
product of the reaction.
Step 3: Balance the charge by adding in the right
number of electrons.
O2– → O2
6
2O2– → O2 + 4e–
2
When molten aluminium oxide, Al2O3 is electrolysed,
aluminium metal and oxygen gas are produced.
(a) Write half-equations for the reactions at the
anode and cathode. (b) Write the overall chemical
equation of electrolysis.
At the cathode: Cations receive electrons
Al3+ + 3e– → Al ……… (2)
(Number of electrons donated at the anode
= number of electrons accepted at the cathode)
Solution
At the anode: Anions lose electrons
Equation (1)  3: 6O2– → 3O2 + 12e–
Equation (2)  4: 4Al3+ + 12e– → 4Al
Overall chemical equation:
4Al3+(l) + 6O2–(l) → 4Al(l) + 3O2(g)
2O2– → O2 + 4e– ……… (1)
To investigate the electrolysis of molten lead(II) bromide
SPM
’06/P2
Apparatus
Crucible, spatula, graphite electrodes, batteries, light
bulb, ammeter, switch, rheostat, connecting wires,
tripod stand, clay pipe triangle and Bunsen burner.
Procedure
1 A crucible is half-filled with lead(II) bromide
solid.
2 The solid lead(II) bromide is heated strongly
until it melts to a molten state.
3 Two carbon electrodes are dipped in the molten
lead­­
(II) bromide and are then connected to
batteries, rheo­stat, switch and light bulb by the
connecting wires (Figure 6.4).
4 Electric current is allowed to flow through for 15
minutes and the changes that occur at the light
bulb, ammeter, cathode and anode are recorded.
Figure 6.4 To investigate the electrolysis of lead(II)
bromide
139
Electrochemistry
Activity 6.1
Materials
Lead(II) bromide.
Results
6
Apparatus
Observation
Inference
Light bulb
Light bulb lights up
Molten lead(II) bromide
conducts electricity
Ammeter
Ammeter needle is deflected
Anode
Pungent brown gas that changes damp blue litmus paper to red is
evolved
Bromine gas is evolved
Cathode
Shiny grey metal is deposited
Lead metal is formed
5 At the cathode, a lead(II) ion discharges by
accepting 2 electrons to form a lead metal atom.
Discussion
1 Solid lead(II) bromide consists of lead(II) ions,
Pb2+ and bromide ions, Br– that are held by
strong ionic bonds.
2 When heated until it melts to form the molten
state, lead(II) ions and bromide ions are free to
move.
Pb2+ + 2e– → Pb
6 A larger quantity of the products would be
formed at the anode and the cathode if the
electroysis is carried out
(a) for a longer time period,
(b) with a larger current.
PbBr2(s) → Pb2+(l) + 2Br –(l)
3 During electrolysis, bromide ions are attracted
to the anode while lead(II) ions are attracted to
the cathode.
4 At the anode, a bromide ion discharges by
releasing one electron to form a bromine atom.
Two bromine atoms combine to form a bromine
molecule that exists as a brown gas.
Conclusion
1 The lighting up of the bulb and the deflection of
the ammeter needle shows that molten lead(II)
bro­
mide is an electrolyte and can conduct
electricity.
2 Electrolysis of molten lead(II) bromide produces
bromine gas at the anode and lead metal at the
cathode.
2Br – → Br2 + 2e–
formed at the cathode while the non-metal
component is formed at the anode.
2 Products of electrolysis of molten electrolytes
can be predicted by the following steps.
Prediction of the Products of Electrolysis
of Molten Electrolytes
1 When molten compound is electrolysed,
the metal component of the compound is
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Identifying the cations and
anions that are present in the
molten electrolyte. Generally,
a salt with formula AxBy will
produce ions as below.
Identify the cathode and
anode and the movement
of ions in the electrolyte
to the electrodes.
• Cations move to
cathode (electrode
connected to the
negative terminal of
the battery).
• Anions move to
anode (electrode
connected to the
positive terminal of
the battery).
Write the half-equations for
the discharge of the ions at the
electrode.
• At the cathode: Cations
discharge (losing the positive
charge) by accepting electrons.
AxBy → xAy+ +
cation
Electrochemistry
yBx–
anion
140
Ay+ + ye– → A
• At the anode: Anions discharge
(losing the negative charge) by
donating electrons.
Bx– → B + xe–
Electrolysis of molten sodium
chloride, NaCl
Electrolysis of molten lead(II) oxide, PbO
1 Cations and anions produced from the
molten lead(II) oxide are lead(II) ions, Pb2+
and oxide ions, O2–.
1 The cations and anions produced from
molten sodium chloride are sodium ions,
Na+ and chloride ions, Cl–.
PbO → Pb2+ + O2–
NaCl → Na+ + Cl–
2 Lead(II) ions are attracted to the cathode
while the oxide ions are attracted to the anode.
3 At the cathode, a lead(II) ion accepts 2 electrons
to form a lead metal atom (grey metal).
2 The sodium ions are attracted to the cathode
while the chloride ions are attracted to the
anode.
3 At the cathode, a sodium ion accepts an
electron to form a sodium metal atom
(grey metal).
6
Pb2+ + 2e– → Pb
4 At the anode, an oxide ion donates 2 electrons
to form an oxygen atom. Two oxygen atoms
combine to form an oxygen gas molecule.
Na+ + e– → Na
2O2– → O2 + 4e–
4 At the anode, a chloride ion donates an
electron to form a chlorine atom. Two
chlorine atoms combine to form a chlorine
molecule (greenish-yellow gas).
The term electrolysis was introduced by Michael
Faraday. ‘Lysis’ means loosening in Greek. Electrolysis
means loosening by electric current.
2Cl– → Cl2 + 2e–
6.2
1 Write the formulae of the ions produced in the molten chemical compounds in the table below. Identify the ions that
move to the anode and to the cathode respectively during electrolysis by completing the table below.
Name of compound
Ions that move to the
Ions produced
anode
cathode
(a) Zinc chloride
(b) Magnesium oxide
2 For every compound below, write the half-equations that occur at the anode and the cathode, as well as the products
formed during electrolysis.
Name of compound
Half-equation at the
Products formed at the
anode
anode
cathode
cathode
(a) Calcium oxide
(b) Aluminium iodide
3 The figure shows the arrangement of apparatus used in an experiment. The switch is turned
on for 20 minutes.
(a) Predict the observations at (i) electrode P, (ii) electrode Q.
(b) What are the products formed at (i) electrode P, (ii) electrode Q?
(c) Write the half-equations for the reactions that take place at (i) electrode P, (ii) electrode Q.
141
Electrochemistry
6.3
Electrolysis of Aqueous
Solutions
(A) Positions of ions in the electrochemical
series
1 The tendency of ions to be selectively discharged
at electrodes depends on their positions in a
series known as the electrochemical series.
2 The tendency of the ions to be discharged is
shown below in ascending order.
6
Identifying Cations and Anions in
Aqueous Solutions
1 A molten salt consists of one type of
cation and one type of anion only. During
electrolysis, the products formed are the
component elements of the compound.
2 An aqueous solution is produced when a
solute is dissolved in water. An aqueous
solution of a salt consists of two types of
cations (cations of the salt and hydrogen
ions, H+) and two types of anions (anions of
the salt and hydroxide ions, OH–).
3 H+ ions and OH– ions are always present
together with the ions produced from the
dissociation of salts in aqueous solutions.
This is because water dissociates partially to
form hydrogen ion and hydroxide ion.
H2O
Cation
K+
Na+
Mg2+
Al3+
Zn2+
Fe2+
Sn2+
Pb2+
H+
Cu2+
Hg+
Ag+
3 The lower the position of the ion in the
electrochemical series, the easier the ion
will be discharged.
4 For example, in the electrolysis of aqueous
sodium sulphate (Na2SO4) solution, with
carbon electrodes,
H+ + OH–
4 For example, in an aqueous sodium chloride
solution, 4 types of ions are present in the
solution from the dissociation of NaCl and H2O.
NaCl ⎯→
H2O
cation
Na+
+
H+
+
Na2SO4 → 2Na+ + SO42–
H2O
H+ + OH–
anion
Cl–
OH–
The cations present are Na+ ions and H+
ions. The anions present are SO42– ions and
OH– ions.
5 Both the Na+ ions and the H+ ions are
attracted to the cathode. However, only the
H+ ions are discharged at the cathode because
the H+ ion is lower in position than the Na+
ion in the electrochemical series.
Half-equation at the cathode:
The four types of ions present are Na+, Cl–, H+
and OH–.
5 During electrolysis of an aqueous salt solution,
2 types of cations will move to the cathode
while 2 types of anions will move to the anode.
For example, during electrolysis of aqueous
sodium chloride solution, the cations that move
to the cathode are Na+ ions and H+ ions. The
anions that move to the anode are Cl– ions and
OH– ions. However, only one type of cation and
anion will be discharged at each electrode.
2H+ + 2e– → H2
Hence, hydrogen gas is produced at the
cathode.
6 Both the SO42– ions and the OH– ions are
attracted to the anode. However, only the
OH– ions are discharged at the anode because
the OH– ion is lower in position than the
SO42– ion in the electrochemical series.
Half-equation at the anode:
Factors that Determine the Selective
Discharge of Ions at the Electrodes
The factors that determine the types of ions to be
discharged at the electrodes are:
(a) Positions of ions in the electrochemical series
(b) Concentration of ions in the solution
(c) Types of electrodes used
Electrochemistry
tendency
to
discharge
increases
Anion
F–
SO42–
NO3–
Cl–
Br–
I–
OH–
4OH– → 2H2O + O2 + 4e–
Hence, oxygen gas is produced at the anode.
142
(C) Effect of types of electrodes used
(B) Effect of concentration of ions in the
solution
SPM
’04/05
P2
1 The common materials used as electrodes are
carbon and platinum because they are inert.
Both of these materials do not react with the
electrolytes or the products of electrolysis.
2 The types of electrodes used can determine
the types of ions discharged in electrolysis.
3 For example, in the electrolysis of aqueous
copper(II) sulphate (CuSO4) solution,
1 When the concentration of a particular type
of ion is high, that ion will more likely to
be discharged in electrolysis irrespective of
its position in the electrochemical series.
2 Usually, in the electrolysis of concentrated
halide (Cl–/Br–/I– ions) solutions, the
concentration of the halide ion is always
higher than the hydroxide ion, OH–. Hence,
halide ions will be selectively discharged at
the anode.
3 For example, in the electrolysis of aqueous
copper(II) chloride solution, CuCl2 with
carbon electrodes,
6
CuSO4 → Cu2+ + SO42–
H2O
H+ + OH–
both the anions, sulphate ions, SO42– and
hydroxide ions, OH– are attracted to the
anode.
(a) If carbon is used as the electrodes,
OH– ions are discharged at the anode
because of the position of OH– ion in
the elec­trochemical series.
Half-equation at the anode:
CuCl2 → Cu2+ + 2Cl–
H2O
H+ + OH–
4OH– → 2H2O + O2 + 4e–
Hence, oxygen gas is produced at the
anode.
(b) If copper is used as the anode, both SO42–
ions and OH– ions are not discharged.
Instead the copper anode dissolves by
releasing electrons to form copper(II)
ions, Cu2+.
Half-equation at the anode:
Both types of anions, chloride ion, Cl– and
hydroxide ions, OH– are attracted to the
anode.
(a) If a concentrated solution is electrolysed,
chloride ions, Cl–, will be selectively
discharged at the anode because the
concentration of the chloride ions is
higher than that of the hydroxide ions.
Half-equation at the anode:
Cu → Cu2+ + 2e–
Hence, the mass of anode decreases.
Copper acts as an active electrode here
because it takes part in the chemical
reaction during electrolysis.
2Cl– → Cl2 + 2e–
Hence chlorine gas is evolved at the
anode.
(b) If a dilute solution is electrolysed,
hydroxide ions, OH–, will be discharged
at the anode because the concentration
of the chloride ions is low and OH– ion
is more easily discharged because of its
position in the electrochemical series.
Half-equation at the anode:
Generally, in the electrolysis of a halide solution using
carbon electrodes:
• A concentration of more than 0.5 mol dm–3 halide
solution is concentrated solution whereby the halide
ions will be selectively discharged at the anode.
• A concentration of less than 0.005 mol dm–3 halide
solution is considered a dilute solution whereby the
hydroxide ions will be selectively discharged at the
anode.
• Electrolysis of a solution with a concentration of
between 0.005 mol dm–3 and 0.5 mol dm–3 may
result in two types of products: halogen and oxygen
to be produced at the anode.
4OH– → 2H2O + O2 + 4e–
Hence, oxygen gas is evolved at the
anode.
143
Electrochemistry
6.2
To investigate the effect of the positions of ions in the electrochemical series on the
selective discharge of ions and the products of electrolysis of aqueous solutions
6
Problem statement
How do the positions of ions in the electrochemical
series determine the types of ions selectively
discharged during electrolysis?
Procedure
1 Aqueous copper(II) sulphate solution is put into
an electrolytic cell with carbon electrodes.
2 Two test tubes, filled with copper(II) sulphate
solution are inverted over the carbon anode and
cathode respectively (Figure 6.5).
Hypothesis
If an aqueous solution consists of more than one
type of ion, the lower the position of the ion in the
electrochemical series, the higher the tendency it is
for the ion to be discharged.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Position of ions in the
electrochemical series
(b) Responding variable : Types of ions discharged at
the anode and the cathode
(c) Constant variable
: Concentration of electro­
lytes, types of electrodes,
duration of electrolysis
Apparatus
Batteries, electrolytic cell, carbon electrodes, ammeter,
switch, connecting wires with crocodile clips and
test tubes.
Figure 6.5 Electrolysis of copper(II) sulphate
solution
3 The switch is turned on and electric current is
allowed to flow for 15 minutes.
4 Steps 1 to 3 of the experiment are repeated by
replacing copper(II) sulphate solution with dilute
sulphuric acid and sodium nitrate solution in
turn.
Materials
Aqueous 0.5 mol dm–3 copper(II) sulphate, CuSO4
solution, 0.5 mol dm–3 dilute sulphuric acid, H2SO4
and 0.5 mol dm–3 sodium nitrate, NaNO3 solution.
Results
Electrolyte
Observation
Copper(II) sulphate At the cathode
solution
• Brown deposit is formed
Inference
Copper metal is deposited
At the anode
• Gas bubbles are formed
Oxygen gas is produced
• Gas produced lights up a glowing wooden splint
Experiment 6.2
Colour of electrolyte
• The blue colour of the solution becomes paler
Dilute sulphuric
acid and sodium
nitrate solution
At the cathode
Hydrogen gas is produced
• Gas bubbles are formed
• When a lighted wooden splint is placed near the
mouth of the test tube, a ‘pop’ sound is produced
At the anode
•Gas bubbles are formed
•Gas lights up a glowing wooden splint
Electrochemistry
Concentration of Cu2+ ion decreases
144
Oxygen gas is produced
8 The ions present in the sodium nitrate solution
are Na+ ions, NO3– ions, H+ ions and OH– ions.
Discussion
1 The ions present in the aqueous copper(II)
sulphate solution are Cu2+ ions, SO42– ions, H+
ions and OH– ions.
CuSO4 → Cu2+ + SO42–
H2O
H+ + OH–
9 Both types of cations, H+ ions and Na+ ions are
attracted to the cathode. H+ ions are selectively
discharged at the cathode because the position
of the H+ ion is lower than that of the Na+ ion
in the electrochemical series. Hydrogen ions are
discharged to form hydrogen gas.
Half-equation at the cathode:
2 Both types of cations, Cu2+ ions and H+ ions are
attracted to the cathode. Cu2+ ions are selectively
discharged at the cathode because the position
of the Cu2+ ion is lower than that of the H+
ion in the electro­che­mical series. A Cu2+ ion is
discharged by accepting 2 electrons to form a
copper atom at the cathode.
Half-equation at the cathode:
2H+ + 2e– → H2
10 Both types of anions, NO3– and OH– ions are
attracted to the anode. OH– ions are selectively
discharged at the anode because of the position
of the OH– ion in the electrochemical series.
Hydro­xide ions are discharged to form water and
oxygen.
Half-equation at the anode:
Cu2+ + 2e– → Cu
3 Both types of anions, SO42– ions and OH– ions are
attracted to the anode. OH– ions are discharged
at the anode because the position of the OH– ion is
lower than that of the SO42– ion in the electroche­
mical series. 4OH– ions are dischar­ged by donating
4 electrons to form water and oxygen.
Half-equation at the anode:
4OH– → 2H2O + O2 + 4e–
11 Electrolysis of dilute sulphuric acid and sodium
nitrate solution is actually electrolysis of water
because H+ ions and OH– ions are discharged.
The decrease in the concentrations of H+ ions
and OH– ions in the solution results in the
increase of sulphuric acid and sodium nitrate
concentration during electrolysis.
12 The ratio of H2 gas to O2 gas produced is 2 : 1.
This is because the release of 4 electrons in the
for­
ma­
tion of 1 molecule of O2 results in the
formation of 2 molecules of H2 when these 4
electrons are accepted by 4 H+ ions.
4OH– → 2H2O + O2 + 4e–
4 The blue colour of the copper sulphate solution
is due to the presence of copper(II) ion, Cu2+.
The blue colour of the electrolyte becomes paler
during electrolysis because the Cu2+ ion concen­
tra­tion decreases when Cu2+ ions are discharged.
5 The ions present in the dilute sulphuric acid are
SO42– ions, H+ ions and OH– ions.
H2SO4 → 2H+ + SO42–
H2O
H+ + OH–
Conclusion
1 Electrolysis of aqueous copper(II) sulphate
solution using carbon electrodes produces copper
at the cathode and oxygen gas at the anode.
2 Cu2+ ions and OH– ions are selectively
discharged because of their lower positions in
the electrochemical series.
3 Electrolysis of dilute sulphuric acid and sodium
nitrate solution using carbon electrodes produces
hydrogen gas at the cathode and oxygen gas at
the anode.
4 H+ ions and OH– ions are selectively discharged
because their positions are lower in the
electrochemical series.
The hypothesis is accepted.
6 Hydrogen ions are attracted to the cathode. H+
ion is discharged by receiving one electron to
form a hydrogen atom. Two hydrogen atoms will
combine to form a hydrogen gas molecule.
Half-equation at the cathode:
2H+ + 2e– → H2
7 Both types of anions, SO42– ions and OH– ions are
attracted to the anode. OH– ions are selectively
discharged at the anode because of the position
of the OH– ion in the electrochemical series. Four
OH– ions are discharged to form water and oxygen.
Half-equation at the anode:
4OH– → 2H2O + O2 + 4e–
145
Electrochemistry
6
NaNO3 → Na+ + NO3–
H2O
H+ + OH–
6.3
SPM
’09/P2
To investigate the effect of the concentration of ions on the selective discharge of
ions and the products of electrolysis of aqueous solutions
6
Problem statement
How does the concentration of ions determine the
types of ions discharged during electrolysis?
Hypothesis
Ions of higher concentration will be selectively
discharged during electrolysis.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable: Concentration of ions in
the solution
(b) Responding variable: Types of ions to be
discharged at the anode and cathode
(c) Constant variables: Types of ions in the electrolyte,
types of electrodes, duration of electrolysis.
Figure 6.6 Electrolysis of copper(II) chloride
solution
Apparatus
Batteries, electrolytic cell, carbon electrodes, ammeter,
switch, connecting wires with crocodile clips and
test tubes.
Materials
Aqueous 2.0 mol dm–3 copper(II) chloride, CuC12
solution and aqueous 0.001 mol dm–3 copper(II)
chloride solution.
Procedure
1 Concentrated aqueous copper(II) chloride
solution of 2.0 mol dm–3 is put into an electrolytic
cell with carbon electrodes.
2 Two test tubes, filled with copper(II) chloride
solution are inverted over the carbon anode and
cathode respectively (Figure 6.6).
3 The switch is turned on and electric current is
allowed to flow for 15 minutes.
4 Any change in colour of the electrolyte and
any other changes that occur around the carbon
electrodes are recorded.
5 Steps 1 to 4 of the experiment are repeated
using the dilute copper(II) chloride solution of
0.001 mol dm–3 to replace the concentrated
copper(II) chloride solution.
Results
Electrolyte
Experiment 6.3
Concentrated
copper(II)
chloride solution
of 2.0 mol dm–3
Dilute copper(II)
chloride solution
of 0.001 mol dm–3
Electrochemistry
Observation
Inference
At the cathode:
Brown deposit is formed
Copper metal is produced
At the anode:
Bubbles of pungent greenish-yellow gas are
produced. The gas turns the damp blue litmus
paper to red and then bleaches it
Chlorine gas is produced
Colour of electrolyte:
The blue colour of the solution becomes paler
Concentration of Cu2+ ions in
copper(II) chloride solution decreases
At the cathode:
Brown deposit is formed
Copper metal is produced
At the anode:
Bubbles of colourless gas are produced.
The gas lights up a glowing wooden splint
Oxygen gas is produced
Colour of electrolyte:
The blue colour of the solution becomes paler
Concentration of Cu2+ ions in
copper(II) chloride solution decreases
146
Cu2+ ions are discharged because the position
of Cu2+ ions is lower than that of H+ ions
in the electrochemical series. Hence copper
metal is deposited.
Discussion
1 Aqueous copper(II) chloride consists of Cu2+
ions, H+ ions, OH– ions and Cl– ions.
CuCl2 → Cu2+ + 2Cl–
H2O
H+ + OH–
Half-equation at the anode:
(b) The blue colour of the solution becomes paler
because the concentration of the Cu2+ ions
decreases when Cu2+ ions are discharged at
the cathode during electrolysis.
Conclusion
1 In the electrolysis of concentrated aqueous
copper­(II) chloride solution, copper metal
is pro­duced at the cathode and chlorine gas is
produced at the anode. At the anode, the Cl– ions
are selective­ly dis­­char­ged, producing chlorine
gas because the con­
cen­
tration of Cl– ions is
–
higher than that of OH ions.
2 In the electrolysis of dilute aqueous copper(II)
chloride solution, copper metal is produced at
the cathode and oxygen gas is produced at the
anode. At the anode, OH– ions are selectively
discharged, producing oxygen gas because the
concentration of Cl– ions is low.
3 The type of ions that is selectively discharged at
the electrode is determined by the concentration
of the ions.
The hypothesis is accepted.
Half-equation at the anode:
2Cl– → Cl2 + 2e–
Hence chlorine gas is produced.
3 Electrolysis of dilute aqueous copper(II) chloride
solution (0.001 mol dm–3):
At the anode: 2 types of anions, Cl– ions and
OH– ions are attracted to the anode. OH– ions
are discharged because the concentration of Cl–
ions is lower than that of OH– ions.
Half-equation at the anode:
4OH– → 2H2O + O2 + 4e–
Hence oxygen gas is produced.
4 (a) At the cathodes of both concentrated and
dilute aqueous copper(II) chloride solution:
6.4
6
Cu2+ + 2e– → Cu
2 Electrolysis of concentrated aqueous copper(II)
chloride solution (2 mol dm–3):
At the anode: 2 types of anions, Cl– ions and
OH– ions are attracted to the anode. Cl– ions are
discharged because the concentration of Cl–
ions is higher than that of OH– ions.
SPM
’09/P3
Hypothesis
The products of electrolysis of copper(II) sulphate
solution with copper electrodes are different from
that with carbon electrodes.
Apparatus
Batteries, electrolytic cell, carbon electrodes, copper
electrodes, ammeter, switch, rheostat, connecting
wires with crocodile clips and test tubes.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Types of electrodes
(b) Responding variable : Products of electrolysis
Materials
Aqueous 1.0 mol dm–3 copper(II) sulphate, CuSO4
solution
147
Electrochemistry
Experiment 6.4
To investigate the effect of the types of electrodes on the selective discharge of ions
and the products of electrolysis of aqueous solutions
(c) Constant variables : Types of ions in the
Problem statement
electrolyte and the concen­
How do the types of electrodes determine the types
tration of ions
of ions discharged during electrolysis?
6
Procedure
1 Aqueous 1.0 mol dm–3 copper(II) sulphate solution
is put into an electrolytic cell with carbon electrodes.
2 A test tube filled with copper(II) sulphate solution
is inverted over the carbon anode (Figure 6.7).
3 The switch is turned on and the electric current is
allowed to flow for 15 minutes.
4 Any change in colour of the electrolyte and
any other changes that occur around the carbon
electrodes are recorded.
5 Steps 1 to 4 of the experiment are repeated using
copper electrodes to replace carbon electrodes.
Figure 6.7 Electrolysis of copper(II)
sulphate solution
Results
Type of electrodes
Carbon
Copper
Observation
At the cathode:
Brown deposit is formed
Copper metal is produced
At the anode:
Bubbles of colourless gas are produced
The gas lights up a glowing wooden splint
Oxygen gas is produced
Colour of electrolyte:
The blue colour of the solution becomes paler
Concentration of Cu2+ ions
decreases
At the cathode:
Formation of brown deposit makes the cathode thicker
Copper metal is produced
At the anode:
Anode corrodes and becomes thinner
Copper anode dissolves to form
Cu2+ ions
Colour of electrolyte:
The blue colour of the solution remains
unchanged
Concentration of Cu2+ ions in
copper(II) sulphate remains
constant
4 The colour intensity of the blue solution
decreases because the concentration of Cu2+
ions in the copper(II) sulphate decreases.
5 During electrolysis, the concentration of OH–
ions decreases, leaving H+ ions behind. As a
result, the solution becomes acidic.
6 If copper is used as the anode, both SO42– ions
and OH– ions are not discharged. Instead, the
copper anode dissolves by releasing electrons
to form Cu2+ ions. Hence, the mass of the anode
decreases and the anode becomes thinner. The
types of electrodes (copper electrode is an active
electrode) determine the product formed at the
anode during electrolysis.
Half-equation at the anode:
Discussion
1 Aqueous copper(II) sulphate solution consists of
Cu2+ ions, H+ ions, SO42– ions and OH– ions.
2 During electrolysis, OH– ions and SO42– ions
move to the anode. If a carbon electrode is used
as the anode, OH– ion is selectively discharged
due to its position in the electrochemical series.
Oxygen gas is produced.
Half-equation at the anode:
4OH– → 2H2O + O2 + 4e–
3 Cu2+ ions and H+ ions move to the cathode. Cu2+
ion which is at a lower position than the H+ ion
in the electrochemical series will be discharged.
Copper metal is produced.
Half-equation at the cathode:
Cu → Cu2+ + 2e–
7 Cu2+ ions are still discharged at the cathode,
producing copper metal. This causes the mass
Cu2+ + 2e– → Cu
Electrochemistry
Inference
148
Conclusion
1 In the electrolysis of aqueous copper(II) sulphate
solution:
(a) If a carbon electrode is used as the anode,
OH– ions are discharged and oxygen gas is
produced.
(b) If a copper electrode is used as the anode, both
OH– ions and SO42– ions are not discharged.
Instead the copper anode dissolves to produce
Cu2+ ions.
(c) Cu2+ ions are discharged at the cathode producing
copper metal whether the cathode used is a
carbon electrode or a copper electrode.
2 The types of electrodes used during electrolysis
determine the types of ions discharged and the
products of electrolysis.
The hypothesis is accepted.
Cu2+ + 2e– → Cu
8 The colour intensity of the blue solution does
not change because the concentration of Cu2+
ions is constant. The number of moles of Cu2+
ions discharged at the cathode is the same as the
number of moles of Cu2+ ions produced at the
anode.
9 The mass of the electrodes can be weighed before
and after electrolysis using an electronic balance.
10 The decrease in the mass of the copper anode
is the same as the increase in the mass of the
copper cathode.
How to Predict the Products of Electrolysis of Aqueous Solutions
1
’08
The diagram shows the arrangement of apparatus for the electrolysis of silver nitrate solution.
Write the half-equation representing the reaction at electrode Q.
Comments
The ions present in the electrolyte are Ag+, NO3–, H+ and OH–.
Electrode Q is the anode as it is connected to the posi­tive terminal of the battery. OH– ions are discharged at the
anode producing oxygen gas. (Factor: positions of ions in the electrochemical series)
4OH– → 2H2O + O2 + 4e–
The cations at a higher position in the electrochemical series are very stable. These ions are unlikely to accept electrons
to form neutral atoms. Hence K+ ions and Na+ ions are never discharged in an aqueous solution in electrolysis. The
cations at the lower position of the electrochemical series are less stable. They are more likely to accept electrons to
form neutral atoms.
Similarly with anions. Anions at a higher position in the electrochemical series are never discharged in an aqueous
solution in electrolysis. Hence F –, SO42– and NO3– ions are stable compared to the lower anions at a lower position in
the electrochemical series. Cl–, Br –, I– or OH– ions will be discharged instead depending on their ionic concentration in
the aqueous solution.
149
Electrochemistry
6
of the cathode to increase and the cathode
becomes thicker.
Half-equation at the cathode:
How to predict the products of electrolysis of aqueous solutions.
Step 1
Step 2
Identify the cations and anions that are
present in the aqueous solution.
Generally, an aqueous solution of MaXb
will produce ions as follows:
Identify the anode and cathode
• Anode is the electrode connected to
the positive terminal of the battery.
Positive electrode attracts negative ions
(anions).
• Cathode is the electrode connected to
the negative terminal of the battery.
Negative electrode attracts positive ions
(cations).
Cation Anion
M b+ , X a–
H+ , OH–
6
From MaXb :
From H2O :
SPM
’10/P2, ’11/P2
Step 3
Step 4
Identify the movements of ions
• M b+ ions and H+ ions move to the
cathode.
• X a– ions and OH– ions move to the
anode.
Identify the ions to be discharged at the
cathode
H+ ions are discharged at the cathode
(producing H2 gas) except if Mb+ is Cu2+
or Ag+ (because these ions are lower than
H+ ions in the electrochemical series).
• H+ ions discharge by accepting
electrons to form H2 gas.
2H+ + 2e– → H2
• Cu2+ ions or Ag+ ions discharge by
accepting electrons to form metal atom.
Cu2+ + 2e– → Cu
Ag+ + e – → Ag
Inert electrode
Step 5
Identify the types of electrode as anode
Inert electrode: carbon or platinum.
Active electrode: Ag or Cu.
SPM
’09/P1
OH – ions are discharged (producing O2 gas) except
if X b– ions are Cl–/Br –/I – of high concentration.
• OH– ions discharge by donating electrons to
form water and O2 gas.
4OH– → O2 + 2H2O + 4e–
• Cl–/Br –/I– of high concentration discharge by
donating electrons to form halogen.
Example: 2Cl– → Cl2 + 2e–.
Electrochemistry
150
Active electrode
Anions are not discharged. Instead
anode dissolves to form ions.
Examples:
Ag → Ag+ + e–
Cu → Cu2+ + 2e–
Electrolysis of dilute acids and alkalis
Electrolysis of aqueous copper(II) nitrate
solution, Cu(NO3)2 with copper electrodes
1 Electrolysis of all dilute acids (HCl/H2SO4/
HNO3) and dilute alkali solutions (NaOH/
KOH) is actually the electrolysis of water.
2 At the cathode: H+ ions are discharged
producing hydrogen gas.
1 At the cathode: Cu2+ ions are discharged.
Copper metal is deposited. Mass of cathode
will increase. (Factor: positions of ions in
the electrochemical series).
2H+ + 2e– → H2
3 At the anode: OH– ions are discharged
producing oxygen gas.
2 At the anode: Copper dissolves from the
anode forming Cu2+ ions. Mass of the anode
will decrease. (Factor: types of electrodes).
4OH– → 2H2O + O2 + 4e–
Cu → Cu2+ + 2e–
4 The removal of H+ ions and OH– ions from
the solution during electrolysis causes the
concentration of the acid or alkali to increase.
Electrolysis of aqueous silver nitrate solution,
AgNO3 with carbon electrodes
Electrolysis of concentrated aqueous sodium
chloride solution, NaCl with carbon electrodes
1 At the cathode: Ag+ ions are discharged.
Silver metal is deposited. (Factor: positions
of ions in the electrochemical series).
SPM
1 Cations present : Na+ ions, H+ ions
’08/P2
Anions present : Cl– ions, OH– ions
2 At the cathode: H+ ions are discharged
producing hydrogen gas. (Factor: positions
of ions in the electrochemical series).
Ag+ + e– → Ag
2 At the anode: OH– ions are discharged
producing oxygen gas. (Factor: positions of
ions in the electrochemical series).
2H+ + 2e– → H2
3 At the anode: Cl– ions are discharged producing
chlorine gas. (Factor: concentration of ions).
4OH– → 2H2O + O2 + 4e–
2Cl– → Cl2 + 2e–
Electrolysis of aqueous silver nitrate solution,
AgNO3 with silver electrodes
Electrolysis of aqueous copper(II) nitrate
solution, Cu(NO3)2 with carbon electrodes
1 Cations present : Cu2+ ions, H+ ions
Anions present : NO3– ions, OH– ions
2 At the cathode: Cu2+ ions are discharged.
Copper metal is deposited. (Factor: positions
of ions in the electrochemical series).
1 At the cathode: Ag+ ions are discharged.
Silver metal is deposited. Mass of silver
cathode will increase. (Factor: positions of
ions in the electrochemical series).
Ag+ + e– → Ag
Cu2+ + 2e– → Cu
3 At the anode: OH– ions are discharged
producing oxygen gas. (Factor: positions of
ions in the electrochemical series).
2 At the anode: silver anode dissolves forming
Ag+ ions. Mass of silver anode electrode will
decrease. (Factor: types of electrodes).
4OH– → 2H2O + O2 + 4e–
Ag → Ag+ + e–
151
Electrochemistry
6
Cu2+ + 2e– → Cu
such as sodium, calcium, magnesium
and aluminium are extracted from their
compounds using electrolysis.
2 Electrolysis is used because these reactive
metals cannot be extracted from the minerals
by reduction using carbon.
3 Examples are:
(a) Extraction of aluminium from aluminium
oxide, Al2O3.
(b) Extraction of sodium from sodium
chloride, NaCl.
6.3
1 Write the formulae of the ions present in the
aqueous solutions below. Identify the ions that will
be discharged at the anode and the cathode during
electrolysis using carbon electrodes in every case.
Ions
present
in the
solution
6
Aqueous
solution
Ions
discharged
at the
cathode
Ions
discharged
at the
anode
(a) Aqueous
nitric acid
(b) Silver
nitrate
(c) Very dilute
copper(II)
chloride
Extraction of aluminium metal from the
mineral bauxite (Hall-Heroult process)
1 Bauxite is the major ore of aluminium
consisting of aluminium oxide, Al2O3.
2 Cryolite (Na3AlF6) is added to aluminium
oxide to lower its melting point from 2000°C
to about 950°C.
3 Molten aluminium oxide is electrolysed using
carbon as electrodes in the electrolytic cell
as shown in Figure 6.8.
2
The figure above shows the arrangement of
apparatus in an electrolysis experiment.
(a) Name all the ions present in Cell I and Cell II.
(b) Electrolysis is carried out for 20 minutes.
(i) Predict the observations at electrodes P
and Q.
(ii) What will be the change in colour in Cell I?
Explain your answer.
(iii) Predict the observations at electrodes R
and S.
(iv) Write the half-equations at electrodes P and R.
(c) What is the factor that determines the formation
of the products in
(i) electrode Q?
(ii) electrode R?
6.4
Figure 6.8 Extraction of aluminium metal from
aluminium oxide.
4 Molten aluminium oxide dissociates into
aluminium and oxide ions as follows:
Al2O3(l) → 2Al3+(l) + 3O2–(l)
(a) At the cathode: Al3+ ions discharge to
form aluminium metal
Electrolysis in Industries
Uses of Electrolysis in Industries
Al3+ + 3e– → Al
SPM
(b) At the anode: O2– ions discharge to
form oxygen gas
’09/P1
1 Electrolysis process is used widely in industries.
2 Some common industrial applications of
electrolysis are
(a) extraction of reactive metals
(b) purification of metals
(c) electroplating of metals
2O2– → O2 + 4e–
Overall equation of electrolysis:
2Al2O3 → 4Al + 3O2
5 The carbon anode is required to be replaced
from time to time because the oxygen gas
generated oxidises the carbon anode to
form carbon dioxide.
(A) Extraction of Reactive Metals Using Electrolysis
1 Metals that are very reactive (placed at the
top positions of the electrochemical series)
Electrochemistry
152
Extraction of sodium metal from sodium chloride (Downs process)
4 Molten sodium chloride dissociates into
ions as follows:
1 Sodium chloride is the most abundant and
cheapest sodium compound.
2 Electrolysis of molten sodium chloride is
carried out using iron as cathode and carbon
as anode as in Figure 6.9.
NaCl(l) → Na+(l) + Cl–(l)
(a) At the cathode: Na+ ions discharge
to form sodium metal. Sodium metal
is less dense and floats on top of the
electrolyte to be collected.
chlorine
gas
sodium is
produced here
Na+ + e– → Na
6
molten sodium
chloride
cathode (iron)
(b) At the anode: Cl– ions discharge to
form chlorine gas. Chlorine gas is a
useful by-product.
anode (carbon)
Figure 6.9 Extraction of sodium metal from
molten sodium chloride
2Cl– → Cl2 + 2e–
Overall chemical
electrolysis:
3 Calcium chloride is added to lower the
melting point of sodium chloride.
equation
of
the
2NaCl → 2Na + Cl2
(B) Purification of Metals Using Electrolysis
the anode to the cathode. After electrolysis,
the mass of anode is reduced while that of the
cathode is increased.
3 For example, in the purification of impure
copper metal:
(a) Anode: impure copper
(b) Cathode: pure copper
(c) Electrolyte: copper(II) ion solutions such
as copper(II) sulphate
To investigate the purification of copper metal using
electrolysis
SPM
’10/P1
2 A piece of impure copper plate is connected to
the positive terminal of the batteries. This plate
acts as the anode.
3 A piece of pure copper metal is connected to the
negative terminal of the batteries. This plate acts
as the cathode.
4 The circuit is completed using the connecting
wires, rheostat and ammeter. The two copper
plates are immersed in the copper(II) sulphate
solution. The solution is electrolysed for 30
minutes (Figure 6.10).
Apparatus
Batteries, electrolytic cell, beaker, connecting wires
with crocodile clips, ammeter and rheostat.
Materials
1 mol dm–3 copper(II) sulphate solution, pure copper
plate and impure copper plate.
Procedure
1 About 200 cm3 of 1 mol dm–3 copper(II) sulphate
solution is poured into a beaker.
153
Electrochemistry
Activity 6.2
1 Impure metals containing impurities can be
purified using electrolysis as outlined below.
(a) The impure metal is used as the anode.
(b) A piece of pure metal is used as the cathode.
(c) The electrolyte is a solution containing
the ions of the metal to be purified.
2 In the process of purification of a metal
using electrolysis, metal is transferred from
Discussion
1 At the anode: Copper dissolves from the anode
by releasing electrons to form Cu2+ ions. The
mass of the anode decreases.
Half-equation:
2 At the cathode: Cu2+ ions are discharged by
receiving electrons to form copper atoms.
Copper metal is deposited on the surface of the
cathode. As a result, the copper cathode becomes
thicker. The mass of the cathode increases.
6
Figure 6.10 Purification of copper metal
Results
Observation
At the anode:
• The copper anode
becomes thinner
• Impurities are
deposited below the
anode
Half-equation:
Inference
Copper metal is
deposited at the
cathode
Colour of electrolyte:
• Colour intensity of
the blue solution
does not change
Concentration of Cu
ions in the electrolyte
does not change
2+
Cu2+ + 2e– → Cu
3 In this process, Cu2+ ions are transferred from the
anode to the cathode and are deposited as pure
copper metal. Impurities that are collected below
the anode are known as anode mud.
4 The colour intensity of the blue solution does not
change because the concentration of Cu2+ ions
remains constant throughout electrolysis. The
rate of formation of Cu2+ ions at the anode is the
same as the rate of discharge of Cu2+ ions at the
cathode.
Copper anode
dissolves to form Cu2+
ions
At the cathode:
• The copper cathode
becomes thicker
Cu → Cu2+ + 2e–
Conclusion
When copper(II) sulphate solution is electrolysed
using pure copper as the cathode and impure copper
as the anode, purification of copper takes place. Pure
copper is deposited at the cathode.
(C) Electroplating of Metals Using Electrolysis
(a) The object to be electroplated is used as
the cathode.
(b) The anode is the electroplating metal.
(c) The electrolyte is a solution that contains
the electroplating metal ions.
4 An even and lasting layer of metal can be
produced if
(a) the surface of the object to be electroplated
is first polished using sandpaper.
(b) a low electric current is used so that
electroplating is carried out slowly during
the electroplating process.
(c) the object to be plated is rotated steadily
during electrolysis.
1 Electroplating is a process carried out to coat
the surface of metal objects with a thin and
even layer of another metal.
2 Two main aims of electroplating metals are
(a) to prevent corrosion. For example, iron
objects are plated with a thin layer of
chromium or nickel metal to protect the
iron from rusting.
(b) to improve the appearance. For example,
electroplating with gold, platinum and
silver makes the surface of the objects
appear shiny and more attractive.
3 In general, there are three conditions in the
SPM electroplating of metal.
’08/P1
Electrochemistry
154
2
Comments
At the anode, the silver foil dissolves by releasing
electrons, thus becoming thinner:
SPM
’10/P1
The diagram shows the set-up of the apparatus
used to electroplate an iron key with silver.
Ag → Ag+ + e–
At the cathode, silver ions discharge by receiving
electrons to form silver atoms, forming a shiny grey
deposit on the iron key:
Ag+ + e– → Ag
Answer B
A
B
C
D
Anode
Cathode
Shiny grey deposits
are formed
Silver foil becomes
thinner
Shiny grey deposits
are formed
Silver foil becomes
thinner
Silver foil becomes
thicker
Shiny grey deposits
are formed
Gas bubbles are
released
Gas bubbles are
released
6
What is observed at the anode and cathode after
30 minutes?
Presently, plastic electroplating is carried out to coat a
thin layer of metal onto the surface of plastic objects.
The object produced will have the advantanges of
plastic: light, cheap, resistant to corrosion as well as
having a shiny surface like a metal. As plastic is an
electric insulator, a layer of graphite powder is coated
onto the surface of the plastic, so that it can conduct
electricity, before electroplating is carried out.
6.5
To investigate the electroplating of an iron spoon with copper using electrolysis
Problem statement
How is electrolysis used to electroplate an iron spoon with copper metal?
Hypothesis
Electroplating of an iron spoon with copper occurs if the iron spoon is used as the cathode, copper metal is
used as the anode and aqueous copper(II) sulphate solution as the electrolyte.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : The position of the iron spoon as an electrode
(b) Responding variable : The deposition of copper on the iron spoon
(c) Constant variable
: Type of electrolyte and arrangement of apparatus
Materials
0.5 mol dm–3 copper(II) sulphate solution, copper plate and iron spoon.
Procedure
1 About 200 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 copper(II) sulphate solution is poured into a beaker.
2 An iron spoon is polished using sandpaper and is connected to the negative terminal of the batteries. The
spoon acts as the cathode.
3 A piece of copper metal, as the anode, is connected to the positive terminal of the batteries.
155
Electrochemistry
Experiment 6.5
Apparatus
Batteries, electrolytic cell, beaker, connecting wires with crocodile clips, ammeter and rheostat.
4 The circuit is completed using the connecting
wires, rheostat and ammeter. The iron spoon and
the copper metal are immersed in the copper(II)
sulphate solution. The solution is electrolysed for
30 minutes using a small current (0.5 A).
5 Steps 1 to 4 of the experiment are repeated by
interchanging the positions of the iron spoon and
copper metal, whereby the iron spoon is made
the anode and the copper metal is made the
cathode.
6
Set
Set 1: Iron spoon as
the cathode, copper
metal as the anode
Set 2: Copper metal
as the cathode, iron
spoon as the anode
Figure 6.11 Electroplating of an iron spoon
with copper
Observation
Inference
At the cathode:
A brown metal is deposited on the
surface of the iron spoon
The iron spoon is plated with
copper metal
At the anode:
The copper anode becomes thinner
The copper anode dissolves to form
Cu2+ ions
Colour of the electrolyte:
Colour intensity of the blue solution
does not change
Concentration of Cu2+ ions in the
electrolyte remains constant
At the cathode:
The copper plate becomes thicker
Copper metal is deposited on the copper
electrode
At the anode:
No noticeable change in the appearance
of the iron spoon
Electroplating of copper on the iron
spoon does not take place
Colour of the electrolyte:
The blue colour of the solution becomes
paler
Concentration of Cu2+ ions in the
electrolyte decreases
3 The colour intensity of the blue solution does not
change because the concentration of Cu2+ ions
remains constant throughout the electroplating
process.
4 A slow electrolysis process using a small current
will ensure that the layer of copper sticks firmly
to the surface of the iron spoon.
Discussion
1 The brown metal deposited on the iron spoon is
copper metal.
(a) At the anode: copper dissolves from the
anode by releasing electrons to form Cu2+
ions.
Half-equation:
Cu → Cu2+ + 2e–
Conclusion
1 In electroplating an iron spoon with copper using
electrolysis, the iron spoon is made the cathode
and a piece of copper metal is made the anode.
2 Copper metal is transferred from the copper
anode to the iron spoon and is deposited as a thin
layer of copper metal.
3 Electroplating does not take place if the iron
spoon is made the anode.
The hypothesis is accepted.
(b) At the cathode: Cu2+ ions are discharged
by accepting electrons to form copper atoms.
Copper metal is deposited on the surface of
the iron spoon.
Half-equation:
Cu2+ + 2e– → Cu
2 In this process, Cu2+ ions are transferred from
the anode to the cathode (iron spoon) and are
deposited as a thin and even layer of copper metal.
Electrochemistry
156
Benefits and Harmful Effects of Electrolysis in Industries
1 Table 6.1 shows the advantages and disadvantages of using electrolysis.
Advantages of using electrolysis
Disadvantages of using electrolysis
1 Electrolysis is an effective method of extracting
reactive metals from their compounds. Some
chemical substances such as chlorine and sodium
can be manufactured in large quantities using
electrolysis.
2 In electroplating, the whole surface area of a
metal such as iron is coated with a thin, even
and valuable metal (such as gold, platinum
and silver). This layer of metal protects iron
from being exposed to air and water so as
to prevent corrosion. Besides that, the layer
of metal also gives an attractive appearance.
Electroplating can also be performed using
polymers as the coating material. This has
been used to coat new cars with paint. The
advantage of this process is that it can be done
in water thereby eliminating the use of volatile
organic solvents used in spray-paints.
3 Electrolysis process is used to purify metals
such as zinc, silver, nickel, copper, lead and
aluminium. This process is also known as electrorefining.
1 Electrolysis is a process that uses a large
quantity of electricity. For example, the recycling
of aluminium requires only 9% of the electrical
energy used to produce the same quantity of
aluminium in electrolysis.
2 The problem of environmental pollution
especially in the electroplating process.
(a) In the electroplating of iron by chromium
and nickel, the waste chemicals contain
chromium ions and nickel ions that can
endanger human health as well as pollute
water sources.
(b) In silver electroplating, potassium silver
cyanide, KAg(CN)2 solution is sometimes
used as an electrolyte. The waste chemical
of the electrolyte contains cyanide ions
which are toxic.
(c) Metal objects to be electroplated are
cleaned by acids to remove the layer
of metal oxide on the surface before
electroplating. The used acid wastes will
pollute water in the drains, rivers and
lakes, thus destroying aquatic life.
2 Steps taken to overcome the problems of
electrolysis in industries
(a) Recycling such as the recycling of aluminium
cans is encouraged to reduce the use of
electrolysis in the extraction of aluminium.
(b) Waste chemicals in electrolyte from
electroplating are treated to remove the
toxic substances before being drained
out as effluent.
6.4
(a) What is a suitable metal that can be used as
metal M?
(b) State two observations that will be obtained in
this experiment.
(c) Write the half-equations for the reactions that
take place at
(i) the iron key
(ii) the metal M
(d) How will the concentration of silver nitrate
solution change after electrolysis? Explain your
answer.
(e) Explain how the student can ensure that an even
and lasting layer of silver metal stays on the
surface of the iron key.
1 State three main uses of the electrolysis process in
industries.
2
A student carried out an experiment to electroplate
an iron key with silver using the apparatus as shown
in the above figure.
157
Electrochemistry
6
Table 6.1 Advantages and disadvantages of using electrolysis.
6.5
Voltaic Cells
6
Simple Voltaic Cells (Chemical Cells)
5
SPM
’09/P2
1 A simple voltaic cell can be made by
immersing two different types of metals in
an electrolyte and connecting the two metals
by wires in the external circuit.
2 In a simple voltaic cell, electrons flow from
one metal to another metal through the
connecting wires in the external circuit.
3 The more electropositive metal (metal that
is at a higher position in the electrochemical
series) will release electrons and thus acts as
the negative terminal (anode) of the voltaic
cell.
4 The less electropositive metal (metal that
is at a lower position in the electrochemical
6
7
8
9
series) will accept electrons and acts as the
positive terminal (cathode).
A continuous flow of electrons from the
negative terminal to the positive terminal of
the cell through the external circuit produces
an electric current.
The flow of electric current can be detected
by the lighting up of a light bulb or the
deflection of a galvanometer needle.
Voltaic cells are also known as galvanic cells
or chemical cells.
The potential difference (voltage) of the cell
is the electromotive force (e.m.f.) that moves
electrons and can be measured by a voltmeter.
The further the distance between the positions
of two metals in the electrochemical series, the
bigger the voltage of the cell. For example, a
magnesium/copper cell will produce a higher
voltage than a zinc/copper cell.
6.6
To investigate the production of electricity from chemical reactions in a simple
voltaic cell
Problem statement
How does a chemical reaction produce electrical
energy in a simple voltaic cell?
Procedure
1 A piece of magnesium plate and a piece of
copper plate are polished with sandpaper.
2 Both pieces of the magnesium and copper plates
are immersed in 200 cm3 of aqueous sodium
chloride solution in a beaker as shown in
Figure 6.12.
3 Both plates are connected by the connecting wire
to a voltmeter.
4 The experiment is repeated using two pieces of
copper plates as electrodes.
Hypothesis
Electric current is produced when two different
metals connected by wires are immersed in an
electrolyte.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Pairs of different metals
(b) Responding variable : Deflection of a voltmeter
needle by the electric
current produced
(c) Constant variable
: Types of electrolyte and
arrangement of apparatus
Experiment 6.6
Apparatus
Voltmeter, beaker, connecting wires with crocodile
clips and sandpaper.
Materials
1 mol dm–3 sodium chloride solution, copper plates
and magnesium plate.
Electrochemistry
SPM
’05/P2
Figure 6.12
158
Results
Magnesium metal and
copper metal
Observation
Inference
• Voltmeter needle deflects but the
deflection decreases after awhile
• Magnesium metal corrodes
• Bubbles of colourless gas are
evolved around the copper metal
Two pieces of copper
metal
• Voltmeter needle does not show a
deflection
• No noticeable change occurs at the
copper electrode
Discussion
1 The deflection of the voltmeter needle shows that
an electric current is produced. The decreasing
deflection indicates that the electric current
decreases rapidly.
2 Magnesium metal is more electropositive
than copper (at a higher position in the
electrochemical series). Hence, it has a higher
tendency to donate electrons than copper.
3 Magnesium atoms will donate electrons to form
magnesium ions, Mg2+ in the solution, hence
magnesium metal corrodes.
Half-equation:
• Electric current is not produced
• No reaction occurs
Figure 6.13 Movement of electrons and ions in
a simple Mg/Cu cell using sodium
chloride solution as the electrolyte
Mg → Mg2+ + 2e–
8 If copper(II) solution is used as the electrolyte,
Cu2+ ions will receive electrons and are
discharged because its position is lower than H+
ions and Mg2+ ions in the electrochemical series.
Copper metal is produced. The overall equation
of the cell will be
4 Electrons accumulate at the surface of the
magnesium metal. This makes magnesium act
as the negative terminal (also known as the
anode) of the cell.
5 The electrons flow through the external circuit
from the magnesium metal (negative terminal) to
the copper metal (positive terminal or cathode
of the cell) producing electricity.
6 When sodium chloride solution is used as the
electrolyte, H+ ions (from water), Na+ ions and
Mg2+ ions move towards the copper metal. H+
ions will accept electrons from the copper metal
and be discharged because its position is lower
than Na+ ions and Mg2+ ions in the electro­
chemical series. Hydrogen gas is produced.
Half-equation:
• Electric current is produced. The
voltage produced is not constant and
decreases rapidly
• Magnesium dissolves to form Mg2+
ions
• Hydrogen gas is produced
Mg + Cu2+ → Mg2+ + Cu
Conclusion
1 An electric current is produced when a chemical
reaction occurs in a simple voltaic cell consisting
of two different metals, connected by wires
externally and immersed in an electrolyte.
2 In a simple voltaic cell, chemical energy released
from chemical reactions is converted into
electrical energy.
3 No electric current will be produced if both
electrodes are of the same material because there
is no potential difference between them.
The hypothesis is accepted.
2H+ + 2e– → H2
7 The overall chemical equation in the cell is:
Mg + 2H+ → H2 + Mg2+
159
Electrochemistry
6
Type of metal used as
electrodes
3
’04
The diagram shows the set-up of the
apparatus of a simple chemical cell.
Metal P
Metal Q
Iron
Copper
Zinc
Lead
Aluminium
Magnesium
Iron
Magnesium
A
B
C
D
What are metals P and Q?
6
Comments
The diagram shows that electrons flow from metal P to
metal Q. Metal P must be more electropositive (higher
in position in the electrochemical series) than metal Q.
This is because the more electropositive metal will release
electrons to become the negative terminal of the chemical
cell.
Answer C
SPM
Different Types of Voltaic Cells
’10/P2
Voltaic cells can be divided into two categories as
shown in Table 6.2.
Table 6.2 Two categories voltaic cells
Primary cells
Secondary cells
• Non-rechargeable
cells
(cells that cannot be
charged again)
• Rechargeable cells
(cells that can be
charged again)
• Examples
(a) Daniell cell
(b) Dry cell
(c) Mercury cell
(d) Alkaline cell
• Examples
(a) Lead-acid
accumulator
(b) Nickel/cadmium
cell
Figure 6.14 Daniell cell using a salt bridge
(b) A porous pot as shown in Figure 6.15.
Figure 6.15 Daniell cell using a porous pot
Daniell Cell
4 A salt bridge contains inert ions or salt that
does not react with the electrolyte. Examples
are sodium chloride, potassium chloride,
potassium nitrate, ammonium chloride and
dilute sulphuric acid.
5 A simple salt bridge can be made by immersing
a piece of filter paper in sulphuric acid or in a
salt solution.
6 A porous pot has fine pores that allow ions
to flow through but can prevent the two
different aqueous solutions from mixing.
1 A Daniell cell has copper metal as the positive
terminal and zinc metal as the negative
terminal.
2 The zinc metal is immersed in zinc sulphate
solution and the copper metal is immersed in
copper(II) sulphate solution.
3 The two solutions of the Daniell cell are
connected using either of the following:
(a) A salt bridge as shown in Figure 6.14.
Electrochemistry
160
2 The electrolyte is ammonium chloride in the
form of a paste.
3 The cross-section of a dry cell is shown in
Figure 6.16.
7 The functions of salt bridges and porous pots are
(a) to allow the flow of ions so that the
’11/P1
circuit is completed.
(b) to prevent the two aqueous solutions
from mixing. This will prevent displace­
ment reaction between a more electro­
positive metal and the salt solution of the
less electropositive metal from taking place.
8 In a simple voltaic cell made by immersing
both the zinc metal and copper metal in
copper(II) sulphate solution,
(a) zinc metal reacts directly with copper(II)
sulphate solution in a displacement
reaction.
SPM
6
Figure 6.16 Dry cell
4 When the dry cell is in use, the zinc metal
releases electrons and dissolves to form Zn2+
ions.
Zn + CuSO4 → ZnSO4 + Cu
As a result, the zinc metal will be coated
by a layer of copper metal.
(b) the electric current decreases rapidly.
9 The salt bridge or porous pot prevents the
zinc from reacting directly with the copper(II)
sulphate solution.
10 When the negative terminal (zinc) is connec­
ted to the positive terminal (copper), the
highest voltage produced is 1.10 V if both zinc
sulphate solution and copper(II) sulphate
solution have a concentration of 1.0 mol dm–3.
11 The reactions that take place in a Daniell cell
are as follows:
At the negative terminal:
Zn → Zn2+ + 2e–
At the positive terminal:
Cu2+ + 2e– → Cu
At the negative terminal:
Zn → Zn2+ + 2e–
5 Electrons flow from the zinc metal casing
through the external circuit to the carbon rod,
where NH4+ ions receive electrons to produce
ammonia gas and hydrogen gas.
At the positive terminal:
2NH4+ + 2e– → 2NH3 + H2
6 When the cell produces an electric current,
zinc metal dissolves. When the zinc metal
casing is perforated and the electrolyte starts
to leak out, the dry cell can no longer be used.
7 Usually a dry cell produces quite a stable
voltage of about 1.5 V.
Overall chemical equation of cell:
Zn + Cu2+ → Zn2+ + Cu
12 When the Daniell cell is in use,
(a) the copper metal becomes thicker (mass
increases),
(b) the zinc metal becomes thinner (mass
decreases),
(c) the concentration of copper(II) sulphate
solution decreases, hence the blue colour
of the solution becomes paler,
(d) the concentration of zinc sulphate solution
increases.
Dry cells of different sizes
Dry Cell
Dry cells that are out of electricity (old) need to be
removed from the electrical appliance. This is because
when the container is corroded, the electrolyte will
leak out to damage the electrical appliance.
1 A dry cell consists of a carbon rod (positive
terminal) and a metal casing made of zinc
(negative terminal).
161
Electrochemistry
Lead-acid Accumulator
6 In the recharging process,
(a) reverse reactions occur at both electrodes.
(b) lead(II) sulphate is converted back into
lead(IV) oxide and hence lead(II) sulphate
dissolves.
(c) sulphuric acid is formed.
7 An accumulator normally consists of 6 pairs
of plates and produces a voltage of 12 V.
1 A lead-acid accumulator is made of pieces
of lead plates immersed in moderately
concentrated sulphuric acid as shown in
Figure 6.17.
Other Types of Voltaic Cells
6
Mercury cell
1 A mercury cell consists of zinc (negative
terminal), mercury(II) oxide, HgO (positive
terminal) and a mixture of potassium
hydroxide, KOH and zinc oxide, ZnO as
electrolyte.
Figure 6.17 Lead-acid accumulator is used as car
batteries.
2 When the accumulator is used to produce
current, the following changes occur.
(a) At the negative terminal, a lead atom
donates 2 electrons to form a Pb2+ ion.
Pb → Pb2+ + 2e–
(b) At the positive terminal, lead(IV) oxide
accepts electrons and reacts with H+ ions
in dilute sulphuric acid to form Pb2+ ions.
Mercury cells are small
PbO2 + 4H+ + 2e– → Pb2+ + 2H2O
2 Mercury cells are small and long-lasting,
producing a constant voltage of 1.3 V.
3 Mercury cells are used in hearing aids,
digital watches and heart pacemakers.
(c) Lead(II) ions from both electrodes
combine with SO42– ions in sulphuric acid
to produce lead(II) sulphate, PbSO4.
Pb2+ + SO42– → PbSO4
Alkaline cell
The overall chemical reaction is represented
by the equation below:
Pb + PbO2 + 4H+ + 2SO42– → 2PbSO4 + 2H2O
3 In this reaction, sulphuric acid is used up and
water is produced. Hence, sulphuric acid
becomes more dilute and its density decreases.
4 Lead(II) sulphate is insoluble and exists as a
white precipitate. When the precipitate covers
the surface of both electrodes, further reaction
is prevented and no electric current will be
produced.
5 The accumulator can be recharged by passing
an electric current in the opposite direction
to renew the cell.
Electrochemistry
1 Alkaline cells are non-rechargeable cells.
2 An alkaline cell consists of zinc (negative
terminal), carbon rod (positive terminal)
surrounded by manganese(IV) oxide, MnO2
and alkali (potassium hydroxide and sodium
hydroxide) as the electrolyte.
162
Nickel-cadmium cell
Nickel-cadmium cells are
rechargeable cells
A nickel-cadmium cell
consists of cadmium
(negative terminal),
nickel(IV) oxide, NiO2
(positive terminal)
and alkali, potassium
hydroxide, KOH as the
electrolyte.
Other new types of cells include
lithium ion, nickel hydride and
polymeric cells. These cells are
rechargeable cells. Unlike the
lithium ion and nickel hydride cells
which require battery casings, the
polymeric cell is flexible and can
be specifically shaped to fit the
device it will power.
6
Advantages and Disadvantages of Various Types of Voltaic Cells
Table 6.3 Advantages and disadvantages of various types of voltaic cells
Type of cell
Advantages
Disadvantages
1 Daniell cell
• Can be prepared easily in the
laboratory
• A type of wet cell, the electrolyte
spills easily
• Voltage is not constant
2 Dry cell
• Cheap
• No spillage as it is a dry cell
• Produces a moderately constant
current and voltage
• Portable, can be carried around easily
• Available in different sizes
• Does not last long
• Cannot be recharged
• Zinc metal casing dissolves and the
electrolyte that leaks out may corrode
electrical instruments
• Current and voltage produced is low
3 Alkaline cell
• Lasts longer than a dry cell
• Produces a higher and more stable
voltage
• Portable
• Cannot be recharged
• Cost more than a dry cell
• If leakage occurs, electrolyte is
corrosive
4 Mercury cell
• Can be made into very small sizes
• Produce a constant voltage for a long
period
• Can last for a long period of time
• Expensive
• Cannot be recharged
• Mercury which is produced is toxic
5 Lead-acid accumulator
• Can be recharged repeatedly
• Produces a high current (175 A),
suitable for heavy work such as
starting a car engine
• Produce a high voltage (12 V) for a
long period
• Acid may spill
• Heavy and is difficult to be carried
around
• Loss of charge occurs if not used for a
long time
• Lead plates are easily corroded after a
long period of usage
6 Nickel-cadmium cell
• Can be charged repeatedly
• No spillage occurs because it is a dry
cell
• The size is smaller that an accumulator
• Expensive
• Requires a transformer for the
recharging process
163
Electrochemistry
Comparison of Voltaic Cells and Electrolytic Cells
SPM
’10/P2
1 Table 6.4 below shows several similarities and differences between an electrolytic cell and a voltaic cell.
6
Table 6.4
Electrolytic cell
Voltaic cell
Figure 6.18 Electrolytic cell
Figure 6.19 Voltaic cell
Similarities
• Contains an electrolyte
• Consists of an anode and a cathode
• Electrons move from the anode to the cathode in
the external circuit (connecting wires)
Electrolytic cell
• Positive ions and negative ions move in the
electrolyte
• Chemical reactions involve the donation (at the
anode) or acceptance (at the cathode) of electrons
Differences
• A battery is required to supply
electrical energy
• Graphite (carbon) is usually
used as electrodes
• A battery is not required to
supply electrical energy
Basic structure
• Electrodes are not made up of
different metals
• Electrical energy is converted
into chemical energy
• Anode (positive electrode):
Anions (negative ions) lose
electrons at the anode
Energy conversion
Transfer of electrons at
the positive electrode
Electrochemistry
• Chemical energy is converted
into electrical energy
• Cathode (positive electrode):
Oxidising agent accepts
electrons from the cathode
Cu+(aq) + 2e– → Cu(s)
… reduction
Transfer of electrons
at the negative
electrode
Y 2+ + 2e– → Y ... reduction
• Electrons flow from the anode
(positive electrode) to the
cathode (negative electrode)
• Graphite (carbon) is not used
as electrodes
• Electrodes are made up of two
different metals
2X – → X2 + 2e– ... oxidation
• Cathode (negative
electrode): Cations (positive
ions) accept electrons from the
cathode
Voltaic cell
Transfer of electrons
in the external circuit
164
• Anode (negative electrode):
Reducing agent releases
electrons
Zn(s) → Zn2+(aq) + 2e–
… oxidation
• Electrons flow from the anode
(negative electrode) to the
cathode (positive electrode)
The table shows the differences between the terminals in voltaic and electrolytic cells as a result of the transfer of electrons.
Transfer of electrons
Type of cells
Electrons are donated
Electrons are accepted
Voltaic cells
At the negative terminal (anode) At the positive terminal (cathode)
Electrolytic cells
At the positive terminal (anode) At the negative terminal (cathode)
(d) Predict the observations obtained after the
voltaic cell is used for some time.
1 (a) Draw the circuit diagram for a simple voltaic
cell consisting of iron metal, copper metal and
copper(II) sulphate solution. Show the direction
of the flow of electrons in the circuit diagram.
(b) Which metal serves as the negative terminal?
(c) Write the half-equations for the reactions that
occur at both electrodes.
6.6
2 Compare the advantages and disadvantages of dry
cells and alkaline cells.
3 Give an example of a voltaic cell that can be recharged.
Explain how the reactions occur at the positive terminal
and the negative terminal to produce an electric current.
4 The electrochemical series can be constructed
by two methods.
(a) The potential difference (voltage difference)
between pairs of metals
(b) The ability of a metal to displace another
metal from its salt solution.
The Electrochemical
Series
1 The electrochemical series is an arrangement
of elements according to their tendencies to
form ions.
2 In the electrochemical series, a metal that has
a higher tendency to ionise and form positive
ions (by releasing electrons) is placed at a higher
position in the series. Hence, metal ions at
the upper positions of the electrochemical
series are less likely to receive electrons to
form metal atoms.
3 Part of the electrochemical series (for metal
elements) is shown below.
(A) To Construct the Electrochemical
Series Based on the Potential SPM
’08/P1
Difference (Voltage Difference) ’09/P2
1 Metals are arranged in the electrochemical
series according to their tendencies to donate
electrons to form cations.
2 The electrochemical series can be constructed
based on the measurement of the potential
diffe­rence between two metals in voltaic cells.
3 When two different metals (immersed in their
respective salt solutions) are connected in the
external circuit through a voltmeter and a salt
bridge:
(a) The metal that serves as the negative terminal
of the voltaic cell has a higher tendency to
release electrons. Hence, that metal is placed
at a higher position in the electrochemical
series. Conversely, the metal that serves as
the positive terminal is placed at a lower
position in the electrochemical series.
(b) The further apart the positions of two
metals in the electrochemical series, the
greater the potential difference (voltage).
Metals
Positive ions (cations)
K ⎯⎯⎯→ K+ + e–
Na ⎯⎯⎯→ Na+ + e–
Ca ⎯⎯⎯→ Ca2+ + 2e– Tendency
Tendency
Mg ⎯⎯⎯→ Mg2+ + 2e– of cations
of metal
Al ⎯⎯⎯→ Al3+ + 3e–
to accept
atoms to
Zn ⎯⎯⎯→ Zn2+ + 2e– electrons
donate
Fe ⎯⎯⎯→ Fe2+ + 2e–
to form
electrons
Sn ⎯⎯⎯→ Sn2+ + 2e– metals
to form
Pb ⎯⎯⎯→ Pb2+ + 2e– increases
ions
increases H ⎯⎯⎯→ H+ + e–
Cu ⎯⎯⎯→ Cu2+ + 2e–
Ag ⎯⎯⎯→ Ag+ + e–
165
Electrochemistry
6
6.5
6.7
To construct the electrochemical series through the potential difference (voltage)
of pairs of metals
Procedure
Problem statement
How to construct the electrochemical series based
on the measurement of the potential differences
between pairs of metals in simple voltaic cells?
6
SPM
’06/07
P3
Hypothesis
Two principles are used in the construction of the
electrochemical series:
(a) A metal that serves as the negative terminal
of a cell is placed at a higher position in the
electrochemical series.
(b) The bigger the voltage differences of the voltaic
cells, the further apart the positions of the two
metals in the electrochemical series.
Figure 6.20
1 Pieces of zinc, magnesium, iron, aluminium and
silver metals are polished with sandpaper.
2 A piece of zinc metal and a piece of copper metal
are connected to a voltmeter by the connecting
wires with crocodile clips.
3 The two metals are then dipped in the sodium
chloride solution in a beaker as shown in
Figure 6.20.
4 The highest cell voltage obtained is recorded.
5 The direction of the flow of electrons is also noted
to determine the terminals of the voltaic cell.
Electrons flow from the negative terminal to the
positive terminal. If the voltmeter reading shows
a negative value, the metal pairs connected to the
terminals of the voltmeter should be reversed.
6 Zinc metal is then replaced by other metals in
turn: magnesium, iron, aluminium and silver.
The highest cell voltage of every pair of metals
is recorded.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Pairs of metals as electrodes
(b) Responding variable : Voltage values of voltaic
cells
(c) Constant variables : Type and concentra­
tion
of electrolytes
Apparatus
Voltmeter, beaker, connecting wires with crocodile
clips and sandpaper.
Materials
Sodium chloride solution of 1.0 mol dm–3, pieces of
copper, zinc, magnesium, iron, aluminium and silver
metals.
Experiment 6.7
Results
Pairs of metals
Positive terminal
Negative terminal
Potential difference (V)
Zn/Cu
Copper
Zinc
1.1
Mg/Cu
Copper
Magnesium
2.7
Fe/Cu
Copper
Iron
0.8
Al/Cu
Copper
Aluminium
2.0
Ag/Cu
Silver
Copper
1.1
2 Silver serves as the positive terminal when it is
connected to copper. Hence, silver is placed at a
lower position than copper in the electrochemical
series.
3 The further apart the distance between the metals
in the electrochemical series, the greater the
potential difference (voltage).
Conclusion
1 Copper metal serves as the positive terminal of
the voltaic cells when paired with zinc, magne­
sium, iron and aluminium metal. Hence, copper
is at a lower position than zinc, magnesium, iron
and aluminium in the electrochemical series.
Electrochemistry
166
4 The arrangement of the metals in the electrochemical series based on the voltage (potential difference)
of the cell is as follows:
Magnesium
Aluminium
Higher tendency
to release
electrons
2.0 V
Zinc
1.1 V
Iron
0.8 V
Copper
2.7 V
The bigger the voltage
reading, the further the
distance between the
metals
1.1 V
6
Silver
4
SPM
’10/P1
The table shows information about three simple cells.
Metal pairs
Potential
difference (V)
Positive
terminal
P and Q
1.7
P
Q and S
2.1
S
R and S
0.6
R
What is the potential difference of the metal pair P
and R?
Q
Higher tendency to release
electrons
Comments
• In the metal pair of P and Q, P is the positive
terminal. Hence P is placed below Q in the
electrochemi­cal series. Similarly, S is placed below
Q in the electrochemical series.
• The potential difference between Q and S is bigger
than that between Q and P. Thus S is placed below P.
• In the metal pair R and S, R is the positive terminal.
Hence R is placed below S.
•The arrangement of the metals according to their
increasing tendencies to form metal ions is as
follows:
1.7 V
2.1 V
P
S
0.6 V
The bigger the voltage reading, the
further the distance between the
metals.
R
Answer The potential difference between P and R = (2.1 – 1.7) + 0.6 = 1.0 V
(a) metal M is more likely to release electrons
than metal N.
(b) metal M is more electropositive than
metal N.
(c) metal M is placed at a higher position than
metal N in the electrochemical series.
3 Alternatively, if metal P is immersed in an
aqueous Q2+ ion solution and no reaction
takes place, then metal P is at a lower position
than metal Q in the electroche­mical series.
(B) To Construct the Electrochemical
Series from the Displacement
Reactions of Metals
1 The electrochemical series can also be
constructed based on the ability of a metal
to displace another metal from its salt
solution.
2 If metal M can displace metal N from an
aqueous N salt solution, then
167
Electrochemistry
6.8
SPM
To construct the electrochemical series from displacement reactions
6
Problem statement
How to construct the electrochemical series based on
the ability of a metal to displace another metal from
its salt solution?
’08/P2,
’07/P1,
’04/P2
3 A piece of magnesium metal is placed in the
solution of every test tube except that of its salt
solution (Figure 6.21).
Hypothesis
A metal that can displace another metal from its
salt solution is placed at a higher position in the
electrochemical series. The greater the number of metals
that can be displaced by a metal from their solutions, the
higher its position in the electrochemical series.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Different types of metal
and their salt solutions
(b) Responding variable : Deposition of metals or
colour change in the salt
solutions
(c) Constant variable
: Concentration of nitrate
salt solutions
Figure 6.21
Apparatus
Test tubes, test-tube rack and sandpaper.
4 Observations are made after awhile to check if
(a) there is any colour change in the solution,
(b) there are any solid deposits on the
magnesium metal,
(c) magnesium metal dissolves.
5 If any of the above occurrences (a), (b) or (c)
is observed, displacement reaction has taken
place: a tick symbol, (✓) is marked in the table
of results.
6 If there is no noticeable observation, a cross
symbol, (✗) is marked at the table to indicate that
displacement reaction did not take place.
7 The experiment is repeated using different
metals and fresh solutions of ions. The results of
the experiment are shown in the table below.
Materials
Pieces of magnesium, zinc, iron, tin, lead and copper
metals, solutions of copper(II) nitrate, lead(II)
nitrate, tin(II) nitrate, iron(II) nitrate, zinc nitrate and
magnesium nitrate (concentration and volume of all salt
solutions are 0.5 mol dm–3 and 10 cm3 respectively).
Procedure
1 Pieces of magnesium, zinc, copper, tin, lead and
iron metals are polished with sandpaper.
2 10 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 solutions of copper(II)
nitrate, lead(II) nitrate, tin(II) nitrate, iron(II)
nitrate, zinc nitrate and magnesium nitrate are
placed into separate test tubes.
Results
Solution
Cu(NO3)2
Pb(NO3)2
Sn(NO3)2
Fe(NO3)2
Zn(NO3)2
Mg(NO3)2
Magnesium, Mg
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
–
Zinc, Zn
✓
✓
✓
✓
–
✗
Iron, Fe
✓
✓
✓
–
✗
✗
Tin, Sn
✓
✓
–
✗
✗
✗
Lead, Pb
✓
–
✗
✗
✗
✗
Copper, Cu
–
✗
✗
✗
✗
✗
Experiment 6.8
Metal
Electrochemistry
168
4 The result of the experiment shows that the
order of the positions of the metals in the
electrochemical series is:
Conclusion
1 Metals can be arranged according to the number
of tick symbols (3) recorded (or the number of
metals displaced in reactions). The more (3)
symbols, the more reactive the metal is and
the position of the metal is placed higher in the
electrochemical series.
2 Magnesium is placed at the highest position in
the electrochemical series because it can displace
all the other metals from their solutions.
3 Copper is placed at the lowest position in the
electrochemical series because copper cannot
displace any other metals in this experiment.
Mg
Zn
Fe
Sn
Pb
Cu
Electropositivity of metal decreases
6
5 The electrochemical series can be constructed
from displacement reactions.
The hypothesis is accepted.
The Uses of the Electrochemical Series
To determine the terminals of voltaic cells
To predict the ability of a metal to displace
another metal from its salt solution
1 When two different metals are connected by
wires and then immersed in an electrolyte,
a simple voltaic cell is formed. The metal
that is placed at a higher position in the
electrochemical series will become the
negative terminal of the cell. The metal that
is placed lower in the electrochemical series
will become the positive terminal of the cell.
2 The metal that is placed higher in the
electrochemical series is more electropositive
and has a higher tendency to release electrons.
Electrons will flow from the negative terminal
to the positive terminal.
3 For example, in the zinc/copper simple
voltaic cell, zinc metal will become the
negative terminal of the cell because zinc is
above copper in the electrochemical series.
Copper metal will become the positive
terminal of the cell.
To compare the standard voltage of
the voltaic cell
1 A metal that is at a higher position in the
electrochemical series can displace another
metal that is lower than itself in the electro­
chemical series from its salt solution.
2 For example, aluminium is above iron in the
electrochemical series, hence aluminium can
displace iron from an iron(II) salt solution
(such as iron(II) sulphate solution).
To predict whether a metal can displace
hydrogen from an acid
1 Hydrogen ion is placed between lead(II) ion
and copper(II) ion in the electrochemical
series.
2 All other metals that are placed at higher
positions than hydrogen ion in the
electrochemical series can displace hydrogen
from acids.
For example, zinc is above hydrogen in
the electrochemical series; hence zinc can
displace hydrogen from hydrochloric acid.
SPM
’09/P1
1 The further the distance between two
metals in the electrochemical series, the
greater the cell voltage will be.
2 For example, the distance between magnesium
and copper is further than that between
zinc and copper in the electrochemical
series. Hence the cell voltage produced by
a magnesium/copper voltaic cell is greater
than that from a zinc/copper voltaic cell.
Zn + 2HCl → ZnCl2 + H2
3 Metals below hydrogen ion in the electro­
chemical series cannot displace hydrogen
from acids. Examples are copper, mercury
and silver.
169
Electrochemistry
6.9
To confirm the predictions of displacement reactions
6
Problem statement
How can the prediction of the displacement reaction
of a metal from its salt solution by another metal be
confirmed?
Materials
Pieces of magnesium, iron and copper, solutions of
copper(II) sulphate, iron(II) sulphate and magnesium
sulphate (concentration and volume of all salt
solutions are 0.5 mol dm–3 and 10 cm3 respectively).
Hypothesis
If metal X is at a higher position than metal Y in
the electrochemical series, then metal X can displace
metal Y from a salt solution of metal Y.
Procedure
1 Pieces of magnesium, copper and iron metals are
polished with sandpaper.
2 10 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 solutions of copper(II)
sulphate, iron(II) sulphate and magnesium
sulphate are put into different test tubes.
3 Magnesium, copper and iron metals are placed in
different salt solutions in the test tubes.
4 Observations are made after 20 minutes to check
if there is
(a) any change in colour of the solution,
(b) any deposits of metal,
(c) any corrosion of metal.
5 The result of the experiment is tabulated in the
table below.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Different types of metals
and salt solutions
(b) Responding variable : Deposits of metal or
colour change in the salt
solution
(c) Constant variable
: Concentration of salt
solu­tions
Apparatus
Test tubes, test-tube rack and sandpaper.
Experiment 6.9
Results
Metal + salt solution
Prediction
Observation
Magnesium + iron(II) sulphate solution
Displacement occurs because
magnesium is more
electropositive than iron
• Grey deposit is formed
• The colour of the green solution
becomes paler
• Magnesium dissolves
Magnesium + copper(II) sulphate
solution
Displacement occurs because
magnesium is more
electropositive than copper
• Brown deposit is formed
• The colour of the blue solution
becomes paler
• Magnesium dissolves
Iron + magnesium sulphate solution
Displacement does not occur
because iron is less
electropositive than magnesium
No noticeable change
Iron + copper(II) sulphate solution
Displacement occurs because
iron is more electropositive
than copper
• Brown deposit is formed
• The blue coloured solution
changes to green
• Iron dissolves
Copper + magnesium sulphate solution
Displacement does not
occur because copper is less
electropositive than magnesium
No noticeable change
Copper + iron(II) sulphate solution
Displacement does not
occur because copper is less
electropositive than iron
No noticeable change
Electrochemistry
170
Discussion
1 A more electropositive metal can displace a less
electropositive metal from its salt solution.
2 Magnesium is at a higher position than iron
and copper in the electrochemical series. Hence
magnesium can displace iron from iron(II)
sulphate solution and copper from copper(II)
sulphate solution.
Fe + Cu2+ → Cu + Fe2+
Conclusion
The prediction that a metal at a higher position in
the electrochemical series can displace a metal
which is at a lower position from its salt solution
is confirmed.
The hypothesis is accepted.
Mg + Fe2+ → Mg2+ + Fe
Mg + Cu2+ → Mg2+ + Cu
3 Iron is at a higher position than copper in the
electrochemical series. Hence iron can displace
copper from copper(II) sulphate solution.
Electrochemical series:
A series of metals based on their
tendencies to form metal ions
Potassium, K
Sodium,
Na
Calcium,
Ca
Magnesium, Mg
Aluminium, Al
Zinc,
Zn
Iron,
Fe
Tin,
Sn
Lead,
Pb
Hydrogen, H
Copper,
Cu
Silver,
Ag
Gold,
Au
A metal placed higher in the
series has a higher tendency to
form positive ions (it is more
electropositive). For example:
Zn is more electropositive than Fe.
A metal placed at a lower position
in the series can be displaced by a
metal above it.
This series is used to:
(a) predict the tendency of a metal to
form ions.
(b) predict the ability of a metal to
displace another metal from its ionic
solution.
(c) determine the terminals and voltage
of a voltaic cell.
In a voltaic cell, the metal that becomes
the negative terminal is the metal that is
higher in position in the electrochemical
series as it has a higher tendency to form
ions.
The further the distance between the
metal pairs in a voltaic cell, the greater the
cell voltage will be.
6.6
(i) Which metal will become the
terminal of the cell?
(ii) Predict the voltage of the cell.
(c) Predict what will happen if
(i) metal Y is immersed in a solution
(ii) metal X is immersed in a solution
(iii) metal W is immersed in a solution
1 The table below shows the voltages obtained from
three voltaic cells using different pairs of metals.
Voltaic cell Metal pairs Voltage (V)
Positive
electrode
1
X and Y
1.2
X
2
X and Z
0.9
X
3
Y and W
0.4
Y
negative
of Z salt.
of Y salt.
of X salt.
2 Silver is placed at a position lower than copper and
magnesium in the electrochemical series. Predict
the observation and reaction that will occur in the
following experiment:
(a) Silver in copper(II) sulphate solution,
(b) Copper in silver nitrate solution,
(c) Magnesium in silver nitrate solution.
(a) Based on the observation above, arrange the
metals W, X, Y and Z in an ascending order
according to their electropositivity.
(b) A voltaic cell is made from metal Z and metal W.
171
Electrochemistry
6
4 Copper cannot displace either magnesium or iron
from their salt solutions because copper is below
mag­
ne­
sium and iron in the electrochemical
series.
6
6.7
2 However, a safe and systematic method of
disposal of used batteries and industrial
by-products in electrochemical industries is
important to prevent environmental pollution.
(a) Used batteries should be separated from
other household disposal. They are
required to be disposed off separately
to prevent the chemicals of the batteries
from leaking and polluting water sources.
Parts of batteries that are useful should be
recycled.
(b) Chemical
wastes
from
electrolytic
industries should be treated to remove
poisonous chemicals before being disposed
as industrial waste. For example,
(i) acids that are used to clean metals
before electroplating should be
diluted and neutralised before
draining off as waste water.
(ii) metal ions that are toxic and hazardous
to human health such as cadmium
ion, chromium ion and nickel ion
need to be treated and removed from
industrial effluent.
Developing Awareness
and Responsible
Practices when Handling
Chemicals used in the
Electrochemical Industries
1 Electrochemical industries play an important
role in our daily life by improving our quality
of life.
(a) For example, useful metals such as
aluminium, sodium and magnesium are
extracted from their minerals or compounds
using electrolysis.
(b) Useful chemical substances such as chlorine
and sodium hydroxide are manufactured
on a large scale using electrolysis.
(c) Electroplating of iron with chromium
protects the iron components of machinery
from corrosion. Silver-plating is commonly
used in the making of fine cutleries.
(d) Various voltaic cells are used in different
devices such as radio, torchlight, quartz
watch, handphone and others.
1 An electrolyte is a chemical compound which conducts
electricity in the molten state or in an aqueous
solution and undergoes chemical changes.
2 A non-electrolyte is a chemical compound which
does not conduct electricity in any state.
3 Electrolysis is the decomposition of an electrolyte
(molten or in aqueous solution) by the passage of
an electric current.
4 Graphite or platinum is usually used as electrodes
because they are inert.
5 The anode is the electrode connected to the
positive terminal of the batteries.
6 The cathode is the electrode connected to the
negative terminal of the batteries.
7 Two steps occur during electrolysis.
(a) Movement of ions to the electrodes:
Cations (positive ions) move towards the
cathode (negative electrode) whereas anions
(negative ions) move towards the anode
(positive electrode).
(b) Discharge of ions at the electrodes:
Cations discharge by receiving electrons.
Generally: An+ + ne– → A
Anions discharge by releasing electrons.
Generally: Bn– → B + ne–
Electrochemistry
8 The factors that determine the types of ions to be
discharged at the electrodes are
(a) positions of ions in the electrochemical
series: The lower positioned ion will be
discharged
(b) concentration of ions in the solution: The
more concentrated ion will be discharged
(c) types of electrodes used
9 Uses of electrolysis in industries
(a) Extraction of reactive metals. For example:
Extraction of aluminium from molten bauxite
(Al2O3) using carbon electrodes.
(b) Refining of metals. For example: Purification of
copper.
(c) Electroplating of metals. For example: Copper
plating or silver plating.
10 There are two types of voltaic cells:
(a) Primary cells: Non-rechargeable cells (cells
that cannot be charged again).
(b) Secondary cells: Rechargeable cells (cells that
can be charged again).
11 The electrochemical series is an arrangement of
elements based on their tendencies to form ions.
172
6
6.1
Electrolytes and Nonelectrolytes
1 Which of the following can
conduct electricity?
A Ethanol
B Solid lead(II) nitrate
C Magnesium chloride solution
D Liquid tetrachloromethane
2 Calcium carbonate powder does
not conduct electricity because
A it does not contain ions.
B it contains covalent
molecules.
C it contains calcium ions and
carbonate ions that are not
free to move.
D all the atoms in calcium
carbonate are bonded by
strong covalent bonds.
3 The diagram shows the set-up of
apparatus to test the conductivity
’06 of the chemical in the beaker.
It was found that there is no
deflection on the ammeter
needle.
4 Which of the following
statements are true about an
’06 electrolyte?
I It has ions that conduct
electricity in the solid state.
II It can conduct electricity
in the molten state or in
aqueous solution.
III It is a compound with ionic
bonds only.
IV It can be decomposed by
electric current.
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C II and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
5 Which of the following statements
are true about electrolysis?
I The cathode is the positive
electrode.
II Molten covalent compounds
can be used as electrolytes.
III Platinum can be used as
inert electrodes.
IV A compound is decomposed
by electric current.
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C II, III and IV only
D I, III and IV only
6.2
Electrolysis of Molten
Compounds
6
A
Which of the following action
will cause a deflection of the
ammeter’s needle?
A Add more dry cells in the
circuit
B Add water to glacial ethanoic
acid
C Add ethanol to glacial
ethanoic acid
D Substitute the platinum
electrodes with carbon
electrodes
?
@
heating
Which of the following occurs
when molten zinc chloride is
6/9
electrolysed in the
apparatus as
shown in the diagram?
173
A Zinc metal is formed at
electrode X.
B Chlorine gas is formed at
electrode Y.
C Zinc ions are attracted to the
anode.
D Chloride ions are discharged
at the positive electrode.
7 When molten lead(II) iodide
solution is electrolysed using
carbon electrodes, which of
the following represents the
half-equation that occurs at the
cathode?
A Pb2+ + 2e– → Pb
B Pb → Pb2+ + 2e–
C I2 → 2l– + 2e–
D 2I– + 2e– → I2
8 Which of the following
substances will produce
aluminium metal when
electrolysis is carried out using
carbon electrodes?
A Aqueous aluminium sulphate
solution
B Aqueous aluminium chloride
solution
C Solid aluminium oxide
D Molten aluminium oxide
6.3
Electrolysis of Aqueous
Solutions
9 Which of the following compounds
produces oxygen gas and
hydrogen gas during electrolysis?
A Aqueous potassium
hydroxide solution
B Saturated sodium chloride
solution
C Aqueous copper(II) nitrate
solution
D Concentrated hydrochloric acid
10 The diagram below shows
the apparatus set-up for the
’09 electrolysis of potassium nitrate
solution, KNO3.
Electrochemistry
6
Multiple-choice Questions
carbon
electrode Y
potassium
nitrate
solution
carbon
electrode X
What are the products formed at
electrodes
X and Y ?
TC 54
6
X
Nitrogen
gas
Hydrogen
gas
B
Nitrogen
dioxide gas
Potassium
C
Oxygen gas
Hydrogen
gas
D
Hydrogen
gas
Oxygen gas
11 The products formed at the
electrodes during the electrolysis of
aqueous sodium sulphate solution
using carbon electrodes are
Anode
A
Sodium
B
Hydrogen
Sulphur dioxide
C
Hydrogen
Oxygen
D
Sodium
Oxygen
Sulphur
12 Electrolysis of dilute sodium
chloride solution using carbon
electrodes produces oxygen
and hydrogen at the anode
and cathode respectively.
The products formed at the
electrodes will change if
A platinum is used as the
cathode.
B a bigger current flows
through the circuit.
C a concentrated sodium
chloride solution is used.
D the distance between the
electrodes is reduced.
13 Which of the following is true
about the electrolysis of aqueous
copper(II) chloride solution using
copper electrodes?
A The mass of cathode
decreases.
Electrochemistry
14 The diagram shows the set-up
of apparatus for the electrolysis
’03 of iron(II) nitrate solution.
Y
A
Cathode
B Chlorine gas is evolved at the
cathode.
C Copper metal deposits at the
anode.
D The intensity of the blue
colour of the solution remains
constant.
What is formed at electrode X ?
A Iron
B Oxygen
C Hydrogen gas
D Nitrogen dioxide gas
15 When aqueous magnesium
sulphate solution is electrolysed
using graphite electrodes,
A the mass of cathode
increases.
B the mass of anode
decreases.
C magnesium metal deposits at
the cathode.
D the concentration of
magnesium sulphate solution
increases.
16 Electrolysis of aqueous sodium
iodide solution is carried out
’09 using carbon electrodes. Which
half-equation shows the reaction
at the cathode?
A 2I– → I2 + 2e–
B 4OH– → 2H2O + O2 + 4e–
C Na+ + e– → Na
D 2H+ + 2e– → H2
17 In an experiment, dilute
aqueous potassium iodide
solution is electrolysed using
carbon electrodes. Which of the
following statements are true
about this experiment?
I A gas that produces a small
‘pop’ sound when tested with
a lighted wooden splint is
produced at the cathode.
II A gas that rekindles a glowing
wooden splint is produced at
the anode.
III The solution around the
anode changes to brown
colour.
IV The concentration of
potassium iodide solution
increases.
A I and II only
B II and IV only
C I and III only
D I, II and IV only
18 Metal Y is placed at a high
position in the electrochemical
series. When a dilute Y chloride
solution is electrolysed using
carbon electrodes, the product
formed at the cathode is
A hydrogen
B oxygen
C chlorine
D metal Y
6.4
Electrolysis in Industries
19 Electrolysis is used to extract
aluminium metal from molten
aluminium oxide. Which
chemical is used to lower the
melting point of aluminium
oxide to 900°C?
A Cryolite
B Bauxite
C Silicon dioxide
D Calcium carbonate
20 What are the suitable chemicals and apparatus used to electroplate a
spoon with silver metal by electrolysis?
Anode
Cathode
Electrolyte
A
Silver
Spoon
Silver chloride solution
B
Spoon
Silver
Silver nitrate solution
C
Carbon
Spoon
Silver nitrate solution
D
Silver
Spoon
Silver nitrate solution
174
22 The diagram shows the
arrangement of apparatus to
’06 electroplate a metal key with
chromium. It is found that
electroplating does not occur.
How would you change the
arrangement of the apparatus
in order to plate a layer of
chromium on the surface of the
key?
A Replace chromium nitrate
solution with chromium
chloride solution
B Change the supply of direct
current to alternating current
C Reverse the terminals of the
batteries
D Replace the chromium
electrode with carbon
6.5
Voltaic Cells
24 The diagram below shows
a simple chemical cell. Two
’11 different metals are used as
electrodes.
0
1
2
3
4
5
26 Voltaic cells that are used in
watches and calculators are
A dry cells
B alkaline cells
C mercury cells
D nickel-cadmium cells
27 The diagram shows the set-up
of apparatus of a chemical cell.
’05
zinc
plate
copper
plate
sodium
chloride
solution
6
21 The presence of foreign metals
in copper metal can reduce
the conductivity of copper
wire. Which of the following
is suitable to be used as the
cathode in the purification of
copper by electrolysis?
A Pure copper
B Impure copper
C Carbon
D Platinum
Which of the following metals
can be used to replace the zinc
plate to obtain the brightest light
in the light bulb and the highest
voltage reading?
A Magnesium
B Iron
C Aluminum
D Lead
25 When magnesium metal and
copper metal are connected
by wire and then immersed in
copper(II) sulphate solution,
which of the following does not
happen?
A Electron flows from copper
metal to magnesium metal.
B Mass of copper increases.
C Mass of magnesium
decreases.
D The colour intensity of blue
copper(II) sulphate solution
decreases.
Which of the following occurs in
the chemical cell?
A The magnesium rod becomes
thicker.
B The iron rod becomes thinner.
C Electrons flow from iron to
magnesium.
D The green colour of iron(II)
sulphate becomes paler.
28 The diagram shows the set-up of
apparatus for an electrochemical
cell.
23 The diagram shows the set-up of the apparatus used for the purification of a
metal through electrolysis.
Which of the following combinations is suitably used for the purification of
copper metal?
Electrode X
Electrode Y
Electrode Z
A
Pure copper
Impure copper
Copper(II) sulphate
B
Impure copper
Pure copper
Copper(II) nitrate
C
Pure copper
Impure copper
Sulphuric acid
D
Impure copper
Pure copper
Copper(II) carbonate
175
Which of the following
observations are true for this
experiment?
I Zinc electrode becomes
thinner.
II Brown colour is formed
around electrode X.
III Gray deposit is formed at
electrode Y.
IV Intensity of blue colour in
beaker M becomes paler.
A I and III only
B II and III only
C II and IV only
D I, II and IV only
Electrochemistry
29 The diagram shows the set-up
of apparatus for a simple cell.
Which of the following pairs
of metals gives the highest
voltmeter reading?
6
Metal X
Metal Y
A
Magnesium
Iron
B
Zinc
Copper
C
Aluminium
Silver
D
Silver
Copper
30 A voltaic cell is made using
metal X and Y as the electrodes.
If electrons flow from metal X
to metal Y, metal X and metal Y
may be
Metal X
Metal Y
A
Iron
Silver
B
Silver
Copper
C
Iron
Magnesium
D
Copper
Zinc
31 Which of the following
statements is not true about
lead-acid accumulator?
A The electrolyte used is
sulphuric acid.
B Lead plate is the negative
terminal.
C Carbon is the positive
terminal.
D Lead(II) sulphate is formed
when the cell is being
used.
6.6
The Electrochemical
Series
32 An experiment is carried out
to measure the potential
’06 differences produced in voltaic
cells made from metal electrode
pairs Q-P, R-P, S-T or S-P metals.
The results of the experiment is
recorded in the table below.
Electrochemistry
Metal
electrode
pairs
Negative
terminal
Potential
difference
(V)
Q-P
Q
2.7
R-P
R
1.1
S-T
S
1.3
S-P
S
2.1
What is the potential difference
of a voltaic cell made of metal
electrode pair Q-T ?
A 0.8 V
B 1.4 V
C 1.9 V
D 3.5 V
33 If a piece of metal X is
immersed in copper(II) sulphate
solution, a brown deposit is
formed. Metal X may be
A copper
B platinum
C aluminium
D silver
34 Two voltaic cells are constructed
as shown in the diagram. The
voltmeter reading of cell I is 1.1
V while that of cell II is 2.5 V.
Which of the following is true of
a voltaic cell constructed using
metal Q and metal R?
A Metal Q will be the negative
terminal.
B Electrons will flow from metal
R to metal Q.
C The cell will produce a
reading of 3.6 V.
D R ions and Q ions are
formed.
35 A piece of zinc metal is
immersed in a beaker containing
a mixture of copper(II) sulphate
and magnesium nitrate solution.
Which of the following does not
happen?
A Zinc metal dissolves.
176
B Concentration of magnesium
ion in the solution decreases.
C A brown deposit is formed.
D Zinc ions are formed.
36 The table below shows
information about three voltaic
’10 cells. Metals P, Q, R and S are
used as electrodes in the cells.
Voltaic Negative Positive Voltage
cell terminal terminal
(V)
I
P
Q
0.9
II
R
Q
1.3
III
R
S
2.1
What is the order of the metals
from the most electropositive to
the least electropositive?
A P, Q, R, S
B P, R, Q, S
C R, P, Q, S
D S, Q, P, R
37 Which of the following pairs can
undergo a displacement reaction?
A Magnesium and potassium
chloride solution.
B Calcium and zinc sulphate
solution.
C Iron and calcium nitrate
solution.
D Copper and magnesium
nitrate solution.
38 When an iron nail is immersed
in X solution, Fe2+ ions are
produced. Solution X may be
A magnesium sulphate
B zinc nitrate
C copper(II) nitrate
D sodium chloride
39 Excess metal X powder is added
to copper(II) sulphate solution
and is stirred. After half an hour,
the solution becomes colourless
and brown deposit is formed.
Metal X may be
I calcium
II aluminium
III magnesium
IV silver
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C I, II and III only
D II, III and IV only
40 The diagram shows four simple chemical cells. In each cell, copper is one
of the electrodes.
6
’05
In which cell does copper act as
the negative terminal?
A Cell I
B Cell II
C Cell III
D Cell IV
Structured Questions
1 In an experiment, different chemical substances are
tested using the set-up of apparatus as shown in
Diagram 1.
2 In an experiment, electrolysis of 0.001 mol dm–3
hydrochloric acid is carried out using a electrolytic cell
as shown in Diagram 2. Gases are collected at both
the electrodes.
Diagram 1
Diagram 2
(a) When naphthalene is used as the chemical in
the experiment, the light bulb does not light up.
Explain this observation.
[1 mark]
(a) Write the formulae of all the ions present in
hydrochloric acid.
[1 mark]
(b) When lead(II) bromide solid is used as the
chemical in the experiment, the light bulb does
not light up but lights up when lead(II) bromide
is heated to the molten form. Explain this
observation.
[2 marks]
(b) Name a suitable material that can be used as the
electrodes in this experiment.
[1 mark]
(c) (i) Name gas X and gas Y.
[2 marks]
(ii) Write the half-equation for the reaction that
occurs at the anode.
[1 mark]
(c) Predict the observation that will take place
at the anode and the cathode when molten
lead(II) bromide is used as the chemical in this
experiment.
[2 marks]
(d) After the electrolysis is carried out for 50 minutes,
the concentration of hydrochloric acid increases
and a different gas is collected at the anode.
(i) Explain why the concentration of
hydrochloric acid increases.
[2 marks]
(ii) Name the new gas collected at the anode
and explain why this gas is produced.
[2 marks]
(iii) Write the half-equation for the reaction that
occurs at the anode in (ii).
[1 mark]
(d) Write the half-equations for the reactions that
occur at the anode and the cathode in (c).
[2 marks]
(e) Predict the products that will be formed if molten
zinc chloride is used instead of lead(II) bromide
in this experiment.
[2 marks]
177
Electrochemistry
(a) Write the formula of all the cations present in the
copper(II) sulphate solution.
[1 mark]
3 Diagram 3 shows the arrangement of apparatus in an
electrochemistry experiment.
(b) State the direction of the flow of electrons in Cell
Q.
[1 mark]
(c) (i) State the observation at the cathode of Cell
P.
[1 mark]
(ii) Write a half-equation for the reaction that
occurred at the cathode of Cell P. [1 mark]
(iii) Predict the change of colour intensity of the
copper(II) sulphate solution of cell P.
[1 mark]
6
Diagram 3
(iv) Name the product formed at the anode if
copper electrodes in Cell P are replaced by
carbon electrodes.
[1 mark]
(a) What is the difference between the energy
change in Cell A and Cell B?
[2 marks]
(b) Write half-equations for the reactions that occur
at the
(i) magnesium electrode in Cell A.
[1 mark]
(ii) copper electrode in Cell A.
[1 mark]
(c)
(d) Based on cell Q:
(i) State the observation on the zinc plate.
[1 mark]
(ii) Write the half-equations for the reaction that
occurs at the zinc plate.
[1 mark]
(iii) Write an overall ionic equation for the
reaction that has taken place.
[1 mark]
(iv) What happens to the cell voltage if the
copper plate is replaced with a silver plate?
(i) Name the electrode that serves as the
negative terminal in Cell B.
[1 mark]
(ii) State the reason for your answer in (i).
[1 mark]
(iii) State the direction of the flow of electrons
in Diagram 3.
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
(d) In Cell B,
(i) name the product formed at the carbon
electrode Q and write an equation for the
reaction that occurs.
[2 marks]
(ii) name the product formed at the carbon
electrode P and write an equation for the
reaction that occurs.
[2 marks]
5 Diagram 5 shows a voltaic cell that is formed from
copper metal and lead metal.
(e) What would happen if the magnesium electrode
in Cell A is replaced with a silver electrode?
[1 mark]
(f) What would happen if carbon electrodes P and Q
are replaced with copper electrodes?
[1 mark]
Diagram 5
(a) State the positive terminal and the negative
terminal of the voltaic cell.
[2 marks]
4 Diagram 4 shows two types of cell.
(b) Write ionic equations showing the reactions that
occur at
(i) the negative terminal of the cell. [1 mark]
(ii) the positive terminal of the cell.
[1 mark]
(c) Write the overall ionic equation of the cell.
[1 mark]
(d) What is the function of the salt bridge? [1 mark]
(e) The voltage of the above cell is 0.57 V. If
magnesium is above lead in the electrochemical
series, what would be the expected voltage
produced from a magnesium/copper voltaic cell?
[1 mark]
6 An electrolysis process is carried out using the
arrangement of apparatus as shown in Diagram 6.
Diagram 4
Electrochemistry
178
(c) Write the ionic equation that occurs at
(i) electrode L
(ii) electrode M
[2 marks]
(d) What is the product of electrolysis formed at
(i) electrode R?
(ii) electrode S?
[2 marks]
(e) Predict any colour change of the solution that
may occur in beakers I and II after electrolysis
has been carried out for an hour.
[2 marks]
Diagram 6
(a) Name the electrodes that serve as the anode.
[2 marks]
(f) (i) Name instrument Q in the diagram.
(ii) What is the function of instrument Q?
(b) Write the formulae of all the ions present in
beaker I.
[2 marks]
6
[2 marks]
Essay Questions
(b) Using a labelled diagram, describe an experiment
to show how you can electroplate an iron spoon
with another metal. In your description, give the
observation and equations for the reactions that
occur.
[8 marks]
1 (a) What is meant by the term electrolysis? [2 marks]
(b) Discuss in terms of ionic theory, the reasons why
solid magnesium chloride (crystals) does not
conduct electricity whereas molten magnesium
chloride does.
[4 marks]
(c) You are supplied with magnesium chloride
crystals and all the necessary apparatus.
Describe an experiment to extract magnesium metal
from magnesium chloride crystals using electrolysis.
What would you observe in this experiment?
Using ionic theory, explain how the products are
formed at the cathode and the anode.
3 (a) What is the difference between an electrolytic cell
and a voltaic cell?
[4 marks]
(b) You are supplied with metal P, metal Q, their
nitrate salt solutions and all the necessary
apparatus. Metal P is higher than metal Q in the
electrochemical series and both metals have
a valency of 2. Describe an experiment to show
how you can produce an electric current from
chemical reactions. Include a circuit diagram and
show how you can detect the flow of electric
current in your description.
[12 marks]
[14 marks]
2 (a) The products of electrolysis may be different even
though the same type of electrolyte is used. Using
a suitable electrolyte, explain how
(i) the types of electrodes,
(ii) the concentration of ions can determine
the products of electrolysis of an aqueous
solution.
[12 marks]
(c) Predict what will happen when a piece of metal
P is placed in Q nitrate solution.
Explain your answer.
[4 marks]
Experiments
1 A group of students carried out three experiments to determine the products of electrolysis of sodium
hydroxide solution, potassium iodide solution and aqueous X solution using carbon electrodes.
The results of the experiment obtained is tabulated in Table 1.
Experiment Chemical substance
I
0.1 mol dm–3
sodium hydroxide
solution
Observation at the cathode
Colourless gas is evolved
which produces a ‘pop’ sound
when a lighted wooden splint
is placed near the mouth of
the test tube.
179
Observation at the anode
Colourless gas is evolved
which lights up a glowing
wooden splint.
Electrochemistry
Experiment Chemical substance
Observation at the cathode
Observation at the anode
II
0.5 mol dm–3
aqueous potassium
iodide solution
Colourless gas is evolved
which produces a ‘pop’ sound
when a lighted wooden splint
is placed near the mouth of
the test tube.
A brown solution is formed.
III
0.5 mol dm–3
aqueous X solution
Brown deposit is formed.
A brown gas is evolved which
changes blue litmus paper
to red and decolourises the
litmus paper subsequently.
6
Table 1
(a)
(i) In experiment I, name the products formed at the anode and cathode.
(ii) What factor determines the type of ions discharged at the cathode?
[3 marks]
(b) (i) What is the product formed at the anode in experiment II?
(ii) Suggest a test to identify the product of (i).
(iii) What factor determines the type of ions discharged at the anode in experiment II?
[3 marks]
(c) Write ionic equations for the formation of the product(s)
(i) at the anode and the cathode in experiment II.
(ii) at the anode in experiment I.
[3 marks]
(d) In experiment III, aqueous X solution is blue in colour.
(i) What is the brown deposit formed at the cathode?
(ii) Name the brown gas produced at the anode.
(iii) Suggest a chemical substance that may be X.
[3 marks]
2 Diagram 1 and Diagram 2 show the set-ups of two electrolytic cells using copper(II) chloride solutions
of different concentrations. Plan an experiment to investigate the factor that affects the products of
electrolysis of aqueous solutions as shown in Diagrams 1 and 2.
Diagram 1
Diagram 2
Your planning should include the following aspects:
(a) Aim of experiment
(b) Statement of hypothesis
(c) All the variables
(d) List of substances and apparatus
(e) Procedure of the experiment
(f) Tabulation of data
Electrochemistry
[17 marks]
180
FORM 4
THEME: Interaction between Chemicals
CHAPTER
7
Acids and Bases
SPM Topical Analysis
2008
Year
Paper
1
Number of questions
2
A
Section
5
2009
–
3
B
C
–
1
—
2
1
2
A
–
5
2010
–
3
B
C
–
2
—
3
1
1
3
2011
2
3
A
B
C
1
–
–
1
1
4
2
3
A
B
C
1
–
1
—
2
–
ONCEPT MAP
pH scale: measurement of the H+ ion
concentration
• Acids: pH < 7
• Alkalis: pH > 7
• pH value changes with the concentration
and strength of acids/bases
ACIDS AND BASES
Acids: compounds that produce H+ ions in water
• Strong acids: complete ionisation to form H+ ions in
water
• Weak acids: partial ionisation to form H+ ions in
water
Properties of Acids:
• Colour change with indicators
• React with bases
• React with reactive metals
• React with metal carbonates
Concentration: units in
• g dm–3
• mol dm–3
Relationship between pH values
and concentration
Bases: compounds that react with acids to form salts
and water
• Alkalis: soluble bases that produce OH– ions in water
• Strong alkalis: complete ionisation to form OH– ions
in water
• Weak alkalis: partial ionisation to form OH– ions in
water
Neutralisation:
• Reactions between acids and
bases
• Uses of acids/bases and
neutralisation
• Determination of end point in
titration using acid/base indicators
or a computer interface
Properties of Bases:
• Colour change with indicators
• React with acids
• React with ammonium salt on
heating
• React with metal ions to form
metal hydroxide
7.1
5 Without the presence of hydrogen ions, a
substance does not show any acidic property.
Dry hydrogen chloride gas, HCl(g) dissolved
in an organic solvent (such as methylbenzene),
glacial ethanoic acid and solid ethanedioic
acid do not show any acidic property.
6 Acids can be divided into two types: mineral
acids and organic acids. Mineral acids are
obtained from minerals and most do not
contain the element carbon. Organic acids are
extracted from living things and contain the
element carbon.
Characteristics and
Properties of Acids and
Bases
7
The Meaning of Acids
1 The definition of acids according to Arrhenius
Theory: an acid is a chemical compound that
produces hydrogen ions, H+ or hydroxonium
ions, H3O+ when it dissolves in water.
2 A substance has acidic properties because
of the formation of hydrogen ions or
hydroxonium ions in water.
3 Dissociation of acids in water produces
SPM hydrogen ions and anions. Examples:
’09/P1
Table 7.1 Examples of mineral acids and organic
acids
H2O
HCl(g) ⎯⎯→ H+(aq) + Cl–(aq)
(a)
hydrogen
chloride
(b)
hydrogen
ion
H2O
HNO3(l) ⎯⎯→ H+(aq) + NO3–(aq)
nitric acid
(c)
chloride
ion
hydrogen nitrate
ion
ion
Type of acid
Examples
Mineral acid
Hydrochloric acid, HCl, sulphuric
acid, H2SO4 and nitric acid, HNO3
Organic acid
Ethanoic acid (CH3COOH),
methanoic acid (HCOOH),
ethanedioic acid (H2C2O4), citric
acid, tartaric acid, malic acid and
ascorbic acid.
H2O
H2SO4(l) ⎯⎯→ 2H+(aq) + SO42–(aq)
sulphuric
acid
(d)CH3COOH(l)
ethanoic
acid
hydrogen sulphate
ion
ion
H2O
Malic acid is found in apples.
Citric acid is found in citrus fruits
such as oranges.
Tartaric acid is found in grapes.
Ascorbic acid is vitamin C.
Ethanoic acid is found in
vinegar.
Lactic acid is found in sour milk.
Tannic acid is found in tea
leaves.
H+(aq) + CH3COO–(aq)
hydrogen
ion
ethanoate
ion
4 In actual fact, the hydrogen ion, H+ does not
exist individually but is combined with a water
molecule (hydrated) to form a hydroxonium
ion.
H+ + H2O → H3O+
An acid is a substance that produces hydrogen ions
in the presence of water.
However, H3O+ is usually written as H+(aq) in
the simplified way.
Hydrochloric acid, nitric acid and sulphuric acid are
acids that are usually used in the school laboratories.
Our stomachs contain hydrochloric acid that is required
for digestion of food. Aspirin, which is used as an
analgesic (a type of medicine for reducing pain), is
also a type of acid.
Figure 7.1 The dissociation (ionisation) of a hydrogen
chloride molecule to produce hydroxonium
ion in water.
Acids and Bases
182
6 A chemical substance has alkaline properties
because of the formation of freely moving
hydroxide ions, OH– in water.
7 In the presence of water, an alkali dissociates
to hydroxide ions and cations.
Examples:
The Meaning of Bases and Alkalis
1 A base is defined as a chemical substance that
can neutralise an acid to produce salt and
water only. For example,
HCl + NaOH → NaCl + H2O
base
salt
(a) NH3(g) + H2O(l) → NH4+(aq) + OH–(aq)
water
ammonia
2 Examples of bases are metal oxides and metal
hydroxides that contain oxide ions, O2– and
hydroxide ions, OH– respectively. Examples:
copper(II) oxide, magnesium hydroxide.
3 The reaction between an acid and a base is
known as neutralisation. In neutralisation the
O2– ions or the OH– ions of a base react with
the H+ ions of an acid to form water.
(b) KOH(s)
potassium
hydroxide
potassium hydroxide
ion
ion
(c) NaOH(s)
⎯→ Na+(aq) + OH–(aq)
H2O
sodium
ion
hydroxide
ion
H2O
calcium
hydroxide
calcium
ion
hydroxide
ion
8 A compound does not show any alkaline property
in the absence of freely moving hydroxide ions.
Examples: dry ammonia gas, ammonia gas
dissolved in organic solvent (such as propanone),
solid sodium hydroxide and solid potassium
hydroxide do not show alkaline properties.
Figure 7.2 Venn diagram for bases and alkalis
Figure 7.4 The association (ionisation) of an ammonia
molecule to produce a hydroxide ion
Bases
Zinc oxide, zinc
hydroxide, copper(II)
oxide, copper(II)
hydroxide
+ OH–(aq)
(d) Ca(OH)2(s) ⎯→ Ca2+(aq) + 2OH–(aq)
4 Most bases are not soluble in water. Bases that
are soluble in water are known as alkalis.
5 An alkali is defined as a chemical compound
that dissolves in water to produce freely
moving hydroxide ions, OH–.
examples
H2O
⎯→ K+(aq)
sodium
hydroxide
O2– + 2H+ → H2O
OH– + H+ → H2O
Bases that are
insoluble in water
ammonium hydroxide
ion
ion
• An alkali is a compound that produces hydroxide
ions in the presence of water.
• A base is a compound that neutralises an acid and
produces salt and water only.
Bases that are soluble
in water (alkalis)
examples
Sodium oxide,
sodium hydroxide,
potassium oxide,
potassium hydroxide,
calcium hydroxide,
ammonia
Theories on acids and alkalis:
(a) Arrhenius theory: An acid is a compound that
produces hydrogen ions when it dissolves in water.
An alkali is a compound that produces hydroxide
ions when it dissolves in water.
(b) Brnsted–Lowry theory: An acid is a proton
(hydrogen ion) donor. An alkali is a proton acceptor.
Figure 7.3 Flowchart showing types and examples
of bases
183
Acids and Bases
7
acid
1
’07
7
Which of the following statements is true about all
bases?
A React with acids
B Dissolve in water
C Produces hydroxide ions
D Change red litmus paper to blue
Uses of Acids, Bases and Alkalis in
Our Daily Life
Comments
All bases react with acids to form salts. Only soluble
bases (alkalis) dissolve in water to produce hydroxide
ions that change red litmus paper to blue.
Answer A
3 Examples of bases and their uses are given in
Table 7.3.
SPM
’08/P2,
’09/P1
Table 7.3 Uses of bases
1 Acids and bases are widely used in our everyday
life in agriculture, medicine, industry and in
the preparation of food.
2 Examples of acids and their uses are given in
Table 7.2.
Base
Sodium hydroxide To make soaps, detergents,
bleaching agents and
fertilisers
Table 7.2 Uses of acids
Acid
Uses
Ammonia
Uses
To make fertilisers, nitric
acid, grease remover and
to maintain latex in liquid
form
To make paints,
detergents, polymers,
fertilisers, as an
electrolyte in lead-acid
accumulators
Calcium hydroxide To make cement, limewater
and to neutralise the acidity
of soil
Hydrochloric acid
To clean metals before
electroplating
Magnesium
hydroxide
To make toothpaste, gastric
medicine (antacid)
Nitric acid
To make fertilisers,
explosive substances
(such as T.N.T.), dyes and
plastics
Aluminium
hydroxide
To make gastric medicine
(antacid)
Benzoic acid
To preserve food
Carbonic acid
To make gassy
(carbonated) drinks
Ethanoic acid
A component of vinegar
Tartaric acid
To make baking powder
Sulphuric acid
Cleaning agent contains ammonia
Methanoic acid is used
in the coagulation of
rubber latex
Fertilisers are made
from acids and alkalis
Acids and Bases
Soaps and detergents are made from sodium
hydroxide
184
7.1
SPM
’09/P2, ’10/P3, ’11/P2
Conclusion
1 Aqueous ethanoic acid turns blue litmus paper to
red, indicating its acidic property.
2 Ethanoic acid in a dry condition or dissolved
in organic solvents does not show any acidic
property.
3 Ionisation of acids will only occur in the presence
of water to produce hydrogen ions which are
responsible for the acidic properties.
4 Water is essential for the formation of hydrogen
ions which gives the acidic properties in an acid.
The hypothesis is accepted.
Problem statement
Is water needed for an acid to show its acidic
properties?
Hypothesis
An acid will only show its acidic properties when
dissolved in water.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Types of solvents-water
and propanone
(b) Responding variable : Change in the colour of
blue litmus
(c) Constant variable
: Type of acid and blue
litmus paper
Apparatus
Test tube and droppers.
Materials
Glacial (dry) ethanoic acid, aqueous ethanoic acid,
ethanoic acid dissolved in dry propanone and blue
litmus paper.
Procedure
1 A piece of dry blue litmus paper is placed in a
test tube.
2 A few drops of glacial ethanoic acid are placed
onto the blue litmus paper using a dropper.
3 The effect of the glacial ethanoic acid on the
blue litmus paper is recorded.
4 Steps 1 to 3 of the experiment are repeated using
aqueous ethanoic acid and ethanoic acid dissolved
in propanone to replace glacial ethanoic acid.
5 The observations are then tabulated.
7
To investigate the role of water in showing the properties of acids
Discussion
1 In the presence of water, an acid dissociates into
hydrogen ions that cause acidity in an acid.
2 Dry acids do not show any acidic properties
in the absence of water because dry acids exist
as covalent molecules. Hydrogen ions are not
produced.
3 Solvents such as methylbenzene, propanone
and trichloromethane cannot replace water for
an acid to show its acidic properties. This is
because an acid exists as covalent molecules in
these organic solvents; H+ ions are not produced
in these solutions.
4 Glacial ethanoic acid (CH3COOH) consists of
acid molecules only. CH3COOH molecule is a
covalent compound.
5 Figure 7.5 shows the types of particles that are
present in ethanoic acid dissolved in propanone
and in water.
Condition of
ethanoic acid
Glacial (dry)
Aqueous
(dissolved in
water)
Dissolved in
propanone
Observation
Inference
No noticeable
colour change
in the litmus
paper
Blue litmus
paper has
changed to red
No noticeable
colour change
in the litmus
paper
Does not show
any acidic
properties
Shows acidic
properties
Does not show
any acidic
properties
Figure 7.5 Particles in ethanoic acid dissolved in
(a) propanone (b) water
185
Acids and Bases
Experiment 7.1
Results
7.2
To investigate the role of water in showing the alkaline properties of alkali
7
Problem statement
Is water essential for an alkali to show its alkaline
properties?
2 The test tube must be stoppered immediately
after the red litmus paper is put in.
Hypothesis
An alkali will only show its alkaline properties when
dissolved in water.
Results
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Types of solvents–water
and propanone
(b) Responding variable : Change in the colour of
red litmus paper
(c) Constant variable
: Type of alkali and red
litmus paper
Apparatus
Test tubes and droppers.
Materials
Dry ammonia gas stoppered in a
test tube, ammonia gas dissolved
in propanone, aqueous ammonia
solution and red litmus paper.
Condition of
ammonia
Experiment 7.2
Inference
Dry
No colour
change in the red
litmus paper
Does not
show alkaline
property
Aqueous
(dissolved in
water)
Red litmus has
changed to blue
Shows
alkaline
properties
Dissolved in
propanone
No colour
change in the red
litmus paper
Does not
show alkaline
property
Conclusion
1 Aqueous ammonia solution turns the red litmus
paper to blue, indicating its alkaline property.
2 Dry ammonia gas or ammonia gas dissolved in
organic solvents does not show any alkaline
property.
3 An alkali shows its alkaline properties only in
the presence of water. When water is present,
ammonia ionises to produce OH– ions that are
responsible for its alkaline properties.
4 Water is essential for the formation of
hydroxide ions that cause alkalinity in an alkali.
The hypothesis is accepted.
Procedure
1 A piece of dry red litmus paper is put into a stoppered
test tube of dry ammonia gas and the test tube is then
stoppered back immediately (Figure 7.6).
2 The effect of the dry ammonia gas on the red
litmus paper is recorded.
3 Another piece of dry red litmus paper is put in
5 cm3 of aqueous ammonia solution in a separate
test tube.
4 Step 3 of the experiment is repeated using ammonia
dissolved in propanone to replace aqueous ammonia
solution.
Discussion
1 In the presence of water, an alkali ionises to form
hydroxide ions, OH– that change red litmus
paper to blue.
2 Aqueous ammonia solution (ammonia dissolved
in water) consists of NH4+ ions, OH– ions and
NH3 molecules. An aqueous ammonia solution
is alkaline due to the presence of hydroxide ions.
NH3 + H2O
Figure 7.6 Testing for the alkaline properties
of ammonia gas
NH4+ + OH–
3 Dry alkalis, solid alkalis (such as solid calcium
hydroxide and barium hydroxide) and alkalis
dissolved in organic solvents (such as propanone)
do not show any alkaline properties. This
is because the alkalis do not dissociate into
hydroxide ions.
Safety precautions
1 Ammonia gas is poisonous. This experiment
involving dry ammonia gas should be carried out
in a fume cupboard.
Acids and Bases
Observation
186
Glacial ethanoic acid is the pure and dry form of ethanoic acid. It is named ‘glacial’ because it appears as ice when it
solidifies below its melting point.
1 Acids are sour in taste.
2 Acid solutions have pH values of less than 7.
3 Acids change colours of indicators as shown
in Table 7.4.
4 Acids can react with
(a) bases to produce salts and water,
(b) metals to produce salts and hydrogen gas,
(c) carbonates to produce salts, carbon
dioxide gas and water.
1 If the electrical conductivity of ethanoic acid in pro­
panone and aqueous ethanoic acid is tested in
turn, only the aqueous solution of acid conducts
electri­
city (light bulb is lighted up or ammeter
needle is deflected).
2 This shows the presence of freely moving ions in
an aqueous solution of acid.
CH3COOH(l)
ethanoic acid
CH3COO –(aq) + H+(aq)
ethanoate ion hydrogen ion
H+ ions and CH3COO– ions
conduct electricity
Table 7.4 Effects of acids on indicators
H+ ions change blue
litmus to red
Colour of indicator
in acidic solution
Indicator
3 Dry acids do not conduct electricity. This is because
there are no freely moving ions. Dry acid exists as
covalent molecules.
4 Similarly, ammonia dissolved in propanone does not
conduct electricity. It exists as covalent molecules.
5 An aqueous ammonia solution can conduct electricity,
showing the presence of freely moving ions.
Blue litmus paper
Red
Universal indicator
Orange and red
Methyl orange
Red
To investigate the chemical properties of acids
Apparatus
Test tube, test tube holder, spatula,
Bunsen burner, delivery tubes with
stopper and wooden splint.
Materials
1.0 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid, copper(II)
oxide, zinc powder, sodium carbonate
powder and limewater.
7
Chemical Properties of Acids
Procedure
1 A little copper(II) oxide is added to 5 cm3 of
sulphuric acid in a test tube. The mixture is
heated slowly (Figure 7.7) and any changes that
occur are recorded.
2 A little zinc powder is added to 5 cm3 of dilute
sulphuric acid in a test tube. The gas evolved is
tested by placing a lighted wooden splint near
the mouth of the test tube (Figure 7.8).
3 A little sodium carbonate powder is added to 5 cm3
of dilute sulphuric acid in a test tube. The gas
evolved is tested with limewater (Figure 7.9).
Figure 7.8 An acid with
a metal
Activity 7.1
Figure 7.7 An acid with
a base
SPM
’10/P2
Figure 7.9 An acid with a metal carbonate
187
Acids and Bases
Results
Test on acid
Observation
Inference
Heating with copper(II)
oxide
• Black powder dissolved
• Blue solution is formed
Test with zinc powder
• Effervescence occurred
• Gas produced a ‘pop’ sound when it is
tested with a lighted wooden splint
• Zinc powder dissolved
7
Test with sodium carbonate
• Copper(II) salt solution is
formed
• Effervescence occurred
• Gas evolved turned limewater milky
• White solid of sodium carbonate
dissolved
If the salt solution is evaporated until saturated,
salt crystals will form upon cooling.
Examples:
(a) Black copper(II) oxide powder (a base)
dissolves in dilute sulphuric acid to produce a
salt, copper(II) sulphate (blue colour) and water.
3 A dilute acid will react with a metal carbonate to
produce a salt, carbon dioxide gas and water.
acid + metal carbonate →
salt + carbon dioxide + water
CuO(s) + H2SO4(aq) → CuSO4(aq) + H2O(l)
Examples:
(a) Sodium carbonate reacts with dilute sulphuric
acid to produce a salt, sodium sulphate, carbon
dioxide gas and water.
(b) Copper(II) oxide dissolves in ethanoic acid to
form a salt, copper(II) ethanoate and water.
CuO(s) + 2CH3COOH(aq) →
Cu(CH3COO)2(aq) + H2O(l)
Na2CO3(s) + H2SO4(aq) →
Na2SO4(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)
(c) Nitric acid reacts with sodium hydroxide (an
alkali) to produce a salt, sodium nitrate and
water.
(b) Calcium carbonate reacts with dilute
hydrochloric acid to produce a salt, calcium
chloride, carbon dioxide gas and water.
HNO3(aq) + NaOH(aq) → NaNO3(aq) + H2O(l)
Examples:
(a) Zinc dissolves in sulphuric acid to form a
salt, zinc sulphate and hydrogen gas.
Zn(s) + H2SO4(aq) → ZnSO4(aq) + H2(g)
Acids and Bases
• Carbon dioxide gas is produced
• A salt solution is formed
Mg(s) + 2CH3COOH(aq) →
Mg(CH3COO)2(aq) + H2(g)
Acid + base → salt + water
acid + reactive metal → salt + hydrogen
• A salt solution is formed
(b) Magnesium dissolves in ethanoic acid
to form a salt, magnesium ethanoate and
hydrogen gas.
Discussion
1 A dilute acid reacts with a base to produce salt
and water only.
2 A dilute acid will react with a reactive metal to
produce a salt and hydrogen gas.
• Hydrogen gas is produced
CaCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) →
CaCl2(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)
Conclusion
1 Sulphuric acid reacts with a base (copper(II)
oxide) to produce salt and water.
2 Sulphuric acid reacts with a reactive metal (zinc)
to produce a salt and hydrogen gas.
3 Sulphuric acid reacts with a metal carbonate
(sodium carbonate) to produce a salt, water and
carbon dioxide gas.
188
Chemical Properties of Alkalis
1 Alkalis are bitter in taste and feel soapy.
2 Alkaline solutions have pH values of more
than 7.
3 Alkalis change the colours of indicators as
shown in Table 7.5 below.
Non-reactive metals such as copper and silver do
not react with dilute acid. Very reactive metals such
as sodium and potassium will react with dilute acid
vigorously and may produce an explosion.
2
Table 7.5 Effects of alkalis on indicators
’01
Colour of indicator in
alkaline solution
Indicator
Which of the following compounds reacts with
limestone powder to produce a gas that turns limewater milky?
A Nitrogen dioxide gas
B Hydrogen chloride gas dissolved in tetra­
chloromethane
C Sulphur dioxide gas dissolved in propanone
D Sulphur dioxide gas dissolved in water
Blue
7
Red litmus paper
Blue or purple
Universal indicator
Yellow
Methyl orange
4 An alkali reacts with an acid to produce salt
and water. For example:
Comments
An acidic gas must first dissolve in water before
reacting with calcium carbonate (limestone)
powder to produce carbon dioxide gas which turns
limewater milky.
KOH(aq) + HCl(aq) → KCl(aq) + H2O(l)
5 When an alkali is heated with an ammonium
salt, ammonia gas is produced. For example:
Answer D
NH4+(aq) + OH–(aq) → NH3(g) + H2O(l)
from ammonium salt
Generally,
(a) metal oxides and metal hydroxides are basic. For
example:
MgO + H2O → Mg(OH)2
magnesium oxide magnesium hydroxide
from alkali
6 An aqueous alkali forms metal hydroxide as
precipitate when added to an aqueous salt
solution. For example:
Cu2+(aq) + 2OH–(aq) → Cu(OH)2(s)
(b) non-metal oxides are acidic. For example, SO2,
NO2 or CO2.
SO2 + H2O → H2SO3
sulphur dioxide
sulphurous acid
from copper(II)
salt solution
from alkali
copper(II) hydroxide
as blue precipitate
Apparatus
Test tubes, test tube holder, spatula, Bunsen burner,
delivery tubes with stopper and red litmus paper.
Materials
2.0 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide solution, benzoic
acid powder, ammonium chloride powder, 1.0 mol
dm–3 iron(III) sulphate solution.
Procedure
1 A little benzoic acid powder is added to 5 cm3
of sodium hydroxide solution in a test tube. Any
changes that occur are recorded.
2 A little ammonium chloride powder is added to 5
cm3 of sodium hydroxide solution in a test tube.
The mixture is heated gently. The gas evolved is
tested with a piece of damp red litmus paper.
3 5 cm3 of sodium hydroxide solution is added to
5 cm3 of iron(III) sulphate solution in a test tube.
Any changes that occur are recorded.
189
Acids and Bases
Activity 7.2
To investigate the chemical properties of alkalis
Results
7
Test on sodium
hydroxide
Observation
Inference
2 If the salt solution is evaporated in an evaporating
dish until a saturated solution is formed, white
crystals of sodium benzoate will be crystallised
upon cooling.
3 When sodium hydroxide is heated with ammonium
chloride (an ammonium salt), ammonia gas is
produced.
A salt solution
is formed
With benzoic
acid powder
added
White powder
dissolves and
a colourless
solution is
formed
Heating with
ammonium
chloride
powder
Ammonia gas
A pungent gas
that turns damp is produced
red litmus paper
blue is evolved
With iron(III) A brown
precipitate is
sulphate
solution added formed
NaOH(aq) + C6H5COOH(s) →
C6H5COONa(aq) + H2O(l)
NH4Cl(s) + NaOH(aq) →
NaCl(aq) + H2O(l) + NH3(g)
Iron(III)
hydroxide is
formed
In this reaction, ammonium ions react with
hydroxide ions to produce ammonia gas. The ionic
equation for this reaction is
NH4+(aq) + OH–(aq) → NH3(g) + H2O(l)
Conclusion
1 Sodium hydroxide reacts with benzoic acid to
produce salt and water.
2 When sodium hydroxide is heated with
ammonium chloride, ammonia gas which turns
red litmus to blue is produced.
3 Sodium hydroxide solution reacts with an
aqueous iron(III) solution to produce a brown
precipitate, iron(III) hydroxide.
4 Sodium hydroxide solution
hydroxide ions in water.
to
NaOH → Na+ + OH–
Hydroxide ions combine with iron(III) ions from
iron(III) sulphate solution to form insoluble
iron(III) hydroxide as a brown precipitate.
Fe3+(aq) + 3OH–(aq) → Fe(OH)3(s)
Discussion
1 Sodium hydroxide as an alkali reacts with benzoic
acid, C6H5COOH to produce a salt, sodium
benzoate and water in a neutralisation reaction.
from iron(III)
sulphate
from sodium
hydroxide
CH3COOH(aq)
Basicity of Acids
1 Basicity of an acid is the number of moles of
OH– ions that are required to react with one
mole of the acid.
2 Since one mole of OH– ions reacts with one
mole of H+ ion, the basicity of an acid is also
the number of moles of H+ ion that can be
produced by one mole of the acid when it
dissolves in water.
3 A monoprotic acid (or monobasic acid) is
an acid that will produce one mole of H+
ion when one mole of the acid dissolves in
water.
For example, although ethanoic acid has four
hydrogen atoms in the molecule, only one of
the hydrogen dissociates to form H+ ion in
water.
Acids and Bases
dissociates
iron(III) hydroxide as
brown precipitate
CH3COO–(aq) + H+(aq)
Three H atoms bonded to
carbon do not dissociate
Only one H atom
dissociates to form H+ ion
4 A diprotic acid (or dibasic acid) is an acid
that will produce two moles of H+ ions from
one mole of the acid in water.
For example:
H2SO4(aq) → 2H+ (aq) + SO42–(aq)
1 mol sulphuric
acid
2 mol
hydrogen ions
sulphate ion
5 A triprotic acid (or tribasic acid) is an acid
that will produce three moles of H+ ions
from one mole of the acid in water.
For example:
H3PO4(aq)
3H+(aq) + PO43–(aq)
1 mol
phosphoric acid
190
3 mol
hydrogen ions
phosphate ion
Table 7.6 Examples of monoprotic acid and diprotic acid
Examples of
monoprotic acid
Hydrochloric acid (HCl), nitric acid (HNO3),
ethanoic acid (CH3COOH) and methanoic acid
(HCOOH)
Basicity of an acid is not the same
as the number of H atoms in the
formula of the acid.
Examples of
diprotic acid
Sulphuric acid (H2SO4), ethanedioic acid (H2C2O4),
carbonic acid (H2CO3) and chromic acid (H2CrO4)
Basicity is the number of moles of
H+ ions produced by one mole of
acid in water.
1 (a) Explain what you understand by the term
(i) an acid
(ii) a base
(iii) an alkali
(b) What is the effect of an acid and an alkali on
moist litmus paper?
3 Identify the chemicals Q, R, X, Y and gas Z in the
following reactions:
(a) H2SO4 + Q → MgSO4 + H2O + CO2
(b) Ca(OH)2 + 2R → Ca(NO3)2 + 2H2O
(c) 2Al + 6X → 2AlCl3 + 3H2
heat
(d) Y + NH4NO3 ⎯⎯→ KNO3 + H2O + Z
2 Identify the correct uses of the following acids and
bases.
4 Write equations to show the reactions between
(a) sulphuric acid and magnesium oxide
(b) nitric acid and aluminium metal
(c) hydrochloric acid and calcium carbonate
(d) ethanoic acid and sodium hydroxide
(e) potassium hydroxide and ammonium chloride
when heated
Acids or bases: H2SO4, HNO3, CaO, Ca(OH)2,
Mg(OH)2, NH3, NaOH
Acids or bases
Uses
To make antacid
5 Effervescence occurs when magnesium powder is
added to aqueous hydrochloric acid. However, no
noticeable change takes place when magnesium
powder is added to hydrogen chloride dissolved in
methylbenzene. Explain why.
To make fertiliser
To make soap
To neutralise acidity in soil
Acid
Alkali
dissolves in water
dissolves in water
produces H+ ions
produces OH– ions
reacts with
carbonate
metal
reacts with
base
acid
ammonium salt
metal ions
heat
salt
+
carbon dioxide
+
water
salt + hydrogen
salt + water
191
ammonia gas
metal
hydroxides
Acids and Bases
7
7.1
1 The pH scale is a set of numbers used to
indicate the degree of acidity or alkalinity of
a solution.
2 The values of the pH scale range from 0 to 14.
• pH < 7 ⇒ acidic solution
• pH = 7 ⇒ neutral solution
• pH > 7 ⇒ alkaline solution
3 pH is actually a measurement of the con­cen­
tration of hydrogen, H+ ions in a solution.
4 The higher the concentration of the H+ ions,
the lower the pH value and the more acidic
the solution.
5 The higher the concentration of the OH–
ions, the higher the pH value and the more
alkaline the solution.
6 The relationship between the pH scale, acidity
or alkalinity and concentration of H+ ions is
shown below.
• All acids have pH < 7.
• The lower the pH value, the higher the H+ ion
concentration.
• All alkalis have pH > 7.
• The higher the pH value, the higher the OH– ion
concentration.
7.2
The Strength of Acids
and Alkalis
7
The pH Scale
4 A pH meter is an
electric meter that is
used to measure the
pH value of a solution
accurately. A pH meter
will show the pH
value when its probe is
immersed in a solution
pH meter
to be tested.
5 With a computer interface,
the exact pH value can be displayed on the
computer screen when the pH meter is placed
in the solution.
Measurement of pH Value of a Solution
1 The pH value of a solution can be measured
by using
(a) universal indicator or pH paper
(b) a pH meter (with or without a computer
interface)
2 Universal indicator is a mixture of indicators
that gives different colours corresponding to
different pH values as shown in Table 7.7.
3 Universal indicator is used in the form of
(a) solution, or
(b) paper strips (also known as pH paper).
Table 7.7 Colours of universal indicator
pH value
0, 1, 2
Colour
red
3
4
5
6
7
orange orange orange yellow green
red
yellow
8
9
10
11
12, 13, 14
greenishblue
blue
blue
bluishpurple
purple
Activity 7.3
To measure the pH values of some solutions used in daily life
Apparatus
Beakers, universal indicator solution, dropper,
standard colour chart of universal indicator.
Acids and Bases
Materials
Soap solution, carbonated drink, tap water, orange
fruit juice, distilled water, milk, tea, dilute sodium
hydroxide and hydrochloric acid.
192
Procedure
1 About 10 cm3 of soap solution is placed in a small beaker.
2 Two drops of universal indicator solution are added to the soap solution. The solution is then stirred.
3 The colour of the solution produced is matched against the standard colour chart of universal indicator. The
corresponding pH value of the colour is noted and recorded.
4 The experiment is repeated using carbonated drink, tap water, orange fruit juice, distilled water, milk, tea,
dilute sodium hydroxide and hydrochloric acid in place of the soap solution.
Results
pH value
Soap
Carbonated Tap Orange
solution
drink
water juice
10
5
6
Distilled
water
Milk
Tea
Dilute
sodium
hydroxide
Dilute
hydrochloric
acid
7
6
5
13
1
4
7
Solution
Conclusion
1 Different solutions have different pH values.
2 The pH value of a solution can be measured using the universal indicator solution.
Degree of Dissociation
HCl → H+ + Cl–
HNO3 → H+ + NO3–
H2SO4 → 2H+ + SO42–
1 The strength of an acid or an alkali depends
on the degree of dissociation (also known as
the degree of ionisation).
2 The degree of dissociation measures the
percentage or fraction of molecules that
dissociates into ions when dissolved in water.
3 For example, the degree of dissociation of
hydrochloric acid is 100% or 1. This means
that all the hydrogen chloride molecules in
hydrochloric acid will ionise to form H+ ions
and Cl– ions when dissolved in water.
4 In a 1.0 mol dm–3 aqueous ethanoic solution,
only 4 out of 1000 molecules of ethanoic acid
dissociate to form ions. Degree of dissociation
of a 1.0 mol dm–3 aqueous ethanoic solution is
4
—
—
—
— = 0.004 or 0.4%.
1000
(The one–way
dissociation)
→
indicates
complete
3 Complete dissociation (100%) in water by a
strong acid produces a high concentration of
H+ ions and hence a low pH.
4 Weak acids are chemicals that dissociate
partially
(incomplete
dissociation)
into
hydrogen ions H+ in water.
5 Most of the organic acids such as ethanoic
acid, ethanedioic acid, methanoic acid, citric
acid and tartaric acid are weak acids.
CH3COOH
H2C2O4
5 Acids can be divided into 2 categories: strong
acids and weak acids, depending on their
degree of dissociation.
6 Alkalis can be divided into 2 categories: strong
alkalis and weak alkalis, depending on their
degree of dissociation.
Strong and Weak Acids
arrow
(The two–way arrow
reaction)
CH3COO– + H+
2H+ + C2O42–
indicates reversible
Examples of weak acids
Ethanoic acid, CH3COOH
Methanoic acid, HCOOH
Ethanedioic acid, H2C2O4
Carbonic acid, H2CO3
Phosphoric acid, H3PO4
Chromic acid, H2CrO4
Nitrous acid, HNO2
Sulphurous acid, H2SO3
SPM
’08/P2,
’09/P1,
’10/P3
1 A strong acid is a chemical substance that
dissociates completely (degree of dissociation
is 100%) into hydrogen ions, H+ in water.
2 Mineral acids such as hydrochloric acid, nitric
acid and sulphuric acid are strong acids.
193
Acids and Bases
6 In a weak acid solution, a big portion of the
weak acid exists as molecules and only a
small portion dissociates to ions.
Strong and Weak Alkalis
1 A strong alkali is a chemical substance that
dissociates completely (100%) to hydroxide
ions, OH– in water.
2 Examples of strong alkalis are sodium
hydroxide and potassium hydroxide.
A concentrated acid does not mean that it is a strong
acid. For example, concentrated ethanoic acid is still a
weak acid.
Consequently, a dilute acid does not mean that it is a
weak acid. For example, dilute hydrochloric acid is still
a strong acid.
NaOH → Na+ + OH–
KOH → K+ + OH–
7
(The one–way
dissociation)
Test
0.1 mol dm
HCl
Ca(OH)2
Magnesium
ribbon
Hydrogen gas
evolves
vigorously
Solution
Test
CO2 gas evolves
vigorously
CO2 gas evolves
slowly
Electrical
conductivity
Light bulb lights
up brightly
Light bulb lights
up dimly
Conclusion
• High
• Low
concentration
concentration
of H+ ions
of H+ ions
• HCl is a strong • CH3COOH is a
acid
weak acid
Acids and Bases
Ca2+ + 2OH–
Table 7.9 Comparison of properties of a strong alkali
(NaOH) with a weak alkali (NH3)
Hydrogen gas
evolves slowly
Calcium
carbonate
NH4+ + OH–
5 Partial dissociation of a weak alkali results in
a low concentration of OH– ions. Hence, the
pH value of a weak alkali is lower than that of
a strong alkali with the same concentration.
6 Table 7.9 shows the comparison of properties
of a strong alkali (sodium hydroxide solution)
with a weak alkali (aqueous ammonia
solution).
0.1 mol dm
CH3COOH
Red colour, pH~1 Orange red
colour, pH~4
complete
(The two–way arrow indicates partial dissociation)
–3
Universal
Indicator
→ indicates
NH3 + H2O
Table 7.8 Comparison between a strong acid (HCl)
and a weak acid (CH3COOH)
–3
arrow
3 A weak alkali is a chemical substance that
dissociates partially (incomplete dissociation)
to hydroxide ions, OH– in water.
4 Examples of weak alkalis are aqueous
ammonia,
calcium
hydroxide
and
magnesium hydroxide.
7 For two different acids of the same concentration,
the acid with the lower pH value is the stronger
acid.
8 Partial dissociation of a weak acid results in a
low H+ ion concentration.
9 Strong and weak acids have the same
chemical properties, but the rate of reaction
and electrical conductivity of a weak acid is
lower as shown in Table 7.8.
Solution
SPM
’08/P1,
’09/P1
194
0.1 mol dm–3
NaOH solution
0.1 mol dm–3
aqueous NH3
Universal
Indicator
Purple colour,
pH~13
Blue colour,
pH~10
Electrical
conductivity
Light bulb lights
up brightly
Light bulb lights
up dimly
Conclusion
• High
• Low
concentration
concentration
of OH– ions
of OH– ions
• NaOH is a
• Aqueous NH3
strong alkali
is a weak
alkali
Decreasing pH
1
Increasing pH
7
Strong acids:
• Complete ionisation
• High H+ ion concentration
• pH value: 1–2
Weak acids:
• Partial ionisation
• Low H+ ion concentration
• pH value: 3–6
14
Weak alkalis:
• Partial ionisation
• Low OH– ion concentration
• pH value: 8–12
Strong alkalis:
• Complete ionisation
• High OH– ion concentration
• pH value: 13–14
SPM
’10/P1
7
To measure the pH values of solutions with the same
concentration
Materials
0.1 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid, 0.1 mol dm–3
ethanoic acid, 0.1 mol dm–3 aqueous ammonia and
0.1 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide solution.
Procedure
1 About 15 cm3 of 0.1 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid
is placed in a small beaker.
2 The probe of a pH meter is rinsed with distilled
water.
3 The pH meter probe is then immersed in the acid
in the beaker. The reading registered on the pH
meter after it has stabilised is recorded.
4 Steps 1 to 3 of the experiment are repeated using
ethanoic acid, ammonia solution and sodium
hydroxide solution to replace the hydrochloric
acid.
Results
Solution of
0.1 mol dm–3
pH
value
Hydrochloric
acid, HCl
1
• High concentration
of H+ ions
• A strong acid
Ethanoic acid,
CH3COOH
3
• Low concentration of
H+ ions
• A weak acid
Aqueous
ammonia, NH3
10
• Low concentration of
OH– ions
• A weak alkali
Sodium
hydroxide,
NaOH
13
• High concentration
of OH– ions
• A strong alkali
Inference
Conclusion
1 Acids have pH values of less than 7.
2 Different acids with the same concentration have
different pH values. The pH of hydrochloric
acid is lower than ethanoic acid of the same
concentration.
3 Alkalis have pH values of more than 7.
4 Different alkalis with the same concentration
have different pH values. The pH of sodium
hydroxide solution is higher than aqueous
ammonia of the same concentration.
Discussion
1 Hydrochloric acid, HCl, and ethanoic acid,
CH3COOH, are both acidic as their pH values
are less than 7.
2 However, the pH value of HCl is less than that
of CH3COOH with the same concentration
indicating that the concentration of hydrogen
ions in HCl is higher than that in CH3COOH.
3 HCl is an example of a strong acid which
undergoes complete ionisation. CH3COOH is an
example of a weak acid which undergoes partial
ionisation.
4 Ammonia, NH3, and sodium hydroxide solution
are both alkaline as their pH values are more
than 7.
5 However, the pH value of NaOH is more
than that of NH3 with the same concentration
indicating that the concentration of hydroxide
ions in NaOH is higher than that in NH3.
6 NaOH is an example of a strong alkali which
undergoes complete ionisation. NH3 is an
example of a weak alkali which undergoes
partial ionisation.
7 The strength of an acid (strong or weak) and the
strength of an alkali (strong or weak) depends on
the degree of dissociation.
195
Acids and Bases
Activity 7.4
Apparatus
50 cm3 beaker and pH meter.
3
7.2
’03
1 Six solutions A, B, C, D, E and F with concentration
of 1.0 mol dm–3, have pH values as shown in the
table below:
Information about two solutions is given below:
7
Concentration of nitric acid = 1.0 mol dm–3
Concentration of carbonic acid = 1.0 mol dm–3
Which of the following statements are true about
the two solutions given above?
I Nitric acid is a stronger acid than carbonic acid.
II The pH value of nitric acid is higher than carbonic
acid.
III The degree of dissociation of nitric acid in
water is higher than that of carbonic acid.
IV The concentration of H+ ions in nitric acid is
higher than that in carbonic acid.
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C I, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
B
C
D
E
F
pH values
13
7.0
10
4.0
1.0
3.5
2 Using suitable examples, explain the terms strong
acid and weak acid. Predict the difference in pH
values of the two acids with the same concentration.
3 The degree of dissociation of ethanoic acid is
higher than that of propanoic acid but is lower
than that of methanoic acid.
(a) Arrange the above three acids in ascending
order of the strength of acidity.
(b) If the pH value of 1.0 mol dm–3 ethanoic acid
is 3, predict the pH value of 1.0 mol dm–3
methanoic acid and propanoic acid.
’07
7.3
Which of the following statements describe a
strong alkali?
I Has a high pH value
II Ionises completely in water
III Has a high concentration of hydroxide ions
IV Exists as molecules in water
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C I, II and III only
D I, II, III and IV
Concentration of Acids
and Alkalis
The Meaning of Concentration and
Molarity, and Their Relationship
1 A solution is formed when a solute dissolves
in a solvent.
solute + solvent → solution
For example, when sodium hydroxide (solute)
dissolves in water (solvent), sodium hydroxide
solution is formed.
2 Concentration and molarity are measurements
of the amount of solutes dissolved in a given
volume of solvent when a solution is formed.
3 The amount of a solute can be measured in
the unit of ‘gram’ or ‘mole’. The quantity of a
solution produced is usually measured in the
unit of volume, dm3.
Comments
A strong alkali ionises completely in water to
produce a high concentration of hydroxide ions in
water and hence a high pH value. (I, II and III are
correct)
A strong alkali exists as ions in water. (IV is
incorrect)
Answer C
Acids and Bases
A
(a) Which of the above solutions has
(i) the highest concentration of H+ ions?
(ii) the highest concentration of OH– ions?
(b) Which of the above solutions is
(i) a strong acid?
(iii) a weak acid?
(ii) a strong alkali?
(iv) a weak alkali?
(c) Which of the above solutions may be
(i) sodium chloride solution?
(ii) hydrochloric acid?
(iii) aqueous ammonia?
(iv) sodium hydroxide solution?
Comments
Nitric acid is a stronger acid (I correct), has a
higher degree of dissociation (III correct) and
hence a higher degree of H+ ions concentration (IV
correct) but a lower pH value than carbonic acid,
which is a weak acid (II incorrect).
Answer C
4
Solution
196
Solution
Mass of copper(II) sulphate = 5.00 g Convert
volume from
Volume of solution = 500 cm3
cm3 to dm3
500
=—
—
—
—
— dm3 = 0.5 dm3
1000
Hence, concentration of copper(II) sulphate solution
5.00 g
=—
—
—
—
—
—
0.5 dm3
Concentration (g dm–3)
Mass of solute dissolved (g)
= 10.0 g dm–3
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
4 The concentration of a solution is the mass
(in grams) or the number of moles of solute
dissolved in a solvent to form 1.0 dm3 (1000
cm3) of solution. Hence the concentration of
a solution can be defined in two ways:
Mass of solute dissolved (g)
Concentration = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Volume of solution (dm3)
–3
(g dm )
Volume of solution (dm3)
Number of moles of
solute (mol)
Concentration = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Volume
of solution (dm3)
–3
(mol dm )
5 For example,
• a 23.0 g dm–3 NaOH solution has 23.0 g of
NaOH in 1.0 dm3 solution.
• a 0.5 mol dm–3 NaOH solution has 0.5 mol
of NaOH in 1.0 dm3 solution.
6 Concentration in terms of mol dm–3 is more
commonly known as molarity. In chemistry,
the measurement of concentration in mol
dm–3 (molarity) is more useful because all
changes in chemical reactions occur in terms
of moles.
7 Concentration (in g dm–3) can be converted
SPM to molarity by dividing concentration (in
’08/P1
g dm–3) by the molar mass. The molar mass is
the mass of 1 mol of substance.
7
2
What is the mass of sodium carbonate required to
dissolve in water to prepare a 200 cm3 solution that
contains 50 g dm–3?
Solution
Volume of solution = 200 cm3
200
Convert volume
=—
—
—
— dm3 = 0.2 dm3
from cm3 to dm3
1000
Concentration mass of Na2CO3 dissolved (g)
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(g dm–3)
volume of solution (dm3)
Mass of Na2CO3 required
= 50 g dm–3  0.2 dm3 Mass = Concentration (g dm–3) 
Volume of solution (dm3)
= 10 g
Concentration (g dm–3)
Molarity (mol dm–3) = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Molar mass (g mol–1)
3
Calculate the number of moles of ammonia in 150
cm3 of 2 mol dm–3 aqueous ammonia.
Solution
M = molarity, V = volume in cm3
MV
Number of moles = —
—
—
—
1000
The relationship between the number of mols with
molarity, M and volume, V can be represented by the
formula below:
MV
Number of moles = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1000
150
Number of moles of ammonia = 2  —
—
—
— = 0.3
1000
where M = molarity of solution (mol dm–3)
V = volume of solution (cm3).
4
A 250 cm3 solution contains 0.4 mol of nitric acid.
Calculate the molarity of the nitric acid.
Calculations Involving Concentrations
and Molarity
Solution
MV
250
Number of moles = —
—
—
—= M  —
—
—
—
1000
1000
1
0.4  1000
Molarity of nitric acid, M = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
250
= 1.6 mol dm–3
5.00 g of copper(II) sulphate is dissolved in water to
form 500 cm3 solution. Calculate the concentration
of copper(II) sulphate solution in g dm–3.
197
Acids and Bases
5
Concentration (g dm–3)
Molarity = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Molar mass (g mol–1)
16
Convert g dm–3
=—
—
—
to mol dm–3
106
–­3
= 0.15 mol dm
Calculate the volume in dm of 0.8 mol dm
sulphuric acid that contains 0.2 mol of H2SO4.
3
–3
Solution
MV
Number of moles = —
—
—
—
1000
Number of moles
8
The concentration of a potassium hydroxide
solution is 84.0 g dm–3. Calculate the number of
moles of potassium hydroxide present in 300 cm3
of the solution.
[Relative atomic mass: H, l; O, 16; K, 39]
Molarity, M
7
0.2 mol
Volume of sulphuric acid = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
0.8 mol dm–3
= 0.25 dm3
6
Solution
Molar mass of KOH = 39 + 16 + 1 = 56
Dilute hydrochloric acid used in school laboratories
usually has a concentration of 2.0 mol dm–3.
Calculate the mass of hydrogen chloride in 250 cm3
of the hydrochloric acid?
[Relative atomic mass: H, l; Cl, 35.5]
Molarity of KOH
Molarity (mol dm–3)
84.0
Concentration (g dm–3)
=—
—
—
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
56
Molar mass (g mol–1)
= 1.5 mol dm–3
Number of moles of KOH
1.5  300
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
MV
1000
Number of moles = —
—
—
—
1000
= 0.45
Solution
Number of moles of HCl
2.0  250
MV
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Number of moles = —
—
—
—
1000
1000
= 0.5
Molar mass of HCl = 1 + 35.5
= 36.5 g mol–1
Mass of HCl = 0.5  36.5 g
= 18.25 g
9
Calculate the number of moles of hydrogen ions
present in 200 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid.
Mass = Number of moles  Molar mass
Solution
Number of moles of H2SO4
0.5  200
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Number of moles
1000
= 0.1
7
4.0 g of sodium carbonate powder, Na2CO3, is
dissolved in water and made up to 250 cm3.
What is the molarity of the sodium carbonate
solution?
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12; O, 16; Na, 23]
MV
=—
—
—
–—
1000
H2SO4 → 2H+ + SO42–
Sulphuric acid is a diprotic acid, which means 1 mol
of sulphuric acid will produce 2 mol of H+ ions.
Hence, 0.1 mol of sulphuric acid will produce
0.1  2 = 0.2 mol of H+ ions.
Solution
Volume of sodium carbonate solution
= 250 cm3 = 0.25 dm3
Convert volume
from cm3 to dm3
Mass (g)
Concentration = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Volume (dm3)
4.0
Convert mass to
=—
—
—
concentration
0.25
–3
=16 g dm
Preparation of Standard Solutions
1 A standard solution is a solution with a
known concentration.
2 A volumetric flask (also known as standard
flask) is an apparatus with a known volume.
Examples are: 100 cm3, 200 cm3, 250 cm3,
500 cm3 and 1000 cm3.
Molar mass of Na2CO3 = (2  23) + 12 + (3  16)
= 106 g mol–1
Acids and Bases
198
3 Volumetric flasks are used to prepare standard
solutions. Beakers are not suitable for this
purpose because volumes measured by
beakers and measuring cylinders are not very
accurate.
4 A volumetric flask can measure the volume of
a liquid accurately, up to one decimal point.
1 Calculate the mass (m g) of the chemical
required to prepare v cm3 of solution where
v is the volume of the volumetric flask.
2 Weigh out the exact mass (m g) of the
chemical accurately in a weighing bottle
using an electronic balance.
3 Dissolve m g of the chemical in a small
amount of distilled water.
4 Transfer the dissolved chemical into the
volumetric flask.
5 Add enough water until the graduation
mark.
Figure 7.10 A 100 cm3 volumetric flask
To prepare 100 cm3 of 2.0 mol dm–3 aqueous sodium
hydroxide solution
SPM
’06/P2
Q4
Materials
Sodium hydroxide solid and distilled water.
Procedure
1 The mass of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) required
to prepare 100 cm3 of 2.0 mol dm–3 aqueous
sodium hydroxide is calculated as follows:
Mass of NaOH required
= Number of moles  molar mass of NaOH
MV
= (—
—
—
—)  (23 + 16 + 1)
1000
2.0  100
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— 40
1000
= 8.0 g
2 8.0 g of sodium hydro­
xide, NaOH solid is
weighed accurately in
a weighing bottle using
an electronic balance.
3 Sodium hydroxide solid
is transferred to a small
beaker. Sufficient dis­
tilled water is added to
dissolve all the solid
sodium hydroxide.
199
Activity 7.5
4 Using a filter funnel and
a glass rod, the dissolved
sodium hydroxide is
transferred to a 100 cm3
volumetric flask.
5 The small beaker, the
weighing bottle and
the filter funnel are all
rinsed with distilled
water and the contents
are transferred into the
volumetric flask.
6 Distilled water is then
added
slowly
until
the water level is near
the level mark of the
volumetric flask. A
dropper is then used
to add water drop by
drop to finally bring the
volume of solution to
the 100 cm3 graduation
mark.
7 The volumetric flask is
closed with a stopper.
The volumetric flask
is then shaken several
times to mix the solution
completely. The solution
prepared is 100 cm3 of
2.0 mol dm–3 aqueous
sodium hydroxide.
Apparatus
Electronic balance, 100 cm3 volumetric flask, filter
funnel, dropper and washing bottle.
7
The steps involved in the preparation of a
standard solution
Acids and Bases
7
The Correct Techniques Used in the Preparation
of Standard Solution
2 When a solution is diluted, the volume of
solvent increases but the number of moles of
solute remains constant. Hence the concentration
of the solution decreases.
3 If a solution with volume of V1 cm3 and molarity
of M1 mol dm–3 is diluted to become V2 cm3,
the new concentration of the diluted solution,
M2 mol dm–3 can be determined as follows:
1 The chemical is weighed in a weighing bottle
and not on a piece of filter paper. Some
chemicals such as sodium hydroxide can
absorb moisture from the air and become wet
and may stick to paper.
2 After transferring the dissolved solute to the
volumetric flask, the weighing bottle, the
small beaker that contained the solution
as well as the filter funnel are rinsed with
distilled water. The content is then transferred
to the volumetric flask to ensure that all the
mass of the chemical that has been weighed is
transferred to the volumetric flask.
3 The addition of distilled water to the
volumetric flask must be carried out carefully
so that the level of the solution does not
exceed the graduation mark of the volumetric
flask. The last few cm3 of water should be
added drop by drop using a dropper.
4 A volumetric flask and not a beaker must be
used to prepare a standard solution because a
volumetric flask is calibrated to a high degree
of accuracy.
5 The volumetric flask is stoppered after the
standard solution is prepared to prevent the
evaporation of water which can change the
concentration of the solution prepared.
Number of moles of
M1V1
=—
—
—
—
—
solute before dilution 1000
Number of moles of
M2V2
= ———
——
solute after dilution
1000
However, the number of moles of solute
before dilution is the same as the number of
moles of solute after dilution,
M2V2
M1V1
———
—— = ———
——
1000
1000
or
M1V1 = M2V2
The steps involved in the preparation of a
standard solution by dilution
1 The volume of the stock solution, V1
required is calculated.
2 The required volume of stock solution is
pipetted into a volumetric flask.
3 Enough distilled water is added to the
volumetric flask to the required volume, V2.
Preparation of a Solution with a Specified
Concentration Using the Dilution Method
The formula used in dilution is M1V1 = M2V2
where M1
M2
V1
V2
1 Dilution is a process of diluting a concentrated
solution by adding a solvent such as water to
obtain a more diluted solution.
=
=
=
=
Initial molarity of solution
Final molarity of solution
Initial volume of solution
Final volume of solution
To prepare 100 cm3 0.2 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide from a
2.0 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide solution by the dilution method
M1V1 = M2V2
Activity 7.6
Apparatus
100 cm3 volumetric flask, 10 cm3 pipette, pipette
filler, filter funnel, dropper and washing bottle.
2.0 3 V1 = 0.2 3 100
0.2 3 100
V1 = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
— = 10 cm3
1.0
Materials
2.0 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide solution and distilled
water.
where M1 = Initial molarity of alkali
M2 = Final molarity of alkali
V1 = Initial volume of alkali
V2 = Final volume of alkali
Procedure
(A) To calculate the volume of sodium hydroxide
solution that is required for dilution
Acids and Bases
200
3 The flask is stoppered and is inverted several
times to mix the solution. The solution prepared
is 0.2 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide solution.
Conclusion
A 0.2 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide solution can be
prepared by diluting 10 cm3 of 2.0 mol dm–3 of
sodium hydroxide solution to 100 cm3.
(a) The higher the degree of dissociation of
an acid, the lower the pH value of the acid.
(b) The higher the degree of dissociation of an
alkali, the higher the pH value of the alkali.
3 For an acid or alkali, its pH value depends on
the molarity of the solution.
(a) The higher the molarity of an acid, the
lower the pH value.
(b) The higher the molarity of an alkali, the
higher the pH value.
Relationship between pH Values and
Molarities of Acids or Alkalis
1 The pH value of an acid or an alkali depends
on two factors, that is
(a) degree of dissociation and
(b) molarity or concentration.
2 At the same concentration, the pH value of
an acid or an alkali depends on the degree of
dissociation.
7.3
7
(B) To prepare 100 cm3 0.2 mol dm–3 sodium
hydroxide by the dilution method
1 Using a pipette and a pipette filler, 10.0 cm3
of 2.0 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide solution is
transferred to a 100 cm3 volumetric flask.
2 Using a washing bottle, distilled water is added to the
alkali in the volumetric flask until near the graduation
mark. A dropper is then used to add water slowly in
the volumetric flask up to the graduation mark.
SPM
’09/P3
To investigate the relationship between pH values and the molarity of an acid or an alkali
Problem statement
What is the relationship between pH values and the
molarity of an acid or an alkali?
0.001 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid as shown in
Figure 7.11.
3 The pH value
shown on the pH
meter is recorded.
4 The pH values
of hydrochloric
acid solutions with
Figure 7.11 Using a pH
different molarities
meter to measure the pH
are measured one
value
by one in dry
beakers as in Steps 1 to 3.
5 The experiment is repeated using sodium
hydroxide solutions with different molarities to
replace the hydrochloric acid.
Hypothesis
(A) When the molarity of an acid increases, its pH
value decreases.
(B) When the molarity of an alkali increases, its pH
value increases.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Molarity of acid or alkali
(b) Responding variable : pH values
(c) Constant variable
: Type of acid or alkali used
Apparatus
pH meter, 100 cm3 beakers and 100 cm3 measuring
cylinders.
Materials
Hydrochloric acids and sodium hydroxide solutions
with molarities of 0.001 mol dm–3, 0.01 mol dm–3,
0.05 mol dm–3, 0.08 mol dm–3 and 0.10 mol dm–3.
Molarities of
0.001 0.01
HCl (mol dm–3)
pH values
Procedure
1 30 cm3 of 0.001 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid is
put in a dry beaker.
2 The probe of a pH meter that has been washed
with distilled water is immersed in 30 cm3 of the
3.0
2.0
0.05
0.08
0.10
1.3
1.1
1.0
Molarities of
0.001 0.01 0.05 0.08 0.10
NaOH (mol dm–3)
pH values
201
11.0 12.0 12.7 12.9 13.0
Acids and Bases
Experiment 7.3
Results
7
4 The graph of pH values versus molarity of
an alkali is an increasing curve as shown in
Figure 7.13.
5 When the molarity of an alkali increases, the
concentration of OH– ions in the alkali increases
and the solution becomes more alkaline. Hence
the pH value increases.
Discussion
1 The graph of pH values versus molarity of
an acid is a decreasing curve as shown in
Figure 7.12.
2 When the molarity of an acid increases, the
concentration of H+ ions in the acid increases
and the solution becomes more acidic. Hence the
pH value decreases.
3 From the graph, we can predict
(a) the pH value, if the concentration of H+ ions
of the solution is known.
(b) the concentration of H+ ions in the solution, if
the pH value is known.
Figure 7.13 Graph of pH versus molarity of NaOH
Conclusion
1 The higher the molarity of hydrochloric acid,
the lower the pH value. The pH value of an acid
decreases with the increase in molarity.
2 The higher the molarity of an alkali, the higher
the pH value. The pH value of an alkali increases
with the increase in molarity.
The hypothesis is accepted.
Figure 7.12 Graph of pH versus molarity of HCl
0.8  250
M2 = —
—
—
—
—
—
— = 0.2 mol dm–3
1000
Molarity of potassium hydroxide solution produced
is 0.2 mol dm–3.
Numerical Problems Involving Molarity
of Acids and Alkalis
1 The molarity of an acid will change when
(a) water is added to it,
(b) an acid of a different concentration is
added to it,
(c) an alkali is added to it.
11
What is the volume of distilled water required to be
added to 60 cm3 of 2.0 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid to
produce a 0.3 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid?
10
What is the molarity of the potassium hydroxide
solution produced when 750 cm3 of distilled water
is added to 250 cm3 of potassium hydroxide solution
of 0.8 mol dm–3?
Solution
M1V1 = M2V2
2.0  60 = 0.3  V2
2.0  60
V2 = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
0.3
3
= 400 cm
Solution
Final volume of alkali, V2 = 250 cm3 + 750 cm3
= 1000 cm3
M1V1 = M2V2
0.8  250 = M2  1000
Acids and Bases
Calculate the total volume
of acid produced
Volume of distilled water needed to be added to
60 cm3 H2SO4 = (400 – 60) cm3 = 340 cm3.
202
12
500 cm3 of a solution that contains 2.0 mol sodium
hydroxide is added to 1500 cm3 of a solution that
contains 4.0 mol sodium hydroxide. Calculate the
molarity of the sodium hydroxide solution produced.
Two units for concentration
mol dm–3
 molar mass
determined by
determined by
Mass of solute (g)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Volume of solution (dm3)
Total volume of NaOH
= (500 + 1500) cm3
= 2000 cm3
Calculate the total volume of alkali
from the two solutions
= 2 dm3
No. of moles of solute (mol)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Volume of solution (dm3)
7.3
Molarity of
Number of moles
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
NaOH produced
Volume (dm3)
6.0 mol
=—
—
—
—
—
—
2 dm3
= 3.0 mol dm–3
1 Calculate the mass of potassium hydroxide required
to produce
(a) 2.0 dm3 of 46.4 g dm–3 solution
(b) 100 cm3 of 2.0 mol dm–3 solution
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; O, 16; K, 39]
2 2.12 g of sodium carbonate is dissolved in 500 cm3
of distilled water. What is the concentration of the
solution in
(a) g dm–3?
(b) mol dm–3?
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12; O, 16; Na, 23]
13
200 cm3 of 2.0 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid is added to
300 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid. Calculate
the molarity of the hydrochloric acid produced.
3 The concentration of sodium hydroxide solution is
8.0 g dm–3.
(a) What is the molarity of the solution?
(b) What is the molarity of the solution produced
when 100 cm3 of distilled water is added to
100 cm3 of this solution?
(c) What is the molarity of the solution produced
when 20 cm3 of 2.0 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide
solution is added to 100 cm3 of this solution?
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; O, 16; Na, 23]
Solution
Number of moles in 200 cm3 of 2.0 mol dm–3 HCl
MV 2.0  200
=—
—
—
—= —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1000
1000
= 0.4
Calculate the total
Number of moles in 300 cm3
of 0.5 mol dm–3 HCl
MV
0.5  300
=—
—
—
—= —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1000
1000
= 0.15
 molar mass
g dm–3
number of moles of
acid from the two
solutions.
7.4
Total number of moles of HCl = 0.4 + 0.15
= 0.55
Neutralisation
The Meaning of Neutralisation and the
Equation for Neutralisation
Total volume of solution = (200 + 300) cm3
= 500 cm3
Calculate the total volume of
= 0.5 dm3
acid from the two solutions.
1 Neutralisation is the reaction between an
acid and a base to produce salt and water
only.
2 In a neutralisation reaction, the acidity of an
acid is neutralised by an alkali. At the same
time, the alkalinity of the alkali is neutralised
by the acid. Salt and water are the only
products of neutralisation.
Molarity of
Number of moles of HCl
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
HCl produced
Volume of HCl
0.55 mol
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— = 1.1 mol dm–3
0.5 dm3
203
Acids and Bases
7
Solution
Total number of moles of NaOH
= 2.0 + 4.0
Calculate the total number of moles
= 6.0
of alkali from the two solutions.
3 Some examples of neutralisation reactions are
as follows:
acid
base
salt
The ionic equation for neutralisation between
strong acids and strong alkalis is
water
H+(aq) + OH–(aq) → H2O(l)
HCl
+ NaOH → NaCl
+ H2O
H2SO4 + CuO
→ CuSO4
+ H2O
2HNO3 + Ca(OH)2 → Ca(NO3)2 + 2H2O
7 In a neutralisation reaction, H+ ions from
the acid react with OH– ions from the base to
produce water. The pH value for water is 7,
and a neutral condition is achieved.
4 In the reaction between ammonia and acid
such as hydrochloric acid, ammonium salt is
formed.
5
7
NH3 + HCl → NH4Cl
Which of the following pairs of compounds will
react in a neutralisation reaction?
I Hydrochloric acid and potassium hydroxide
II Sulphuric acid and solid copper(II) oxide
III Nitric acid and solid calcium carbonate
IV Hydrochloric acid and zinc metal
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C I, III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
Although there is no water formed in the
above equation, in actual fact there is a little
water formed together with NH4Cl. This is
because a portion of ammonia, NH3 exists as
NH4+ ions and OH– ions in aqueous solution.
OH– ions and H+ ions (from acid) react to
produce water, H2O.
5 Acids, bases and salts dissociate to form free
ions. Only water exists as molecules.
For example,
Comments
Neutralisation is a reaction between an acid and a
base to form salts and water only. Reactions in I
and II are neutralisation because the two reactants
react to form salts and water only. Reaction III is
not neutrali­­
sa­
tion because carbon dioxide gas is
formed in addition to salt and water. Reaction IV is
not neutrali­sa­tion because hydrogen gas is formed
in addition to salt.
Answer A
H+(aq) + Cl–(aq) + Na+(aq) + OH–(aq) →
from HCl
from NaOH
Na+(aq) + Cl–(aq) + H2O(l)
from NaCl
’03
water
molecule
6 Since Na+ ions and Cl– ions do not undergo
any changes in the reaction, these ions can be
omitted from the equation. Thus, the equation
can be simplified.
Applications of Neutralisation in Daily Life
Neutralisation is used in various fields such as agriculture, health and industries.
In agriculture
1 Controlling the acidity of water is important
in the rearing of freshwater fish and prawns.
Lime (consisting of calcium oxide, CaO)
which produces calcium hydroxide in water is
used to control the acidity in aqua farming.
2 Plants do not grow well in acidic soil or basic
soil. Lime or calcium carbonate is used to
neutralise acidic soil. Basic soil is treated
with compost which can release acidic gas to
neutralise the alkali in basic soil.
Acids and Bases
SPM
’09/P1,
’10/P1
Calcium oxide and calcium hydroxide are used to
neutralise acidic soil
204
SPM
In health
produced. This will prevent the corrosion of
teeth enamel.
2 Antacids are medicine which contain bases
such as magnesium hydroxide, aluminium
hydroxide, calcium carbonate and calcium
bicarbonate. Magnesia milk contains
magnesium hydroxide. Antacids and milk of
magnesia are used to neutralise the excess
hydrochloric acid in the stomachs of
gastric patients.
3 Alkaline creams or baking powder are applied
to cure bee stings and ant bites which are
acidic. Vinegar which contains ethanoic acid
is used to cure alkaline wasp stings.
Toothpastes contain magnesium hydroxide to
neutralise acids in teeth
1 Food trapped in gaps between teeth decompose
into organic acids by bacteria. An alkaline
compound such as magnesium hydroxide
in toothpastes neutralises the organic acids
In industries
1 Bacteria in latex produces organic acids which
coagulate latex. Ammonia is used to neutralise
the organic acids produced by bacteria to
prevent coagulation, so that latex can remain
in the liquid state.
2 Calcium carbonate is used as a base to remove
acidic gas such as sulphur dioxide emitted by
power stations and industries.
3 Effluent from factories which is acidic is
treated with lime, which will neutralise the
acids in it before being discharged.
4 Neutralisation reaction is also used in the
industry to produce manufactured products
such as fertilisers, soaps and detergents.
Acidic gas emitted by factories must be removed
before being discharged
(a) The use of acid–base indicators such as
methyl orange, phenolphthalein and
litmus paper which changes colour at the
end point.
(b) Measurement of the pH values during
titration using a computer interface.
5 Titration technique can be used to determine
the concentration of an acid (or an alkali).
Acid-base Titration
1 Titration is a quantitative analysis that involves
the gradual addition of a chemical solution
from a burette to another chemical solution of
known quantity in a conical flask.
2 In acid-base titration, the volume of the alkali
is measured using a pipette and transferred
into a conical flask. The acid solution from a
burette is then added slowly to the alkali in
the conical flask until neutralisation occurs.
3 The end point of a titration is when neutralisation
occurs, that is, when the acid has completely
neutralised the alkali.
4 Since both the reactants (acid and alkali) and
the products formed (salt and water) are all
colourless, the end point of neutralisation is
determined as follows:
The Use of Acid-base Indicators in
Titrations
1 Acid–base indicators are chemicals that show
different colours when the pH value of the
solution changes.
2 Table 7.10 shows the colour of three common
types of indicators at different pH values.
205
Acids and Bases
7
’08/P1
3 The pH meter records changes in pH values
during titration. The information is linked to
a computer by the interface. The change of
pH values along the progress of titration is
displayed on the computer screen.
Table 7.10 Colours of three common types of
indicators in alkaline, neutral and
acidic conditions
Indicator
Colour in
alkali
Methyl orange
Yellow
Colour in
Colour in
neutral
acid
solution
Orange
Red
Phenolphthalein Light pink Colourless Colourless
7
Litmus
Blue
Purple
Red
3 Methyl orange shows a yellow colour
in an alkaline solution. At the point of
neutralisation, the colour changes from yellow
to orange.
4 Phenolphthalein shows a light pink in an alkaline
solution. The first drop of acid that decolourises
the light pink colour of phenolphthalein
indicates the end point of titration.
In computer interface, the pH is displayed on a screen
4 A graph of pH value versus volume of alkali
added is shown as in Figure 7.14. It is found
that the pH value of the solution changes
sharply at the end point of neutralisation.
The neutralisation point can be determined
from the midpoint of the sharp pH change.
The Use of Computer Interface in
Titration
1 When an alkaline solution is added slowly
from a burette to an acid in a conical flask,
the pH value of the mixture solution increases
slowly.
2 In titrations using a computer interface, the
probe of a pH meter, immersed in the solution
to be titrated, is connected to the pH module
of the computer interface.
Figure 7.14 Graph of pH value versus volume of
alkali added
To find the end point of an acid-base titration during
neutralisation using an acid-base indicator
3 A 50 cm3 burette is rinsed with distilled water and
then rinsed with a little of the sulphuric acid.
4 The burette is then filled with sulphuric acid
and is clamped to a retort stand. The initial
burette reading is recorded.
5 The conical flask containing 25 cm3 of potassium
hydroxide is placed below the burette. A piece
of white tile is placed below the conical flask
for clearer observation of the colour change
(Figure 7.15).
6 Sulphuric acid is added slowly from the burette
to the potassium hydroxide solution in the
conical flask while swirling the flask gently.
7 Titration is stopped when the methyl orange
changes colour from yellow to orange. The
final burette reading is recorded.
Apparatus
25 cm3 pipette, pipette filler, 50 cm3 burette, retort stand,
retort clamp, conical flask, filter funnel and white tile.
Activity 7.7
Materials
Sulphuric acid of unknown concentration, 1.0 mol dm–3
potassium hydroxide and methyl orange.
Procedure
1 A clean 25 cm3 pipette is rinsed with distilled
water and then rinsed with a little of the
potassium hydroxide solution.
2 25 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3 potassium hydroxide is
transferred using the pipette to a clean conical
flask. Three drops of methyl orange indicator
are added to the alkali and the colour of the
solution is noted.
Acids and Bases
SPM
’10/P2
206
8 Steps 1 to 7 are repeated until accurate titration
values are obtained, that is, until the difference
in the volumes of sulphuric acid used in two
consecutive experiments is less than 0.10 cm3.
Figure 7.15 Titration of sulphuric acid with
potassium hydroxide
Results
Volume of sulphuric acid
Rough
Accurate
Final burette reading (cm3)
21.00
40.95 20.15
Initial burette reading (cm )
0.00
21.00 0.10
Volume of sulphuric acid
used (cm3)
21.00
19.95 20.05
3
Conclusion
1 The volume of sulphuric acid used is calculated
as follows:
Volume of sulphuric acid used
= Final burette reading – Initial burette reading
2 Average volume of sulphuric acid used
Discussion
1 In this experiment, the pipette has to be rinsed with
potassium hydroxide solution so that water droplets
on the inner wall of the pipette do not dilute the
concentration of the potassium hydroxide used.
2 The burette is rinsed with sulphuric acid so that
water droplets at the inner wall of the burette do not
dilute the concentration of the sulphuric acid used.
3 The conical flask does not need to be rinsed with
potassium hydroxide so that the volume of the
potassium hydroxide in the conical flasks will
accurately be 25.0 cm3. Otherwise, droplets of
potassium hydroxide in the conical flask may
cause the volume of potassium hydroxide to
exceed 25.0 cm3.
4 The end point of titration is when the colour of
the indicator changes sharply. The colour of
methyl orange is yellow in potassium hydroxide
solution (because pH > 7). At the end point,
the colour of methyl orange changes to orange
(pH = 7). If methyl orange changes to a red
colour, excess sulphuric acid has been added.
5 In acid-base titrations, only 2 or 3 drops of
indicator should be used. This is because most
of the indicators are weak acid or base that will
affect the pH of the solution if used in excess.
7
19.95 + 20.05
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— = 20.00 cm3
2
Hence, 20.00 cm3 of H2SO4 is required to
completely neutralise 25.0 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3
KOH.
3 A 50 cm3 burette is rinsed with distilled water and
then with a little of the sodium hydroxide solution.
4 The burette is then filled with sodium hydroxide
solution and is clamped to a retort stand.
5 A magnetic stirrer bar is placed in the beaker
containing 25 cm3 of hydrochloric acid. The beaker
is then placed on a magnetic stirrer below the burette.
6 A pH meter is connected to a computer using
a computer interface. The pH meter probe is
then dipped into the acid. The magnetic stirrer
is switched on and the computer is set to record
and display the pH (Figure 7.16).
7 Sodium hydroxide solution is added drop by
drop from the burette at a constant rate, into the
acid in the beaker.
Apparatus
25 cm3 pipette, pipette filler, 50 cm3 burette, retort
stand, retort clamp, 250 cm3 beaker, filter funnel,
magnetic stirrer, magnetic stirrer bar, pH meter,
computer interface and computer.
Materials
1.0 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid and 1.0 mol dm–3
sodium hydroxide.
Procedure
1 A 25 cm3 pipette is rinsed with distilled water
and then with a little of the hydrochloric acid.
2 25 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid is
transferred using the pipette to a clean beaker.
207
Acids and Bases
Activity 7.8
To find the end point of acid–base titration during
neutralisation using a computer interface
7
8 A graph of pH change against the volume of sodium hydroxide in cm3 is printed using the computer printer
when 50 cm3 of sodium hydroxide is added to the beaker.
Figure 7.16 Using a pH meter and a computer interface to measure pH changes during neutralisation
Results
1 A graph of pH against the volume of sodium
hydroxide in cm3 as displayed by the computer
is shown in Figure 7.17.
Conclusion
1 The pH value of hydrochloric acid is 1.0 at the
beginning of titration. As sodium hydroxide is
added to the acid, the pH value of the solution
increases.
2 The pH value increases sharply at the end point
of neutralisation. The midpoint of the sharp pH
change is 7. At pH 7, the volume of sodium
hydroxide used from the graph is 25.0 cm3.
3 When 1.0 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide is titrated
against 25.0 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3 hydrochloric
acid, the end point of titration during neutralisation
occurs at pH 7 when 25 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3 of
sodium hydroxide solution has been added.
4 By using a computer interface to measure
pH changes, the end point of titration during
nuetralisation can be determined accurately.
Figure 7.17 Graph of pH against the volume of
sodium hydroxide in cm3
6
’95
Describe an experiment to determine the concentration
of a solution of sulphuric acid by titrating it with a
1.0 mol dm–3 potassium hydroxide solution.
Solution
A titration experiment similar to Activity 7.7 is carried
out in which sulphuric acid of unknown concentration
is titrated against 25.0 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3 potassium
hydroxide using methyl orange (or phenolphthalein)
as an indicator.
Let's say the volume of sulphuric acid required to
neutralise completely 25.0 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3 potassium
hydroxide is V cm3.
Number of moles of KOH in 25.0 cm3 of
MV
1.0 3 25.0
1.0 mol dm–3 solution = ——— = ——————— = 0.025
1000
1000
Acids and Bases
The equation for the neutralisation reaction between
potassium hydroxide and sulphuric acid is
2KOH + H2SO4 → K2SO4 + 2H2O
According to the equation, 2 mol of KOH requires
1 mol of H2SO4 for complete neutralisation.
0.025 mol KOH will require
1
0.025 3 — = 0.0125 mol H2SO4
2
MV
Number of moles of H2SO4 = ———
1000
Molarity of sulphuric acid, M = 0.0125 3 1000/V
12.5
= ——— mol dm–3
V
208
Calculation Involving Neutralisation
Using Balanced Equations
14
SPM
’09/P2
SPM
’11/P1
In an experiment, 25.0 cm3 of a sodium hydroxide
solution of unknown concentration required
26.50 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid for
complete reaction in titration. Calculate the molarity
of sodium hydroxide.
1 Say, in a balanced equation, a mol of acid
reacts with b mol of base as represented by the
equation below:
aA + bB → products
Solution
b=2
MBVB 2
—
—
—
—= —
MAVA 1
MB  25.0
2
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—= —
1.0  26.50 1
MAVA
Number of moles of acid = —
—
—
—
1000
where
MB = molarity of NaOH
MA = molarity of H2SO4
VB = volume of NaOH
VA = volume of H2SO4
26.50
—
—
—
—
MB = 2  —
25.0
= 2.12 mol dm–3
MBVB
Number of moles of base = —
—
—
—
1000
Hence, the molarity of sodium hydroxide solution
is 2.12 mol dm–3.
In the stoichiometry equation, a mol of acid
HA reacts completely with b mol of base,
M(OH)X. Hence the mole ratio of acid to base
is
MAVA
—
—
—
—
1000 a
—
—
—
—= —
or
MBVB b
—
—
—
—
1000
a=1
SPM
15
’10/P1,
’11/P2
What is the volume of 1.5 mol dm–3 aqueous
ammonia required to completely neutralise 30.0 cm3
of 0.5 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid?
MAVA
a
—
—
—
—— = —
MBVB
b
Solution
3 From the above relationship, the ratio of a
and b can be obtained from the balanced
equation. Any one of the four variables: MA,
VA, MB, VB, can be determined if three of the
other variables are known.
b=2
2NH3 + H2SO4 → (NH4)2SO4
MBVB 2
—
—
—
—= —
MAVA 1
a=1
2
1.5  VB
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—= —
0.5  30.0 1
1 The volume of a solution in a burette is read from
the top to the bottom.
2 The accuracy of a burette reading is until 2 decimal
places.
3 The accuracy of a pipette reading is until 1 decimal
place.
where
MB = molarity of NH3
MA = molarity of H2SO4
VB = volume of NH3
VA = volume of H2SO4
2  30.0  0.5
VB = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— = 20 cm3
1.5
Hence, the volume of aqueous ammonia required is
20 cm3.
209
Acids and Bases
7
2NaOH + H2SO4 → Na2SO4 + 2H2O
2 Say, the molarity of an acid is MA mol dm
and the molarity of a base is MB mol dm–3. If
in a titration, VA cm3 of acid neutralises VB cm3
of base
–3
16
Calculate the volume (cm3) of 2.0 mol dm–3
hydrochloric acid that is required to react completely
with 2.65 g of sodium carbonate.
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12; O, 16; Na, 23]
• In an aqueous solution, the concentration of H+
ions in CH3COOH is lower than HCl of the same
concentration. This is because CH3COOH dissociates
partially in water.
• However, both CH3COOH and HCl of the same
concentration require the same amount of NaOH
for complete neutralisation. This is because both are
monoprotic (monobasic) acids. In the presence of
NaOH, CH3COOH dissociates completely to react
with NaOH.
• In an acid-base titration, the preferred chemical to be
put in the burette is the acid. This is because alkali
can react with silica in glass to form silicate, thus
dissolving the thin glass wall of the burette slowly.
Solution
Molar mass of Na2CO3
= (23  2) + 12 + (16  3) = 106 g
mass
Number of moles of Na2CO3 = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
molar mass
7
2.65
=—
—
—
— = 0.025
106
Na2CO3 + 2HCl → 2NaCl + CO2 + H2O
From the equation, 1 mol of Na2CO3 reacts with
2 mol of HCl.
Hence, 0.025 mol of Na2CO3 will react with
0.025  2 = 0.05 mol of HCl.
where
MV
Number of moles =—
—
—
—
1000 M = molarity of HCl
V = volume of HCl
2.0 V
0.05 = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
1000
0.05  1000
V=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— = 25 cm3
2.0
Hence, the volume of hydrochloric acid required is
25 cm3.
7.4
1 Complete the blanks in the equations below:
(a) 2HCl + Mg →
(b) H2SO4 + Zn(OH)2 →
+
(c)
+ NaOH → CH3COONa + H2O
(d)
+
→ CaSO4 + 2H2O
2 Nitric acid reacts with magnesium hydroxide solution
to produce magnesium nitrate, Mg(NO3)2 and
water.
(a) Write a balanced equation for the reaction
between nitric acid and magnesium hydroxide.
(b) 10.0 cm3 of nitric acid is required to neutralise
0.001 mol of magnesium hydroxide. Calculate
the concentration of the nitric acid in mol
dm–3.
17
15 cm3 of an acid with the formula HaX of 0.1 mol dm–3
required 30 cm3 of 0.15 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide
solution for complete neutralisation. Calculate the value
of a and hence determine the basicity of the acid.
3 Sodium carbonate reacts with hydrochloric acid as
represented by the equation below:
Solution
HaX + aNaOH → aH2O + NaaX
Na2CO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) →
2NaCl(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)
MAVA
1
—
—
—
—
—= —
MBVB
a
Calculate the volume (cm3) of 1.25 mol dm–3
hydrochloric acid that is required to react completely
with 25.0 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3 sodium carbonate.
0.1 3 15
1
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—= —
0.15 3 30 a
4 15.0 cm3 of sulphuric acid neutralises 25.0 cm3
of 2.0 mol dm–3 aqueous ammonia. Calculate the
molarity of the sulphuric acid used.
a=3
Hence HaX is a tribasic acid.
Acids and Bases
+
210
Acids
Alkalis
Acids are sour in taste
Alkalis are bitter in
taste and feel soapy
pH values of less
than 7
pH values of more
than 7
Changes blue litmus
paper to red
Changes red litmus
paper to blue
7 Chemical properties of an acid:
(a) Reacts with a base to produce a salt and water.
(b) Reacts with a reactive metal to produce a salt
and hydrogen gas is evolved.
MB = molarity of alkali
VB = volume of alkali
7
Multiple-choice Questions
7.1
Characteristics and
Properties of Acids and
Bases
1 Chemical X is an acid. Which of
the following may not be true
about the property of X?
A A pink colour is produced
when phenolphthalein is
added to a solution of X.
B Hydrogen gas is evolved
when zinc powder is added
to a solution of X.
C A solution of X reacts with an
alkali to produce salt and water.
D X dissolves in water to
produce H+ ions.
2 Which of the following
statements is true of all bases?
’07 A Dissolve in water
B Contain hydroxide ions
C Have a pH value of between
12 and 13
D Produce ammonia gas when
heated with ammonium salts
3 The diagram shows the set-up
of apparatus for the reaction
’06 between solution Z and
magnesium ribbon.
211
Which of the following is solution
Z?
A Glacial ethanoic acid
B Ethanoic acid in
methylbenzene
C Concentrated ethanoic acid
D Hydrogen chloride dissolved
in propanone
Acids and Bases
7
(c) Reacts with a metal carbonate to produce a
salt, carbon dioxide gas and water.
8 Chemical properties of an alkali:
(a) Reacts with an acid to produce a salt and
water.
(b) When heated with an ammonium salt,
ammonia gas is produced.
9 The pH scale is a set of numbers range from (0
to 14) used to measure acidity or alkalinity of a
substance.
10 The pH value of an acid or alkali depends on
(a) the degree of dissociation (strength of acid or
alkali),
(b) the concentration of the acid or alkali.
11 A standard solution is a solution of known
concentration.
12 The concentration of a solution is measured in
g dm–3 or mol dm–3.
13 Neutralisation is the reaction between an acid and
a base to produce a salt and water only.
14 When a mol of acid reacts completely with b mol of
alkali in a reaction:
MAVA
a
M = molarity of acid
———–
= —— , where A
b
VA = volume of acid
MBVB
1 An acid is a chemical compound that produces
­
hydrogen ions, H+ or
hydroxonium ions, H3O+
when it dissolves in water.
2 Dry acids without water do not show any acidic
property because they do not dissociate to H+ ions.
3 A base is defined as a chemical substance that can
neutralise an acid to produce a salt and water.
Most bases are not soluble in water. Bases that are
soluble in water are known as alkalis.
4 An alkali is defined as a chemical compound that
dissolves in water to produce free moving hydroxide
ions, OH–.
5 Dry alkalis do not show alkaline property.
6 Physical properties of acids and alkalis:
4 The colours of indicator X in
solutions of different pH values
are shown below.
pH value 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
←⎯→ ←⎯→ ←⎯⎯→ ←⎯→ ←⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→ ←⎯→ ←⎯→
Colour red orange yellow green bluish-green blue purple
7
Indicator X will show a green
colour in a solution of 0.1 mol
dm–3 of
A sodium hydroxide solution
B sodium chloride solution
C aqueous ammonia
D ethanoic acid
5 Which of the following
substances can change red
litmus paper to blue when
dissolved in water?
A Carbon dioxide gas
B Glacial ethanoic acid
C Solid sodium oxide
D Solid sodium sulphate
6 The acidity of hydrogen chloride
gas cannot be shown when
it dissolves in the following
solvents:
I Water
II Ethanol
III Methylbenzene
IV Propanone
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C I and III only
D II, III and IV only
7 Zinc carbonate powder is added
to liquid X. A gas which turns
limewater milky is evolved. X
could be
A glacial ethanoic acid.
B aqueous citric acid.
C hydrogen chloride gas
dissolved in methylbenzene.
D hydrogen chloride gas
dissolved in propanone.
8 The table shows the pH for four
aqueous solutions, W, X, Y and Z.
Aqueous
solutions
W
X
Y
Z
pH
2
7
12
13
When two of the solutions with
the same volume are added
together, which mixture will react
Acids and Bases
with magnesium powder to
liberate hydrogen gas?
A W and X
B X and Y
C X and Z
D Y and Z
9 Sulphuric acid is known as a
diprotic acid because
A there are two hydrogen atoms
in one molecule of sulphuric
acid.
B one mole of sulphuric acid
contains two moles of
hydrogen atoms.
C one mole of sulphuric acid
dissociates into two moles of
hydrogen ions in water.
D sulphuric acid can be neutralised
by two types of bases.
10 Which of the following particles
in a solution of ammonia is
responsible for its alkaline
properties?
A NH3
B OH–
C H+
D NH4+
7.2
The Strength of Acids
and Alkalis
11 A chemical that dissociates
completely in water to produce
hydroxide ions is a
A strong acid
B weak acid
C strong alkali
D weak alkali
12 The table shows the degree of
dissociation of four solutions
of acids which have the same
concentration
Solution
Degree of
dissociation
W
High
X
Medium
Y
Very high
Z
Low
Which solution has the highest
pH value?
A W
C Y
B X
D Z
212
13 Ethanoic acid is a weak acid
because
A it is an organic acid.
B it dissolves slightly in water.
C it is a weak conductor of
electricity.
D it ionises partially to form
hydrogen ions in water.
14 Which of the following solutions
has the highest pH value?
A Ethanoic acid, 0.01 mol dm–3
B Hydrochloric acid, 0.01 mol
dm–3
C Aqueous ammonia, 0.01 mol
dm–3
D Sodium hydroxide solution,
0.01 mol dm–3
15
Which of the following
statements is true of the two
aqueous solutions shown above?
A Both solutions are strong
acids.
B The pH of both solutions are
equal.
C Both solutions are strong
electrolytes.
D 25.0 cm3 of each solution
requires 25.0 cm3 of 1.0 mol
dm–3 sodium hydroxide to be
neutralised.
16 Which of the following solutions
contains the highest number of
’11 hydrogen ions?
A 50 cm3 of 2 mol dm–3
ethanoic acid
B 40 cm3 of 1 mol dm–3
sulphuric acid
C 30 cm3 of 2 mol dm–3 nitric
acid
D 50 cm3 of 1 mol dm–3
hydrochloric acid
17 Which of the following is true
when water is added to an
aqueous sodium hydroxide
solution?
18 An aqueous solution of Q has a
pH value of 1. Q may be
I 0.1 mol dm–3 hydrochloric
acid
II 0.001 mol dm–3 sulphuric
acid
III 0.1 mol dm–3 nitric acid
IV 0.1 mol dm–3 ethanoic acid
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C I, II and III only
D I, III and IV only
19 Which of the following statements
is true of both nitric acid and
sulphuric acid?
A Both are organic acids.
B Both are diprotic acids.
C Both undergo complete
dissociation in water.
D Both react with copper to
produce hydrogen gas.
7.3
Concentration of Acids
and Alkalis
20 Steps I to V below show the
five steps that are involved in
the preparation of a standard
solution of sodium hydroxide,
NaOH which may not be
arranged in correct order.
I Add distilled water until the
graduation mark
II Weigh the mass of sodium
hydroxide
III Transfer the solid sodium
hydroxide into the volumetric
flask
IV Rinse the weighing bottle and
pour the solution into the
volumetric flask
V Shake the volumetric flask
Which of the following is the
correct order of steps in the
preparation?
A I, II, III, IV, V
B II, III, I, IV, V
C II, III, IV, I, V
D II, I, III, IV, V
21 Calculate the mass of potassium
hydroxide that is required to
prepare 250 cm3 of 2.0 mol
dm–3 solution. [Relative atomic
mass: H, 1; O, 16; K, 39]
A 22.4 g
C 56 g
B 28 g
D 112 g
22 0.2 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid is
added slowly to a conical flask
containing 20.0 cm3 of 0.2 mol
dm–3 potassium hydroxide and
10 cm3 of water. What is the total
volume (in cm3) of the solution
in the flask when the solution is
completely neutralised?
A 30
C 50
B 40
D 60
23 The table shows four different
test tubes P, Q, R and S
containing different acids.
Test tube
Content
P
15 cm of 0.5 mol dm–3
hydrochloric acid
Q
15 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3
ethanoic acid
R
10 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3
nitric acid
S
10 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3
sulphuric acid
3
Which test tube will produce the
biggest volume of hydrogen gas
with excess magnesium?
A P
C R
B Q
D S
24 Which of the following sodium
hydroxide solutions have a
concentration of 0.5 mol dm–3?
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; O,
16; Na, 23]
I 5 g NaOH in 250 cm3 of water
II 20 g NaOH in 1 dm3 of water
III 250 cm3 of 2 mol dm–3
NaOH to which distilled water
is added until it becomes
1 dm3
IV 1 mol dm–3 NaOH diluted to
twice its volume
A I and III only
B II and III only
C III and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
213
25 When 2.8 g of potassium
hydroxide is dissolved in 250
cm3 of distilled water, which of
the following are true about the
solution produced? [Relative
atomic mass: H, 1; O, 16; K, 39]
I It has a molarity of 0.05 mol
dm–3.
II It contains 11.2 g in 1 dm3.
III The solution produces 0.2
mol of hydroxide ions.
IV It contains 2 mol in 10 dm3 of
solution.
A I and II only
B I and III only
C III and IV only
D II and IV only
26 What is the mass of sodium
hydroxide contained in 50 cm3 of
0.4 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide
solution? [Relative atomic mass:
H, 1; O, 16; Na, 23]
A 0.4 g
B 0.8 g
C 1.6 g
D 3.2 g
27 Calculate the number of moles
of hydroxide ions in 2 dm3 of
calcium hydroxide solution with
a concentration of 14.8 g dm–3.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; O,
16; Ca, 40]
A 0.20
B 0.26
C 0.40
D 0.44
28 Which of the following
substances will react with glacial
ethanoic acid?
A Zinc metal
B Ammonia gas
C Potassium hydroxide solid
D Aqueous sodium carbonate
solution
7.4
Neutralisation
29 The ionic equation for the reaction
between nitric acid and sodium
hydroxide is represented by
A 2H2 + O2 → 2H2O
B H+ + OH– → H2O
C 2H+ + O2– → H2O
D Na+ + NO3–→ NaNO3
Acids and Bases
7
A The pH value decreases.
B The degree of ionisation
decreases.
C The hydroxide ion
concentration increases.
D The alkalinity increases.
7
30 Plants do not grow well in acidic
soil. Which of the following are
used to neutralise acidic soil?
I Sodium hydroxide
II Calcium hydroxide
III Potassium hydroxide
IV Calcium oxide
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C I, II and III only
D I, II, III and IV
31 Antacid is used to neutralise
excess acid in the stomach.
Which of the following chemicals
is found in antacid?
A Sodium hydroxide
B Potassium hydroxide
C Magnesium hydroxide
D Ammonia
32 20 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3
sulphuric acid is added to 20
cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 sodium
hydroxide. Which of the following
statements are true?
I Neutralisation reaction takes
place.
II The solution produced is
acidic.
III 0.02 mol of water is
produced.
IV The solution contains sodium
sulphate and water only.
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C II and III only
D I, III and IV only
33 The equation shows the reaction
between calcium carbonate and
hydrochloric acid.
CaCO3 + 2HCl → CaCl2 + CO2 + H2O
What is the mass of calcium
carbonate required to react
completely with 10 cm3 of 2.0
mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid?
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12; O,
16; Ca, 40]
A 0.5 g
B 1.0 g
C 2.0 g
D 4.0 g
Acids and Bases
34
Fe + 2HCl → FeCl2 + H2
Based on the equation above,
calculate the mass of iron
that will react with excess
hydrochloric acid to produce
60 cm3 of hydrogen gas at
room temperature. [Relative
atomic mass: Fe, 56; 1 mol of
gas occupies 24 dm3 at room
temperature]
A 0.14 g
B 0.28 g
C 3.36 g
D 22.4 g
35
2NaOH(aq) + H2SO4(aq) →
Na2SO4(aq) + 2H2O(l)
The equation above shows
the neutralisation reaction
between sodium hydroxide and
sulphuric acid. Calculate the
number of moles of sodium
hydroxide that is required to
neutralise 25 cm3 of 2.0 mol
dm–3 sulphuric acid.
A 0.05 mol
B 0.10 mol
C 0.50 mol
D 1.00 mol
36 10.0 cm3 of a certain 0.5 mol
dm–3 acid requires 50.0 cm3
of 0.3 mol dm–3 sodium
hydroxide solution for complete
neutralisation.
Which of the following is the
possible molecular formula for
this acid?
A HNO3
B H2SO4
C H3PO4
D CH3COOH
37 Which of the following reactions
represent neutralisation?
I CaCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) →
CaCl2(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)
II H+(aq) + OH–(aq) → H2O(l)
III Ba(OH)2(aq) + H2SO4(aq)
→ BaSO4(s) + 2H2O(l)
214
IV CuO(s) + H2(g) →
Cu(s) + H2O(l)
A I and III only
B II and III only
C I, II and III only
D II, III and IV only
38 The reaction between dilute
hydrochloric acid and calcium
carbonate is represented by the
equation as follows.
CaCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) →
CaCl2(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)
What is the minimum volume
of 2 mol dm–3 hydrochloric
acid that is required to react
completely with 5 g of calcium
carbonate?
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12;
O, 16; Ca, 40]
A 5 cm3
B 25 cm3
C 50 cm3
D 100 cm3
39 In a titration process, 0.1 mol
dm–3 sulphuric acid from a
’03 burette is added slowly to
20 cm3 of 0.1 mol dm–3
aqueous ammonia solution in a
conical flask with methyl orange
indicator until neutralisation
occurs. What is the total volume
in the conical flask at the end
point of titration?
A 10 cm3
B 20 cm3
C 30 cm3
D 40 cm3
40 The equation below represents
the neutralisation reaction of
’10 aqueous W hydroxide and
hydrochloric acid.
W(OH)2 + 2HCl → WCl2 + 2H2O
What is the volume of 0.5 mol
dm–3 hydrochloric acid needed
to neutralise 25 cm3 of 0.2 mol
dm–3 aqueous W hydroxide?
A 10 cm3
B 20 cm3
C 30 cm3
D 40 cm3
Structured Questions
[Relative molecular mass of NaOH = 40]
1 Diagram 1 shows the arrangement of apparatus used
to prepare hydrogen chloride in methylbenzene and
in water respectively.
[2 marks]
(i) Explain if a measuring cylinder is suitable to
be used to measure the volume of water in
the preparation of the standard solution.
[1 mark]
(ii) Name a suitable apparatus that is required
to be used in the preparation of the
standard solution.
[1 mark]
(d) What are the two parameters that should be
measured accurately to prepare the standard
solution of sodium hydroxide?
Parameter I:
Parameter II:
[2 marks]
(e) State two steps that should be taken to ensure
that the standard sodium hydroxide solution is
exactly 100 cm3 with a molarity of 0.5 mol dm–3.
[2 marks]
3 An experiment is carried out in the laboratory to
determine the concentration of a strong diprotic acid,
H2 A, by titration. A few drops of phenolphthalein
indicator is added to 25.0 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3
potassium hydroxide solution and then titrated with
the acid, H2 A, of unknown concentration. The results
obtained are shown in Table 1.
Diagram 1
(a) What is the purpose of using the filter funnels in
Diagram 1?
[1 mark]
(b)
(i) What is observed when a piece of magnesium
ribbon is placed in beakers A and B
respectively?
[2 marks]
(ii) State the reason for your answer in (i).
(c) Name the particles present in
(i) beaker A
(ii) beaker B
Experiment
[2 marks]
[2 marks]
(d) The magnesium ribbon is removed. Water is
added to the solution in beaker A and the
mixture is then shaken. When sodium carbonate
powder is added, effervescence occurs.
(i) Name the gas and suggest a suitable test to
identify the gas evolved.
[1 mark]
(ii) State the role of water in the reaction that
caused the evolution of the gas.
[1 mark]
(iii) Write an ionic equation for the reaction
involving the evolution of the gas. [1 mark]
(iv) What is the conclusion that can be made
from the observation?
[1 mark]
II
III
Final burette reading (cm3)
26.55
36.15
27.20
Initial burette reading (cm3)
0.50
10.00
1.10
Volume of H2 A used (cm )
…
…
…
3
Table 1
(a) What is meant by a diprotic acid?
[1 mark]
(b) Write an equation for the neutralisation reaction
between the acid, H2 A and potassium hydroxide.
[1 mark]
(c) State the colour change of the phenolphthalein
indicator at the end point of titration.
[1 mark]
2 A student is required to prepare a standard solution
of 100 cm3 sodium hydroxide solution with a molarity
’06 of 0.5 mol dm–3 in the laboratory. He is given all the
necessary apparatus required.
(a) State the meaning of
(i) a standard solution.
(ii) molarity of the solution.
I
Volume of
H2 A
(d)
(i) Calculate the volume of the acid, H2 A used
in the titration and complete Table 1.
(ii) Calculate the average volume of the acid,
H2 A used in the experiment.
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
(e) Calculate the concentration of the acid H2 A used
in the experiment.
[2 marks]
(b) Calculate the mass of sodium hydroxide that the
student needs to prepare a 100 cm3 solution
with a molarity of 0.5 mol dm–3.
(f) Draw a diagram to show the arrangement of the
apparatus used in the above experiment.
[2 marks]
215
Acids and Bases
7
(c)
4
Experiment I
Excess magnesium ribbon is
put in 10.0 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3
sulphuric acid
Experiment II
Excess magnesium ribbon is
put in 10.0 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3
ethanoic acid
Table 2
7
Table 2 shows two experiments carried out.
(a) The reactions in experiment I and II can be
represented by the same ionic equation, involving
a certain particle in both acids.
(i) Write the formula of this particle. [1 mark]
(ii) Write the ionic equation for the reactions
that occur in both experiments.
[1 mark]
Diagram 2
(b) The rates of reactions are different in experiments
I and II.
(i) Which reaction is more vigorous? [1 mark]
(ii) Give a reason for your answer in (i).
(a) Mark the pH value on the graph in Diagram 2
when complete neutralisation occurs. What is the
pH value?
[2 marks]
(b) Mark the volume of the nitric acid required for
complete neutralisation on the graph in Diagram
2. What is this volume?
[2 marks]
[3 marks]
(c) Compare and explain the difference between the
pH values of sulphuric acid and ethanoic acid.
[2 marks]
(c) Write a balanced equation for the reaction
between nitric acid and sodium hydroxide.
(d) What will be the change in pH value if 10.0 cm
of water is added to the sulphuric acid before
the magnesium ribbon is added in experiment I?
Explain your answer.
[2 marks]
3
[1 mark]
(d) If methyl orange is added to the sodium
hydroxide solution at the initial stage of the
experiment, what is the change in colour that will
take place at the end point of titration? [1 mark]
5 An experiment was carried out to determine the
end point of titration during neutralisation using a
computer interface. Nitric acid is added 0.5 cm3 by
0.5 cm3 from a burette to 25.0 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3
sodium hydroxide in a beaker. The graph in Diagram
2 shows the change in pH value of the solution in
the beaker against the volume of nitric acid used in
cm3 as measured by the computer interface.
(e) Calculate the concentration of nitric acid used in
this experiment.
[2 marks]
(f) If the experiment is to be repeated by titrating
sodium hydroxide against nitric acid, sketch a graph
of the change in pH value against the volume of
sodium hydroxide that will be obtained. [2 marks]
Essay Questions
the chemical formula of magnesium hydroxide
and explain its function in antacid. Name another
chemical found in antacid.
[4 marks]
1 (a) Using suitable examples, explain what is meant by
neutralisation.
[4 marks]
(b) Explain why sodium hydroxide solution and aqueous
ammonia of the same concentration have different
pH values.
[6 marks]
(b) Diagram 1 shows two beakers containing 0.1
mol dm–3 solution X and solution Y and their pH
readings.
(c) Explain how you would prepare 250 cm3 of 1.0
mol dm–3 potassium hydroxide, starting from solid
potassium hydroxide. Subsequently, explain how
you would prepare 250 cm3 of 0.1 mol dm–3
potassium hydroxide from the above solution.
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; O, 16; K, 39]
[10 marks]
2 (a) Magnesium hydroxide is one of the chemical
compounds found in antacid medicine. Write
Acids and Bases
Diagram 1
216
(i) Compare and contrast the two solutions X
and Y in terms of their physical and chemical
properties. Give a suitable example for each
of the solutions X and Y.
[10 marks]
(ii) Predict and explain, with suitable ionic
equations, what will happen when equal
volumes of solution X and solution Y are
mixed together.
[4 marks]
(iii) Calculate the concentration of the solution
that will be produced when 80 cm3 of
water is added to 20 cm3 of solution X.
[2 marks]
3 (a) Using a suitable example, explain the role of water
in causing the acidic properties of an aqueous
solution of an acid.
[8 marks]
(b) Briefly describe three tests (other than the use
of an indicator) that can be used to confirm an
acidic solution. Explain your tests with suitable
equations.
[12 marks]
7
Experiments
1 An experiment is carried out to determine the relationship between the concentrations of H+ ions and
the pH values of nitric acid solutions. The pH values of six nitric acid solutions with concentrations of
0.100 mol dm–3, 0.060 mol dm–3, 0.040 mol dm–3, 0.025 mol dm–3, 0.015 mol dm–3 and 0.010 mol
dm–3 are each measured using a pH meter. The corresponding pH values and the concentrations of the
nitric acid solutions are shown in Diagram 1.
Diagram 1
(a) State the variables involved in this experiment.
• Manipulated variable:
• Responding variable:
• Constant variable:
[3 marks]
(b) State the hypothesis for this experiment.
[3 marks]
(c) Construct a table to record the results of this experiment.
[3 marks]
(d) Based on the results of this experiment, draw a graph of pH value versus concentration of H ions on a
graph paper.
[3 marks]
+
(e) Using the graph you have drawn in (d), predict the pH value of a 0.020 mol dm–3 nitric acid solution. [3 marks]
2 The volume of a sample of sulphuric acid required to neutralise a potassium hydroxide solution can
be determined by titration. Design a laboratory experiment to determine the volume of the sulphuric
acid required to neutralise 25.0 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 potassium hydroxide solution. In designing your
experiment, the following items must be included.
(a) Problem statement
(b) All the variables involved
(c) Statement of the hypothesis
(d) List of materials and apparatus
(e) Procedure
(f) Tabulation of data
217
[17 marks]
Acids and Bases
FORM 4
THEME: Interaction between Chemicals
CHAPTER
8
Salts
SPM Topical Analysis
2008
Year
1
Paper
2
A
Section
Number of questions
2
2009
–
1
3
B
C
–
1
—
2
2
A
–
–
2010
–
3
B
C
–
1
—
3
–
1
3
2011
2
3
A
B
C
1
–
–
–
1
3
2
3
A
B
C
–
–
–
ONCEPT MAP
SALTS
preparation
Soluble salts
by
Reaction of acids with
(a) alkalis
(b) metal oxides
(c) metal carbonates
(d) metals
qualitative analysis
Insoluble salts
by
Precipitation in double
decomposition reactions
Anions
test by
(a) Heating and
identifying
(i) the gases
evolved
(ii) the colour change
of products
formed
(b) Reagents such as
barium chloride, silver
nitrate and brown ring
test
Cations
test by
(a) Sodium hydroxide
(b) Aqueous ammonia
(c) Specific reagents
1
Salts
Generally, the formula of salt is
The Meaning of Salts
Salt =
1 Salt is an ionic compound that is formed
when the hydrogen ion in an acid is replaced
by a metal ion or ammonium ion (NH4+).
2 The chemical formula of a salt is comprised
of a cation (other than hydrogen ion) and an
anion (other than oxide ion and hydroxide
ion).
3 The cations and the anions of a salt are
bonded by strong ionic bonds.
3 Diprotic acids and triprotic acids contain
more than one H+ ions that can be replaced.
Hence, it is possible for these acids to form more
than one type of salt as shown in Table 8.2.
Table 8.2 Examples of diprotic and triprotic salts
Examples of Salts
1 Examples of salts formed from their
corresponding acids are shown in Table 8.1.
Table 8.1 Examples of salts formed from their
corresponding acids
Acid
General
name of salt
Cations
Anions
+
(other than H+)
(other than O2– or OH–)
Type of
acid
Example
of acid
Types of
salts that
can be formed
Diprotic
acid
H2SO4
2
NaHSO4,
Na2SO4
Triprotic
acid
H3PO4
3
NaH2PO4,
Na2HPO4,
Na3PO4
Example of salt
Example
of salt
NaCl, KCl, CuCl2,
ZnCl2, NH4Cl
Hydrochloric
acid, HCl
Chloride
salts
Nitric acid,
HNO3
Nitrate salts NaNO3, KNO3,
Mg(NO3)2, Pb(NO3)2,
NH4NO3
Sulphuric acid, Sulphate
H2SO4
salts
Na2SO4, K2SO4,
FeSO4, CaSO4,
(NH4)2SO4
Carbonic acid, Carbonate
H2CO3
salts
Na2CO3, CaCO3,
MgCO3, ZnCO3,
PbCO3
A salt consists of cations and anions, but the anions
must not be oxide ion or hydroxide ion. This is
because if the anions are O2– or OH– ions, the
compound is a base, not a salt.
Generally, the type of salts can be classified according
to the cation or anion. For example, sodium chloride is
known as a type of sodium salt or alternatively it can
also be classified as a chloride salt.
2 Chloride salts are formed when H+ ions in hydrochloric acid, HCl is replaced by a metal
ion or ammonium ion (NH4+).
KCl (potassium chloride)
H+ replaced by K+
NaCl
(sodium chloride)
H+ replaced
by Na
+
HCl
(hydrochloric acid)
H+ replaced by Mg2+
H+ replaced
by NH
+
4
NH4Cl
(ammonium chloride)
H+ replaced by Zn2+
MgCl2
(magnesium chloride)
ZnCl2
(zinc chloride)
219
Salts
8
8.1
Uses of Salts in Daily Life
In food preparation
1 Sodium chloride (NaCl), table salt, is
used for seasoning food.
2 Monosodium glutamate (M.S.G.)
is used to enhance the taste of food.
3 Self-raising flour contains sodium
bicarbonate (NaHCO3) which helps
breads and cakes to rise.
8
Sodium chloride is
used to flavour food
In food preservation so that food can be
kept longer without spoiling.
1 Sodium chloride is used as a food
preservative in food such as salted fish and
salted eggs.
2 Sodium benzoate (C6H5COONa) is used
as a food preservative in food such as
tomato sauce, oyster sauce and jam.
3 Sodium nitrite
(NaNO2) is used to
preserve processed
meat such as burgers,
sausages and ham.
Salts play an
important role
in our daily life.
Here are few
examples of salts
and their uses.
Sodium benzoate is used as
a food preservative in sauce
In agriculture: to increase the production of food.
1 Nitrate salts such as potassium nitrate
(KNO3), sodium nitrate (NaNO3)
and ammonium salts such as
ammonium sulphate (NH4)2SO4,
ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3),
ammonium phosphate (NH4)3PO4
are nitrogenous fertilisers.
2 Salts such as copper(II) sulphate
(CuSO4), iron(II) sulphate
(FeSO4) and mercury(I) chloride
(HgCl) are used as pesticides.
Salts
Copper(II) sulphate is a pesticide
used to kill fungi
Fertilisers used in agriculture are
ammonium salts
220
In medicine
patients to be seen clearly in X-ray
films.
7 Iron pills containing iron(II)
sulphate are taken to increase the
supply of iron for anaemic patients.
8
1 Antacid medicine contain calcium carbonate
(CaCO3), and calcium hydrogen carbonate
Ca(HCO3)2 that are used to reduce acidity
in the stomachs of gastric patients.
2 Smelling salts contain ammonium chloride
(NH4Cl).
3 Plaster of Paris, used to support fractured
bones, contains calcium sulphate.
4 Epsom salts (magnesium sulphate
heptahydrate) and Glauber salt (sodium
sulphate decahydrate) are used as laxatives
to clear the intestines.
5 Potassium permanganate (KMnO4) is used
as an antiseptic to kill germs.
6 Barium sulphate, BaSO4, enables the
intestines of suspected stomach cancer
Plaster of Paris consists of a calcium sulphate
Other uses
Salts play an
important role
in our daily life.
Here are few
examples of salts
and their uses.
1 Fluoride toothpaste contains tin(II) fluoride,
SnF2, that is used to prevent tooth decay.
Silver bromide, AgBr, is used to produce black
2 and white photographic films.
Sodium hypochlorite, NaOCl, is used as
3 a bleaching agent in soap powders and
detergents.
Fluoride salt in toothpaste prevents tooth decay
Naturally occuring salts
• Lead(II) sulphide (galena, PbS), calcium fluoride
(fluorite, CaF2) and magnesium sulphate (Epsime,
MgSO4) exist as minerals in the earth’s crust.
• Corals, stalactites, stalagmites and limestone
consist of calcium carbonate, (CaCO3).
Stalactites and
stalagmites
221
Salts
Soluble Salts and Insoluble Salts
1 Solubility is the ability of a compound to
dissolve in a solvent. Some salts are soluble in
water while others are not.
2 The solubility of a salt in water depends on
the types of cations and anions present as
shown in Table 8.3.
Table 8.3 Types of salt and their solubility in water
8
Type of salt
Figure 8.1 Separation of a soluble salt and an
insoluble salt by filtration
Solubility in water
Sodium, potassium
and ammonium salts
All are soluble
Nitrate salts
All are soluble
Chloride salts
All are soluble except
PbCl2, AgCl and HgCl
Sulphate salts
All are soluble except
PbSO4, BaSO4 and CaSO4
Carbonate salts
All are insoluble except
Na2CO3, K2CO3 and
(NH4)2CO3
5 The methods of preparing salts depend on the
solubility of salts.
6 Soluble salts can be prepared in the laboratory
by four methods as follows:
(a) Reaction between an acid and an alkali
(b) Reaction between an acid and a metal
(c) Reaction between an acid and a metal
carbonate
(d) Reaction between an acid and a metal
oxide or hydroxide
7 Insoluble salts can be prepared by precipitation
in double decomposition reactions.
3 Information on the solubility of salts is useful
in
(a) the separation of salts in a salt mixture.
(b) choosing the methods to prepare a salt.
(c) identifying the types of ions in a salt in
the qualitative analysis of salts.
4 Filtration can be used to separate an insoluble
salt (as the residue) from a soluble salt (as the
filtrate) as shown in Figure 8.1.
• If a salt is soluble in water, a solution is formed. The
solution may be coloured if the cation is cop­per(II),
iron(II) or iron(III). Other­­wise, a colourless solution is
formed.
• If a salt is insoluble in water, a cloudy mixture is
formed when stirred. The undissolved salt will settle
down as a precipitate.
8.1
To study the solubility of nitrate, sulphate, carbonate and chloride salts
Problem statement
Are nitrate, sulphate, carbonate and chloride salts
soluble in water?
Materials
Various types of salts and distilled water.
Procedure
1 0.2 g of copper(II) nitrate is put in a test tube
using a spatula.
2 5 cm3 of distilled water is added to the above test
tube. The mixture is stirred and the solubility of
the salt is noted.
3 Steps 1 and 2 are repeated using magnesium
nitrate, zinc nitrate, lead(II) nitrate, calcium
nitrate, copper(II) sulphate, magnesium sulphate,
zinc sulphate, lead(II) sulphate, barium sulphate,
calcium sulphate, copper(II) chloride, magnesium
Experiment 8.1
Hypothesis
Some salts are soluble in water while some are not.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Types of salts
(b) Responding variable : Solubility in water
(c) Constant variable
: Quantity of salts, volume
and temperature of water
Apparatus
Test tubes, glass rods, spatulas and test tube holder.
Salts
222
Type of salt
Formula of salt
Carbonate Na2CO3, K2CO3,
(NH4)2CO3
Results
Soluble
CuCO3, MgCO3, ZnCO3
Type of salt
Formula of salt
Solubility
in water
Nitrate
Cu(NO3)2, Mg(NO3)2,
Zn(NO3)2, Pb(NO3)2,
Ca(NO3)2
Soluble
Sulphate
CuSO4, MgSO4 and
ZnSO4
Soluble
PbSO4, BaSO4, CaSO4
Insoluble
CuCl2, MgCl2, ZnCl2
Soluble
PbCl2, AgCl, HgCl
Insoluble
Chloride
Insoluble
Conclusion
1 All nitrate salts are soluble in water.
2 All sulphate salts are soluble in water except
lead(II) sulphate, PbSO4, barium sulphate,
BaSO4 and calcium sulphate, CaSO4.
3 All chlorides salts are soluble in water except
lead(II) chloride, PbCl2, silver chloride, AgCl,
and mercury(I) chloride, HgCl.
4 All carbonates are insoluble in water except
sodium carbonate, Na2CO3, potassium carbonate,
K2CO3 and ammonium carbonate, (NH4)2CO3.
5 Some salts are soluble while some are not. The
hypothesis is accepted.
Table 8.4 Some examples of acids and alkalis used in
the preparation of soluble salts
Preparation of Soluble Salts
The preparation of soluble salts can be divided
into two categories.
(a) Soluble salts of sodium, potassium and
ammonium.
(b) Soluble salts which are not salts of sodium,
potassium and ammonium.
Type of
soluble salt
Soluble Salts of K+, Na+ and NH4+
Type of
alkali used
Example
of salt
Type of
acid used
Salts of
sodium
NaCl
HCl
Sodium
hydroxide, NaOH CH COONa CH COOH
3
3
Salts of
potassium
Potassium
hydroxide, KOH
Aqueous
Salts of
ammo­nium ammonia, NH3
1 The cation of a salt comes from the alkali
while the anion comes from the acid. Hence
the type of salt produced depends on the acid
and alkali used.
For example:
K2SO4
H2SO4
KNO3
HNO3
NH4NO3
HNO3
(NH4)2SO4
H2SO4
5 Impure soluble salts can be purified by
recrystallisation. When an impure soluble salt is
dissolved in enough distilled water, the insoluble
impurities can be removed by filtration. The
filtrate is evaporated to remove excess water to
form a saturated solution. When the saturated
solution is cooled to room temperature, the salt
will recrystallise to form pure crystals.
6 Soluble salts in a mixture of a few salts can
also be purified by recrystallisation. This is
because salts have different solubility in water.
A salt with a lower solubility will recrystallise
earlier than a salt with a higher solubility. The
process of recrystallisation may be repeated a
few times to obtain a pure salt.
Na2SO4
from NaOH
Solubility
in water
from H2SO4
2 Soluble salts of sodium, potassium and
ammonium can be prepared from the reaction
between an acid and an alkali, NaOH, KOH
or NH3(aq) as in Table 8.4.
3 Titration method is used to ensure that all the
acid is completely reacted with the alkali.
4 The flowchart in Figure 8.2 shows the steps
involved in the preparation of soluble salts of
sodium, potassium and ammonium.
223
Salts
8
chloride, zinc chloride, lead(II) chloride, silver
chloride, mercury(I) chloride, sodium carbonate,
potassium carbonate, ammonium carbonate,
copper(II) carbonate, magnesium carbonate and
zinc carbonate to replace the copper(II) nitrate.
1
Acid + alkali
The alkali in the conical flask is titrated with acid
in the burette
1 titration method
Dilute salt solution
8
After titration, the dilute salt solution is heated to
hasten evaporation
2 evaporation
2
Saturated salt solution
The saturated salt solution is then cooled to
precipitate out the salt
3 cooling
3
Salt crystals in saturated salt solution
The salt crystals are then filtered out from the
solution using filter paper
4 filtration
4
Salt crystals
The salt crystals are then dried with more filter
paper
5 drying
Dry salt crystals
5
The resulting salt crystals of sodium, potassium
or ammonium are produced
Figure 8.2 Preparation of soluble salts of sodium, potassium and ammonium
Salts
224
Preparation of Soluble Salts of Sodium, Potassium and Ammonium
Materials
2 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid and 2 mol dm–3
potassium hydroxide and phenolphthalein indicator.
Procedure
1 25 cm3 of potassium hydroxide is pipetted into a
clean conical flask.
2 Three drops of phenolphthalein indicator are added
to the alkali and the colour of the solution is
noted.
3 A 50 cm3 burette is then filled with hydrochloric
acid and is then clamped to a retort stand. The
initial burette reading is recorded.
4 Hydrochloric acid is added gradually from the
burette to the potassium hydroxide solution in
the conical flask while swirling the flask gently.
5 Titration is stopped when phenolphthalein changes
from a light pink colour to colourless. The final
burette reading is recorded.
6 The volume of hydrochloric acid used is calculated
as follows:
by dropping a drop of the solution on a piece
of glass plate. If crystals are formed, then the
solution is saturated.
9 The saturated solution is then cooled to allow
crystallisation to occur.
10 The white crystals formed are then filtered,
rinsed with a little distilled water and dried by
pressing between filter paper.
Figure 8.3 Titration of potassium hydroxide
with hydrochloric acid
Discussion
1 In the preparation of potassium chloride, the acid
used is hydrochloric acid and the alkali used is
potassium hydroxide.
KOH + HCl → KCl + H2O
V cm3 = Final burette – Initial burette
reading
reading
7 The experiment is repeated by adding V cm3 of
hydrochloric acid to 25 cm3 of potassium hydroxide
in a beaker without using phenolphthalein as an
indicator.
8 The colourless solution in the beaker is
evaporated to form a saturated solution (to about
1
— of the original volume). This can be tested
3
2 Phenolphthalein is used as an indicator at the
beginning of the experiment to determine the
volume of hydrochloric acid that is required
to react with 25 cm3 of potassium hydroxide.
However, the experiment is repeated without
using phenolphthalein so that the salt prepared
will not be contaminated by the indicator.
3 The salt solution is not heated until dry because
the salt may decompose when heated strongly.
In the preparation of soluble salts of Na+/K+/NH4+,
titration is carried out to determine the exact amount
of acid required to neutralise all the alkali to form a
neutral salt using an indicator. Once the exact volumes
of acid and alkali required are known, the indicator is
not required to prepare the pure salt.
225
Salts
Activity 8.1
Apparatus
25 cm3 pipette, pipette filler, 50 cm3 burette, retort
stand, retort clamp, conical flask, filter funnel, filter
paper, beaker, tripod stand, wire gauze and Bunsen
burner.
SPM
’04/P2
8
To prepare potassium chloride by the reaction between
an acid and an alkali
To purify potassium chloride by recrystallisation
3 The hot solution is filtered into a clean conical
flask to remove the impurities.
4 The filtrate is evaporated until a saturated
solution is formed.
5 The saturated solution is then allowed to cool to
room temperature for crystallisation.
6 The filtered crystals are then rinsed with distilled
water and dried between two pieces of filter
paper.
Apparatus
Beaker, glass rod, Bunsen burner, conical flask,
spatula, filter funnel and filter paper.
8
Materials
Impure potassium chloride and distilled water.
Procedure
1 Impure potassium chloride is placed in a beaker.
2 A little distilled water, enough to cover the
crystals is added. The mixture is heated while
stirring, and more distilled water is added slowly
until all the crystals are dissolved.
Conclusion
Impure potassium chloride can be purified by
recrystallisation.
Soluble Salts which are not salts of Na+, K+, NH4+
ensure that all the acid is reacted completely,
excess solids are used. The non-reacted excess
solids can be removed by filtration.
1 Three methods are used to prepare soluble salts
which are not salts of sodium, potassium and
ammonium. This involves the reaction between
(a) an acid and a metal
(b) an acid and a metal carbonate
(c) an acid and a metal oxide or hydroxide
2 Table 8.5 shows the chemicals suitable for
the preparation of soluble salts which are not
salts of sodium, potassium and ammonium.
3 In the reaction of an acid with a metal, metals
that are less electropositive than hydrogen such as
copper and silver do not react with dilute acids.
4 Metals, metal oxides and metal carbonates are
solids that do not dissolve in water. Hence, to
Table 8.5 Examples of some salts and chemicals used
in their preparation
Example
of salt
Type of
acid
used
ZnCl2
Chemicals that react with
the acid
Metal
oxide
Metal
Metal
carbonate
HCl
ZnO
Zn
ZnCO3
Mg(NO3)2
HNO3
MgO
Mg
MgCO3
CuSO4
H2SO4
CuO
_
CuCO3
Preparation of Soluble Salts which are Not Salts of Sodium, Potassium and Ammonium
Activity 8.2 & 8.3
To prepare copper(II) nitrate by the reaction between
an acid and a metal oxide
SPM
’04/05
P2
Apparatus
Beaker, glass rod, 100 cm3 measuring cylinder, wire gauze, tripod stand, Bunsen burner, conical flask, spatula,
filter funnel and filter paper.
Materials
1 mol dm–3 nitric acid and copper(II) oxide powder.
Salts
226
Procedure
1 About 30 cm3 of 1 mol dm–3 nitric acid is put in
a beaker and is heated.
2 Using a spatula, copper(II) oxide powder is
added a little at a time, to the hot nitric acid
while stirring continuously with a glass rod. The
addition of copper(II) oxide is stopped when
some black solids remain undissolved.
3 The mixture is filtered to remove the excess
copper(II) oxide.
4 The filtrate is evaporated until a saturated
solution is formed.
5 The saturated solution is then allowed to cool to
room temperature.
6 The blue crystals formed are removed by
filtration, rinsed with a little distilled water and
dried between filter paper.
1
8
2
Discussion
1 Copper(II) oxide is a black powder. It dissolves
in nitric acid to form a blue solution. The
equation for the reaction is
CuO(s) + 2HNO3(aq) →
Cu(NO3)2 (aq) + H2O(l)
3
2 Neutralisation reaction takes place between
copper(II) oxide and nitric acid. The ionic
equation for the reaction is
CuO(s) + 2H+(aq) → Cu2+(aq) + H2O(l)
3 The salt solution is not heated until dry because
the salt may decompose when heated strongly.
4 The copper(II) nitrate crystals prepared may be
purified by recrystallisation.
5 Copper(II) nitrate can also be prepared by the
reaction between nitric acid and copper(II)
carbonate. However, copper metal does not react
with dilute nitric acid because copper is below
hydrogen in the electrochemical series.
4
5
Conclusion
Copper(II) nitrate can be prepared by the reaction
between copper(II) oxide and nitric acid.
227
Salts
To prepare iron(II) sulphate by the reaction of an acid and a
metal
Apparatus
Beaker, glass rod, 100 cm3 measuring cylinder,
Bunsen burner, conical flask, spatula, filter funnel
and filter paper.
8
Materials
Iron powder and 2 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid.
Procedure
1 30 cm3 of 2 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid is put in a
beaker.
2 Iron powder is gradually added to the sulphuric
acid while stirring continuously with a glass rod,
until a slight excess of iron is present.
3 The mixture is filtered to remove the excess iron
powder.
4 The filtrate is evaporated until a saturated
solution is formed. The saturated solution is then
allowed to cool to room temperature.
5 The green crystals formed are removed by
filtration, rinsed with a little distilled water and
dried between filter papers.
Discussion
1 Iron metal is grey in colour. It dissolves in
sulphuric acid to form a green solution with
effervescence. The gas evolved is hydrogen gas.
The equation for the reaction is
Fe(s)+ H2SO4(aq) → FeSO4(aq) + H2(g)
2 The ionic equation for the reaction between iron
and H+ ion in acid is
Fe(s)+ 2H+(aq) → Fe2+(aq) + H2(g)
3 Iron(II) sulphate can also be prepared by the
reaction of sulphuric acid with iron(II) oxide or
iron(II) carbonate.
Conclusion
Iron(II) sulphate can be prepared by the reaction
between iron metal and sulphuric acid.
Activity 8.4 & 8.5
To prepare magnesium chloride by the reaction of an acid and
a metal carbonate
Apparatus
Beaker, glass rod, 100 cm3 measuring cylinder,
Bunsen burner, conical flask, spatula, filter funnel
and filter paper.
Materials
Magnesium carbonate powder and 2 mol dm–3
hydrochloric acid.
Procedure
1 Magnesium carbonate powder is added a little
at a time, to 30 cm3 of 2 mol dm–3 hydrochloric
acid in a beaker while stirring continuously.
The addition is stopped when there is no more
effervescence, and a little magnesium carbonate
powder remains undissolved.
2 The mixture is filtered to remove the excess
magnesium carbonate powder.
3 The filtrate is evaporated until a saturated solution
is formed.
4 The saturated solution is then allowed to cool to
room temperature.
5 The white crystals formed is removed by filtration,
rinsed with a little distilled water and dried between
filter papers.
Salts
Discussion
1 Magnesium carbonate is white in colour.
Effervescence occurs when it dissolves in
hydrochloric acid to form a colourless solution.
The gas evolved is carbon dioxide gas. The
equation for the reaction is
MgCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) →
MgCl2(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)
2 The ionic equation for the reaction between
magnesium carbonate and H+ ion in acid is
MgCO3(s) + 2H+(aq) →
Mg2+(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)
3 Magnesium chloride can also be prepared by the
reaction of hydrochloric acid with magnesium
oxide or magnesium metal.
Conclusion
Magnesium chloride can be prepared from the
reaction between magnesium carbonate and
hydrochloric acid.
228
1 Insoluble salts can be prepared by precipitation
in double decomposition reactions.
2 In the precipitation method, an insoluble salt
is precipitated when two aqueous solutions
containing the cations and the anions are
mixed together. The precipitate is then obtained
by filtration.
3 In double decomposition, one of the aqueous
solutions contains the cations of the insoluble
salt, while the other aqueous solution contains
the anions of the salt.
Can sodium nitrate be prepared by adding sodium
chloride solution to nitric acid?
Comments
There is no reaction between sodium chloride
solution and nitric acid.
NaCl(aq) + HNO3(aq)
NaNO3(aq) + HCl(aq)
Solution consist of
Na+, Cl–, H+ and
NO3– ions
Solution consist of
Na+, Cl­–, H+ and
NO3– ions
SPM
’10/P1
Sodium nitrate is usually prepared by the reaction
between nitric acid (HNO3) and sodium hydroxide
(NaOH). H2O formed does not dissociate.
Cation M+
(from a
+
soluble salt
solution)
HNO3(aq) + NaOH(aq) → NaNO3(aq) + H2O(l)
Insoluble salt,
Anion X–
MX
(from a
soluble salt → (formed as
precipitate)
solution)
4 In double decomposition, the ions of the two
aqueous solutions interchange to produce a
new compound which is insoluble.
5 The general equation can be represented as
follows
Physical Characteristic of Salt Crystals
1 Salt crystals are formed when a saturated
salt solution is cooled.
2 A salt is made up of positive ions and
negative ions. When these ions are packed
closely with a regular and repeated
arrangement in fixed positions, a solid
with definite geometry known as crystal
lattice is formed.
3 The repeating basic unit in this orderly
structure is called a unit cell.
4 All
crystals
have
these
physical
characteristics:
(a) Fixed geometrical shapes (e.g. cubic,
hexagonal or rhombic).
(b) Flat surface, straight edges and sharp
angles.
(c) Fixed angle between two adjacent
surfaces.
5 All crystals of the same salt have the same
shape although the sizes may be different.
6 The size of a crystal formed depends on the
rate of crystallisation. Fast crystallisation
(from fast cooling) will yield smaller
crystals than slow crystallisation.
7 Crystals are hard and brittle, and can be
cut into different shapes. This is because
the particles of salt crystals are arranged in
regular layers.
MY(aq) + NX(aq) → MX(s) + NY(aq)
solution
solution precipitate solution
6 The precipitate produced is obtained by
filtration. The residue is the insoluble salt,
which is then rinsed with distilled water to
remove any other ions as impurities.
Example
Pb(NO3)2(aq) + 2NaCl(aq) →
PbCl2(s) + 2NaNO3(aq)
precipitate
7 Precipitation of lead(II) chloride can be
simplified as follows:
Pb2+(aq) + 2Cl–(aq) → PbCl2(s)
Sodium ions, Na+ and nitrate ions, NO3–
do not undergo any change in the reaction.
They are known as spectator ions and can be
ignored in the ionic equation.
229
Salts
8
Preparation of Insoluble Salts
1
8 The following guidelines show the steps used in writing an ionic equation for the formation
of an insoluble salt.
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Identify the insoluble salt
and write it as the product
on the right-hand side of
the equation.
Separate the cations and
anions of the salt and write
them as the reactants on
the left-hand side of the
equation.
Balance the charges of
the cations and anions
by adding the correct
coefficient as the number
of moles reacting.
Pb2+(aq) + Cl–(aq) →
PbCl2(s)
Pb2+(aq) + 2Cl–(aq) →
PbCl2(s)
8
→ PbCl2(s)
9 The following guidelines show the steps used in the selection of aqueous solutions in the
preparation of an insoluble salt.
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Identify the cation and
anion of the insoluble
salt.
Example
PbCl2: Cation = Pb2+
Anion = Cl–
Identify a soluble salt that
can supply the cation,
example, a nitrate salt (all
nitrate salts are soluble).
Example
Pb(NO3)2 solution or
Pb(CH3COO)2 solution
Identify a soluble salt that
can supply the anion,
example, a sodium or
potassium
salt
(all
sodium or potassium
salts are soluble in water).
Example
NaCl or KCl solution
PbCl2
from Pb(NO3)2 or Pb(CH3COO)2
from NaCl or KCl or HCl
Table 8.6 Some examples of insoluble salts
Barium salt
Lead(II) salt
Silver salt
Name
Formula
Name
Formula
Name
Formula
Lead(II) chloride
Lead(II) bromide
Lead(II) iodide
Lead(II) sulphate
Lead(II) chromate(VI)
Lead(II) carbonate
PbCl2
PbBr2
PbI2
PbSO4
PbCrO4
PbCO3
Barium sulphate
Barium chromate(VI)
Barium carbonate
BaSO4
BaCrO4
BaCO3
Silver chloride
Silver bromide
Silver iodide
Silver carbonate
AgCl
AgBr
AgI
Ag2CO3
2
’04
Can lead(II) sulphate be prepared by adding sulphuric
acid to lead(II) oxide?
Comments
Both lead(II) sulphate and lead(II) oxide are insoluble
in water. Hence, when lead(II) sulphate is formed,
it cannot be separated from the mixture of lead(II)
sulphate and lead(II) oxide.
Lead(II) sulphate as an insoluble salt, is usually
prepared from double decomposition reaction between
Salts
two aqueous solutions, one containing the lead(II) ions
(example, lead(II) nitrate) and the other containing the
sulphate ions (example, sodium sulphate).
Pb(NO3)2(aq) + Na2SO4(aq) →
PbSO4(s) + 2NaNO3(aq)
Similarly, lead(II) sulphate cannot be prepared by adding
sodium sulphate solution to lead(II) chloride. Both lead(II)
sulphate and lead(II) chloride are insoluble in water.
230
To prepare insoluble salts: lead(II) iodide, lead(II)
chromate(VI) and barium sulphate by precipitation reaction
Procedure
(A) Preparation of lead(II) iodide
1 20 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 potassium iodide solution
is added to 20 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 lead(II)
nitrate solution in a beaker.
2 The mixture is stirred thoroughly with a glass
rod. A yellow preci­pitate is formed immediately.
3 The mixture is filtered to obtain the yellow
solids of lead(II) iodide as the residue.
4 The residue is rinsed with distilled water to
remove any trace of other ions in it.
5 The yellow solid is dried by pressing between
two pieces of filter papers.
(B) Preparation of lead(II) chromate(VI)
1 20 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 lead(II) nitrate solution
is added to 20 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 potassium
chromate(VI) solution in a beaker.
2 The mixture is stirred thoroughly with a glass
rod. A yellow precipitate is formed immediately.
3 The mixture is filtered to obtain the yellow solids
of lead(II) chromate(VI) as the residue.
4 The residue is rinsed with distilled water and
dried using filter papers.
(C) Preparation of barium sulphate
1 20 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 barium chloride solution
is added to 20 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 sodium
sulphate solution in a beaker.
2 The mixture is stirred thoroughly with a glass
rod. A white precipitate is formed immediately.
3 The mixture is filtered to obtain the white barium
sulphate as the residue.
Discussion
1 The chemical equation for the reaction that occur
in the preparation of lead(II) iodide is
Pb(NO3)2(aq) + 2KI(aq) → PbI2(s) + 2KNO3(aq)
8
Materials
0.5 mol dm–3 solutions of lead(II) nitrate, potassium
iodide, potassium chromate(VI), sodium sulphate
and barium chloride.
4 The residue is rinsed with distilled water and
dried using filter papers.
The ionic equation for the reaction is
Pb2+(aq) + 2I–(aq) → PbI2(s)
Lead(II) iodide is a yellow precipitate.
2 The chemical equation for the reaction that occurs
in the preparation of lead(II) chromate(VI) is
Pb(NO3)2(aq) + K2CrO4(aq) →
PbCrO4(s) + 2KNO3(aq)
The ionic equation for the reaction is
Pb2+(aq) + CrO42–(aq) → PbCrO4(s)
Lead(II) chromate(VI) is a yellow precipitate.
3 The chemical equation for the reaction that
occurs in the preparation of barium sulphate is
BaCl2(aq) + Na2SO4(aq) → BaSO4(s) + 2NaCl(aq)
The ionic equation for the reaction is
Ba2+(aq) + SO42–(aq) → BaSO4(s)
Barium sulphate is a white precipitate.
Conclusion
Insoluble salts of lead(II) iodide, lead(II) chromate(VI)
and barium sulphate can be prepared by precipitation
in double decomposition reactions.
Preparation of a Specified Salt
2 The following flowchart shows the procedure
for the selection of the methods of preparing
a specified salt (Figure 8.4).
1 The method of preparing a salt depends on
(a) whether or not the salt is soluble in water,
(b) whether the salt is a salt of sodium,
potassium or ammonium for soluble salts.
231
Salts
Activity 8.6
Apparatus
Beakers, glass rods, conical flasks, filter funnels and
filter paper.
SPM
’08/P2
Method of preparing a salt
Is the salt soluble in water?
Yes
No
Is it the salt of sodium, potassium or ammonium?
No
Precipitation by double
decomposition reaction
Neutralisation
using titration
Reaction of an acid with
• a metal
• a metal oxide/metal hydroxide
• a metal carbonate
8
Yes
Select two aqueous solutions
that can supply the cations and
the anions of the salt
Filtration to remove excess solids (keep the filtrate)
Salt solution
Filtration (keep the residue)
1
2
3
4
evaporation
cooling (crystallisation)
filtration
recrystallisation (if necessary)
Salt crystals
1 rinse with distilled water
2 dry with filter paper
Pure salt crystals
Figure 8.4
3
’03
You are supplied with sodium carbonate solution,
sulphuric acid and magnesium nitrate solution. Plan
a scheme to prepare a sample of magnesium sulphate
using the above chemicals. Write equations for the
reactions involved.
Comments
Magnesium sulphate is a soluble salt which is not a
salt of sodium, potassium and ammonium.
Magnesium sulphate can be prepared by the reaction
of sulphuric acid with magnesium metal/magnesium
oxide/magnesium carbonate. Hence, a scheme of
preparing magnesium sulphate is as follows:
Salts
Step 1 Magnesium nitrate is converted to magnesium
carbonate by double decomposition between
sodium carbonate solution and magnesium
nitrate.
Mg(NO3)2(aq) + Na2CO3(aq) →
MgCO3(s) + 2NaNO3(aq)
Step 2 Magnesium carbonate that is produced is
then added to sulphuric acid until in excess.
232
MgCO3(s) + H2SO4(aq) →
MgSO4(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)
Ionic Equations of Insoluble Salts
Table 8.7 Formation of ionic equations from the mole
ratio of ions
No. of moles No. of moles
of cation
of anion
1 mol Pb2+
2 mol Cl–
Ionic equation
Pb2+(aq) + 2Cl–(aq) →
PbCl2(s)
1 mol Pb2+
1 mol CrO42– Pb2+(aq) + CrO42–(aq)
→ PbCrO4(s)
2 mol Ag+
1 mol CrO42– 2Ag+(aq) + CrO42–(aq)
→ Ag2CrO4(s)
4 The number of moles of the cation and anion
can be calculated if the volume and molarities
MV
are known using the formula —
—
—
—.
1000
Step 1
If the charge of cation M is b and the charge
of anion X is a, the formula of the salt is MaXb,
MaXb
1
charge of X
charge of M
6.0 cm3 of 0.2 mol dm–3 Xn+ solution reacts completely
with 4.0 cm3 of 0.1 mol dm–3 Ym– solution to form a salt
XmYn. Write the ionic equation and hence determine
the empirical formula of the salt in this reaction.
For example, the formula of iron(III) carbonate
is Fe2(CO3)3.
Solution
0.2  6
Number of moles of X ions = –––––––
1000
= 0.0012
n+
Step 2
0.1  4
Number of moles of Ym– ions = –––––––
1000
= 0.0004
This show that a mol of M ions has combined
with b mol of Xa– ions.
b+
Fe2(CO3)3 shows that 2 mol of Fe3+ ions
combines with 3 mol of CO32– ions.
Mole ratio of
Xn+ ions :
= 0.0012 :
0.0012 :
= –––––––– 0.0004
=
3
:
MV
—
—
—
—
1000
MV
—
—
—
—
1000
Ym– ions
0.0004
0.0004
–––––––
0.0004
1
Hence 3 mol of Xn+ react with 1 mol of Ym–.
Step 3
Ionic equation is : 3Xn+ + 1Ym– → X3Y
Thus the ionic equation for the formation of
MaXb is
Empirical formula of the salt is X3Y.
aMb+(aq) + bXa–(aq) → MaXb(s)
Constructing Ionic Equations Using the
Continuous Variation Method
The ionic equation for the formation of
Fe2(CO3)3 is
1 The mole ratio of ions that react to form a
salt can be determined from an experiment
through the continuous variation method.
2 In this method, fixed volumes of a reactant
X are added to varying volumes of a second
reactant Y in different test tubes. If the salt
formed is an insoluble salt, the amount of
2Fe3+(aq) + 3CO32–(aq) → Fe2(CO3)3(s)
3 The examples in Table 8.7 show the method of
writing ionic equations based on the simplest
mole ratio of cations to anions combined to
form the salts.
233
Salts
8
1 An ionic equation for the formation of a salt
can be written if
(a) the formula of the salt is known (from
the charges of cation and anion),
(b) the number of moles of ions required to
form the salt is known.
2 The following guidelines show the construction
of the ionic equation for the formation of an
insoluble salt from the charges of cation and
anion.
precipitate produced will increase until all of the ions in solution X have reacted completely.
The height of the precipitate will remain constant despite the increasing volumes of solution
Y.
3 The flowchart of Figure 8.5 shows the steps involved in the continuous variation method.
To determine the ionic equation of the reaction between X ions and Y ions
Carry out an experiment to investigate the reaction between
• fixed volumes of solution X and
• different and varying volumes of solution Y
8
Determine the volume of Y ions that reacts with all of the X ions
Calculate the number of moles of X ions and the number of moles of Y
ions that have reacted using the formula:
MV
Number of moles = —
—
—
—
1000
Determine the simplest mole ratio of X ions to the Y ions in the reaction
to construct the ionic equation
Figure 8.5 Flowchart for the steps in the continuous variation method
8.2
SPM
’11/P3
Experiment 8.2
To construct a balanced ionic equation for the precipitation of lead(II) chromate(VI)
using the continuous variation method
Problem statement
How to determine the ionic equation for the
precipitation of lead(II) chromate(VI)?
Hypothesis
The height of precipitate will increase with the
increase in volume of lead(II) nitrate solution until
all the potassium chromate(VI) has reacted.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Volumes of lead(II)
nitrate solution
(b) Responding variable : Height of yellow precipitate
(c) Constant variable
: Volume of potassium
chromate(VI)
solution
and the size of test tubes
Apparatus
Test tubes of the same size, test tube rack, 50 cm3
burette, retort stand with clamp and ruler.
Materials
0.5 mol dm–3 lead(II) nitrate solution and 0.5 mol
dm–3 potassium chromate(VI) solution.
Salts
Procedure
1 A burette is filled with 0.5 mol dm–3 lead(II)
nitrate solution and another burette is filled with
0.5 mol dm–3 potassium chromate(VI) solution.
2 Eight test tubes are labelled 1 to 8 and placed in
a test tube rack.
3 5.00 cm3 of potassium chromate(VI) solution
from the burette is placed in every test tube.
Potassium chromate(VI) solution is yellow in
colour.
4 Using another burette, 1 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 of
lead(II) nitrate solution is added to the first test
tube. Progressively increase the volume of the
lead(II) nitrate solution by 1 cm3 to the rest of the
test tubes until 8 cm3 of lead(II) nitrate solution is
added to the eighth test tube (Figure 8.6(a)).
5 Every test tube is well shaken in order to mix
the solutions completely. The test tubes are then
allowed to stand for 20 minutes for the yellow
precipitate, lead(II) chromate(VI) to settle
(Figure 8.6(b)).
234
6 The height of the precipitate formed in every test tube is measured accurately using a ruler. The colour of the
solution above the precipitate is noted.
7 The result obtained is recorded in Table 8.8.
8
1.1
Figure 8.6 Continuous variation method
Results
Table 8.8
Test tube number
Volume of potassium
chromate(VI) solution (cm3)
Volume of lead(II) nitrate
solution (cm3)
Height of precipitate (cm)
Colour of solution
1
5.0
2
5.0
3
5.0
4
5.0
5
5.0
6
5.0
7
5.0
8
5.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
8.0
0.6
yellow
0.9
yellow
1.8
yellow
2.2
yellow
2.8
2.8
2.8
colourless
2.8
MV
0.5  5.0
= ­­­­­
—
—
—
— =—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— = 2.5 3 10–3
1000
1000
Calculation
1 A graph showing the height of precipitate versus
the volume of lead(II) nitrate solution is drawn
(Figure 8.7).
Number of moles of CrO42– ions in 5.0 cm3 of
0.5 mol dm–3 potassium chromate(VI) solution
MV
0.5  5.0
= ­­­­­
—
—
—
— =—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— = 2.5 3 10–3
1000
1000
4 Hence, 2.5  10–3 mol of Pb2+ ions react completely
with 2.5  10–3 mol of CrO42– ions.
∴ 1.00 mol of Pb2+ ions will react completely
with 1.00 mol of CrO42– ions.
The ionic equation for the reaction is
Figure 8.7 Graph of height of precipitate versus the
volume of lead(II) nitrate solution
Pb2+(aq) + CrO42–(aq) → PbCrO4(s)
2 From the graph, it is found that the height of
precipitate increases as the volume of lead(II)
nitrate increases. However, a constant height is
reached when 5.0 cm3 of lead(II) nitrate solution
is added. Thereafter, the height remains constant
despite further increases in the volume of lead(II)
nitrate solution.
3 This means that when 5.0 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3
lead(II) nitrate solution is used, all the chromate(VI)
ions in 5 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 potassium
chromate(VI) solution has been precipitated.
Number of moles of Pb2+ ions in 5.0 cm3 of
0.5 mol dm–3 lead(II) nitrate solution
5 Consequently, the balanced chemical equation for
the reaction is
1 mol
1 mol
1 mol
Pb(NO3)2(aq) + K2CrO4(aq) →
PbCrO4(s) + 2KNO3(aq)
Conclusion
1 Since the diameter of the test tubes are the
same, the height of the precipitate is directly
proportional to the mass of precipitate formed.
2 The ionic equation for the precipitate of lead(II)
chromate(VI) is Pb2+ + CrO42– → PbCrO4. The
hypothesis is accepted.
235
Salts
Discussion
3 From test tubes 6 to 8, the heights of precipitate
formed remains constant because all the
chromate(VI) ions in the test tubes have been
precipitated. There is an excess of Pb2+ ions
in the test tubes. The clear solution above the
precipitate which is colourless contains Pb2+ ions,
K+ ions and NO3– ions.
8
1
From test tubes 1 to 4, the
2+
increase of Pb ions from the
increase in volumes of lead(II)
nitrate solution added, increases
the mass of precipitate formed.
There are excess (un­reacted)
CrO42– ions in the test tubes which
produces the yellow colour of the
solutions above the precipitate.
The yellow solution contains
CrO42– ions, K+ ions and NO3–
ions. The yellow colour became
paler as more CrO42– ions have
reacted.
2 In test tube 5, the reaction is completed when the precipitate formed reaches a
maximum height. All the chromate(VI) ions have reacted with all the lead(II)
ions. The clear solution contains K+ ions and NO3– ions.
4
’97
You are supplied with a lead(II) ions solution and a 0.1
mol dm–3 potassium chromate(VI) solution. Explain how
you can determine the concentration of the lead(II) ions
solution using the precipitation method.
Comments
An experiment using the continuous variation method
of precipitating lead(II) chromate(VI), using a constant
volume of potassium chromate(VI) solution and
different volumes of lead(II) ions as in Experiment
8.2 is carried out. A graph of the height of precipitate
against the volume of lead(II) ions solution will be
obtained as follows:
Salts
From the graph, V cm3 of lead(II) ions solution is
required to react completely with 5 cm3 of potassium
chromate(VI) solution, when the height of the precipitate
becomes constant.
Calculation:
0.1 3 5
• Number of moles of CrO42– ions = —————
1000
= 0.0005
M3V
• Number of moles of Pb2+ ions = —————,
1000
where M is the concentration.
• Ionic equation of the reaction
Pb2+ + CrO42– → PbCrO4
• From the equation, 1 mol of Pb2+ ions react with 1 mol
of CrO42– ions.
Mole ratio of Pb2+ : CrO42– = 1:1,
0.0005
1
that is —————— = —
0.001MV
1
2+
• Concentration of Pb ions, M = 0.5/V mol dm–3
236
1
Hence, 0.2 mol of H2SO4 produce 0.2  —
3
= 0.067 mol of Al2(SO4)3.
SPM
Numerical Problems Involving
’09/P1
Calculation of Quantities of Reactants
or Products in Stoichiometric Reactions
1 A balanced equation gives information
regarding the number of moles of reactants
in a reaction and the number of moles of
products formed.
2 For example, the equation for the reaction
between magnesium and hydrochloric acid is
Type 2: Calculation involving quantities in mass
If the quantities of reactants/products are given in
terms of mass in gram, the quantity of solid can be
converted to moles by the following relationship
Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq) → MgCl2(aq) + H2(g)
1 mol
2 mol
1 mol
1 mol
The coefficients before the reactants and products
indicate the number of moles of chemicals
involved in the reaction. The equation above
shows that 1 mol of magnesium reacts with 2
mol of hydrochloric acid to produce 1 mol of
magnesium chloride and 1 mol of hydrogen gas.
3 A balanced chemical equation (stoichiometric
reaction) can be used to calculate the
stoichiometric quantities of the reactants or
products in terms of:
• Mass
• Volume and concentration (of aqueous
solution)
• Volume (of gas)
4 Since the quantities of chemicals involved in a
reaction are in terms of moles, the quantities
of reactants or products (the quantity of
chemicals in terms of volume of gas, volume
of solution, mass, numbers of molecules or
atoms), must first be converted to moles in
the initial step of the calculation regarding
quantities of reactants and products.
SPM
’08/P1
3
2.0 g of sodium hydroxide reacts with excess
sulphuric acid. What is the mass of sodium sulphate
produced?
[Relative atomic mass: H, l; O, 16; Na, 23; S, 32]
Solution
2NaOH + H2SO4 → Na2SO4 + 2H2O
Molar mass of NaOH
= 23 + 16 + 1
= 40 g mol–1
2g
2 g of NaOH = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
‑
40 g mol–1
= 0.05 mol
Step 2: Convert mass to mol.
Step 3: Get the mole ratio of NaOH
and Na2SO4
Type 1: Calculation involving quantities in moles
1
Hence, 0.05 mol of NaOH produce — 0.05
2
= 0.025 mol of Na2SO4
2
Calculate the number of moles of aluminium
sulphate produced by the reaction of 0.2 mol of
sulphuric acid with excess aluminium oxide.
Molar mass of Na2SO4
= 2(23) + 32 + 4(16)
= 142 g mol–1
Step 1: Write a balanced equation.
Solution
3H2SO4 + Al2O3 → Al2(SO4)3 + 3H2O
1 mol
Step 1: Write a
balanced equation.
From the equation, 2 mol of NaOH produces 1 mol
of Na2SO4.
Examples of Calculation
3 mol
Mass (g)
Number of moles = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Molar mass (g mol–1)
Step 2: Get the mole ratio
of H2SO4 and Al2(SO4 )3 .
0.025 mol of Na2SO4
= 0.025 mol  142 g mol–1
= 3.55 g
From the equation, 3 mol of H2SO4
produce 1 mol of Al2(SO4)3
237
Step 4: Relate the number
of moles of chemicals in
the equation to that in the
question.
Step 5: Convert mol
to mass.
Salts
8
Step 3: Relate the number of moles of
chemicals in the equation to that in the
question.
Type 3: Calculation involving volumes of gas
If the quantities of reactants or products are given in
terms of volumes of gas, the volume of gas can be
converted to moles by the following relationship:
Or: Number of moles = molarity of solution
(mol dm–3)  volume of solution (dm3)
5
At s.t.p. (0°C and 1 atm):
What is the mass of magnesium required to react
with 20 cm3 of 2 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid to
produce 120 cm3 of hydrogen at room temperature?
[Relative atomic mass: Mg, 24; 1 mol of gas
occupies 24 dm3 at room temperature]
Volume of gas (dm3)
Number of moles = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
22.4 dm3 mol–1
8
At room conditions (25°C and 1 atm) :
Solution
Mg + 2HCl → MgCl2 + H2
Volume of gas (dm3)
Number of moles = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
24.0 dm3 mol–1
1 mol of gas occupies 24 dm3.
What is the volume of carbon dioxide gas evolved
at s.t.p. when 2.1 g of magnesium carbonate reacts
with excess nitric acid?
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12; O, 16; Mg, 24; 1 mol
of gas occupies 22.4 dm3 at s.t.p.]
Step 3: Get the mole ratio of Mg and H2.
Hence, 0.005 mol of H2 is produced by 0.005 mol
of Mg
Step 1: Write a balanced equation.
Step 4: Relate the number of moles of chemicals
in the equation to that in the question.
MgCO3 + 2HNO3 → Mg(NO3)2 + CO2 + H2O
Molar mass of MgCO3
= 24 + 12 + 3(16) = 84 g mol–1
2.1
2.1 g MgCO3 = —
— = 0.025 mol
84
0.005 mol of Mg
= 0.005  24 g
= 0.12 g
Step 2: Convert
mass to mol.
What is the volume of 2 mol dm–3 hydrochloric
acid required to dissolve 10 g of marble (calcium
carbonate)?
[Relative atomic mass: H, 1; O, 16; C, 12; Ca, 40]
Step 3: Get the mole ratio of MgCO3 and CO2.
Hence, 0.025 mol of MgCO3 produce 0.025 mol of
CO2.
Step 4: Relate the number of moles of chemicals
in the equation to that in the question.
Solution
Step 1: CaCO3 + 2HCl → CaCl2 + CO2 + H2O
Step 5: Convert
mol to volume.
10
10
Step 2: 10 g of CaCO3 = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—= —
—
—
40 + 12 + 3(16)
100
= 0.1 mol
Hence, 0.025 mol of gas CO2 gas occupies
0.025  22.4 = 0.56 dm3 or 560 cm3.
Step 3: From the equation, 1 mol of CaCO3 requires
2 mol of HCl for a complete reaction.
Type 4: Calculation involving volumes and
molarities of solutions
If the quantities of reactants or products involves
solutions, the quantity of chemicals in a solution
can be converted to moles using the following
relationship
MV
Number of moles = ————
1000
Step 4: Hence, 0.1 mol of CaCO3 requires 0.1  2
= 0.2 mol of HCl for a complete reaction
Step 5: Number of moles = molarity  volume (dm3)
Volume of HCl
Number of moles of HCl
0.2 mol
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—= —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Molarity of HCl
2 mol dm–3
3
3
3
= 0.1 dm = 0.1  1000 cm = 100 cm
Where M = molarity of solution (mol dm–3)
V = volume of solution (cm3)
Salts
Step 5: Convert mol to mass.
6
From the equation, 1 mol of MgCO3 produces 1 mol
of CO2.
1 mol of gas occupies 22.4 dm3.
Step 2: Convert
volume to mol.
120
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— mol = 0.005 mol
120 cm3 gas = —
24  1000
From the equation, 1 mol of H2 is produced by
1 mol of Mg.
4
Solution
Step 1: Write a
balanced equation.
238
7
SPM
5
’08/P1
4.0 g of magnesium oxide is added to 30.0 cm of
2.0 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid.
What is the mass of magnesium oxide that does not
dissolve in this reaction?
[Relative atomic mass: O, 16; Mg, 24]
’02
3
Pb2+(aq) + 2I–(aq) → PbI2(s)
What is the molarity of the potassium iodide
solution?
MV
MV
Number of moles = —
—
—
—
1000
MgO + 2HCl → MgCl2 + H2O
Number of moles = —
—
—
—
1000
Comments
20.0
Number of moles of Pb2+ ions = 0.25  —
—
—
—
1000
= 0.005
2.0  30
Number of moles of HCl = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
— = 0.06
1000
From the equation, 2 mol of HCl will dissolve
1 mol of MgO.
8
Solution
5.0 cm3 of a potassium iodide solution requires
20.0 cm3 of 0.25 mol dm–3 lead(II) nitrate solution
to react completely according to the equation below.
Hence, 0.06 mol of HCl will dissolve
From the equation, 1 mol of Pb2+ ions reacts with
2 mol of I– ions.
1
0.06  — = 0.03 mol of MgO.
2
Hence, 0.005 mol of Pb2+ ions react with (0.005  2)
= 0.01 mol of I– ions.
1000
M = Number of moles 3 —
—
—
—
V
0.03 mol of MgO = 0.03  (24 + 16) g = 1.2 g
0.01  1000
Molarity of KI solution = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— = 2 mol dm–3
5
∴ Mass of MgO that does not dissolve
= Initial mass of MgO – mass of MgO dissolved
= 4.0 g – 1.2 g = 2.8 g
8
Mass, m
What is the mass of copper(II) carbonate that is
produced when 60 cm3 of 1 mol dm–3 sodium carbonate
is added to 50 cm3 of 2 mol dm–3 copper(II) sulphate?
[Relative atomic mass H, 1; O, 16; Cu, 64]
n  molar mass
Mole, n
Solution
CuSO4 + Na2CO3 → CuCO3 + Na2SO4
Number of moles of CuSO4
2  50
=—
—
—
—
— = 0.1
1000
V  molar
volume
Calculate the number of
moles of both reactants
to check which of the
reactants is used up in the
reaction. The number of
moles of product formed
depends on the number
of moles of reactant that
is used up (the limiting
reactant).
V1  molarity
n  molarity
n  molar
volume
Volume of gas, V
Number of moles of Na2CO3
1  60
=—
—
—
—
— = 0.06
1000
From the equation,
1 mol of CuSO4 reacts with 1 mol of Na2CO3 to
produce 1 mol of CuCO3.
Volume of solution, V1
8.1
1 Suggest suitable methods and reactants for the
preparation of the following salts.
(a) Na2SO4
(b) (NH4)2SO4
(c) Al2(SO4)3
(d) Pb(NO3)2
(e) ZnCl2
(f) PbSO4
(g) AgCl
Hence, 0.06 mol of Na2CO3 will react completely,
while 0.1 mol of CuSO4 is in excess.
Thus, 0.06 mol of Na2CO3 will
produce 0.06 mol of CuCO3.
m  molar mass
Na2CO3 is the
limiting factor.
2 Suggest chemicals that can react with nitric acid
to produce magnesium nitrate. Write equations for
the reactions that take place.
0.06 mol of CuCO3 = 0.06  (64 + 12 + 3(16)) g
= 0.06  124 g = 7.44 g
239
Salts
3 State the mole ratio of the ions in the following
salts:
(a) CaSO4
(b) Al(OH)3
Inference from the Colours of Salts or
Salt Solutions
8
4 Write the ionic equations for the following
reactions:
(a) 2 mol of silver ions react with 1 mol of
chromate(VI) ions
(b) 0.3 mol of lead(II) ions react with 0.6 mol of
bromide ions
1 Initial observation of the physical properties
of a salt such as colour and solubility in water
enables us to make inferences regarding the
possible cations or anions present. However,
the presence of the cations or anions needs to
be confirmed by other tests.
2 Most salts are white in colour and when dissolved
in water, will form colourless aqueous solutions.
3 Cations of transition elements have specific
colours.
4 Table 8.9 below gives the colours of different
cations in the solid form or in aqueous
solutions.
5 5 cm3 of 0.2 mol dm–3 barium chloride solution
reacts completely with 10 cm3 of 0.1 mol dm–3
sodium chromate(VI) solution. Calculate the mole
ratio of the ions involved in the formation of
barium chromate precipitate.
Subsequently, write the balanced
equation for the reaction that occurs.
chemical
6 In an experiment, 10 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 silver
nitrate reacts completely with 5 cm3 of 0.5 mol
dm–3 potassium carbonate. Determine the ionic
equation for the precipitation above.
Table 8.9 Colours of cations
7 Magnesium oxide reacts with excess phosphoric
acid to produce 1.2 mol of magnesium phosphate.
(a) Write a balanced equation for the reaction that
occurs.
(b) Calculate the number of moles of magnesium
oxide that is used in the reaction above.
8.2
Qualitative Analysis of
Salts
The Meaning of Qualitative Analysis
1 Qualitative analysis is a chemical technique
used to determine the identities of chemical
substances present in a mixture but not their
quantity.
2 Qualitative analysis of salt is a scheme of tests
carried out to identify the cation and anion
present in the salt.
3 The technique of qualitative analysis includes:
(a) Observing the colour of the salt or colour
of the aqueous salt solution.
(b) Observing the solubility of the salt in water.
(c) Observing the effect of heat on the salt.
(d) Identifying the gas evolved when a test is
performed on the salt.
(e) Identifying the precipitate formed when a
specific chemical reagent is added to the
aqueous salt solution.
(f) Carrying out confirmatory tests, which are
specific chemical tests to confirm the identity
of a cation or an anion present in a salt.
Salts
Solution
Colour
Solid
White or
colourless
Salts of Na , K ,
NH4+, Mg2+, Ca2+,
Ba2+, Al3+, Pb2+,
Zn2+ (if the anions
are colourless)
Na , K+, NH4+,
Mg2+, Ca2+, Ba2+,
Al3+, Pb2+, Zn2+
Yellow
PbO, PbI2,
PbCrO4, BaCrO4
Fe3+, CrO42–
Blue
Hydrated Cu2+ salt
Cu2+
Green
Hydrated Fe2+
salt, CuCO3 and
CuCl2
Fe2+
Black
Cu2+, Fe2+ oxide
or sulphide
–
Brown/
orange
Hydrated Fe3+ salt
Fe3+, CrO72–
+
+
+
5 Table 8.10 shows the solubility of different
types of salts in water.
Table 8.10 Solubility of salts in water
Type of Salt
Solubility in water
Salts of Na+, All are soluble
K+, NH4+
240
Nitrate
All are soluble
Sulphate
All common sulphates are soluble
except BaSO4, PbSO4 and CaSO4
Chloride
All common chlorides are soluble
except AgCl, HgCl and PbCl2(soluble
in hot water)
Tests of Gases
Solubility in water
Carbonate
All common carbonates are
insoluble except Na2CO3, K2CO3 and
(NH4)2CO3
Oxide
All oxides are insoluble except Na2O,
K2O and CaO (slightly soluble)
Hydroxide
All hydroxides are insoluble except
KOH, NaOH, Ca(OH)2 and Ba(OH)2
1 Certain gases may be evolved when a chemical
substance is
(a) heated,
(b) reacted with a dilute or concentrated acid,
(c) heated with an alkali.
2 Based on the gas evolved, information about
the types of ions present can be deduced. For
instance, if carbon dioxide gas is evolved in
a reaction, carbonate ions are present in the
salt.
3 The physical properties and chemical tests for
a few gases are summarised in Table 8.11.
Lead halides PbCl2, PbBr2 and PbI2 are insoluble in
cold water but soluble in hot water
Table 8.11 Physical properties and tests on gases
Name of gas Colour of gas
Smell of
gas
Oxygen, O2
Colourless
No smell No effect
When a glowing wooden splint is lowered into the
test tube of oxygen, the glowing splint is lighted
Hydrogen, H2
Colourless
No smell No effect
When a lighted wooden splint is pla­ced near the
mouth of the test tube of hydrogen, a ‘pop’ sound
is produced
Carbon
dioxide, CO2
Colourless
No smell Moist blue litmus
turns to red
When carbon dioxide gas is bubbled into limewater
using a delivery tube, the limewater becomes milky
Ammonia,
NH3
Colourless
Pungent Moist red litmus
turns to blue
When a glass rod dipped into concentrated
hydrochloric acid is placed near the mouth of the
test tube with ammonia, white fumes are formed
Chlorine, Cl2
Greenishyellow
Choking Decolourises moist
red or blue litmus
Hydrogen
chloride, HCl
Colourless
Pungent Moist blue litmus
turns to red
When a glass rod dipped into concentrated
ammonia is placed near the mouth of the test tube
with hydrogen chloride, white fumes are formed
Sulphur
dioxide, SO2
Colourless
Pungent Moist blue litmus
turns to red
When sulphur dioxide gas is bubbled into
acidified potassium manganate(VII) solution,
the purple colour is decolourised (or when it is
bubbled into acidified potassium dichromate(VI)
solution, the colour changes from orange to green)
Nitrogen
dioxide, NO2
Brown
Pungent Moist blue litmus
turns to red
–
Effect on damp
litmus
Confirmatory test on gas
–
(NH4)2CO3(s) → 2NH3(g) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)
Heating Test on Salts
(NH4)2SO4(s) → 2NH3(g) + H2SO4(l)
1 All ammonium, carbonate, nitrate and some
sulphate salts will decompose when heated.
2 All ammonium salts liberate ammonia gas
when heated.
Examples
NH4NO3(s) → NH3(g) + HNO3(g)
3 All carbonates except potassium carbonate and
sodium carbonate produce carbon dioxide
gas when heated. Table 8.12 shows the effect
of heating on metal carbonates.
241
Salts
8
Type of Salt
Table 8.12 Effect of heat on carbonate salts
Carbonate salt
Potassium carbonate
Sodium carbonate
Effect of heat
Will not decompose on heating
8
Decompose to metal oxide and carbon dioxide gas
Calcium carbonate
CaCO3(s) → CaO(s) + CO2(g)
Magnesium carbonate
MgCO3(s) → MgO(s) + CO2(g)
Aluminium carbonate
Al2(CO3)3(s) → Al2O3(s) + 3CO2(g)
Zinc carbonate
ZnCO3(s) → ZnO(s) + CO2(g)
Iron(III) carbonate
Fe2(CO3)3(s) → Fe2O3(s) + 3CO2(g)
Lead(II) carbonate
PbCO3(s) → PbO(s) + CO2(g)
Copper(II) carbonate
CuCO3(s) → CuO(s) + CO2(g)
Decompose to metal, carbon dioxide gas and oxygen gas
Mercury(II) carbonate
2HgCO3(s) → 2Hg(l) + 2CO2(g) + O2(g)
Silver carbonate
2Ag2CO3(s) → 4Ag(s) + 2CO2(g) + O2(g)
Gold(I) carbonate
2Au2CO3(s) → 4Au(s) + 2CO2(g) + O2(g)
Decompose to carbon dioxide gas, ammonia and water vapour without any residue
Ammonium carbonate
(NH4)2CO3(s) → 2NH3(g) + H2O(g) + CO2(g)
4 All nitrates decompose when heated. Table 8.13 shows the effect of heating on metal nitrates.
(a) Sodium nitrate and potassium nitrate produce oxygen gas and nitrites when heated.
(b) Other metal nitrates produce oxygen gas, nitrogen dioxide gas and metal oxides when heated.
Table 8.13 Effect of heat on nitrate salts
Nitrate Salt
Effect of heat
Decompose to metal nitrite and oxygen gas
Potassium nitrate
2KNO3(s) → 2KNO2(s) + O2(g)
Sodium nitrate
2NaNO3(s) → 2NaNO2(s) + O2(g)
Decompose to metal oxide, oxygen gas and nitrogen dioxide gas
Calcium nitrate
2Ca(NO3)2(s) → 2CaO(s) + 4NO2(g) + O2(g)
Magnesium nitrate
2Mg(NO3)2(s) → 2MgO(s) + 4NO2(g) + O2(g)
Aluminium nitrate
4Al(NO3)3(s) → 2Al2O3(s) + 12NO2(g) + 3O2(g)
Zinc nitrate
2Zn(NO3)2(s) → 2ZnO(s) + 4NO2(g) + O2(g)
Iron(III) nitrate
4Fe(NO3)3(s) → 2Fe2O3(s) + 12NO2(g) + 3O2(g)
Lead(II) nitrate
2Pb(NO3)2(s) → 2PbO(s) + 4NO2(g) + O2(g)
Copper(II) nitrate
2Cu(NO3)2(s) → 2CuO(s) + 4NO2(g) + O2(g)
Decompose to metal, nitrogen dioxide gas and oxygen gas
Mercury(II) nitrate
Hg(NO3)2(s) → Hg(l) + 2NO2(g) + O2(g)
Silver nitrate
2AgNO3(s) → 2Ag(s) + 2NO2(g) + O2(g)
Gold(I) nitrate
2AuNO3(s) → 2Au(s) + 2NO2(g) + O2(g)
Decompose to nitrous oxide gas, water vapour without any residue
Ammonium nitrate
Salts
NH4NO3(s) → N2O(g) + 2H2O(g)
242
5 Most sulphate salts do not decompose when
heated. Only a few sulphates such as iron(II)
sulphate, zinc sulphate and copper(II) sulphate
decompose to sulphur dioxide or sulphur
trioxide gas when heated.
Examples
2FeSO4(s) → Fe2O3(s) + SO2(g) + SO3(g)
Figure 8.8
Table 8.14 Deduction of types of ion present from gas
produced
Type of gas
produced
CuSO4(s) → CuO(s) + SO3(g)
6 All chloride salts are stable on heating except
ammonium chloride. Ammonium chloride
sublimes and decomposes to produce ammonia
gas and hydrogen chloride gas.
NH4Cl(s) → NH3(g) + HCl(g)
7 The deduction of the types of ions present based
on the gas produced is shown in Table 8.14.
8 When a salt is heated,
(a) the type of gas evolved has to be identified.
This will give information to the type of
anion (or cation, NH4+) present.
(b) the colour change of the solid in the test tube
must be recorded. This will give information
regarding the type of cation present.
Type of ion
CO2
Carbonate ion, CO32– (except Na2CO3
and K2CO3)
O2
Nitrate ion, NO3–
NO2 and O2
Nitrate ion, NO3– (except NaNO3 and
KNO3)
SO2
Sulphate ion, SO42–
NH3
Ammonium ion, NH4+
8
ZnSO4(s) → ZnO(s) + SO3(g)
9 Most salts that decompose produced metal
oxides as residue. The change of colour during
heating gives a good indication towards the
type of metal oxide formed as shown in Table
8.15.
Table 8.15 Colour change of salts on heating
Colour of residue after heating
Metal oxide produced
Cation present in salt
White
Yellow when hot, white when cold
ZnO
Zn2+
White
Brown when hot, yellow when cold
PbO
Pb2+
Blue/green
Black
CuO
Cu2+
Green/yellow
Brown
Fe2O3
Fe2+/Fe3+
To study the effect of heat on carbonate salts
Apparatus
Boiling tubes, test tubes, test tube holder, delivery
tube with rubber stopper, spatula and Bunsen burner.
Materials
Potassium carbonate, sodium carbonate, calcium
carbonate, magnesium carbonate, zinc carbonate,
lead(II) carbonate, copper(II) carbonate and limewater.
SPM
’10/P2
Procedure
1 One spatula of potassium carbonate powder is
placed in a dry boiling tube and the colour of the
solid is recorded.
2 The boiling tube is fitted with a stopper with a
delivery tube.
3 The carbonate salt is heated slowly and then
strongly.
243
Salts
Activity 8.7
Original colour of salt
8
4 Any gas evolved is passed through the delivery
tube into the limewater. The effect on limewater
is recorded (Figure 8.9).
5 When there is no further change, the colour
of the residue when it is hot is recorded. The
colour of the residue when it is cooled to room
temperature is also recorded.
6 Steps 1 to 5 of the experiment is repeated using
other carbonate salts as shown in Table 8.16.
stopped. Otherwise the limewater will be sucked
back into the hot boiling tube.
Precaution
Make sure that the end of the delivery tube is
removed from the limewater before heating is
Figure 8.9 Heating test on carbonate salts
Results
Table 8.16 Heating test on carbonate salts
Colour of residue
Colour of salt
before heating
When hot
When cold
Potassium carbonate, K2CO3
White
White
White
No visible change
Sodium carbonate, Na2CO3
White
White
White
No visible change
Calcium carbonate, CaCO3
White
White
White
Limewater turns milky
Magnesium carbonate, MgCO3
White
White
White
Limewater turns milky
Zinc carbonate, ZnCO3
White
Yellow
White
Limewater turns milky
Lead(II) carbonate, PbCO3
White
Brown
Yellow
Limewater turns milky
Copper(II) carbonate, CuCO3
Green
Black
Black
Limewater turns milky
Carbonate salt
4 Note that if excess carbon dioxide gas is passed
into the limewater, the white precipitate, CaCO3
formed will dissolve to form calcium hydrogen
carbonate. The limewater will turn clear again.
Discussion
1 In this experiment, limewater is used to test for the
presence of carbon dioxide gas. Carbon dioxide
gas turns limewater milky because calcium
carbonate is formed as a white precipitate.
CaCO3(s) + H2O(l) + CO2(g) → Ca(HCO3)2(aq)
CO2(g) + Ca(OH)2(aq) → CaCO3(s) + H2O(l)
2 When zinc carbonate is heated, zinc oxide and
carbon dioxide gas are produced.
ZnCO3(s) → ZnO(s) + CO2(g)
Zinc oxide is yellow when hot and white when
cooled.
3 When lead(II) carbonate is heated, lead(II) oxide
and carbon dioxide gas are produced.
white precipitate
colourless solution
Conclusion
1 Potassium carbonate and sodium carbonate will
not decompose on heating.
2 Other metal carbonates decompose on heating to
produce metal oxides and carbon dioxide gas. A
general equation representing the decomposition
of carbonate salt by heat is
MCO3(s) → MO(s) + CO2(g)
PbCO3(s) → PbO(s) + CO2(g)
Lead(II) oxide is brown when hot and yellow
when cooled.
Salts
Effect on limewater
metal
carbonate
244
metal
oxide
To study the effect of heat on nitrate salts
4 When there is no further change, the colour of
the residue is recorded when it is hot. The colour
of the residue is recorded again when the residue
is cooled to room temperature.
5 Steps 1 to 4 of the experiment are repeated using
other nitrate salts as shown in Table 8.17.
Apparatus
Boiling tubes, litmus paper, test tube holder, wooden
splint, spatula and Bunsen burner.
Materials
Potassium nitrate, sodium nitrate, magnesium nitrate,
zinc nitrate, aluminium nitrate, lead(II) nitrate and
copper(II) nitrate.
8
Procedure
1 One spatula of potassium nitrate is placed in a
dry boiling tube and the colour of the solid is
noted.
2 The nitrate salt is heated slowly and then
strongly.
3 Any gas evolved is tested by a glowing wooden
splint (Figure 8.10(a)) and moist blue litmus
paper (Figure 8.10(b)). The results are recorded.
Figure 8.10 Heating test on nitrate salt
Table 8.17 Heating test on nitrate salts
Test on gas
Colour of residue
When
hot
When
cold
Effect on
Effect on
Colour of
glowing wooden moist blue
gas
splint
litmus paper
Potassium nitrate, KNO3
White
White
White
Colourless
Rekindles
No change
Sodium nitrate, NaNO3
White
White
White
Colourless
Rekindles
No change
Magnesium nitrate, Mg(NO3)2
White
White
White
Brown
Rekindles
Turns red
Aluminium nitrate, Al(NO3)3
White
White
White
Brown
Rekindles
Turns red
Zinc nitrate, Zn(NO3)2
White
Yellow
White
Brown
Rekindles
Turns red
Lead(II) nitrate, Pb(NO3)2
White
Brown
Yellow
Brown
Rekindles
Turns red
Copper(II) nitrate, Cu(NO3)2
Blue
Black
Black
Brown
Rekindles
Turns red
Discussion
1 The brown gas that changed moist blue litmus
paper to red is nitrogen dioxide gas.
2 The gas that rekindles a glowing wooden splint
is oxygen gas.
Generally, 2MNO3(s) → 2MNO2(s) + O2(g),
metal nitrate
metal nitrite
where M = K or Na.
2 Other metal nitrates decompose to metal oxides,
nitrogen dioxide gas and oxygen gas when heated.
A general equation representing the decomposition
of other nitrate salts by heat is
Conclusion
1 All nitrate salts decompose on heating.
Potassium nitrate and sodium nitrate decompose
to oxygen gas when heated.
2M(NO3)2(s) → 2MO(s) + 4NO2(g) + O2(g)
metal nitrate
245
metal oxide
Salts
Activity 8.8
Nitrate salt
Colour of
salt before
heating
Test for carbonate ions, CO32–
Test for nitrate ions, NO3–(brown ring test)
1 When dilute acid (hydrochloric acid, nitric
acid or sulphuric acid) is added to an
aqueous carbonate solution (or solid
carbonate), effervescence occurs.
2 The gas evolved turns limewater milky. Carbon
dioxide gas is produced, indicating the
presence of carbonate ions.
1 When dilute sulphuric acid and iron(II)
sulphate, FeSO4 solution are added to
an aqueous nitrate solution, followed by
concentrated sulp­huric acid added slowly
along the side of the test tube, a brown
ring is formed in the middle section of the
solution mixture.
2 The formation of the brown ring (a complex)
indicates the presence of nitrate ions.
8
CO32–(aq) + 2H+(aq) → CO2(g) + H2O(l)
Figure 8.11 Acid test for carbonate ions
Figure 8.12 Brown ring test for nitrate ions
Tests for the Presence of Anions in Aqueous Solutions
SPM
’05/P2
Q8
The presence of anions, CO32–, NO3–, SO42–, and Cl– can be identified
by conducting specific tests on the aqueous salt solution.
Test for sulphate ions, SO42–
SPM
Test for chloride ions, Cl–
’10/P2
1 When dilute hydrochloric acid (or nitric
acid) is added to an aqueous sulphate
solution followed by barium chloride
solution, BaCl2 (or barium nitrate solution,
Ba(NO3)2), a white precipitate is formed.
2 The white precipitate is barium sulphate,
BaSO4.
1 When dilute nitric acid is added to an
aqueous chloride solution followed by silver
nitrate solution, AgNO3, a white precipitate
is formed.
2 The white precipitate is silver chloride,
AgCl.
Ag+(aq) + Cl–(aq) → AgCl(s)
Ba2+(aq) + SO42–(aq) → BaSO4(s)
3 BaNO3 or BaCl2 solution provide the Ba2+
ions to react with the SO42– ions to produce
the insoluble BaSO4 salt.
3 AgNO3 solution provides the Ag+ ions
to react with the Cl– ions to produce the
insoluble AgCl salt.
H2SO4 followed by Ba(NO3)2 or BaCl2 solution is not
a suitable test for the presence of SO42– ions. This is
because the SO42– ions in H2SO4 will give a positive
test with Ba(NO3)2 or BaCl2 solution.
HCl followed by AgNO3 solution is not a suitable test
for the presence of Cl– ions. This is because the Cl–
ions in HCl will give a positive test with AgNO3 solution.
Salts
246
To test for the presence of anions in aqueous salt solution
Apparatus
Test tubes, delivery tube with rubber stopper, spatula,
test tube holder and Bunsen burner.
sulphate solution, 2 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid and
nitric acid, concentrated sulphuric acid and 0.1 mol
dm–3 silver nitrate solution.
Materials
1 mol dm–3 sodium carbonate solution, sodium
chloride solution, sodium sulphate solution, sodium
nitrate solution, barium chloride solution and iron(II)
Procedure
The steps to test the aqueous salt solutions as planned
in Table 8.18 are carried out. The observations and
inferences are tabulated.
8
Results
Table 8.18 Tests for the presence of anions in aqueous salt solutions
Test
2 (a) About 2 cm3 of sodium chloride solution is
placed in a test tube.
(b) About 2 cm3 of dilute nitric acid is added to
the chloride solution followed by about
2 cm3 of silver nitrate solution.
3 (a) About 2 cm3 of sodium sulphate solution is
placed in a test tube.
(b) About 2 cm3 of dilute nitric acid is added to
the sulphate solution followed by about
2 cm3 of barium chloride solution.
4 (a) About 2 cm3 of sodium nitrate solution is
placed in a test tube.
(b) About 2 cm3 of dilute sulphuric acid is added
to the nitrate solution followed by about
2 cm3 of iron(II) sulphate solution. The
mixture is shaken to mix well.
(c) Concentrated sulphuric acid is added care­
fully to the mixture along the wall of the
tilted test tube without shaking the mixture.
Inference
Effervescence occurs.
A gas is evolved.
Limewater becomes
milky.
Carbon dioxide gas is evolved.
Carbonate ion, CO32–, is
present.
A white precipitate is
produced.
Chloride ion, Cl–, is
present.
A white precipitate is
produced.
Sulphate ion, SO42–, is present.
A brown ring is formed Nitrate ion, NO3–, is
in the middle of the
present.
solution.
Conclusion
1 The presence of carbonate ions can be identified by
the addition of a dilute acid where carbon dioxide
gas evolved will turn the limewater milky.
2 The presence of chloride ions can be identified by
the addition of silver nitrate solution to an acidified
solution when a white precipitate is produced.
3 The presence of sulphate ions can be identified
by the addition of barium chloride solution to
an acidified solution when a white precipitate is
produced.
4 The presence of nitrate ions can be identified by
the brown ring test.
247
Salts
Activity 8.9
1 (a) About 2 cm3 of sodium carbonate solution is
placed in a test tube.
(b) About 2 cm3 of dilute hydrochloric acid is
added to the carbonate solution.
(c) Any gas produced is bubbled into limewater.
Observation
8
Tests for Cations
1 The cations usually tested are: Al3+, Pb2+, Zn2+,
Mg2+, Ca2+, Fe3+, Fe2+, Cu2+ and NH4+ ions.
2 An aqueous solution of the cation is prepared
by
(a) dissolving the salt in water (if the salt is
soluble in water).
(b) dissolving the salt in dilute acid and then
filtering (if the salt is insoluble in water).
The filtrate contains the cation.
3 The aqueous cation solution is then tested
with
(a) sodium hydroxide solution, NaOH,
(b) aqueous ammonia solution, NH3(aq),
(c) a specific reagent as a confirmatory test.
4 Sodium hydroxide and aqueous ammonia
supply hydroxide ions, OH– to produce metal
hydroxide as precipitate with cation solutions
except Na+, K+ and NH4+ ions.
5 Transition element cations produce specific
coloured metal hydroxide, whereas the other
cations produce white precipitate as shown in
Table 8.19.
Cu(OH)2
Cu2+
Dirty green
precipitate
Fe(OH)2
Fe2+
Fe3+
–
Na+, K+,
NH4+
9 All three Cu(OH)2, Fe(OH)2 and Fe(OH)3 do not
dissolve in excess sodium hydroxide solution.
However, Cu(OH)2 (a blue precipitate)
dissolves in excess aqueous ammonia to
form a dark blue solution.
10 A summary of the sodium hydroxide tests and
aqueous ammonia tests for cations are shown
in Table 8.20.
SPM
Blue precipitate
Fe(OH)3
NH4+(aq) + OH–(aq) → NH3(g) + H2O(l)
’11/P1
Cation
present
Brown precipitate
Some metal hydroxides are soluble in excess
sodium hydroxide or aqueous ammonia to
form complexes.
6 Al3+, Pb2+ and Zn2+ ions form metal hydroxides
which are white precipitates that are soluble
in excess sodium hydroxide. Furthermore,
zinc hydroxide is also soluble in excess
aqueous ammonia.
7 Mg2+ and Ca2+ ions form metal hydroxides
which are white precipitates with sodium
hydroxide, but only Mg2+ ions will produce
white precipitate with aqueous ammonia.
8 Ammonium ion, NH4+ does not produce any
precipitate with sodium hydroxide or aqueous
ammonia. However, if a mixture of ammonium
ion and sodium hydroxide is heated, ammonia
gas is produced.
Example: Pb2+(aq) + 2OH–(aq) → Pb(OH)2(s)
Al3+(aq) + 3OH–(aq) → Al(OH)3(s)
Formula of
metal hydroxide
Cation
present
No precipitate
precipitate
Observation
Formula of
metal hydroxide
White precipitate Al(OH)3, Pb(OH)2, Al3+, Pb2+,
Zn(OH)2, Mg(OH)2, Zn2+, Mg2+,
Ca(OH)2
Ca2+
Generally, Mn+(aq) + nOH–(aq) → M(OH)n(s)
Table 8.19 Colours of metal hydroxides
Observation
SPM
Table 8.20 Hydroxide tests for cations
Cation
A little sodium
hydroxide, NaOH(aq)
Excess sodium hydroxide,
A little aqueous
NaOH(aq)
ammonia, NH3(aq)
No precipitate
forms
’10/P1
Excess aqueous ammonia,
NH3(aq)
NH4+
No precipitate forms. No precipitate forms. NH3
NH3 gas evolves when gas evolves when heated
heated
Pb2+
White precipitate
White precipitate soluble in White precipitate
excess NaOH
White precipitate insoluble in
excess NH3(aq)
Zn2+
White precipitate
White precipitate soluble in White precipitate
excess NaOH
White precipitate soluble in
excess NH3(aq)
Al3+
White precipitate
White precipitate soluble in White precipitate
excess NaOH
White precipitate insoluble in
excess NH3(aq)
Salts
248
No precipitate forms
A little sodium
hydroxide, NaOH(aq)
Excess sodium hydroxide,
A little aqueous
NaOH(aq)
ammonia, NH3(aq)
Mg2+
White precipitate
White precipitate insoluble
in excess NaOH
White precipitate
White precipitate insoluble in
excess NH3(aq)
Ca2+
White precipitate
White precipitate insoluble
in excess NaOH
No precipitate
forms
No precipitate forms
Cu2+
Blue precipitate
Blue precipitate insoluble in Blue precipitate
excess NaOH
Fe2+
Dirty green precipitate Dirty green precipitate
insoluble in excess NaOH
Fe3+
Brown precipitate
Dirty green
precipitate
Excess aqueous ammonia,
NH3(aq)
Blue precipitate soluble in
excess NH3(aq) to form a
dark blue solution
Dirty green precipitate
insoluble in excess NH3(aq)
Brown precipitate insoluble Brown precipitate Brown precipitate insoluble
in excess NH3(aq)
in excess NaOH
Confirmatory tests for Fe2+, Fe3+,NH4+ and
Pb2+ ions
1 Potassium hexacyanoferrate(II), K4Fe(CN)6
solution, potassium hexacyanoferrate(III),
K3Fe(CN)6
solution
and
potassium
thiocyanate, KSCN, solution can be used to
confirm the presence of Fe2+ and Fe3+ ions.
The observation is shown in Table 8.21.
2 Fe2+ ions can also be confirmed by acidified
potassium manganate(VII), KMnO4 solution.
If a few drops of KMnO4 solution acidified by
dilute H2SO4 are added to a solution, and the
purple colour of the manganate(VII) ion is
decolouris­ed, then the solution contains Fe2+
ions.
3 Pb2+ ions can be confirmed by adding
(a) an iodide solution (e.g. KI), produces a
yellow precipitate of PbI2.
(b) a chloride solution (e.g. NaCl), produces
a white precipitate of PbCl2.
(c) a sulphate solution (e.g. H2SO4),
produces a white precipitate of PbSO4.
4 Both lead(II) chloride, PbCl2 and lead(II)
iodide, PbI2 are soluble in hot water and
recrystallise when cooled.
5 Nessler reagent is a special reagent to test
the presence of ammonium ion. This reagent
forms a brown precipitate with ammonium
ion.
6 A summary of the confirmatory tests for Pb2+,
NH4+, Fe2+ and Fe3+ ions is shown in Table
8.21.
SPM
’11/P1
Table 8.21 Confirmatory tests for Pb2+, NH4+, Fe2+ and Fe3+ ions
Cation
Specific reagent
Lead(II) ions, Pb2+
KI, NaI
Yellow precipitate, soluble in hot water
and recrystallises when cooled
KCl, NaCl, HCl
White precipitate, soluble in hot water
and recrystallises when cooled
K2SO4, Na2SO4, H2SO4
White precipitate, insoluble in hot water
Ammonium ions, NH4+ Nessler reagent
Iron(II) ions, Fe
2+
Iron(III) ions, Fe3+
Observation
Brown precipitate
Potassium hexacyanoferrate(II), K4Fe(CN)6
Light blue precipitate
Potassium hexacyanoferrate(III), K3Fe(CN)6
Prussian blue (dark blue) precipitate
Acidified KMnO4
Purple colour decolourises
Potassium thio­cy­­anate, KSCN
Blood red colour
Potassium hexacyanoferrate(II), K4Fe(CN)6
Turnbull’s blue (dark blue) precipitate
Potassium hexacyanoferrate(III), K3Fe(CN)6
Greenish-brown solution
249
Salts
8
Cation
Flowchart for the analysis of cations in salts
Unknown cation solution
Test 1: Add NaOH(aq) solution
White precipitate
Coloured precipitate
Zn , Al3+, Pb2+, Ca2+, Mg2+
2+
Blue
Cu2+
8
Add excess
NaOH(aq) solution
Green
Fe2+
No precipitate
Brown
Fe3+
NH4+
On heating
Cation solution
Precipitate
dissolves
Precipitate does not
dissolve
Zn2+, Al3+, Pb2+
Ca2+, Mg2+
Test 2:
Add aqueous
NH3
NH4+
Coloured precipitate
Cation solution
Test 2:
White
precipitate
dissolves
in excess
NH3
Add excess
aqueous NH3
White
precipitate
insoluble
in excess
NH3
Test 2:
White
precipitate
is formed
Mg2+
present
Zn2+
present
Blue
Cu2+
Cation solution
Add excess
aqueous NH3
Add
excess
aqueous
NH3
No
precipitate
Ca2+
present
Al3+ or
Pb2+
Green
Fe2+
Brown
Fe3+
Cation solution
Cation
solution
Test 3:
Blood red
colour
Cu present
Fe present
3+
Cation solution
Cation solution
Test 3:
Test 3: Add KI
Add K3Fe(CN)6
Dark blue precipitate
Salts
No
precipitate
Yellow
precipitate
Al3+ present
Pb2+ present
Add
KSCN
Dark blue
solution
2+
Fe2+ present
250
Gas turns red litmus
to blue. NH3 gas
evolves.
Test 2
Add Nessler
reagent
Brown
precipitate
NH4+
present
Flowchart for the analysis of anions in salts
Unknown solid anion
Test 1: Heating the solid
Gas rekindles glowing wooden
splint and a brown gas is
evolved.
O2 and NO2 gas evolve.
Gas evolves and
decolourises acidified
KMnO4 solution.
SO2 or SO3 evolves.
No gas evolves
CO32– ion
NO3– ion
SO42– ion
SO42– or Cl–
Solid salt or salt
solution
Anion solution
Anion solution
Anion solution
8
Gas evolves and turns
limewater milky.
CO2 gas is evolved.
Test 2
Test 2
Add dilute
acid
Add FeSO4, dilute
H2SO4 and then
concentrated H2SO4
slowly
Test 2
Add
HNO3 and
Ba(NO3)2
Brown ring
White precipitate
NO3– ion
present
SO42– ion
present
Gas evolves and turns
limewater milky.
CO2 evolves.
Test 2
Add
HNO3 and
Ba(NO3)2
No precipitate.
SO42– ion is not
present.
Anion solution
CO32– ion
present
Test 3
Add
HNO3
and
AgNO3
White precipitate
Cl– ion present
Qualitative Analysis to Identify the Ions Present in a Salt
1 Two types of salt analysis:
(A) To confirm the cation and anion present
’09/P2
in a named salt
Example Compound X is lead(II) carbonate.
How do you carry out tests to confirm
the cation and anion in compound X?
compounds. Carry out chemical tests
to identify the anion and cation in
solid Y and solution Z.
2 An example of problem A, to confirm the
cation and anion in compound X, is shown
in Activity 8.10 To confirm the cation, Pb2+ ions
and the anion, CO32– ions in compound X.
3 An example of problem B, a planned analysis,
is shown in Activity 8.11 To identify the cations
and anions in unknown salt Y and salt Z.
SPM
(B) To identify the cation and anion present
in an unknown salt
Example You are supplied with solid Y and
solution Z. Both Y and Z are ionic
251
Salts
To confirm the cation, Pb2+ ions and the anion, CO32– ions in
compound X
Apparatus
Test tubes, boiling tube, test tube holder, delivery
tube with stopper, spatula and Bunsen burner.
8
Materials
Solid lead(II) carbonate, 2 mol dm–3 nitric acid,
2 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide solution, limewater
and 0.5 mol dm–3 potassium iodide solution.
Procedure
1 The steps in the experiment which are supplied
in Table 8.22 are carried out.
2 The observations are recorded and inferences are
made.
3 Care is taken to ensure that all test tubes and
spatula are clean to prevent contamination.
Results
Table 8.22
Experiment
1 (a) A spatula of compound X is heated in a
boiling tube, gently at first and then strongly.
(b) The gas produced is passed into lime­water
in a test tube using a delivery tube.
2 5 cm3 of dilute nitric acid is added to a quarter
spatula of compound X in a test tube. The gas
evolved is tested with limewater.
3 The mixture in step 2 is filtered. The filtrate
which contains the cation is divided into two
portions in two test tubes.
(a) For the first portion, sodium hydroxide
solution is added gradually until in excess.
(b) For the second portion, a little potassium
iodide solution is added.
(i) A little distilled water is added to the
mixture and then heated.
(ii) The mixture is allowed to cool under
running water.
Observation
The residue is brown when
hot and yellow when cold.
The gas evolved turns limewater milky.
The gas evolved turns limewater milky.
Inference
Lead(II) oxide is formed.
Pb2+ ions may be present.
Carbon dioxide gas is evolved.
CO32– ions may be present.
Carbon dioxide gas is
evolved. CO32– ions are
confirmed to be present.
A white precipitate is produ­
ced which is soluble in
excess sodium hydroxide
solution.
A yellow precipitate is
produced.
The yellow precipitate
dissolves in hot water to
form a colourless solution.
Upon cooling, golden yellow
crystals are reformed.
Pb2+, Al3+ or Zn2+ ions may be
present.
Lead(II) iodide may be
formed.
The yellow precipitate is
lead(II) iodide.
Lead(II) ions, Pb2+ is
confirmed to be present.
Activity 8.10 & 8.11
Conclusion
It is confirmed that compound X contains lead(II) ions and carbonate ions.
To identify the cations and anions in unknown salt Y and
salt Z
Apparatus
Test tubes, boiling tube, test tube holder, delivery
tube with stopper, wooden splint and Bunsen burner.
Salts
Materials
Unknown salt Y and salt Z, 2 mol dm–3 sodium hydroxide
solution, aqueous ammonia, dilute sulphuric
acid, dilute nitric acid, dilute hydrochloric acid,
concentrated sulphuric acid, silver nitrate solution,
barium chloride solution and iron(II) sulphate
solution.
252
Procedure
(A) Tests on salt Y
Experiment
Observation
Inference
A brown gas is produced.
A gas that rekindles a
glowing wooden splint is
also produced. A white
residue is formed.
Nitrogen dioxide gas and
oxygen gas are produced.
Nitrate ion, NO3– is
present.
2 The residue formed is cooled and then
dissolved in dilute nitric acid. The resulting
solution is divided into 3 portions.
The white residue
dissolves in nitric acid.
The solution contains
cations.
(a) Sodium hydroxide solution is added to the
first portion of solution Y until in excess.
White precipitate that
dissolves in excess sodium
hydroxide is formed.
Pb2+, Al3+ or Zn2+ ions may
be present.
(b) Aqueous ammonia is added to the second
portion of solution Y until in excess.
White precipitate that
does not dissolve in excess
aqueous ammonia is formed.
Zn2+ ions are not present.
Pb2+ ions or Al3+ ions may
be present.
(c) Potassium iodide solution is added to the
third portion of solution Y.
No noticeable change.
Pb2+ ions are not present.
Al3+ ions are present.
A brown ring is formed.
NO3– ions are present.
3 Salt Y is dissolved in distilled water. A little
iron(II) sulphate and dilute sulphuric acid is
added to solution Y. Concentrated sulphuric
acid is then added slowly along the side of the
test tube to the mixture.
8
1 Salt Y is heated strongly.
(B) Tests on salt Z
Experiment
Observation
Inference
1 Salt Z is dissolved in distilled water. The
solution is divided into 4 portions.
Z dissolves in water.
Z is a soluble salt.
2 Sodium hydroxide solution is added to the first
portion of solution Z until in excess.
A white precipitate that
does not dissolve in excess
sodium hydroxide is formed.
Mg2+ ions or Ca2+ ions may
be present.
3 Aqueous ammonia is added to the second
portion of solution Z until in excess.
A white precipitate that
does not dissolve in excess
aqueous ammonia is
formed.
Mg2+ ions are present.
4 Dilute hydrochloric acid is added to the third
portion of solution Z followed by barium
chloride solution.
No noticeable change.
SO42– ions are not present.
5 Dilute nitric acid is added to the fourth portion
of solution Z followed by silver nitrate solution.
A white precipitate is
formed.
Cl– ions are present.
Conclusion
Compound Y contains Al3+ ion and NO3– ion.
Compound Z contains Mg2+ ion and Cl– ion.
253
Salts
8
In qualitative analysis of unknown ions, you should not test for the ions present in the reagents used in
analysis. For example, if the salt is dissolved in dilute hydrochloric acid, do not test for the presence of chloride
ion. In the same way, if aqueous ammonia is added to the salt solution, do not test for ammonium ion.
solution is added to Cl– ions solution followed by
an acid, a white precipitate that is insoluble in acids
will be formed.
3 Ba(NO3)2 or BaCl2 solutions produce insoluble salts
with both CO32– ions and SO42– ions. However,
BaCO3 is soluble in acids. Hence, the formation
of white precipitate with Ba2+ ions solution in
the presence of acids confirms the presence of
SO42– ions. If Ba2+ ions solution is added to SO42–
solution followed by an acid, a white precipitate
that is insoluble in acids will be formed.
1 Pb(NO3)2 solution produces insoluble salts as
precipitate with CO32– ions, SO42– ions and Cl–
ions. Hence, Pb(NO3)2 solution is not a good
test for the presence of the above three types of
ions. However, a negative test may indicate the
presence of NO3– ions.
2 AgNO3 solution produces insoluble salts with
both CO32– ions and Cl– ions. However, Ag2CO3
is soluble in acids. Hence, the formation of white
precipitate with AgNO3 solution in the presence of
acids confirms the presence of Cl– ions. If AgNO3
6
’05
Describe chemical tests that can be used to verify the
cations and anions in beaker 1 and beaker 2.
Comments
• Add a little sodium carbonate powder to 5 cm3 of
solution from beaker 1. The evolution of a gas that
turns limewater milky will verify the presence of
hydrogen ions in the acid.
• Add 2 cm3 of barium nitrate solution to 5 cm3 of
solution from beaker 1. The formation of a white
precipitate will verify the presence of sulphate
ions.
• Add 1 cm3 of Nessler reagent to 5 cm3 of solution
from beaker 2. The formation of a brown precipitate
will verify the presence of ammonium ions.
• Add a little of iron(II) sulphate and dilute sulphuric
acid to 5 cm3 of solution from beaker 2, followed
by concentrated sulphuric acid added slowly. The
formation of a brown ring will verify the presence
of nitrate ions.
8.2
2 Solid Y is not soluble in water but dissolves in dilute
nitric acid and gives out a gas that turns limewater
milky. The solution produced is yellow in colour and
forms a brown precipitate when sodium hydroxide
solution is added.
(a) Give the name of salt Y.
(b) Write an equation for the reaction between salt
Y and dilute nitric acid.
(c) Predict the reaction that would occur when salt
Y is heated strongly.
(d) Predict the observation that will occur when
potassium thiocyanate solution is added to the
yellow solution produced from the addition of
nitric acid to salt Y.
1 The formulae of a few salts are given below:
PbCl2, ZnSO4, Fe(NO3)3, ZnCO3, Na2CO3, Al2(SO4)3,
CuCl2, CuCO3, Mg(NO3)2, Cu(NO3)2
Which of the above salts
(a) is a solid that is insoluble in water?
(b) is a white solid?
(c) is soluble in water to produce a blue solution?
(d) forms a white precipitate with barium chloride
that is insoluble in acid?
(e) forms a white precipitate that dissolves in
sodium hydroxide solution?
(f) forms a white precipitate with aqueous ammonia
but is not soluble in excess aqueous ammonia?
Salts
254
(e) Write an equation for the formation of the brown
precipitate when sodium hydroxide solution is
added to an acidic solution of salt Y.
4 You are given three types of acids: sulphuric acid,
nitric acid and hydrochloric acid. Using suitable
chemical tests, describe briefly how you can identify
the three types of acids.
3 Dilute nitric acid is added to aqueous solutions of
unknown salts P, Q and R respectively. It is found
that solutions P and Q do not show any noticeable
change, whereas effervescence occurs in solution
R. The gas that is evolved from solution R turns
limewater milky. When silver nitrate solution is
added to solution P, a white precipitate is formed.
When barium nitrate is added to solution Q, a white
precipitate is produced. Identify the anions that are
present in solutions P, Q and R.
5 You are given three types of salts: zinc nitrate, lead(II)
nitrate and calcium nitrate. Using suitable chemical
tests, describe briefly how you can differentiate
between the three types of salts.
8
6 An experiment was carried out to identify the cation
and anion present in an unknown salt Z. The tests
and observations are tabulated below. Fill in the
correct inferences in the table and deduce the
cation and anion present in salt Z.
Test
Observation
1 NaOH solution is added gradually to a little Z
solution until in excess.
A white precipitate which is soluble in excess
NaOH is produced.
2 Aqueous NH3 is added gradually to a little Z
solution until in excess.
A white precipitate which is soluble in excess
aqueous NH3 is produced.
3 Solid Z is heated slowly and then strongly.
A brown gas and a gas that rekindles a glowing
wooden sp­lin­t are produced. The residue form­ed
is yellow when hot and white when cooled.
4 Dilute nitric acid followed by BaCl2 solution is
added to a little Z solution.
No noticeable change occurs.
8.3
Inference
Practising Systematic and Meticulous Methods when Carrying
Out Activities
1 Correct methods in preparing salt crystals
(a) A salt solution is evaporated until
saturated so that solid salt may be
crystallised. The salt is not heated until
dry to prevent decomposition of the salt.
(b) The salt crystals formed are removed by
filtration and then rinsed with distilled
water to remove any foreign ions present
in the salt.
2 Correct methods in salt analysis
(a) All observations must be recorded carefully
and immediately after every test. The
inferences are then recorded as soon as
possible.
(b) During heating, do not direct the mouth
of the test tube towards yourself or
towards your fellow students.
(c) Gases such as sulphur dioxide, nitrogen
dioxide, chlorine, hydrogen chloride and
ammonia are poisonous. Use suitable
quan­tities as instructed. Do not use excess
chem­­
icals. This will cause wastage of
chemicals and require a longer time to
carry out the experiment. Making accurate
observations will be difficult. Handle all
apparatus and chemicals carefully in the
laboratory.
(d) Addition of a reagent to a salt solution should
be carried out drop by drop while shaking the
test tube until no further change occurs.
255
Salts
1 A salt is an ionic compound that is formed when
the hydrogen ion in an acid is replaced by a
metal ion or ammonium ion (NH4 +).
2 The solubility of a salt in water depends on the
types of cations and anions present.
8
Type of salt
3 Filtration can be used to separate an insoluble
salt (as the residue) from a soluble salt (as the
filtrate).
4 The methods of preparing salts depend on the
solubility of salts.
5 Insoluble salts can be prepared by double
decomposition reaction. Two aqueous solutions
containing the cations and the anions are mixed
together. The precipitate is then obtained by
filtration.
6 The mole ratio of ions that react to form a salt
can be determined from an experiment through the
continuous variation method.
7 Qualitative analysis of salt is a scheme of tests
carried out to identify the cation and anion present
in the salt.
Solubility in water
Sodium, potassium and
ammonium and nitrate
salts
All are soluble
Chloride salts
All are soluble except
PbCl2, AgCl and HgCl
Sulphate salts
All are soluble except
PbSO4, BaSO4 and CaSO4
Carbonate salts
All are insoluble except
NaCO3, K2CO3 and
(NH4)2CO3
8
Multiple-choice Questions
8.1
Salts
1 Which of the following salts is
insoluble in water?
A Lead(II) nitrate
B Calcium chloride
C Magnesium carbonate
D Iron(III) sulphate
2 Which of the following
chemicals is most suitable to
’06 react with HCl to prepare AgCl?
A Silver carbonate
B Silver nitrate
C Silver metal
D Silver oxide
3 Which following chemicals
can be added to nitric acid to
prepare copper(II) nitrate?
A Copper metal
B Copper(II) carbonate
C Copper(II) chloride
D Copper(II) sulphate
Salts
4 Which is the best method to
prepare ammonium nitrate?
A Double decomposition
B Neutralisation between an
acid and an alkali
C Reaction between an acid
and a metal
D Reaction between an acid
and a metal carbonate
5 A sample of zinc(II) sulphate
bought contained some impurities.
The impure salt can be purified
by a process known as
A distillation
B evaporation
C crystallisation
D recrystallisation
6 Which of the following salts
can be prepared by double
decomposition reaction?
A Lead(II) nitrate
B Aluminium sulphate
C Silver chloride
D Sodium sulphate
256
7 Which of the following pairs of
solutions when added together
will produce a precipitate?
I Potassium carbonate and
silver nitrate
II Lead(II) nitrate and sodium
chromate(VI)
III Sodium carbonate and
copper(II) sulphate
IV Sodium sulphate and
potassium carbonate
A I and II only
B II and III only
C I, II and III only
D I, III and IV only
8 Which of the following
equations represent a double
decomposition reaction?
IMg(NO3)2(aq) + Na2CO3(aq)
→ MgCO3(s) + 2NaNO3(aq)
II CaCO3(s) + H2SO4(aq) →
CaSO4(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)
III BaCl2(aq) + H2SO4(aq) →
BaSO4(s) + 2HCl(aq)
9 If 20 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3
aqueous sodium chloride solution
is added to 20 cm3 of 1.0 mol
dm–3 silver nitrate solution, which
of the following ions are present
in the solution produced?
INa+
III NO3–
II Ag+
IV Cl–
A I and III only
B II and III only
C I, II and III only
D I, II and IV only
10 4.2 g of magnesium carbonate
reacts with excess hydrochloric
acid to produce a salt. Which of
the following are true about the
reaction? [1 mol of gas occupies
24 dm3 at room temperature and
pressure. Relative atomic mass:
C, 12; O, 16; Mg, 24; Cl, 35.5]
I Neutralisation reaction takes
place.
II 1.2 dm3 of gas is released.
III Mass of salt formed is 4.75 g.
IV 4.2 mol of water is formed.
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C II and III only
D I and IV only
B Nitric acid and barium
chloride solution
C Nitric acid and silver nitrate
solution
D Sodium hydroxide solution
14 Aluminium sulphate solution
and zinc sulphate solution can
be differentiated by the
A addition of silver nitrate solution.
B addition of aqueous ammonia.
C addition of sodium hydroxide
solution.
D addition of barium chloride
solution.
15 When lead(II) nitrate solution
is added to solution X, a white
precipitate is produced. Solution
X may be
I H2SO4
II HNO3
Qualitative Analysis of
Salts
11 When solid X is heated strongly,
a gas that turns limewater milky
is produced, leaving a white
residue. Which of the following
may be solid X?
A Lead(II) carbonate
B Sodium carbonate
C Zinc carbonate
D Magnesium carbonate
12 Which of the following salts will
produce a brown gas on heating?
A Lead(II) bromide
B Ammonium nitrate
C Potassium nitrate
D Zinc nitrate
13 Which of the following is used
to test for sulphate ions?
A Iron(II) sulphate solution and
concentrated sulphuric acid
HCl
BaCl2
I and III only
II and IV only
I, II and III only
I, III and IV only
16 Solution M reacts with sodium
hydroxide solution to form a
white precipitate that is insoluble
in excess sodium hydroxide
solution.
Solution M most probably contains
I lead ion
II calcium ion
III aluminium ion
IV magnesium ion
A II and III only
B I and III only
C II and IV only
D I, III and IV only
17 A student wants to identify cation X that is present in a salt solution. When
ammonia solution is added into the salt solution, a green precipitate is
’11 formed.
What is the next test that is needed and the expected observation to
confirm cation X?
Test
Observation
A
Add potassium iodide solution
Yellow precipitate is formed
B
Add potassium thiocyanate solution
Blood red colour is formed
C
Add potassium hexacyanoferrate(II)
solution
Add Nessler reagent
Light blue precipitate is formed
D
8.2
III
IV
A
B
C
D
Brown precipitate is formed
18 When a gas Z is passed into copper(II) sulphate solution, a blue precipitate is
produced. Gas Z may be
A ammonia
C hydrogen chloride
B chlorine
D sulphur dioxide
19 When aqueous iron(III) chloride solution is added to reagent X, a blood
red colour is produced. Reagent X may be
A ammonium sulphite
C potassium thiocyanate
B potassium iodide
D potassium hexacyanoferrate(II)
20 Hydrochloric acid can be differentiated from sulphuric acid by adding
I barium nitrate
III silver nitrate
II barium hydroxide
IV sodium carbonate
A III only
C II and IV only
B I and II only
D I, II and III only
21 When lead(II) nitrate is heated strongly in a test tube, the following can be
observed.
I A brown gas is evolved.
II A gas that rekindles a glowing wooden splint is evolved.
III A gas that changes moist blue litmus to red is evolved.
IV A white residue is formed.
257
Salts
8
IV 2Zn(NO3)2(s) → 2ZnO(s) +
4NO2(g) + O2(g)
A I and II only C II and III only
B I and III only D II and IV only
8
A
B
C
D
I and II only
III and IV only
I, II and III only
I, II, III and IV
22 Which of the following ions will
form a precipitate that dissolves
in excess aqueous ammonia?
I Copper(II) ions
II Aluminium ions
III Lead(II) ions
IV Zinc ions
A I and IV only
B II and III only
C II and IV only
D II, III and IV only
23 Excess powdered carbonate of
metal Z is added to sulphuric acid
and stirred. After a few minutes,
a light green solution is formed.
Z could be a carbonate of
A iron(II)
C copper(II)
B iron(III)
D lead(II)
24 Which of the following reagents
can be used to differentiate
between sodium nitrate and
potassium sulphate?
I Lead(II) nitrate solution
II Barium chloride solution
III Silver nitrate solution
IV Sodium hydroxide solution
A I and II only
B I and III only
C II and IV only
D I and IV only
Solution X may be
I sodium hydroxide
II aqueous ammonia
III Nessler reagent
IV iron(III) nitrate
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C I and IV only
D I, II and III only
B A white precipitate, which
dissolves in excess ammonia,
is formed when aqueous
ammonia is added.
C A white precipitate is formed
when lead(II) nitrate solution
is added.
D A white precipitate is formed
when silver nitrate solution is
added.
26 When solid X is heated strongly, a
brown gas that turned moist blue
litmus paper to red is evolved and
a black residue is formed. Which
of the following may be solid X?
A Copper(II) oxide
B Sodium nitrate
C Copper(II) nitrate
D Magnesium nitrate
29 When solution X is added to
sodium chloride solution, a
white precipitate is formed. The
precipitate dissolves when it
is heated with a little distilled
water. Which of the following
will be observed when solution
X is added to a solution of
sodium iodide solution?
A A white precipitate is formed.
B A yellow precipitate is
formed.
C A brown solution is formed.
D A purple solution is formed.
27 Lead(II) nitrate solution and
aluminium sulphate solution can
be distinguished respectively by
adding
I sodium hydroxide solution
II potassium sulphate solution
III barium nitrate solution
IV sodium iodide solution
A I and III only
B II and III only
C II and IV only
D III and IV only
25 When solution X is added to
iron(III) sulphate solution, a
brown precipitate is produced.
30 Which of the following reagents
can be used to differentiate Fe2+
ions from Fe3+ ions?
I Potassium iodide solution
II Potassium thiocyanate
solution
III Potassium
hexacyanoferrate(III) solution
IV Potassium manganate(VII)
solution
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C I, II and III only
D II, III and IV only
28 Which of the following
observations is true for both
sodium chloride solution and
zinc sulphate solution?
A A white precipitate is formed
when barium nitrate solution
is added.
Structured Questions
1 Diagram 1 is a flowchart showing a series of reactions starting from lead(II) oxide.
Lead(II) oxide
Precipitate F
sodium
hydroxide
substance A
Lead(II) nitrate
heat
Gas B + Gas C + Solid D
potassium iodide
Precipitate E
Diagram 1
(a) (i) Name substance A that is used to react with lead(II) oxide to produce lead(II) nitrate.
(ii) Write a chemical equation for the reaction that takes place in (i).
Salts
258
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
Gas B is a brown gas while gas C is colourless.
(i) Identify gas B and solid D.
(ii) Suggest a test that you can use to test the presence of gas C.
(i) Name precipitate E. What is the colour of precipitate E?
(ii) Write the ionic equation for the formation of precipitate E.
(i) Name precipitate F.
(ii) Predict the observation that will occur if excess sodium hydroxide is added to precipitate F.
Name another chemical that can replace lead(II) oxide to react with substance A to produce lead(II)
nitrate. [2 marks]
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
[2 marks]
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
2 Diagram 2 is a flowchart showing a series of reactions starting from magnesium oxide.
Excess magnesium oxide
8
+
Nitric acid
stir and filter
Residue A
Filtrate
Process 1: evaporate, cool and filter
Process 2: heated strongly
Crystal B
Solid C + Gas D + Gas E
Diagram 2
(a) Write a chemical equation showing the reaction between magnesium oxide and nitric acid.
[1 mark]
(b) If 50 cm3 of 2.0 mol dm–3 nitric acid is added to excess magnesium oxide, calculate the maximum mass of
salt that can be produced. [Relative atomic mass: H, 1; N, 14; O, 16; Mg, 24]
[3 marks]
(c) The filtrate formed from the reaction above is colourless.
(i) Predict what will be observed if aqueous sodium hydroxide is added to the filtrate gradually until
in excess.
[2 marks]
(ii) Name crystal B.
[1 mark]
(d) In Process 2, the gas D produced is colourless while gas E is brown.
(i) Identify gas E and name solid C.
[2 marks]
(ii) Suggest a test that you can use to test the presence of gas D.
[1 mark]
3 The flowchart of Diagram 3 shows a series of reactions I to IV carried out to identify the ions present in compound A.
Diagram 3
(a) (i) Identify gas C.
(ii) What is the anion present in compound A?
(b) Based on the observation obtained in reaction III and reaction IV, predict the cation present in
compound A.
(c) Based on (a) and (b), write a balanced equation for the action of heat on compound A.
(d) Predict the colour of residue B when it is hot and when it is cooled.
(e) (i) Write a balanced equation for the formation of solution D in reaction II.
(ii) State an observation that can be noted in reaction II.
259
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
[1
[1
[1
[1
[1
mark]
mark]
mark]
mark]
mark]
Salts
(f) (i) Name the white precipitate F formed in reaction IV.
(ii) Write an ionic equation for the formation of the white precipitate F.
(g) Predict the observation that can be obtained when aqueous sodium hydroxide solution is added until
in excess to solution E.
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
4 Diagram 4 shows the steps involved in the preparation of zinc carbonate.
Zinc oxide
Step 1
add hydrochloric acid
Step 2
Salt solution P
Zinc carbonate
add solution Q
8
Diagram 4
(a) Write a balanced equation for the formation of salt solution P.
(b) Explain briefly how you can obtain a solution of salt P.
(c) (i) Name solution Q that is required to be added to salt solution P in Step 2 to produce zinc
carbonate.
(ii) Name the type of reaction involved in Step 2.
(iii) Write an ionic equation for the formation of zinc carbonate.
(d) 30 cm3 of 2.0 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid is reacted with excess zinc oxide.
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12; O, 16; Zn, 65]
(i) Calculate the number of moles of salt P that is formed.
(ii) Calculate the maximum mass of zinc carbonate that is produced.
(e) Suggest how you would convert zinc carbonate back to zinc oxide.
[1 mark]
[2 marks]
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
[2 marks]
[2 marks]
[1 mark]
5 The flowchart in Diagram 5 shows the result of a qualitative analysis that is carried out on a mixture of metal Q and a
water soluble salt P.
Salt P
+
metal Q
Gas R
add NaOH and heat
Salt P
add HNO3 + BaCl2
Process A
Metal Q
add HCl
White precipitate S
Gas T + Solution U
Diagram 5
(a) Name the process A that is used to separate salt P and metal Q.
(b) Gas R is a gas that can change red litmus paper to blue. Name gas R. Consequently what is the
cation present in solution P?
(c) Name the white precipitate S. What is the anion present in solution P?
(d) When gas R is passed into solution U, a white precipitate is first formed but dissolves when
excess gas R is passed through. Identify the cation present in solution U.
(e) From your answer in (d), determine the identity of metal Q and gas T.
[1 mark]
[2 marks]
[2 marks]
[1 mark]
[2 marks]
Essay Questions
1 (a) The following are three examples of salts that can
be prepared in the laboratory.
’07
• Sodium sulphate, Na2SO4
• Lead(II) chloride, PbCl2
• Magnesium nitrate, Mg(NO3)2
(i) From these examples, identify the soluble
and insoluble salts.
[3 marks]
(ii) State the reactants for the preparation of
the insoluble salt in (i).
[3 marks]
(b) With the aid of a labelled diagram, explain the
crystallisation method for preparing a soluble salt
from its unsaturated solution.
[6 marks]
(c) Table 1 shows the observations from tests carried
out on salt X.
Salts
Test
Procedure
Observation
I
Heating of salt X solid
A brown gas is given
off and a residue that
is brown when hot,
yellow when cooled is
formed.
II
Add excess aqueous
sodium hydroxide
solution to salt X
solution until in excess
A white precipitate
which is soluble in
excess sodium hydroxide
solution is formed.
Table 1
260
Describe a laboratory experiment to prepare the
salt. In your description, include the chemical
equations involved.
[8 marks]
(c) Three beakers with solutions labelled X, Y and Z
may contain the following salt solutions:
Based on the information in Table 1:
(i) Identify an anion that is present in Test I
and describe a chemical test to verify the
anion.
[4 marks]
(ii) Identify three cations that are present in
Test II. Describe a chemical test to verify the
cation present in salt X based on Test I and
Test II.
[5 marks]
• Zinc sulphate
• Zinc nitrate
• Magnesium sulphate
2 (a) What is meant by a salt?
[2 marks]
(b) You are required to prepare a sample of dry
lead(II) carbonate salt. The following chemicals
are supplied:
• Sodium carbonate solution
• Dilute nitric acid
• Lead metal powder
You are provided only with ammonia and barium
nitrate solutions. Describe how you could differentiate
between the 3 salt solutions by using the two
reagents provided. Include your observations and
conclusions.
[10 marks]
Experiment
1 Barium nitrate solution, Ba(NO3)2 and aqueous potassium chromate(VI), K2CrO4 solution react to produce a
yellow preci­pi­tate with the formula BaCrO4. A student has carried out an experiment to measure the height of
’03 the precipitate produced by the reaction between 5.0 cm3 of 0.50 mol dm–3 aqueous barium nitrate solution
and aqueous potassium chromate(VI) solution of unknown concentration at different volumes. The data
of the experiment obtained is shown in Table 1.
Test tubes
Volume of barium nitrate
solution (cm3)
Volume of potassium
chromate(VI) solution (cm3)
Height of precipitate (cm)
1
5.0
1.0
0.5
2
5.0
2.0
1.0
3
5.0
3.0
1.4
4
5.0
4.0
1.9
5
5.0
5.0
2.4
6
5.0
6.0
2.4
7
5.0
7.0
2.4
Table 1
(ii) Calculate the number of moles of barium
ions that is used in this experiment.
(a) Suggest a suitable apparatus that can be used to
measure the volume of barium nitrate solution
and potassium chromate(VI) solution in this
experiment.
[3 marks]
[3 marks]
(e) Based on the formula of the yellow precipitate
given, calculate the number of moles of
chromate(VI) ions used in the volume in (d)
(i). Hence calculate the molarity of the aqueous
potassium chromate(VI), K2CrO4, solution used in
this experiment.
[3 marks]
(b) State the manipulated variable, responding
variable and constant variable in this experiment.
[3 marks]
(c) Draw a graph of the height of the precipitate against
the volume of potassium chromate(VI) solution.
[3 marks]
(f) Explain why the height of the precipitate does
not change when 5.0 cm3, 6.0 cm3 and 7.0 cm3
of potassium chromate(VI) solution is added to
5.0 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 barium nitrate solution
in Table 1.
[3 marks]
(d) (i) What is the minimum volume of potassium
chromate(VI) solution required to react
completely with 5.0 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3
barium nitrate solution?
261
Salts
8
FORM 4
THEME: Production and Management of Manufactured Chemicals
CHAPTER
9
Manufactured Substances
in Industry
SPM Topical Analysis
2008
Year
1
Paper
Section
Number of questions
3
2009
2
A
B
C
1
–
–
3
1
–
2
2010
2
A
B
C
1
–
–
3
1
–
5
2011
2
A
B
C
–
–
–
3
1
–
3
3
2
A
B
C
–
1
–
ONCEPT MAP
MANUFACTURED SUBSTANCES IN INDUSTRY
Sulphuric acid
Uses: To make fertilisers,
polymers, detergents, pigments
Manufactured by the Contact
process:
• Temperature: 450–550 °C
• Pressure: 1 atmosphere
• Catalyst: V2O5
Ammonia
Uses: To make fertilisers, nitric
acid and as a cooling agent
(refrigerant)
Manufactured by the Haber
process:
• Temperature: 450–550 °C
• Pressure: 200–500
atmospheres
• Catalyst: Iron
Synthetic polymers
Examples and uses:
• Polythene: To make plastic
bags, plastic containers and
toys.
• Polypropene: To make plastic
bottles, tables and chairs
• PVC: To make water pipes,
raincoats and wire casing
Glass and ceramics
Uses: Construction materials,
household items, laboratory
apparatus
Types of glass:
• Fused glass
• Soda glass
• Borosilicate glass
• Lead glass
Alloys
Purposes:
• To increase hardness and
strength
• To prevent corrosion
• To improve the appearance
Examples: Steel, bronze, brass,
magnalium, pewter
Composite materials
Examples:
• Reinforced concrete
• Superconductor
• Fibre optic
• Fibreglass
• Photochromic glass
–
9.1
Sulphuric Acid
1 The manufacture of sulphuric acid is one of
the most important chemical industries at the
present time.
2 Sulphuric acid, H2SO4 is a non-volatile
diprotic acid.
3 Concentrated sulphuric acid is a viscous
colourless liquid.
Manufacture of fertilisers
1 Calcium dihydrogen phos­
phate (super­
phosphate) is prepared from the reaction
between sulphuric acid and tricalcium
phosphate:
ammonium sulphate
3 Potassium sulphate is prepared from
the reaction between sulphuric acid and
potassium hydroxide.
2H2SO4 + Ca3(PO4)2 → Ca(H2PO4)2 + 2CaSO4
calcium dihydrogen
phosphate
H2SO4 + 2KOH → K2SO4 + 2H2O
2 Ammonium sulphate is prepared from the
reaction between sulphuric acid and aqueous
ammonia.
Manufacture of
detergents (synthetic
cleaning agents)
Sulphuric acid reacts
with hydrocarbon to
produce sulphonic
acid. Sulphonic acid
is then neutralised
with
sodium
hydroxide to produce
the detergent.
potassium
sulphate
Manufacture of
white pigment
in paint barium
sulphate, BaSO4
The Uses of Sulphuric
Acid in Daily Life
Manufacture of
synthetic fibres
(polymers)
Rayon is an example
of a synthetic fibre
that is produced from
the action of sulphuric
acid on cellulose.
The Industrial Process in the
Manufacture of Sulphuric Acid
In school laboratories
1 As a strong acid
2 As a drying or
dehydrating agent
3 As an oxidising agent
4 As a sulphonating
agent
5 As a catalyst
The neutralisation
between sulphuric
acid and barium
hydroxide produces
barium sulphate.
sulphur or metal sulphide
SPM
’07/P2
burned in air
sulphur dioxide, SO2
1 Sulphuric acid is manufactured by the Contact
process in industry.
2 The raw materials used in the Contact process
are sulphur (or sulphide minerals), air and
water.
3 The flowchart of the Contact process is shown
in Figure 9.1. It describes how sulphur or
metal sulphide is converted to concentrated
sulphuric acid, H2SO4 through regulated steps
in the process.
(i) V2O5 as the catalyst
(ii) temperature of 450 °C – 550 °C
(iii) pressure of 1 atmosphere
sulphur trioxide, SO3
dissolved in concentrated H2SO4
oleum, H2S2O7
diluted with equal volume of H2O
concentrated sulphuric acid, H2SO4
Figure 9.1 Flowchart of the Contact process
263
Manufactured Substances in Industry
9
H2SO4 + 2NH3 → (NH4)2SO4
The Contact process involves three stages
I
SPM
’04/P2
II
III
sulphur ⎯→ sulphur dioxide ⎯→ sulphur trioxide ⎯→ sulphuric acid
9
Figure 9.2 shows the three stages in the manufacture of sulphuric acid by the Contact process in industry.
Figure 9.2 The production of
concentrated sulphuric
acid in industry.
SPM
Stage I
Stage II
Production of sulphur dioxide gas, SO2
This can be done by two methods:
1 Burning of sulphur in dry air in the
furnace.
Conversion of sulphur dioxide to sulphur
trioxide, SO3
1 The sulphur dioxide gas is dried and
purified before being added to dry air to
produce sulphur trioxide gas. This is
(a) to remove water vapour in the air (the
reaction of water with SO3 will produce
heat that will vaporise the acid),
(b) to remove contaminants such as arsenic
compounds (found in the sulphur or
sulphide minerals) that will poison the
catalyst and make it ineffective.
2 Pure and dry sulphur dioxide with excess
dry oxygen (from air) are passed through a
converter.
3 A high percentage (98%) of sulphur dioxide
is converted into suphur trioxide under the
following conditions:
(i) The presence of vanadium(V) oxide,
V2O5, as a catalyst
(ii) A temperature of between 450°C –
550°C
(iii) A pressure of one atmosphere
S + O2 → SO2
2 Burning of metal sulphide such as zinc
sulphide or iron(III) sulphide in dry air.
2ZnS + 3O2 → 2SO2 + 2ZnO
The production of sulphuric acid is known as the
Contact process because the molecules of sulphur
dioxide, SO2 and oxygen, O2 are in contact with the
catalyst, V2O5.
The use of V2O5 has replaced the use of platinum as
a catalyst because
(a) platinum is much more expensive,
(b) platinum is easily poisoned (lose its catalyst effect)
by arsenic compounds.
Manufactured Substances in Industry
2SO2 + O2
264
’09/P1
2SO3
Stage III
Production of sulphuric acid
1 In the absorber, sulphur trioxide is dissolved in concentrated
sulphuric acid to produce oleum, H2S2O7, a viscous liquid.
SO3 + H2SO4 → H2S2O7
H2S2O7 + H2O → 2H2SO4
3 The two reactions in stage III are equivalent to adding
sulphur trioxide to water.
SO3 + H2O → H2SO4
However, sulphur trioxide is not dissolved directly in water
to produce sulphuric acid. This is because
(a) SO3 has a low solubility in water.
(b) SO3 reacts violently in water, producing a large
amount of heat which will vapourise sulphuric acid
to form acid mist. The mist is corrosive, pollutes the
air and is difficult to condense.
The burning of fossil fuels causes
environmental pollution, producing
air pollutants such as carbon
monoxide, nitrogen monoxide,
nitrogen dioxide and sulphur
dioxide. Scientists are searching for
alternative sources of energy to
replace fossil fuels. Other than wind
energy, solar energy, geothermal
energy (energy from earth’s
internal heat) and nuclear energy,
scientists are also researching into
the production of fuels from natural
products such as palm oil.
Environmental Pollution by Sulphur Dioxide
1 Sulphur dioxide is the intermediate product
of the Contact process.
2 Sulphur dioxide is also produced during
volcanic eruptions.
3 However, the main source of sulphur dioxide
is from the burning of fossil fuels such as
petroleum. Most of the fossil fuels contain
some sulphur. Hence sulphur dioxide is
produced when fossil fuels are burned.
4 Waste gases from factories and extraction of
metal from their sulphide ores also release
sulphur dioxide into the atmosphere.
5 The burning of products manufactured
from sulphuric acid such as rayon will also
produce sulphur dioxide gas.
6 Sulphur is a poisonous and acidic gas that
can cause environmental pollution. Inhaling
sulphur dioxide affects the respiratory system.
It can cause lung problems such as coughing,
chest pains, shortness of breath and
bronchitis.
7 Sulphur dioxide gas dissolves in
atmospheric water to produce sulphurous
acid, H2SO3 and sulphuric acid, H2SO4.
The presence of these acids in rain water
causes acid rain.
265
SO2 + H2O ⎯⎯→ H2SO3
2SO2 + O2 + 2H2O ⎯⎯→ 2H2SO4
8 The effects of acid rain are as follows:
(a) Corrodes concrete buildings and metal
structures
(b) Destroys trees and plants in forest
(c) Decreases the pH of the soil which
becomes acidic, unsuitable for growth
of plants and destroys the roots of plants
(d) Reacts with minerals in the soil to
produce salts which are leached out
of the top soil; essential nutrients for
plants growth are depleted (plants die
of malnutrition and diseases)
(e) Acid rain flows into lakes and rivers.
This increases the acidity of water
and may kill fish and other aquatic
living things.
9 Two methods to reduce sulphur dioxide
from the atmosphere:
(a) Use low sulphur fuels to reduce the
emission of sulphur dioxide in exhaust
gases.
(b) Remove sulphur dioxide from waste air
by treating it with calcium carbonate
before it is released.
Manufactured Substances in Industry
9
2 Oleum is then diluted with an equal volume of water to
produce concentrated sulphuric acid (98%).
The industrial synthesis of sulphuric acid is
represented by the flowchart.
(a) Name this process.
(b) Name gas X, gas Y and liquid Z.
(c) Write balanced equations for Step 1 and Step
2.
(d) State the optimum conditions involved in Step
2.
(e) Why is gas Y not dissolved in water to produce
sulphuric acid?
9
Manufacture by Contact
process:
• 2SO2 + O2
2SO3
• Temperature: 450 °C – 550 °C
• Pressure : 1 atm
• Catalyst : V2O5
Uses of
Sulphuric Pollution by SO2:
sulphuric acid:
• Forms acid
acid
• Making paint
rain
pigments, detergents
• Causes breathing
and fertilisers
problems and
• As an electrolyte
lung diseases
in accumulators
9.2
1 Ammonia, NH3 is a very important compound
in industry.
2 The main uses of ammonia:
(a) To manufacture nitrogenous fertilisers such
as ammonium sulphate, ammonium
nitrate and urea
(b) The liquid form is used as a cooling agent
(refrigerant) in refrigerators
(c) as a raw material for the manufacture of
nitric acid in the Ostwald process
(d) to be converted into nitric acid used for
making explosives
(e) as an alkali to prevent the coagulation
of latex so that latex can remain in the
liquid form
(f) to produce ammonium chloride used as
an electrolyte in dry cells
(g) as a cleaning agent to remove grease
(h) used in the manufacture of synthetic fibres
such as nylon
3 The manufacture of nitrogenous fertilisers:
SPM (a) Ammonium sulphate
’07/P2
Ammonia reacts with sulphuric acid by
neutralisation to produce ammonium
sulphate.
9.1
1 An important use of sulphuric acid is in the
production of fertilisers.
(a) Name the fertilisers produced and write the
equations involved when sulphuric acid reacts
with
(i) aqueous ammonia
(ii) potassium hydroxide
(b) Barium sulphate, BaSO4, is a white pigment
in paint. Write an equation for the formation
of barium sulphate from the reaction between
sulphuric acid and barium hydroxide.
2 Give three uses of sulphuric acid in daily life.
3 Concentrated sulphuric acid can be used as a
dehydrating agent.
(a) What is the function of a dehydrating agent?
(b) When concentrated sulphuric acid is added to
glucose, C6H12O6, a black residue is formed
after a few minutes.
(i) What is the black residue?
(ii) Write a balanced equation for the reaction
that has taken place.
4
2NH3 + H2SO4 ⎯⎯→ (NH4)2SO4
ammonium sulphate
Sulphur
+
step 1
heating
Gas X
step 2
(b) Ammonium nitrate
Ammonia reacts with nitric acid by
neutralisation to produce ammonium
nitrate.
Gas Y
Oxygen
Sulphuric acid
Manufactured Substances in Industry
dilute with
water
Ammonia and Its Salts
NH3 + HNO3 ⎯⎯→ NH4NO3
Liquid Z
ammonium nitrate
266
(c) Urea
Ammonia reacts with carbon dioxide at
a temperature of 200 °C and a pressure of
200 atmospheres to produce urea.
NH3 + H2O
NH4+ + OH–
4 As ammonia is very soluble in water, an
inverted filter funnel is used to prevent the
suction of water (Figure 9.3).
2NH3 + CO2 ⎯→ (NH2) 2CO + H2O
urea
9
4 Liquid ammonia is suitable for use as a cooling
agent (refrigerant) in refrigerators because it
has a low boiling point and is very volatile.
5 In the Ostwald process, ammonia is converted
into nitric acid by the following steps:
(a) Ammonia is oxidised to nitrogen monoxide
gas in the presence of platinum as the
catalyst.
Figure 9.3 To dissolve ammonia gas in water
platinum
5 Ammonia gas reacts with hydrogen chloride gas
to form white fumes of ammonium chloride.
(This is used as a test for ammonia gas).
4NH3 + 5O2 ⎯⎯→ 4NO + 6H2O
(b) Nitrogen monoxide is further oxidised to
nitrogen dioxide.
NH3 + HCl ⎯⎯→ NH4Cl
2NO + O2 ⎯⎯→ 2NO2
6 Ammonia is alkaline in property and reacts
with dilute acids in neutralisation to produce
salts. For example:
(c) Nitrogen dioxide is dissolved in water to
produce nitric acid.
4NO2 + O2 + 2H2O ⎯⎯→ 4HNO3
2NH3 + H2SO4 → (NH4)­2SO4
NH3 + HNO3 → NH4NO3
6 Nitric acid is used to make explosives such
as TNT when nitric acid reacts with organic
substances such as methylbenzene (common
name: toluene).
7 Ammonia can neutralise the organic acids
that are produced by microorganisms in latex.
Thus it is used to maintain latex in the liquid
form.
8 Ammonia reacts with hydrogen chloride to
produce ammonium chloride which is used
as the electrolyte in dry cells.
7 Aqueous solutions of ammonia produces OH–
ions to react with metal ions (except Na+ ion,
K+ ion and Ca2+ ion) forming precipitates of
metal hydroxides.
Fe3+ + 3OH– → Fe(OH)3
brown precipitate
Mg2+ + 2OH– → Mg(OH)2
white precipitate
NH3 + HCl → NH4­Cl
8 Some metal hydroxides such as zinc hydroxide
and copper(II) hydroxide dissolve in excess
aqueous ammonia to form complexes. For
example:
The Properties of Ammonia
1 Ammonia is a colourless and pungent gas. It
is less dense than air.
2 Ammonia changes moist red litmus paper to
blue. Thus ammonia is an alkaline gas.
3 Ammonia dissolves in water to produce a weak
alkali. A 0.1 mol dm–3 ammonia solution has
a pH value of about 10.
Zn(OH)2 + 4NH3 → [Zn(NH3)4]2+ + 2OH–
Cu(OH)2 + 4NH3 → [Cu(NH3)4]2+ + 2OH–
267
Manufactured Substances in Industry
To investigate the properties of ammonia gas
2 The mixture in the test tube is heated. The
ammonia gas produced is tested in turn by using
(a) a piece of moist red litmus paper,
(b) a glass rod dipped in concentrated hydro­
chloric acid.
3 Ammonia gas is collected in inverted test tubes
using downward displacement of air. The test
tubes are then stoppered immediately.
4 A little distilled water is added to the test tube of
ammonia gas which is then shaken. The solution
formed is tested with a piece of pH paper.
5 A test tube of ammonia is inverted with its
mouth below a beaker of water. The stopper of
the test tube is then removed as shown in Figure
9.5. Observation made is recorded.
Apparatus
pH paper, red litmus paper, beaker, glass rod, test tubes,
U-tube with soda lime, beaker and delivery tube.
9
Materials
Ammonium chloride, calcium hydroxide, concen­
trated hydrochloric acid, distilled water.
Procedure
1 A spatula of ammonium chloride and a spatula
of calcium hydroxide are put in a test tube. The
test tube is then connected to a U-tube with soda
lime as shown in Figure 9.4.
Figure 9.5 Testing the solubility of ammonia
in water
Figure 9.4 Preparation of ammonia gas
Results
Activity 9.1
Test
Observation
Inference
1 With moist red litmus paper
The red litmus paper changed to a
blue colour
Ammonia gas is alkaline
2 With hydrogen chloride vapour
White fumes are formed
Ammonia gas forms white fumes
of ammonium chloride with
hydrogen chloride gas
3 With pH paper
pH paper changed to a blue colour,
corresponding to a pH value of
about 10
Aqueous ammonia is a weak
alkali
4 A test tube of ammonia is
inverted in a beaker of water
Water rushes in and fills up the
whole test tube
Ammonia gas is very soluble in
water
(b) The ionic equation for the reaction between
ammonium salt and alkali is
Discussion
1 Ammonia gas is produced when an ammonium
salt such as ammonium chloride is heated with
an alkali such as calcium hydroxide.
(a) The equation for the reaction between
ammonium chloride and calcium hydroxide
is
NH4+ + OH– → NH3 + H2O
2 Soda lime in the U-tube is used as a drying agent
to dry the ammonia gas produced. In place of soda
lime, anhydrous calcium oxide can also be used as
a drying agent. However, concentrated sulphuric
acid cannot be used to dry ammonia gas as it will
react with ammonia in a neutralisation reaction.
2NH4Cl + Ca(OH)2 → CaCl2 + 2NH3 + 2H2O
Manufactured Substances in Industry
268
3 Ammonia gas is collected in inverted test tubes
using downward displacement of air because
ammonia is less dense than air.
4 Ammonia gas is very soluble in water. As such it
cannot be collected by a downward displacement
of water.
5 Ammonia gas reacts with hydrogen chloride to
form white fumes of ammonium chloride.
Conclusion
1 Ammonia is an alkaline gas which turns red
litmus paper to blue and dissolves in water to
form a weak alkali.
2 Ammonia gas reacts with hydrogen chloride to
form white fumes of ammonium chloride.
3 Ammonia gas is very soluble in water.
The Industrial Process in the
Manufacture of Ammonia
4 In the Haber process:
(a) A mixture consisting of one volume of
’06/P2
nitrogen gas and three volumes of pure
and dry hydrogen gas is compresssed
to a pressure between 200 – 500
atmospheres.
(b) The gas mixture is passed through a
catalyst of powdered iron at a temperature
of 450 – 550 °C.
(c) At this optimum temperature and pressure,
ammonia gas is produced.
SPM
1 The Haber process is the industrial method
used to prepare ammonia gas on a large scale
using nitrogen gas and hydrogen gas.
N2 + 3H2
2NH3
5 The gas mixture produced consists of about
17% ammonia gas. The ammonia gas is
liquefied when the gas mixture is cooled. The
unreacted nitrogen gas and hydrogen gas are
pumped back to the catalytic column to be
reacted again.
In 1918, Fritz Haber was awarded the Nobel prize
for his discovery of the in­dustrial manufacture of
ammonia gas from hydrogen gas and nitrogen gas
2 Nitrogen gas used in the Haber process is
obtained from the fractional distillation of
liquid air.
3 Hydrogen gas used in the Haber process can
be obtained by two methods:
(a) The reaction between steam and heated
coke (carbon).
H2O + C ⎯⎯→ CO + H2
This mixture is known as water gas
(b) The reaction between steam and natural
gas (consists mainly of methane, CH4).
Figure 9.6 The manufacture of ammonia gas by the
Haber process
2H2O + CH4⎯⎯→ CO2 + 4H2
269
Manufactured Substances in Industry
9
NH3 + HCl → NH4Cl
(a) Based on the graph, what is the effect of
temperature and pressure on the percentage of
ammonia produced?
(b) State one problem each that is accompanied
with the effects mentioned in (a) when the
factory wants to increase the percentage of
ammonia produced.
(c) Discuss how the problems in (b) may be
overcome by using an optimum temperature
and pressure.
SPM
’06/P2
Q5
1 The reaction between nitrogen gas and hydrogen
gas to produce ammonia gas is a reversible
reaction. This means that not all the nitrogen
gas will react with hydro­gen gas completely. The
optimum temperature and pressure are used to
ensure a satisfactory yield of ammonia.
2 The percentage yield of ammonia gas depends on
the temperature and pressure used, as shown in
Figure 9.7 below.
9
Solution
(a) Lower temperature will increase the percentage
of ammonia produced. Higher pressure will
increase the percentage of ammonia produced.
(b) Lower temperature will lower the rate of
reaction. Higher pressure will increase the cost
of production.
(c) Using an optimum temperature of 450-550 °C,
the rate of reaction will not be too low and
yet produce a high yield of ammonia. Using
an optimum pressure of 200-500 atm, the cost
of increasing the pressure and using stronger
pipes will not be too high to produce a high
yield of ammonia.
Figure 9.7 Effects of temperature and pressure
on the yield of ammonia
(a) The lower the temperature, the higher the
yield of ammonia.
(b) The higher the pressure, the higher the yield of
ammonia.
(c) However, low temperature will lower the rate
of reaction. High pressure will increase the
cost of production.
(d) Hence, the most suitable temperature and
pressure to produce a high yield of ammonia
is a temperature of 450 °C–550 °C and a
pressure of 200–500 atmospheres.
1
Ammonium Fertilisers
1 Plants require nitrogen to produce protein.
Nitrogen is absorbed by plants in the form
of nitrates, NO3– which are soluble in water.
2 Ammonium fertilisers are chemical fertilisers
added to the soil to replace the elements in
soil used up by plants.
3 Ammonium fertilisers contain ammonium
ions, NH4+, that can be converted into nitrate
ions by bacteria living in the soil.
4 The effectiveness of ammonium fertilisers is
determined by the percentage of nitrogen
by mass in them. The fertiliser with a higher
percentage of nitrogen is more effective.
5 The percentage of nitrogen by mass can be
calculated using the following formula:
’06
A factory that is manufacturing ammonia carried
out a test to determine the percentage of ammonia
that can be produced at two different conditions: I
and II. The results are shown in the graph below.
Percentage of nitrogen by mass
Mass of nitrogen
= —————————————————————  100%
Molar mass of fertiliser
Manufactured Substances in Industry
270
1
SPM
’10/P1
Calculate the percentage by mass of nitrogen in
ammonium sulphate, (NH4)2SO4. [Relative atomic
mass: N,14; H.1; S,32; O,16]
= 2[14 + 4 (1)] + 32 + 4(16) = 132
1 mol (NH4)2SO4 consists of 2 mol atoms of nitrogen.
Percentage of nitrogen in 1 mol of (NH4)2SO4
2(14)
=—
—
—
— 100% = 21.2%
132
Solution
Relative molecular mass of (NH4)2SO4
(B) To prepare ammonium sulphate crystals
1 25 cm3 of 2.0 mol dm–3 aqueous ammonia
solution is pipetted into a clean conical flask.
2 (V2 – V1) cm3 of sulphuric acid is added from the
burette to the aqueous ammonia solution.
3 The mixture in the conical flask is transferred
to a beaker and is slowly evaporated until a
saturated solution is formed.
4 The saturated solution is left to cool. White
crystals of ammonium sulphate are produced.
5 The ammonium sulphate crystals are then removed
by filtration, washed with distilled water and
dried between filter papers.
Figure 9.8 Titration of sulphuric acid with
ammonia solution
Discussion
1 The equation for the neutralisation of aqueous
ammonia and sulphuric acid is
2NH3 + H2SO4 → (NH4)2SO4
2 The first titration (Experiment A) is carried out to
determine the volume of sulphuric acid required
to completely neutralise 25 cm3 of aqueous
ammonia.
3 In the second titration (Experiment B), the methyl
orange indicator is not used so that the salt
produced is not contaminated with the indicator.
4 The ammonium sulphate solution produced is
not evaporated until dry because ammonium
sulphate solid will decompose when heated.
5 Usually, the mass of ammonium sulphate crystals
obtained from the experiment is less than the
theoretical value because not all ammonium
sulphate crystals can be crystallised from the
solution. Some ammonium sulphate remains
dissolved in the solution.
Conclusion
Ammonium sulphate, an example of ammonium
fertiliser, can be prepared by the neutralisation reaction
between aqueous ammonia and dilute sulphuric acid.
271
Manufactured Substances in Industry
Activity 9.2
Apparatus
25 cm3 pipette, 50 cm3 burette, dropper, retort stand
with clamp and white tile.
Materials
1 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid, 2 mol dm–3 aqueous
ammonia solution and methyl orange indicator.
Procedure
(A) To determine the volume of sulphuric acid re­
quired to neutralise 25 cm3 of ammonia solution
1 25 cm3 of 2.0 mol dm–3 aqueous ammonia solution
is transferred using a 25 cm3 pipette to a clean
conical flask. Three drops of methyl orange
indicator are added to the alkali and the colour
of the solution is noted.
2 A 50 cm3 burette is filled with sulphuric acid and
clamped to a retort stand. The initial burette
reading (V1) is recorded.
3 The conical flask containing 25 cm3 of the aqueous
ammonia is placed below the burette. A piece of
white tile is placed below the conical flask for clearer
observation of the change in colour (Figure 9.8).
4 Sulphuric acid is added slowly from the burette
to the aqueous ammonia solution in the conical
flask while the flask is gently swirled.
5 Titration is stopped when methyl orange changes
colour from yellow to orange. The final burette
reading (V2) is recorded.
6 The volume of sulphuric acid required to neutralise
25.0 cm3 of ammonia solution is (V2 – V1) cm3.
9
To prepare ammonium sulphate, (NH4)2SO4, an ammonium
fertiliser
Ammonium sulphate is an acidic salt. Hence, long term use of ammonium sulphate as a fertiliser will increase the
acidity in the soil. This can be overcome by adding quicklime (calcium oxide) to neutralise the acidic soil.
9
Manufacture of ammonia: Haber Process
N2(g) + 3H2(g)
2NH3(g)
• Temperature: 450 °C–550 °C
• Catalyst: iron powder
• Pressure: 200–500 atm.
Uses
• Manufacture of
fertilisers, nitric acid
Ammonia, NH3
Tests
• Turns moist red litmus paper blue
• Forms white fumes with HCI gas
Properties
• Colourless
• Pungent smell
Reactions
• Produce ammonium salts with acids
• Produce metal hydroxide as precipitate
• A weak alkali
• Very soluble in water
9.2
The given diagram shows the production of a
fertiliser, ammonium nitrate. Step 2 is known as the
Ostwald Process.
(a) Name gas A, gas B and acid C in the diagram.
(b) Name the industrial process in the production of
gas B in step 1.
(c) State the source from which gas A is obtained.
(d) What will be observed if gas B comes in contact
with hydrogen chloride gas?
(e) Write a balanced equation for step 3.
(f) Calculate the percentage by mass of nitrogen in
ammonium nitrate. [Relative atomic mass: H,1;
N,14; O,16]
1 Ammonia is commercially produced by the Haber
process.
(a) Name the raw materials used in the production
of ammonia gas.
(b) Name the catalyst used in the Haber process.
(c) State the optimum temperature and pressure
used for this process.
(d) Write a balanced equation for this process.
(e) State two uses of ammonia in daily life.
2
Gas A
+
step 1
gas B
H2
step 2
acid C
Ostwald process
step 3
ammonium nitrate
9.3
2 Pure metals are weak and soft because the
arrangement of atoms in pure metals makes
them ductile and malleable.
3 Arrangement of pure metal atoms
A pure metal contains atoms of the same size
arranged in a regular and organised closedpacked structure (Figure 9.9).
Alloys
Meaning and Purpose of Making Alloys
1 An alloy is a mixture of two or more
elements with a certain composition in
which the major component is a metal.
Manufactured Substances in Industry
272
(b) In an alloy, these atoms of different sizes
disrupt the orderly arrangement of the
metal atoms and also fill up any empty
spaces in the metal crystal structure.
(c) Hence, the layers of metal atoms are
prevented from sliding over each other
easily. This makes the alloy harder and
stronger, less ductile and less malleable
than its pure metals.
Figure 9.9 Arrangement of atoms in a pure metal
9
4 Weakness of pure metal
(a) Ductility
Pure metals are soft because the orderly
arrangement of atoms of the same size
enables the layers of atoms to slide over
each other easily when an external force
is applied on them. This makes the metals
ductile and metals can be drawn to form
long wires (Figure 9.10).
Figure 9.12 Arrangement of atoms in alloys
6 The properties of a pure metal are thus improved
by making them into alloys. There are three
aims of alloying a pure metal:
(a) To increase the hardness and strength of
a metal
(b) To prevent corrosion or rusting
(c) To improve the appearance of the metal
surfaces, with a better finish and lustre
Figure 9.10 Ductility of pure metal
(b) Malleability
There are imperfections in the natural
arrangement of metal atoms. Empty space
exists in the structures of pure metals.
When ham­
mered or pressed, groups
of metal atoms may slide into new
positions in these empty spaces. This
makes metals malleable, able to be made
into different shapes or pressed into thin
sheets (Figure 9.11).
Aluminium and copper wires can be made
because of the ductility of metals
Figure 9.11 Malleability of pure metal
Source: Wikimedia; Rosmaniakos
Golden drinking vessel from Iran was made
in about 5 B.C., proving the use of metal
alloys in early civilization
Pure gold is too soft to make jewellery. 916 gold
consiststs of 91.6% gold
SPM
’08/P1,
’09/P2,
5 The making of alloys
’11/P2
(a) In the process of alloying, one or more
foreign elements are added to molten metal.
When the alloy hardens, the positions of
some of the metal atoms are replaced by
atoms of foreign elements, with sizes bigger
or smaller than the original metal atoms.
Pure metals have the following physical properties:
(a) Ductile (can be drawn into a wire)
(b) Malleable (can be shaped by hammering)
(c) High melting and boiling points
(d) High density
(e) Good conductors of electricity
273
Manufactured Substances in Industry
Gold is one of the most ductile and malleable metal. Pure gold is too soft and is not suitable for making any type of
jewellery. Gold is thus usually alloyed with copper, silver or palladium. The carat unit is used to measure the purity of
gold. The carat value is the number of parts of gold in 24 parts of the alloy. Hence, 24-carat gold is pure gold. 18-carat
gold consists of 75% of gold by weight.
9
Aims of alloying
To increase the hardness
and strength
Alloying improves the
hardness and strength of a
metal.
1 The addition of a little
carbon to iron metal
produces steel which
is a very hard alloy of
iron.
2 The addition of
magnesium to
aluminium metal
produces an alloy called
magnalium. Magnalium
is harder than
aluminium but still
retains the low density
of aluminium metal.
3 The addition of tin to
copper metal produces
bronze. Bronze is an
alloy harder than both
tin and copper.
The body of airplanes are made of
magnalium which is harder than
pure aluminium
Manufactured Substances in Industry
To prevent corrosion
Pure metals such as tin and
iron are easily corroded in
damp, polluted or acidic
air.
1 The addition of carbon,
nickel and chromium
to iron metal produces
stainless steel. Stainless
steel is an alloy which
can resist rusting. The
chromium and nickel
form chromium(III)
oxide and nickel(IV)
oxide which prevents
the iron from rusting.
2 The addition of tin to
copper produces bronze
which is able to resist
corrosion and tarnish.
Stainless steel kitchenware resists
rusting
274
To improve the
appearance
SPM
’05/P1
Metals are easily tarnished
because of the formation
of metal oxides on the
metal surfaces. The process
of alloying can maintain
the lustre on the surface of
the metal.
1 Stainless steel is more
shiny than pure iron.
2 Adding a little copper
and antimony to tin
produces the alloy
pewter which is harder
and shinier, and not so
easily tarnished.
3 Alloy wheels made from
aluminium and other
elements improve the
look of vehicles.
Malaysian pewter is suitable
for making shiny and attractive
ornamental objects
9.1
SPM
’05/P3
’04/P2
To compare the hardness of a pure metal and its alloy
9
Problem statement
Are alloys harder than pure metals?
Hypothesis
Bronze is harder than copper. When a weight is
dropped onto a ball bearing placed on a metal block
made of copper or bronze, a larger dent will be
produced on the softer copper metal block than on
the bronze block.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Types of materials (copper
or bronze) to make the
metal block
(b) Responding variable : Diameter of the dent made
by a steel ball bearing
(c) Constant variable
: Size of steel ball bearing,
mass of weight used, height
from which it is dropped
Materials
Copper block, bronze block, ball bearing, 1 kg
weight, metre ruler, retort stand with clamp,
cellophane tape and thread.
Procedure
1 A metre ruler is clamped to a retort stand, and
a piece of copper block is placed on the base of
the retort stand.
2 A steel ball bearing is placed on the copper
block and a piece of cellophane tape is used to
hold the ball bearing in place.
3 A 1 kg weight is hung at a height of 50 cm above
the copper block (Figure 9.13).
4 The weight is dropped onto the ball bearing
placed on the copper block.
5 The diameter of the dent made by the ball
bearing is measured.
6 The experiment is repeated three times using
different areas on the surface of the copper
block.
7 The average diameter of the dent is calculated.
8 Steps 1 to 7 are repeated using a piece of bronze
block.
Figure 9.13 To compare the hardness of an
alloy with its pure metal
Results
I
II
III
Average
Copper
3.2
3.3
3.2
3.23
Bronze
2.4
2.5
2.5
2.47
Discussion
1 The bigger the average diameter of the dents
produced by the steel ball bearing on the metal
means that it has been pressed deeper into the
metal surface.
2 Thus copper is softer than bronze because the
steel ball bearing has been pressed deeper into
the surface of copper metal than that of bronze.
3 Bronze is a type of alloy formed from copper
and tin. The tin atoms are larger than the copper
atoms. They distort the orderly structure of
the copper atoms so that the layers of copper
atoms can no longer slide easily over one
another. This makes bronze harder than copper.
Conclusion
1 The average diameter of the dents made by the
steel ball bearing on the copper block is bigger
than that on the bronze block.
2 Hence, bronze, a type of alloy, is harder than
pure copper metal. The hypothesis is accepted.
275
Manufactured Substances in Industry
Experiment 9.1
Diameter of the dent (mm)
Metal
block
9.2
To compare the rates of rusting of iron, steel and stainless steel
Procedure
1 Three test tubes are half-filled with jelly solution
and are labelled as A, B and C.
2 1 cm3 of potassium hexacyanoferrate(III) solution
is added to every test tube.
3 An iron nail, a steel nail and a stainless steel nail
are polished with sandpaper to remove any rust
formed. The nails are then placed in the three
test tubes labelled A, B and C respectively.
4 All three test tubes are allowed to stand for 5
days before they are examined.
Problem statement
How do the rates of rusting of iron, steel and stainless
steel differ?
Hypothesis
Pure iron rusts faster than steel while stainless steel
does not rust easily.
9
SPM
’05/P3
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Types of nails (iron, steel
and stainless steel)
(b) Responding variable : Rate of rusting
(c) Constant variable
: Size of nails, duration of
rusting and conditions of
experiment (temperature,
supply of water and air)
Materials
Iron nail, steel nail, stainless steel nail, 5% jelly
solution and potassium hexacyanoferrate(III)
solution and sandpaper.
Figure 9.14 To compare the rates of rusting of
iron, steel and stainless steel
Results
Test tube
Type of nail
Observation
A
Iron nail
Blue colour is formed around the nail
Rusting occurs
B
Steel nail
A slight blue colour is formed
A little rusting occurs
C
Stainless steel nail
No blue colour is observed
No rusting occurs
Discussion
1 When iron rusts, iron(II) ion, Fe2+ is produced.
Conclusion
1 The formation of a blue colour shows that
rusting of iron (corrosion) has occurred.
2 The presence of a blue colour shows that iron
nail rusts easily (corroded), steel nail rusts
slightly and stainless steel does not rust at all.
The hypothesis is accepted.
Fe → Fe2+ + 2e–
Experiment 9.2
Inference
2 Potassium hexacyanoferrate(III) solution is used
to test the presence of iron(II) ion. A dark blue
colour will be formed. The intensity of the blue
colour indicates the rate of rusting.
3 A stainless steel alloy which resists rusting, is
pro­duced by adding nickel and chromium to iron
metal.
Manufactured Substances in Industry
276
The Composition, Properties and Uses of Some Common Alloys
Uses
Properties
Composition
Carbon steel
99% iron
1% carbon
Hard and strong
Stainless steel
74% iron
18% chromium
8% nickel
90% copper
10% tin
Shiny, strong and
resists rusting
Brass
70% copper
30% zinc
Hard and shiny
Magnalium
70% aluminium
30% magnesium
95% aluminium
3% copper
1% magnesium
1% manganese
97% tin
3% copper and
antimony
50% tin
50% lead
copper, nickel
(percentage according
to colour)
Light, hard and strong
Bronze
Duralumin
Pewter
Solder
Cupro-nickel
Hard, strong and
shiny
Light, hard and strong
Lustrous and strong
Hard, shiny and with
low melting point
Hard, shiny and
resists corrosion
• Frameworks of buildings and bridges
• In the making of tools, framework of
heavy machinery and body of vehicles
• In the making of cutlery and kitchenware
• In the making of machine parts and
surgical instruments
• In the making of kitchenware and ships’
propellers
• In the making of decorative ornaments,
statues and art crafts
• In the making of electrical connectors and
musical instruments
• In the making of kitchenware and
decorative ornaments
• In the making of aircraft body frames
• In the making of rims of racing car tyres
• In the making of the bodies of aircrafts
and bullet trains
• In the making of racing bicycles, fan
blades, light electrical cable
• In the making of mugs, candlesticks,
decorative ornaments and souvenirs
• In the making of solder for electrical wires
and metal pipes
• To make coins of 10 sen, 20 sen, 50 sen
An alloy is a mixture of two or more elements in
which the major component is a metal.
Malaysian coins are made
from cupro-nickel alloy
(75% Cu, 25% Ni)
9.3
(a) Name the elements used to make the alloy
pewter.
(b) What are the advantages of pewter compared
to its pure metal?
(c) State a use of pewter.
1 Steel and stainless steel are two examples of iron
alloys.
(a) What is an alloy?
(b) What is the element that is added to iron to
form
(i) steel?
(ii) stainless steel?
(c) Draw the arrangement of particles in
(i) pure iron
(ii) steel
(d) Explain why stainless steel and not iron is used
to make cutlery.
3 Copper is one of the metals used since ancient times.
(a) Explain why copper alloys are more commonly
used than its pure form.
(b) Name two examples of copper alloys.
(c) Pure copper is ductile and malleable. Explain this
property in terms of the arrangements of atoms.
2 Pewter is an important alloy made in Malaysia.
277
Manufactured Substances in Industry
9
Alloy
SPM
’10/P1,
’11/P1
9.4
The Meaning of Polymers
9
3 Protein is formed by the polymerisation of
monomers known as amino acids.
Synthetic Polymers
polymerisation
SPM
amino acids ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→ protein
’11/P1
(monomers)
1 The word polymer originated from the Greek
polumeros which means ‘having many parts’.
2 Polymers are large molecules made up of
many smaller and identical repeating units
joined together by covalent bonds. These
small molecules that are joined into chains
are called monomers.
3 Polymerisation is the chemical process by
which the monomers are joined together to
form the big molecule known as the polymer.
4 Carbohydrates such as starch and cellulose
consist of monomers known as glucose
joined together chemically.
polymerisation
glucose ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→ carbohydrate
(monomers)
A A A A A A ⎯→ –A–A–A–A–A–A–
H CH3 H H
H CH3H H
⎮ ⎮ ⎮ ⎮
⎮ ⎮ ⎮ ⎮
nC=C–C=C → —C–C=C–C —
⎮
⎮
⎮
⎮
H
H
H
H n
polymer
Or n A → (–A–)n where A = monomer
n = a big number
isoprene (monomer) natural rubber (polymer)
4 A polymer is a macromolecule (a very big
molecule). Hence, the relative molecular mass
of a polymer is large.
5 The properties of a polymer are different from
its monomers.
6 Polymers can be divided into 2 types:
(a) Naturally occurring polymers
Polymers that exist in living things in
nature (plants and animals)
(b) Synthetic polymer
Polymers that are man-made by chemical
processes in the laboratories.
Synthetic Polymers
1 Synthetic polymers are polymers made in the
industry from chemical substances.
2 Through scientific research, scientists are able
to copy the structures of natural polymers to
produce synthetic polymers.
3 Many of the raw materials for synthetic
polymers are obtained from petroleum, after
the refining and cracking processes.
4 The types of synthetic polymers include
(a) plastics
(b) fibres
(c) elastomers
5 Plastics
(a) Thermoplastic is a polymer which, when
subjected to heat, becomes soft so they
can be moulded into various shapes.
(b) The properties of plastics are: light,
strong, inert to chemicals such as acids
and alkali and are insulators of electricity
and heat.
(c) Examples of plastics are polythene
(polyethylene),
polyvinylchloride
(PVC), polypropene (polypropylene),
polysty­rene, Perspex and Bakelite.
6 Synthetic fibres
(a) Synthetic fibres are long chained polymers
that withstand stretching.
Naturally Occurring Polymers
1 Naturally occurring polymers exist in plants
or animals.
2 Examples of naturally occurring polymers are
(a) protein : in muscles, skin, silk, hair, wool
and fur.
(b) carbohydrates : in starch and cellulose.
(c) natural rubber : in latex.
Carbohydrates such as starch and cellulose
are polymers
Manufactured Substances in Industry
(polymer)
5 Natural rubber found in latex consists of
monomers known as isoprene (2-methylbuta1,3-diene) joined together chemically.
polymerisation
monomers
(polymer)
278
(b) Condensation polymerisation occurs when the
monomers with two functional groups combine to
form the polymer through a condensation reaction.
Examples of condensation polymers are nylon and
Terylene.
In general:
nA
monomer monomer
A
B
H
⎮
n C =
⎮
CH3
H
H
⎮
⎮
C ⎯→ — C —
⎮
⎮
H
CH3
propene, C3H6
’05
The diagram below shows a polymerisation process.
H H
H
H
⎮
⎮
n
C = C ⎯→~C — C~
⎮
⎮
HCl
H
Cl n
Substance X
Substance Y
Which of the properties is identical for substance
X and Y?
A Density
C Relative molecular mass
B Boiling point
D Empirical formula
Comments
Substance X is a monomer while substance Y is a
polymer. A polymer has a higher density, melting
point and boiling point than its monomer. The
relative molecular mass of a polymer is more than
that of a monomer but the percentage composition
and empirical formula are the same.
Answer D
H
H
H
H
⎮
⎮
⎮
⎮
n C = C ⎯→ — C — C —
⎮
⎮
⎮
⎮
H
H
H
H n
polythene
condensation polymer
2
There are two types of polymerisation.
(a) Addition polymerisation occurs when the monomers
with double bonds combine to form the polymer
through an addition reaction. Examples of addition
polymers are polythene, polypropene, PVC, polystyrene
and Perspex.
Examples:
ethene
→ —( A – B —
) n + nH2O
+ nB
1 Nylon is a type of polyamide polymer, a polymer
with the amide (–CONH–) group.
2 Terylene is a type of polyester polymer, a polymer
with the ester (–COO–) group.
3 Neoprene is a type of synthetic rubber made from
the monomer, chloroprene.
4 Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) is a type of
synthetic rubber made from 2 types of monomers,
styrene and butadiene.
n = a big number
H
⎮
C —
⎮
H n
polypropene
H
H
H
H
⎮
⎮
⎮
⎮
n C = C ⎯→ — C — C —
⎮
⎮
⎮
⎮
Cl
H
Cl
H n
chloroethene,
C2H3Cl
The making of
Terylene fibre
polyvinylchloride
(PVC)
279
SBR is used in making
tyres
Manufactured Substances in Industry
9
(b) Examples of synthetic fibres are nylon
and Terylene.
(c) Nylon is used to make ropes, fishing
lines, stocking, clothing and parachutes.
(d) Terylene is used to make clothing,
sleeping bags and fishing nets. Clothes
made from Terylene do not crease easily.
7 Elastomer
(a) An elastomer is a polymer that can regain
its original shape after being stretched or
pressed.
(b) Both natural rubber and synthetic
rubber are examples of elastomers.
(c) Examples of synthetic rubbers are neoprene
and styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR).
(d) SBR is used to make car tyres.
8 There are two types of polymerisation processes:
(a) Addition polymerisation
(b) Condensation polymerisation
9 Plastics such as polythene and PVC are
produced by addition polymerisation, whereas
synthetic fibres such as nylon and Terylene are
made by condensation polymerisation.
Table 9.1 Some examples of synthetic polymers, their monomers and uses
9
Synthetic Polymer
Uses
Monomer
1 Polyethylene (PE)
IUPAC name: polythene
Ethene, C2H4
Plastic bags, shopping bags, plastic
containers, plastic toys, plastic cups and
plates
2 Polypropylene (PP)
IUPAC name: polypropene
Propene, C3H6
Plastic bottles, bottle crates, plastic tables
and chairs, car battery cases and ropes
3 Polyvinylchloride (PVC)
IUPAC name: polychloroethene
Chloroethene, C2H3Cl
Water pipe, shoes, bags, rain clothes,
artificial leather and wire casing
4 Polystyrene (PS)
IUPAC name: polyphenylethene
Phenylethene,
C6H5CH = CH2
Packaging materials, heat insulators, toys,
disposable cups and plates
5 Perspex (PP)
IUPAC name: poly(methyl-2methylpropenoate)
Methyl-2-methyl
propenoate
(methylmetacrylate)
CH2 = C(CH3)CO2CH3
Safety glass, airplane windows, car lamps,
traffic signs, lens, reflectors and toys
Tetrafluoroethene, C2F4
6 Teflon (PTFE)
IUPAC name: polytetrafluoroethene
Coatings for non-stick frying pans and
electrical insulators
7 Terylene
Hexane-1, 6-diol
and benzene-1,
4-dicarboxylic acid
Clothing, sleeping bags, sails, ropes and
fishing net. Clothes made from Terylene
do not crease easily
8 Nylon
Hexane-1, 6-diamine
and hexane-1, 6-dioic
acid
Ropes, fishing lines, stocking, clothing,
carpets and parachutes
Issues of the Use of Synthetic Polymers in Every
Day Life
2
1 Synthetic polymers have been used widely
to replace natural materials such as metals,
wood, cotton, animal skin and natural rubber
because of the following advantages:
(a) Strong and light
(b) Cheap
(c) Able to resist corrosion
(d) Inert to chemical reactions
(e) Easily moulded or shaped and be
coloured
(f) Can be made to have special properties
according to specific needs
2 The use of synthetic polymers, however, results
in environmental pollution problems.
3
4
5
Pollution Problem Caused by Synthetic
Polymers
6
1 Most polymers are non-biodegradable, that
is, they cannot be decomposed by bacteria or
Manufactured Substances in Industry
280
other micro-organisms. This will cause disposal
problems as the polymers will not decay like
other organic garbage.
Discarded plastic items may cause blockage of
drainage systems and rivers thus causing flash
floods.
Plastic bottles and containers that are not
buried in the ground will become breeding
grounds for mosquitoes which will cause
diseases such as dengue.
Small plastic items that are thrown into the
rivers, lakes and seas are sometimes swallowed
by aquatic animals. These animals may die
from choking.
The open burning of polymers may release
harmful and poisonous gases that will cause
air pollution. For example, the burning of
PVC will release hydrogen chloride gas which
contributes to the acid rain problem. The
burning of some polymers will release toxic
gas such as hydrogen cyanide.
The main source of raw materials for the
making of synthetic polymers is petroleum.
Petroleum is a non-renewable resource.
Glass and Ceramics
1 The raw materials for making glass and
ceramics are obtained from the Earth’s crust.
2 The main component of both glass and
ceramics is silica or silicon dioxide, SiO2.
3 Both glass and ceramics are used widely in
our daily life to replace metals because of the
advantages above as well as their low cost of
production.
4 Both glass and ceramics have the same properties
as follows:
(a) Hard but brittle
(b) Inert to chemical reactions
(c) Insulators of electricity
(d) Poor conductors of heat and electricity
(e) Withstand compression but not tension
(stretching)
(f) Can be easily cleaned
5 The use of glass and ceramics also depends
on their differences. Table 9.2 shows the
differences between glass and ceramic.
1 Reduce, reuse and recycle synthetic
polymers
(a) Reduce the use of non-biodegradable
polymers.
(b) Polymers are collected and reused or
reprocessed to make new items. The
biggest problem is the collection and
separation. Not only must the plastics
be separated from other types of solid
waste but the different types of polymers
must be separated from each other.
2 Develop biodegradable polymers
These polymers can be decomposed by
bacteria, other microorganisms or simply
by sunlight (photodegradable). One type
of biodegra­
dable polymer was developed
by incorpora­
ting starch molecules into
the plastic materials so that they can
be decomposed by bacteria. However,
biodegradable polymers are usually more
expensive.
Table 9.2 The differences in properties between glass
and ceramic
Glass
9.4
1 (a) What is a polymer?
(b) Name two natural polymers that are used to
make clothing.
(c) Name two synthetic polymers that are used
to make clothing.
Ceramic
Transparent
Opaque
Softens when
heated
High melting point, hence retains
shape on heating
Impermeable
Usually porous except when glazed
2 Fill in the blanks below.
Monomer
Polymer
In silicon dioxide, every silicon atom is bonded
covalently to 4 oxygen atoms in a tetrahedral shape.
Every oxygen atom is also bonded to two silicon atoms
to form a giant covalent molecule (Figure 9.15).
Ethene
Chloroethene
Polypropene
Polystyrene
3 State two properties of synthetic polymers that
will cause environmental pollution in the disposal
of syn­
the­
tic polymers. State two methods to
overcome these problems.
Figure 9.15 Structure of silicon(IV) oxide
281
Manufactured Substances in Industry
9
9.5
Methods to overcome environmental
problems of polymers
Table 9.3 The uses of glass
Property of glass
Uses
Examples
Inert
Household materials
Lamp, bottles, glasses, pla­tes, bowls and
kitchen wares
Transparent
Building materials
Mirrors and window glass
Industrial materials
Bulbs, glass tubes for radios, radars and
televisions
Scientific apparatus
Lens, burettes, beakers, test tubes,
conical flasks, glass tubes and prisms
Inert and easily
cleaned
9
Table 9.4 Uses of ceramics
Property of ceramics
Glass is transparent
SPM
’05/P1
Uses
Examples
Hard and strong
Building materials
Long lasting and noncorrosive
Materials for decorative Plates, bowls, cooking utensils,
items
porcelain and vases
Electrical insulators
To make electrical
insulatin­g parts
Insulators in toasters and irons,
spark plugs in car engines
Inert and hard
In surgical and dental
apparatus
Artificial hands, legs and teeth
Semiconductor type of
ceramics
As microchips
To make microchips in
computers, radios and televisions
Bricks, tiles and cement
Ceramic is opaque and
has higher melting point
than glass
the addition of chromium ions will give the glass
a green hue, cobalt ions will give a blue hue while
manganate ions will give a purple hue to the glass.
Types, Properties, Composition and Uses
of Glass
1 Fused glass is the simplest type of glass, which
consists mainly of silica or silicon dioxide.
Occasionally a little boron oxide is added.
2 Other types of glass are mainly metal silicates.
3 Various types of glass can be produced by
changing the composition of glass. Different types
of glass have different properties and they are
used for various specific purposes. The chemical
composition, specific properties and uses of four
types of glass are summarised in Table 9.5.
4 Coloured glass is produced by adding traces
of transition metal oxides to it. For example,
Composition of Ceramics
1 Ceramic is a manufactured substance made
from clay that is dried and then baked in a
kiln at high temperature.
2 The main constituent of clay is aluminate,
silica and feldspar.
3 Kaolinite is an example of high quality white
clay that consists of hydrated aluminosilicate
crystals.
4 Red clay contains iron(III) oxide which gives
its red colour.
Table 9.5 Properties, composition and uses of different types of glass
Name of glass
Properties
Chemical composition
Fused glass
• Very high softening point (1700 °C),
hence highly heat-resistant
• Transparent to ultraviolet and infrared light
• Difficult to be made into different shapes
• Does not crack when temperature changes
(very low thermal expansion coefficient)
• Very resistant to chemical reactions
SiO2 (99%)
B2O3 (1%)
Manufactured Substances in Industry
282
Examples of uses
Telescope mirrors,
lenses, optical fibres
and laboratory glass
wares
Properties
Chemical composition
• Low softening point (700 °C), hence does
not withstand heating
• Breaks easily
• Cracks easily with sudden temperature
changes (high thermal coefficient of
expansion)
• Less resistant to chemical reactions
• Easy to make into different shapes
• Quite high softening point (800 °C),
hence it is heat-resistant
• Does not crack easily with sudden
change in temperature
• Transparent to ultraviolet light
• More resistant to chemical reactions
• Does not break easily
SiO2 (70%)
Na2O (15%)
CaO (10%)
Others (5%)
Bottles, windowpanes, light bulbs,
mir­rors, flat glass,
glass-plates and
bowls. (The most
widely used type of
glass)
SiO2 (80%)
B2O3 (15%)
Na2O (3%)
Al2O3 (1%)
Laboratory apparatus,
cooking utensils,
electrical-tubes and
glass pipelines
•
•
•
•
SiO2 (55%)
PbO (30%)
K2O (10%)
Na2O (3%)
Al2O3 (2%)
Decorative items,
crystal glasswares,
lens, prisms and
chandeliers
Soda lime
glass
Borosilicate
glass
SPM
’09/P1,
’10/P1
Lead glass
Low softening point (600 °C)
High density
High refractive index
Reflects light rays and appears sparkling
Examples of uses
The Uses of Improved Glass and Ceramics for Specific Purposes
Improved glass
Examples of Improved Glass and Ceramics
Photochromic glass
• Photochromic glass is a type of glass that is sensitive
to light intensity. The glass darkens when exposed
to sunlight but be­­comes clear when light intensity
decreases.
• Photochromic glass is produced when a dispersion
of silver chloride, AgCl or silver bromide, AgBr is
added to normal glass.
Conducting glass
• Conducting glass is a type of glass that can conduct
electricity.
• Conducting glass is produced by embedding a thin
layer of conducting material in glass.
• A type of conducting glass is produced by adding a
layer of indium tin(IV) oxide (ITO) that acts as an
electrical conductor. This type of glass is used in the
making of LCD (liquid crystal display) panel.
• Another type of conducting glass is made by
embedding thin gold threads in glass. Water
condenses as ice on the window panes of aircraft
at high altitudes and this obstructs the vision of
the pilot. Hence, windows of aircraft are heated
by passing electric current through the gold threads
embedded in the glass.
283
Improved Ceramics
Superconductor
• Superconductors are a class of ceramics
that conducts electricity without
resistance and without loss of electrical
energy.
• Superconductor ceramics are used
to make light magnets, electrical
generators and electric motors.
Ceramic car engine block
• Clay heated with magnesium oxide
produces a type of ceramic that has a
high thermal resistance.
• This type of ceramic is used for making
car engine blocks because it can resist
high temperatures.
• At a higher temperature, the combustion
of fuel becomes more efficient and
produces more energy with less
pollution.
• Ceramic engines offer great advantages
in terms of fuel economy, efficiency,
weight savings and performance.
Manufactured Substances in Industry
9
Name of glass
9
Main component is silica, SiO2
Glass
Ceramic
Types of glass
• Fused glass (high heat resistance)
• Soda lime glass (cannot withstand high temperatures)
• Borosilicate glass (can withstand high temperatures)
• Lead glass (high refractive index)
Examples of ceramics
• Tiles
• Cement
• Bricks
• Porcelain
Common properties
• Hard but brittle
• Inert to chemicals
• Heat and electrical resistance
• Resist compression
• Can be easily cleaned
3 In the making of composites, substances (known
as components) are combined to form new
types of materials that can overcome the
limitations of the original materials.
4 Most of the composite materials are comprised
of two phases: a continuous phase (also known
as the base) and the dispersed phase (also
known as the matrix).
5 Composite materials are harder, stronger, lighter
(lower density), more resistant to heat and
corrosion and also made for specific purposes.
6 A few types of composite materials and their
components are shown in Table 9.6.
9.5
1 Glass is a manufactured substance in industry.
(a) What is the major component of glass?
(b) State a cheap source of this component.
(c) State four types of glass.
2 Glass and ceramics are both manufactured from
materials in the Earth's crust.
(a) What is the common component found in
both glass and ceramics?
(b) State the three similarities and three differences
between glass and ceramics.
(c) State five uses of glass.
(d) State two examples of the use of ceramics in
the building industry.
Table 9.6
3 State one main difference between soda lime
glass and borosilicate glass in terms of
(a) composition and
(b) property.
9.6
Differences
• Glass is transparent, ceramic is opaque
• Ceramic can withstand a higher temperature
than normal glass
Composite materials
Reinforced concrete Concrete (cement, sand and
small pebbles) and steel
Superconductor
Yttrium oxide (Y2O3),
barium carbonate (BaCO3)
and copper(II) oxide (CuO)
Fibre optic
Glass {silica (SiO2), sodium
carbonate (Na2CO3) and
calcium oxide (CaO)} with
different refractive indices
Fibreglass
Glass fibre and polyester
(a type of plastic)
Photochromic glass
Glass and silver chloride or
silver bromide
Composite Materials
The Meaning of Composite Materials
1 A composite material is a structural material
formed by combining two or more materials
with different physical properties, producing
a complex mixture.
2 The composite material produced will have
different properties far more superior to the
original materials.
Manufactured Substances in Industry
Components
284
(c) Glass and ceramics are brittle.
(d) Plastic and glass cannot
temperatures.
1 Most types of material used in our daily life have
certain limitations. For example:
(a) Metals can be easily corroded and are
malleable and ductile.
(b) Metals are good electrical conductors but the
existence of resistance results in the loss of a
big amount of electrical energy as heat.
resist
high
2 With knowledge of the compositions, structures and
properties of these materials, chemists are able to
develop new materials to suit specific purposes.
Reinforced concrete
1 Concrete is a composite material made from
a mixture of sand and small stones bound
by cement. Concrete is strong in compression
but brittle and weak in tension. Concrete
cannot withstand vibrations and will crack
under the action of bending forces.
2 Steel is strong in tension (high tensile
strength). But using thick steel columns
to support a heavy load is expensive.
Furthermore, steel corrodes easily.
3 Reinforced concrete is made by adding the
concrete mixture of cement, water, sand, chips
and small stones into a frame of steel bars or
steel wire netting (Figure 9.16). When set, a
composite material is formed.
4 Reinforced concrete is a stronger building
material as it combines the compressive
strength of concrete and tensile strength of
steel. In addition, it does not corrode easily.
Reinforced concrete is also relatively cheap
and can be moulded into any shape.
5 Steel and concrete have about the same coefficient
of expansion. Hence they are good composite
components and do not crack when mixed.
6 Reinforced concrete can withstand very
high applied forces (high pressure) and
SPM
’07/P1, ’08/P1
can support very heavy loads. It is used to
construct framework for highways, brid­
ges, oil platforms and high-rise buildings.
Figure 9.16 The formation of reinforced concrete
Dams are constructed by reinforced concrete which
is very strong
Superconductors
1 In normal electrical conductors such as copper
metal, the existence of resistance causes the
loss of electrical energy as heat. Furthermore,
resistance increases as temperature increases.
2
Superconductors can conduct electricity with
zero resistance when they are cooled to extremely
low temperatures. Thus, superconductors
conduct electricity without any loss of energy.
(known as the transition temperature). This
low temperature can only be achieved using
liquid helium which is expensive.
4 When a mixture of copper(II) oxide (CuO),
barium oxide (BaO) and yttrium oxide
(Y2O3) is heated up, a type of ceramic with
the formula YBa2Cu3O7 is produced. This
type of ceramic, known as perovskite or
YBCO, can attain superconductivity at 90 K
(–183°C). This temperature can easily be
attained by using the cheaper liquid nitrogen.
3 Metals such as copper, can only achieve
superconductivity at a very low temperature
285
Manufactured Substances in Industry
9
Comparison of the Properties of Composite Materials and Their Original Components
5 The metal oxides (CuO, Y2O3 and BaO) are all
electrical insulators. However when they are
combined to form a composite, the composite
is a superconductor that can conduct very
high current over long distance without any
loss of energy.
6 Superconductors are used to make more
efficient generators, magnetic energy-storage
systems, transformers, electric cables,
amplifiers and computer parts. They are
also used in magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI) – a type of medical imaging device.
Superconductors are also used to make
stronger, lighter and more powerful
electromagnets. High – speed levitated trains
(trains that float on the railway track)
involve the use of electromagnets and
superconductors.
9
Fibre optics (also known as optical fibres)
1 Optical fibres are bundles of glass tubes with
very small diameters. They are finer than
human hair and are very flexible.
2 Fibre optics is a composite material that can
transmit electronic data or signals, voice and
images in a digital format, in the form of light
along the fine glass tubes at great speeds.
3 Fibre optics consists of a core of glass of higher
refractive index enclosed by a glass cladding
of lower refractive index. A light wave entering
the fibre will travel along the glass tube due to
total internal reflection (Figure 9.17).
4 In the field of telecommunications, fibre optics
is used to replace copper wire in long distance
telephone lines, mobile phones, video cameras
and to link computers within local area networks
(LAN). Fibre optics uses light instead of electrons
to carry data. Fibre optics carry more data (higher
transmission capacity) with less interference, has
a higher chemical stability and a lower material
cost compared to metal communication cables
such as copper. Fibre optics can also send
SPM
’11/P1
signals faster than metal
cables and occupies less
space.
5 In the field of medicine,
a laser beam can be
channelled through
fibre optics in operations
to remove unwanted
Fibre optics
tissues. Fibre optics is
also used in endoscopes: instruments that
are inserted into the body through the nose,
mouth or ear, for doctors to examine the
internal organs.
6 Fibre optics is also used in instruments to
inspect the interior of manufactured products.
Figure 9.17 Cross section of a fibre optic
Fibreglass
1 Plastic is light (with a low density), elastic,
flexible, but is brittle, not very strong and is
inflammable (can catch fire).
2 Glass is hard and strong but is brittle, heavy
(with a relatively high density) and has a low
compressive strength.
3 When glass fibre filaments are embedded in
polyester resin (a type of plastic), fibreglass
which is light, strong, tough, resilient,
inflammable, flexible with a high tensile
strength is produced. It can also be easily coloured,
moulded and shaped. A resilient material is one
that returns to its original shape after bending,
twisting, stretching and compression.
Manufactured Substances in Industry
Boats built from fibreglass is light and strong.
4 Fibreglass is an ideal material for making
water storage tanks, boat hulls, swimming
pool linings, food containers, fishing rods,
car bodies, roofing, furniture and pipes.
286
Photochromic glass
7 Silver atoms and bromine gas recombine
according to the following reaction
1 Glass is transparent and is not sensitive to
light intensity.
2 Silver chloride or silver bromide is sensitive to
light. When exposed to light, these compounds
decompose to form dark silver particles.
3 In photochromic glass, silver chloride
(AgCl) or silver bromide (AgBr) and a little
copper(I) chloride is embedded into the
structure of glass.
4 When exposed to ultraviolet light, the AgCl or
AgBr decomposes to form silver and halogen
atoms. The fine silver which is deposited in
the glass is black and the glass is darkened.
For example:
Br2 + 2Cu+ → 2Br– + 2Cu2+ … (1)
Cu2+ + Ag → Cu+ + Ag+ … (2)
8 The overall reaction is
9 Photochromic glass is used to make camera
lens, car windshields, information display
panels, light intensity meters and optical
switches.
uv light
2AgBr ⎯⎯⎯⎯→ 2Ag + Br2
5 Photochromic glass has the ability to change
colour and become darker when exposed to
ultraviolet light.
6 The photochromic glass will automatically
become clear again when the light intensity
is lowered, whereby silver is converted back
to silver halides.
Photochromic glass is used to make lenses
that change from light to dark, eliminating
the neccessity for a separate pair of
sunglasses.
Properties of composite materials compared to their components and the uses of composites
Composite
material
Reinforced
concrete
Super­
conductor
Component
Properties of
component
Properties of composite
Concrete
Hard but brittle,
with low tensile
strength
Steel
Hard with high
tensile strength
but expensive and
can corrode
Copper(II) oxide,
yttrium oxide and
barium oxide
Insulators of
electricity
287
Uses of composites
Stronger, higher tensile
strength, not so brittle,
does not corrode
easily, can withstand
higher applied forces
and loads, relatively
cheaper
Construction of
framework for
highways, bridges and
high-rise buildings
Conducts electricity
without resistance
when cooled by liquid
nitrogen
To make more
efficient generators,
transformers, electric
cable, amplifiers,
computer parts,
stronger and lighter
electromagnets
Manufactured Substances in Industry
9
2Ag + Br2 → 2AgBr
Composite
material
Fibre optics
Properties of
component
Properties of composite
Transparent, does
not reflect light
rays
Reflect light rays and
allow light rays to travel
along the fibre
Transmit data in
the form of light in
telecommunications
Glass
Heavy, strong but
brittle and nonflexible
Polyester plastic
Light, flexible,
elastic but weak
and inflammable
Light, strong,
tough, resilient and
flexible, with high
tensile strength, not
inflammable
Water and food storage
containers, boats,
swimming pool linings,
fishing rods, car bodies
and roofing
Glass
Transparent and
not sensitive to
light
Silver chloride or
silver bromide
Sensitive to light
Sensitive to light:
darkens when light
intensity is high,
becomes clear when
light intensity is low
Photochromic optical
lens, camera lens, car
windshields, optical
switches, information
display panels and light
intensity meters
Component
Glass of low
refractive index
Glass of higher
refractive index
9
Fibreglass
Photo­
chromic
glass
2 New materials are required to overcome new
challenges and problems we face in the
changing world.
3 Synthetic materials are developed cons­tantly
due to the limitation and shortage of natural
materials.
4 New needs and new problems will stimulate
the development of new synthetic materials.
For example, the use of new plastic compo­
site material will replace metal in the making
of a stronger and lighter car body. This will
save fuel and improve speed. Plastic compo­
site materials may one day be used to make
organs for organ transplants in human bodies.
New superconductors made from composite
materials are developed.
5 The understanding of the interaction between
different chemicals is important for both the
development of new synthetic materials and
the disposal of such synthetic materials as waste.
6 A responsible and systemic method of handling
the waste of synthetic materials and their
by– products is important to prevent
environmental pollution. The recycling and
development of environ­­
mentally friendly
synthetic material should be enforced.
9.6
1 (a) State what is meant by the term composite
materials.
(b) Give five examples of composite materials
and name one use for each example.
2 (a) What is fibreglass? Explain how the properties
of fibreglass are superior to that of its original
components.
(b) What is reinforced concrete? Give two
reasons why reinforced concrete is a strong
construction material.
3 What is the advantage of using photochromic
glass in the making of spectacles? Briefly explain
how this glass works.
9.7
Appreciating Various
Synthetic Industrial
Materials
1 Continuous research and development
(R & D) is required to produce better materials
used to improve our standard of living.
Manufactured Substances in Industry
Uses of composites
288
9
Multiple-choice Questions
9.1
Sulphuric Acid
1 The uses of substance X is given
below.
• To make fertilisers
• To manufacture detergents
• To make paints
What of the following substances
could be X?
A Nitric acid
B Sulphuric acid
C Ammonia
D Ammonium sulphate
2 Which of the following is a use
of sulphuric acid?
A As an electrolyte in dry cells
B As a raw material in making
explosives
C As an electrolyte in the
electroplating of metals
D To clean the metal oxide
layer of metals before
electroplating
289
3 Which of the following is true
about the manufacture of sulphuric
acid by the Contact process?
A Sulphur and vanadium(V)
oxide are the raw materials.
B Sulphur is converted into
sulphur dioxide and then into
sulphur trioxide.
C Sulphur trioxide dissolves in
water to form sulphuric acid.
D A pressure of 200
atmosphere is used in the
process.
Manufactured Substances in Industry
9
9 The three aims of alloying are:
(a) To increase the hardness and strength of a metal
(b) To prevent corrosion or rusting
(c) To improve the appearance of the metal surfaces
10 Polymers are large molecules made up of many
smaller and identical repeating units (monomers)
joined together by covalent bonds.
11 Some examples of synthetic polymers are polythene,
polypropene, P.V.C., polystyrene, perspex, Terylene
and nylon.
12 Synthetic polymers are strong and light, cheap, resist
corrosion and inert to chemical attacks. However,
they are nonbiodegradable and cause environmental
pollution problems.
13 The main component of glass is silica or silicon
dioxide, SiO2. The main constituents of ceramics are
clay (aluminosilicate), sand (silica) and feldspar.
14 Both glass and ceramics have the following properties:
(a) Hard but brittle
(b) Inert toward chemicals
(c) Insulators or bad conductors of heat and electricity
15 Some examples of glass are fused glass, soda lime
glass, borosilicate glass and lead glass.
16 A composite material is a structural material formed
by combining two or more materials with different
physical properties to produce a complex mixture.
17 Some examples of composites are reinforced
concrete, superconductors, fibre optic, fibreglass and
photochromic glass.
1 Sulphuric acid is used to make other manufactured
substances such as fertilisers, detergents, pesticides,
polymers and paint pigments.
2 Sulphuric acid is manufactured by the Contact
process using vanadium(V) oxide as a catalyst. The
process involves three stages.
I
II
Sulphur ⎯→ Sulphur dioxide ⎯→ Sulphur trioxide
III
⎯→ Sulphuric acid
3 Sulphur dioxide gas can cause environmental
pollution such as acid rain.
4 Ammonia is used to make nitrogenous fertilisers
and nitric acid, and is used as a cooling agent in
refrigerators.
5 Ammonia is produced in the industry by the Haber
process with hydrogen gas and nitrogen gas and
using iron powder as a catalyst.
6 An alloy is a mixture of two or more elements
with a certain fixed composition in which the major
component is a metal.
7 A pure metal is weak and soft because it contains
atoms of the same size in an orderly arrangement.
This enables the layers of atoms to slide over each
other easily.
8 In an alloy, foreign atoms of different sizes disrupt
the orderly arrangement of the metal atoms. This
prevents the layers of metal atoms from sliding over
each other easily.
9
4 The manufacturing of sulphuric
acid in the Contact process
’06 involves several reactions. Which
of the following is the reaction
that requires a temperature of
450 – 550°C.
A S + O2 → SO2
B 2SO2 + O2
2SO3
C SO3 + H2SO4 → H2S2O7
D H2S2O7 + H2O → 2H2SO4
5 In the Contact process, oleum is
produced when
A sulphur dioxide reacts with
oxygen.
B sulphur dioxide dissolves in
water.
C sulphur trioxide dissolves in
concentrated sulphuric acid.
D sulphur trioxide dissolves in
water.
6 Which of the following gas
dissolves in rainwater and
consequently kills trees and
corrodes concrete buildings?
A Ammonia
B Sulphur dioxide
C Carbon monoxide
D Carbon dioxide
9 Which of the following are true of
ammonia gas?
I It is a colourless and odourless
gas.
II It is lighter than air.
III It is sparingly soluble in water.
IV It produces white fumes with
hydrogen chloride gas.
A I and IV only
B II and III only
C II and IV only
D III and IV only
10 Which of the following is a
source of hydrogen for the Haber
process?
A The decomposition of water
B Fractional distillation of liquid
air
C Reaction of coke or natural
gas with steam
D Reaction of zinc metal with
sulphuric acid
’08
7 Which of the following are caused
by the presence of sulphur
dioxide in the atmosphere?
I Certain lung diseases and
bronchitis
II An increase of acidity in
blood
III An increase of acidity in rain
water
IV Corrodes concrete buildings
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C I, II and III only
D I, III and IV only
9.2
Ammonia and its Salts
8 Which of the following chemicals
is manufactured using ammonia
in the industry?
A Sodium hydroxide
B Hydrochloric acid
C Sulphuric acid
D Nitric acid
Manufactured Substances in Industry
11 Which of the following is the
effect of using iron powder as
a catalyst in the production of
ammonia in the Haber process?
A The quantity of ammonia
produced is increased.
B The temperature required for
Haber process is reduced.
C The pressure required for
Haber process is reduced.
D The rate of reaction between
hydrogen gas and nitrogen
gas is increased.
12 Which of the following
compounds reacts with ammonia
to produce urea, a type of
fertiliser?
A Carbon dioxide
B Sulphuric acid
C Phosphoric acid
D Ethanoic acid
13 Which of the following is the
function of iron powder in the
Haber process?
A To speed up the rate of
production of ammonia
B To increase the percentage
yield of ammonia
C To lower the cost of
production of ammonia
290
D To lower the pressure
required in the production of
ammonia
14 Which of the following are the
conditions in the production of
ammonia by the Haber process?
I A temperature of about 450 °C
II A pressure of one atmosphere
III Equal volumes of nitrogen gas
and hydrogen gas
IV The use of iron powder as a
catalyst
A I and II only
B I and IV only
C II and III only
D I, II and IV only
15 Ammonium nitrate is used
as a fertiliser. What is the
’10 percentage by mass of nitrogen
in ammonium nitrate? [Relative
atomic mass: H, 1; N, 14; O,
16]
A 17.5%
B 17.7%
C 28.6%
D 35.0%
9.3
Alloys
16 The alloying process increases
the hardness of a metal. This is
because the foreign atoms added
to a metal in the alloying process
A increases the orderliness of
the arrangement of the metal
atoms.
B strengthens the bond between
the metal atoms.
C forms strong bonds between
the metal atoms and the foreign
atoms.
D makes it difficult for the layers
of metal atoms to slide over
each other.
17 Which of the following is not the
aim of alloying iron to form steel?
A To make it harder
B To make it stronger
C To make it more resistant to
rusting
D To increase the melting point
’11
Alloy
Uses
A
Duralumin
Building of
monuments
B
Brass
Bodies of
aeroplanes
C
Bronze
Frameworks of
buildings
D
Stainless
steel
Making of
surgical
instruments
19 The alloy produced by the
addition of tin to copper metal is
known as
A bronze
B brass
C pewter
D duralumin
20 Which of the following alloys is
suitable for the making of an
aircraft body?
A Duralumin
B Bronze
C Brass
D Cupro-nickel
21 Iron is alloyed to produce steel.
Which of the following property
is not true of steel compared to
iron?
A Harder
B More resistant to rusting
C More presentable
D A better electrical conductor
9.4
Synthetic Polymers
22 The polymer formed from the
polymerisation of phenylethene
is known as
A polythene
B polypropene
C polystyrene
D polyvinyl chloride
23 Which of the following are the
correct pairs of polymer and
monomer?
Polymer
Monomer
I
Natural rubber Isoprene
II
Carbohydrate Sucrose
III
Polypropene
Methylmethacrylate
IV
PVC
Chloroethene
A
B
C
D
II and III only
I and IV only
I, II and III only
I, II, and IV only
24 The diagram shows the repeating
unit of a synthetic polymer.
H
⎮
— C –
⎮
CH3
H
⎮
C —
⎮
CH3
Which of the following are true
of this synthetic polymer?
I It is a type of addition polymer.
II It dissolves easily in hot water.
III It burns in air to produce
carbon dioxide and water.
IV It has a high relative
molecular mass.
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C II and III only
D I, III and IV only
25 Which of the following are true
about Terylene, a type of synthetic
polymer?
I It is easily biodegradable.
II It burns easily.
III It is a type of fibre.
IV Its monomer is ethene.
A I and IV only
B II and III only
C II, III and IV only
D I, II and III only
26 Uncontrolled disposal of
synthetic polymers will cause
environmental pollution.
Which of the following are
the characteristics of synthetic
polymers that causes this
environmental pollution?
I Polymers are nonbiodegradable.
II Polymers increase the pH of
the water when dissolved in
water.
291
III Polymers promote excessive
growth of algae in water.
IV Polymers release toxic gases
when burned.
A I and IV only
B II and III only
C I, III and IV only
D II, III and IV only
9.5
Glass and Ceramics
27 A transparent solid is formed
when molten sand at high
temperature is cooled quickly.
What is this solid?
A Ceramic
B Fused glass
C Soda lime glass
D Borosilicate glass
28 Which of the following are true
for both glass and ceramic?
I They contain a common
component, silica.
II They are electrical insulators.
III They are resistant to
chemicals.
IV They can resist compression.
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C I, II and III only
D I, II, III and IV
29 Material Y has the following
properties:
’09
• Resistance towards
chemical substances
• Low coefficient of thermal
expansion
What is material Y ?
A Bronze
B Polystyrene
C Borosilicate glass
D Conducting glass
30 Which of the following glass has
a low softening point and can
be easily moulded into different
shapes?
A Fused quartz glass
B Soda lime glass
C Borosilicate glass
D Photochromic glass
31 Lead glass is very suitable for
making fine glassware and art
objects because this type of glass
Manufactured Substances in Industry
9
18 Which alloy is correctly matched
to its uses?
9
A has a high refractive
index.
B has a high softening
point.
C is most transparent to ultraviolet and infrared rays.
D is a good heat insulator.
B Photochromic glass
C Lead glass
D Borosilicate glass
9.6
Composite Materials
32 What is the purpose of adding
feldspar to kaolin in the making
’05 of porcelain?
A To make kaolin softer
B To make kaolin smoother
C To make kaolin harder
D To make porcelain that is
inert towards chemicals
35 Which composite material
is made of glass of different
’08 refractive index?
A Fibreglass
B Fibre optics
C Photochromic glass
D Borosilicate glass
33 The raw materials for making
soda lime glass are
I sodium carbonate
II calcium carbonate
III silicon dioxide
IV boron oxide
A I and II only
B II and III only
C I, II and III only
D I, II, III and IV
36 The supporting pillars of flyovers
of highways are made of
’06 substance X.
Substance X has the following
properties : strong, not brittle,
can withstand erosion and can
withstand weathering. Which of
the following is substance X?
A Concrete
B Steel
C Marble
D Reinforced concrete
34 A decorative glassware
manufacturer wants to make a
display panel that is sensitive to
the intensity of light.
What is the most suitable
material?
A Conducting glass
37 The diagram shows the
formation of a composite
’07 substance from its original
components.
Based on the diagram, why
is reinforced concrete often
used more to build buildings
compared to concrete?
A The steel bars cannot stretch
and make it tough.
B The concrete and the steel
bars can slide over each
other and make it flexible.
C The steel bars fix the position
of the concrete particles and
make it hard.
D The concrete particles are
evenly dispersed among the
steel bars and make it able
to withstand vibrations.
Structured Questions
(c) (i) Name liquid Z.
[1 mark]
(ii) How is liquid Z formed from gas Y?
1 Diagram 1 shows a series of steps involved in the
production of sulphuric acid in industry starting from
sulphur.
Sulphur
Sulphuric
acid
I
Oxygen
IV
Gas X
Liquid Z
[1 mark]
(d) Sulphuric acid is also formed when gas Y dissolves
in water. Why is this not done in the manufacturing
of sulphuric acid in industry?
[1 mark]
II
Oxygen
III
(e) State two uses of sulphuric acid.
Gas Y
[2 marks]
2 Diagram 2 shows how a type of fertiliser is produced.
Diagram 1
’07
(a) (i) Name gas X.
[1 mark]
(ii) Write a balanced equation for the reaction
in step I.
[1 mark]
Process P
Process Q
Sulphuric acid
Ammonia
Fertilliser
X
Diagram 2
(b) (i) Name gas Y.
[1 mark]
(ii) State the conditions used in step II in order
to produce a high percentage yield of gas Y.
(a) Process P and process Q are industrial processes.
What are the names of each of these processes?
[2 marks]
[2 marks]
Manufactured Substances in Industry
292
[1 mark]
(ii) State a natural source of silica.
(iii) W is a an important component of
[1 mark]
borosilicate glass. What is W?
(b) (i) Name compound X.
[1 mark]
(ii) Compound X can be used to make plastic
chairs and tables. State one advantage of
this type of material as compared to metals.
[3 marks]
(c) (i) Name fertiliser X.
(ii) Write a balanced equation for the formation
of fertiliser X.
[2 marks]
(d) Calculate the mass of ammonia that is required
to react with 0.2 mol of sulphuric acid.
[Relative atom mass: H, 1; N, 14]
[2 marks]
[1 mark]
(e) Name another type of fertiliser that is produced
when ammonia reacts with carbon dioxide.
(c) (i) Identify component Y.
[1 mark]
(ii) Explain why magnalium is harder than pure
[2 marks]
aluminium.
[1 mark]
3 The flowchart in Diagram 3 shows the conversion of
nitrogen into various substances in steps I, II, III and IV.
Nitrogen
I
II
Ammonia
+ Substance X
III
(d) Z can withstand high pressures and can
very heavy loads. What is Z?
(e) (i) Identify the type of compound T.
(ii) State a property of compound T.
Nitric acid
IV
5 Bronze, brass and duralumin are examples of alloys.
+ Substance Y
(a) What is meant by alloy?
Diagram 3
(c) What type of particles are present in pure
[1 mark]
copper?
(a) Step I is an industrial process. State the conditions
used for a good yield of ammonia in this process.
(d) Draw a diagram to show the arrangement of
particles in
(i) pure copper
(ii) bronze
[2 marks]
[3 marks]
(b) Step II is also an industrial process.
(i) Name this process.
[1 mark]
(ii) State the catalyst used in this process.
(e) (i) Name the elements that are used to make
[1 mark]
the alloy duralumin.
(ii) What is the advantage of duralumin compared
[1 mark]
to its main component?
(iii) State one use of the alloy duralumin.
[1 mark]
(c) State one physical property and one chemical
property of ammonia.
Physical property:
Chemical property:
[2 marks]
[1 mark]
(d) Name a possible compound for substance X in
step III and hence write a balanced equation that
occurs in step III.
[2 marks]
(e) (i) Besides ammonia, name a compound that
may be substance Y in step IV.
[1 mark]
(ii) Write a balanced equation for the reaction
in step IV.
[1 mark]
6 Polyethene and polyvinyl chloride are examples of
synthetic polymers that are widely used in daily life.
(a) Name the process in which monomers are
[1 mark]
joined together to form polymers.
(b) (i) Name the monomer that is used for the
[1 mark]
making of polyethene.
(ii) Give a use of polyethene.
[1 mark]
4 Table 1 shows the examples and components of five
different types of manufactured substances in industry.
Glass
Example
Components
Borosilicate
glass
Silica, sodium oxide and W
X
Polymer
Alloy
(c) The following diagram shows a part of the molecular
structure of polyvinyl chloride.
H
Cl
H
Cl
H
Cl
⏐
⏐
⏐
⏐
⏐
⏐
⎯ C ⎯ C ⎯ C ⎯ C ⎯ C ⎯ C ⎯
⏐
⏐
⏐
⏐
⏐
⏐
H
H
H
H
H
H
Propene
Magnalium
Composite
material
Z
T
Photochromic
glass
Aluminium and Y
Concrete (cement, sand and
small pebbles) and steel
Glass and silver chloride
(i) Draw the structure of its monomer. [1 mark]
(ii) Polyvinyl chloride is widely used to make
water pipes. State two advantages of PVC
pipes compared with iron pipes. [2 marks]
(iii) State two ways in which polyvinyl chloride
can cause environmental pollution. [2 marks]
(d) What is the source of the raw material used in
producing polyethene and polyvinyl chloride?
Table 1
(a)
[1 mark]
(b) Name the main element added to copper to form
[1 mark]
(i) brass:
(ii) bronze:
[1 mark]
Nitrate salt
Type
support
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
(i) Give the chemical name for silica. [1 mark]
[1 mark]
293
Manufactured Substances in Industry
9
(b) State the conditions for process Q.
Essay Questions
1 (a) Using polyethene as an example, explain the
terms polymer and monomer.
[4 marks]
(b) Name three examples of
(i) natural polymers and
(ii) synthetic polymers.
State a use for each type of polymer.
What are composite materials? Use two suitable
examples to explain the above statement.
[10 marks]
(b) Mr Vellu found that an art sculpture made of
pure metal is easily dented in his workshop but if
he were to use an alloy, the sculpture will not be
dented. Using one suitable example, describe an
experiment to show how you can compare the
hardness of an alloy with that of a pure metal.
[6 marks]
(c) Explain briefly how sulphuric acid is manufactured
in the industry.
[10 marks]
9
2 (a)
[10 marks]
Composite materials are produced for the
purpose of improving the original materials
and to fulfill specific needs.
Experiments
(a) Measure the diameters of the two depressions
accurately and record in the spaces provided in
Diagram 2.
[3 marks]
1 Brass is a copper alloy that is used to make
souvenirs and decorative items. Diagram 1 shows the
experimental set-up used to compare the hardness
of pure copper and brass.
(b) Construct a table to show all the data in the
experiment.
[3 marks]
(c) State the operational definition for alloy. [3 marks]
(d) What is the relationship between the diameter
of the depression and the hardness of the
materials?
[3 marks]
(e) Referring to results obtained from the experiment,
state the conclusion that can be drawn from the
experiment.
[3 marks]
(f) State three variables that must be kept constant
in this experiment.
[3 marks]
Diagram 1
The 1 kg weight is dropped onto the steel ball
bearing and the diameter of the depression formed
on the block is measured.
The experiment is repeated using a copper block to
replace the brass block.
2
Iron nails that are used in the construction of
buildings rust more than stainless steel nails
when exposed to rain.
The cross section of the diameter of depression of
the two materials is shown in Diagram 2.
Referring to the situation above, plan an experiment
to compare the rate of rusting of an iron nail and a
stainless steel nail. Your explanation should have the
following items:
(a) Statement of problem
(b) All the variables
(c) Statements of hypothesis
(d) List of materials and apparatus
(e) Procedure
(f) Tabulation of data
[17 marks]
Diagram 2
Manufactured Substances in Industry
294
FORM 5
THEME: Interaction between Chemicals
CHAPTER
1
Rate of Reaction
SPM Topical Analysis
2008
Year
Paper
1
Section
Number of questions
2
2009
2
A
B
C
1
–
–
3
1
–
6
2010
2
A
B
C
1
–
–
3
1
1
5
2011
2
A
B
C
–
1
–
3
1
1
4
3
2
A
B
C
1
–
–
1
ONCEPT MAP
Rate of reaction
• Average speed is the amount of
reactant used up or the product
formed per unit time.
1
• Rate is proportional to ————————— .
time taken
Measuring the speed of reaction
• from changes in the mass of
reactant or product against time.
• from changes in the volume of
gas produced against time.
Applications in daily activities
• Combustion of charcoal
• Keeping food in a refrigerator
• Cooking food in a pressure cooker
Concentration
An increase in concentration
increases the speed of reaction.
Particle size
A decrease in the particle size (larger
total surface area) increases the
speed of reaction.
Concentration-time graph
• The gradient of the graph
indicates the rate of reaction.
• The rate of reaction decreases as
the reaction proceeds.
RATE OF
REACTION
Temperature
An increase in temperature increases
the speed of reaction.
Collision theory
• Explains rate of reaction in terms of effective collisions between reactant
particles.
• For effective collisions, the particles must have energy equal to or greater than
the activation energy.
• Any factor that increases the rate of effective (successful) collisions will increase
the speed of reaction.
Pressure
An increase in pressure increases
the speed of reaction (applies only
to gases).
Catalyst
Catalyst increases the rate of reaction.
Uses of catalysts in industry
• Iron in the Haber process
N2 + 3H2
2NH3
• V2O5 in the Contact process
2SO2 + O2
2SO3
• Pt in the Ostwald process
4NH3 + 5O2
4NO + 6H2O
1.1
Reactants: CaCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) →
Products: CaCl2(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)
Rate of Reaction
(b) During the reaction, the following
observable changes take place.
(i) The mass of calcium carbonate (the
reactant) decreases.
(ii) The concentration of hydrochloric
acid (the reactant) decreases.
(iii) The volume of carbon dioxide (the
product) produced increases.
(c) Thus, the rate of reaction between calcium
carbonate and hydrochloric acid can be
determined by measuring
(i) the decrease in mass of calcium
carbonate per unit time, or
(ii) the increase in volume of carbon
dioxide per unit time.
That is,
The Meaning of Rate of Reaction
1 During a chemical reaction, the reactants are
used up as the products are formed.
Example: CaCO3 + 2HCl → CaCl2 + H2O + CO2
Thus, the amounts of reactants decrease
(Figure 1.1(a)) while the amounts of
products increase as the reaction proceeds
(Figure 1.1(b)).
1
Mass of CaCO3 reacted
Reaction rate = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
–—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— , or
Time taken
Figure 1.1 The graph of amount of substance (mol)
against time (minutes)
Volume of CO2 produced
Reaction rate = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
–—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Time taken
2 Definition
The rate of reaction is defined as the amount
of a reactant used up or the amount of a
product obtained per unit time.
The gas produced during a reaction can be collected
by using a burette or a gas syringe.
Amount of reactant used up
Rate of reaction = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Time taken
5 The rate of reaction is inversely proportional to
the time taken for the reaction to be completed.
or
1
Reaction rate ∝ —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Time taken
Amount of product obtained
Rate of reaction = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Time taken
The reaction is fast if it takes a short time to
complete. Conversely, the reaction is slow if it
takes a long time for the reaction to complete.
6 Example of a reaction involving a change in
colour
(a) The
reaction
between
potassium
manganate(VII), KMnO4, and ethanedioic
acid, H2C2O4, can be represented by the
ionic equation below.
3 Methods of measuring reaction rates
SPM
The amount of a reactant used up or a product
’07/P1,
’09/P1, obtained can be measured in terms of
’11/P1
(a) changes in the mass or concentration of
the reactant or product
(b) volume of gas produced
(c) changes in colour
(d) formation of precipitate
(e) changes in mass of the reaction mixture
4 Reaction between calcium carbonate and
dilute hydrochloric acid
(a) The reaction between calcium carbonate
(marble chips) and dilute hydrochloric
acid can be represented by the equation:
Rate of Reaction
5C2O42–(aq) + 16H+(aq) + 2MnO4–(aq)
ethanedioate ion
manganate(VII)
ion (purple)
→ 10CO2(g) + 8H2O(l) + 2Mn2+(aq)
colourless
296
Table 1.1 Example of some fast reactions
(b) Observable changes: When excess ethanedioic
acid solution is added to an aqueous solution
of potassium manganate(VII), KMnO4, the
purple colour of KMnO4 decolourises slowly
at room temperature.
Type of reaction
SPM
’09/P1
Example
Neutralisation Reaction between an acid and an
alkali.
HCl + NaOH → NaCl + H2O
1
Reaction rate ∝ —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Time taken for the purple
colour to disappear
Reaction between silver nitrate
Double
decomposition solution and sodium chloride solution
to form silver chloride precipitate.
AgNO3(aq) + NaCl(aq)
→ AgCl(s) + NaNO3(aq)
Combustion
A concentrated solution of manganese(II) ions, Mn ,
is pink in colour. However, a very dilute solution of
Mn2+ ions appears colourless.
2+
7 Example of a reaction involving the formation
of a precipitate
(a) The reaction between sodium thiosulphate
and dilute hydrochloric acid is a slow
reaction.
Burning fuel to form carbon
dioxide and water.
CH4 + 2O2 → CO2 + 2H2O
Na2S2O3(aq) + 2HCl(aq) →
2NaCl(aq) + H2O(l) + SO2(g) + S(s)
1
Other fast reactions include
• burning of magnesium
2Mg + O2 → 2MgO
• reaction of sodium or potassium with water
2Na + 2H2O → 2NaOH + H2
Table 1.2 Example of slow reactions
yellow
precipitate
Example
Type of reaction
Iron rusting
(b) Observable changes: When dilute hydro­­­chloric acid is added to sodium thiosul­
phate solution, the solution becomes
cloudy because sulphur is precipitated.
Sulphur is a yellow solid, but in small
quantities, it appears yellowish-white.
SPM
’09/P1
Rusting takes place slowly in the
presence of oxygen and water.
4Fe + 3O2 + 2H2O → 2Fe2O3•H2O
rust
Fermentation of In the presence of yeast,
glucose solution fermentation of glucose solution
produces alcohol and carbon
dioxide.
C6H12O6 → 2C2H5OH + 2CO2
1
Rate of reaction ∝ —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Time taken for a given
amount of sulphur
precipitate to form
glucose
Photosynthesis
8 The units used for the rate of reaction will
depend on the changes measured. For example,
(a) cm3 per unit time (second or minute) for
a gas evolved
(b) g per unit time or mol per unit time for a
solid reactant
(c) mol dm–3 per unit time for a reactant in
aqueous solution
9 Different chemical reactions take place at
different rates. Some reactions occur rapidly and
some slowly. Table 1.1 shows some examples
of fast reactions. Table 1.2 shows some examples
of slow reactions.
alcohol (ethanol)
During photosynthesis, carbon
dioxide reacts with water to form
glucose and oxygen gas.
6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2
glucose
• The reactions of Groups 1 and 2 metals with oxygen is
a fast reaction. However, the reactions of other metals
(such as copper) with oxygen are slow reactions.
• The rate of decay of the radioactive carbon-14 is very
low. For example, 1.0 g of carbon-14 takes 5730 years
to disintegrate (decay) to 0.50 g. The rate of decay of
carbon-14 is used in archaeology to estimate the age of
ancient artifacts. This method is called carbon dating.
297
Rate of Reaction
2
A piece of magnesium ribbon weighing 0.1 g is added
to dilute hydrochloric acid. After 5 seconds, all the
magnesium had dissolved. What is the average rate
of reaction?
The rate of a reaction depends on various factors
(Section 1.2). For example, the rate of rusting of iron
is increased if the iron is exposed to acid (such as
polluted air in industrial areas) or to the salt, sodium
chloride in sea air.
Solution
Average rate of
Mass of magnesium reacted
=
reaction
Time taken
1
Measuring Reaction Rates
1 The rate of reaction can be expressed in two
SPM ways:
’04/P1,
’10/P1, (a) the average rate of reaction over a period
’11/P1
of time, or
(b) the rate of reaction at any given time.
2 The average rate of reaction is the average of
the reaction rates over a given period of time.
We can measure the average rate of reaction
by measuring the change in amount (or
concentration) of a reactant or a product over
a period of time.
3 For example, the average rate of reaction between
magnesium and hydrochloric acid can be
determined by measuring the time taken for a
piece of magnesium to dissolve completely in
the acid.
1
=
0.1 g
5s
= 0.02 g s–1
The value obtained is the average rate of
reaction over a period of 5 seconds.
4 The average rate
of reaction can
also be determined
from the graph.
Based on Figure
1.2, the average
rate of the first t1
second
V1
=—
— cm3 s–1
t1
Figure 1.2
The average rate of reaction from t1 to t2
(V2 – V1)
=—
—
—
—
—
—
— cm3 s–1
(t2 – t1)
SPM
’04/P1
Calcium carbonate reacts with dilute hydrochloric
acid to form carbon dioxide.
After 1.2 minutes, the volume of gas produced is
100 cm3. Calculate the average rate of reaction in
units of (a) cm3 min–1, (b) cm3 s–1.
5 The rate of reaction at any given time is the
actual rate of reaction at a given time. The
reaction rate at any given time is also known as
the instantaneous rate of reaction.
6 The rate of reaction at a given time can be
determined by the following methods.
(a) By measuring the gradient of the graph of
mass of reactant against time (Figure 1.3).
Solution
Volume of CO2
produced
(a) Average reaction rate = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Time taken
100 cm3
= —
—
—
—
—
—
—
1.2 min
= 83.3 cm3 min–1
Volume of CO2
produced
(b) Average reaction rate = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Time taken
83.3 cm3 min–1
= —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
60 s min–1
Figure 1.3 Measuring the rate of
reaction involving a change
in mass at a given time
= 1.39 cm3 s–1
Rate of Reaction
298
Determining the gradient of the tangent at time, t:
The following steps are used to determine the
gradient of the tangent at time, t (Figure 1.3).
Analysing a reaction rate curve
(i) The steeper the gradient, the higher the rate
of reaction.
Step 1
Draw the tangent XY at point P.
Figure 1.5 Comparing the rates of reaction for
a given reaction at different times
Step 2
Complete the right-angled triangle XYZ.
(ii) Figure 1.6 shows the graph of volume of hydrogen
against time for the reaction between excess
zinc powder and dilute hydrochloric acid.
Zn(s) + 2HCl(aq) → ZnCl2(aq) + H2(g)
Step 3
1
Measure the lengths of XZ and ZY.
Step 4
Find the gradient of the line XY.
Figure 1.6
a
Gradient of the line XY = —
b
= rate of reaction at
time, t (g s–1)
(b) By measuring the gradient of the graph of
volume of gas produced (product) versus time
(Figure 1.4).
(a) Initially (t1),
• the graph is steep,
• the rate of reaction is high.
(b) As the reaction proceeds (t2),
• the graph is less steep,
• the rate of reaction
decreases because
the concentration
of hydrochloric acid
decreases.
(c) Finally (t3),
• the graph becomes
horizontal,
• the gradient of the graph
becomes zero,
• the reaction stops because
all the hydrochloric acid
has reacted.
Figure 1.4 Measuring the rate of reaction at a
given time involving a change in the
volume of a gas
a
Gradient = —
b
= rate of reaction at time, t
(cm3 min–1)
299
Rate of Reaction
3
Consider the reaction between excess magnesium
and dilute sulphuric acid:
Mg(s) + H2SO4(aq) → MgSO4(aq) + H2(g)
The reaction stops at 20 seconds.
Plot the graph of
(a) mass of magnesium against time,
(b) concentration of sulphuric acid against time,
(c) concentration of magnesium sulphate against time,
(d) volume of hydrogen gas against time.
Solution
(a)
(c)
(d)
1
(b)
There are some parameters which cannot be
measured accurately to determine the instantaneous
rate of reaction, for example the change in colour or
the formation of precipitate.
To find the reaction rates at (a) 90 s, (b) 180 s and (c) the
average rate of the reaction between zinc and dilute sulphuric
acid
Procedure
1 The burette is filled with water and inverted over
a basin of water.
2 Using a measuring cylinder, 20.0 cm3 of 0.3 mol
dm–3 sulphuric acid is measured out and poured
into a conical flask.
3 5.0 g of granulated zinc is then added to the
sulphuric acid in the conical flask.
4 The conical flask is then closed and the hydrogen
gas produced is collected in the burette by the
displacement of water as shown in Figure 1.7.
5 The stopwatch is started immediately.
6 The volume of hydrogen gas collected in the
burette is recorded at 30-second intervals.
Figure 1.7
Apparatus
Conical flask, measuring cylinder,
delivery tube, burette, basin, retort
stand, retort clamp and stopwatch.
Materials
Granulated zinc and 0.3 mol dm–3
sulphuric acid.
Results
Activity 1.1
Time (s)
0
30
60
90
120
150
180
210
240
270
300
330
360
Burette reading (cm3)
50.00 33.00 24.50 18.00 13.00 10.00 6.50 5.00 4.00 3.50 3.00 3.00 3.00
Volume of H2 released
(cm3)
0.00 17.00 25.50 32.00 37.00 40.00 43.50 45.00 46.00 46.50 47.00 47.00 47.00
Based on the experimental results, a graph of the volume of hydrogen released against time is plotted.
Rate of Reaction
300
Calculation
(a) The rate of reaction at 90 s
= gradient of the curve at 90 s
YZ
(52 – 20) cm3
= —
—
— =—
—
——
—
–—
—
—
—
—
—
XY
(180 – 30) s
32 cm3
= —
—
—
—
— = 0.213 cm3 s–1
150 s
(b) The rate of reaction at 180 s
= gradient of the curve at 180 s
QR
(48 – 30) cm3
= —
—
— =—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
PQ
(240 – 18) s
18 cm3
= —
—
—
—
— = 0.081 cm3 s–1
222 s
(c) The average rate of reaction
Total volume of H2 produced
= —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Total time taken
47 cm3
= —
—
—
—
— = 0.157 cm3 s–1
300 s
1
Conclusion
The rate of reaction decreases as the reaction
proceeds.
To measure the rate of reaction between calcium carbonate
(CaCO3) and excess hydrochloric acid
Apparatus
Conical flask, electronic balance,
measuring cylinder and stopwatch.
Materials
Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) pieces,
2.0 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid and
cotton wool.
Figure 1.8
Procedure
1 Using a measuring cylinder, 50 cm3 of 2 mol
dm–3 hydrochloric acid is measured out and
poured into a dry conical flask. The mouth of the
conical flask is covered with some cotton wool.
The cotton wool is inserted into the mouth of the
conical flask to prevent liquid from splashing out
during the reaction.
2 The conical flask is placed on the electronic
balance as shown in Figure 1.8.
3 The mass of conical flask, calcium carbonate,
hydrochloric acid and cotton wool is recorded.
4 The calcium carbonate is then transferred to the
hydrochloric acid in the conical flask and the
stopwatch is started immediately.
5 The mass of the conical flask (and its contents)
is recorded at one-minute intervals.
Results
Mass of conical
flask + contents (g)
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
60.0 59.1 58.3 57.9 57.4 57.0 56.8 56.5 56.3
Based on the experimental results, a graph of the mass of conical flask and its contents against time is plotted
(Figure 1.9).
301
Rate of Reaction
Activity 1.2
Time (min)
0.9 g
=—
—
—
—
—
–—
1.0 min
= 0.9 g min–1
(b) The average rate of reaction between 1.4 minutes
and 2.2 minutes.
Rate of decrease in mass
(58.8 – 58.3) g
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
From the graph (Figure 1.9)
(2.2 – 1.4) min
= 0.625 g min–1
(c) The reaction rate at the 5th minute
a
= gradient of the graph at the 5th minute = —
b
a = 57.5 – 56.4
= 1.1 g
b = 7.0 – 3.4
= 3.6 minutes
1.1 g
Gradient = —————
3.6 min
= 0.306 g min–1
1
Figure 1.9
Calculation
(a) The average rate of reaction for the first minute.
Decrease in mass = mass of carbon dioxide
produced
= (60.0 – 59.1) g
See table of results.
= 0.9 g
Average rate of reaction for the first minute
Mass of CO2 produced
= —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
–
Time taken
Conclusion
The rate of reaction decreases as the reaction
proceeds. Finally, the reaction will stop when all the
calcium carbonate added have reacted.
Solving Numerical Problems Involving
Rate of Reaction
SPM
’08/P2
The graph below shows the total volume of oxygen
gas produced against time for the decomposition of
hydrogen peroxide.
1 The rate of reaction can be stated in terms of
(a) the average rate of reaction for a given
period of time, or
(b) the rate of reaction at any given time
(instantaneous rate).
2 The average rate of reaction can be calculated
(a) directly from the data given (Example 2) or
(b) from the graph drawn (Example 4).
3 The reaction rate at a given time can only be
obtained from the gradient of the graph at the
given time (Example 5).
At time, t, the maximum volume of oxygen is collected.
The gradient of the curve at time, t is zero. Hence,
the rate of reaction is zero, that is, the reaction has
stopped at time, t.
Rate of Reaction
The rate of reaction is useful to a chemist because he
is not satisfied with merely converting one substance
to another. In most cases, he wants to obtain the
products in the fastest and most economical way.
302
4
5
3.0 g of excess marble (CaCO3) are added to 100
cm3 of dilute hydrochloric acid. Figure 1.10 shows
the graph of volume of carbon dioxide produced
against time.
Hydrogen peroxide decomposes as represented by
the equation:
2H2O2(aq) → 2H2O(l) + O2(g)
The results of an experiment on the decomposition
of hydrogen peroxide are given below.
Time (s)
0
15 30 45 60 90
Volume of O2 (cm3)
0
16 30 40 48 56
Calculate the rate of reaction at 40 seconds in units
of (a) cm3 s–1, (b) cm3 min–1.
1
Solution
(a)
Figure 1.10
Calculate
(a) the average rate of reaction,
(b) the concentration of hydrochloric acid in mol
dm–3.
[1 mol of any gas occupies 24 dm3 at room
conditions]
Solution
(a) Total volume of carbon dioxide evolved
= 360 cm3
Time taken = 8.0 minutes
360 cm3
Average rate of reaction = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
8 min
= 45 cm3 min–1
(b) Number of moles of CO2 evolved
360 cm3
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— = 0.015
(24  1000) cm3
The rate of reaction at 40 s
CaCO3 + 2HCl → CaCl2 + H2O + CO2
Mole ratio of HCl : CO2
=2:1
? : 0.015
= gradient at 40 s
a
(49 – 21) cm3
=—=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
b
(58 – 18) s
From equation
According to the equation, number of moles of
hydrochloric acid used = 2  0.015 = 0.03 mol.
Concentration of hydrochloric acid
Number of moles
0.03 mol
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
3
Volume (in dm )
0.1 dm3
= 0.3 mol dm–3
obtained from
the graph
= 0.70 cm3 s–1
(b) 1 minute = 60 seconds
∴Rate of reaction in cm3 min–1
= 0.70 cm3 s–1  60 s min–1
= 42 cm3 min –1
From the question: 100 cm3 = 0.1 dm3
303
Rate of Reaction
1
’09
Which of the following is correctly matched with its rate of reaction?
High reaction rate
Low reaction rate
A
Combustion of fuels
Respiration
B
Combustion of fuels
Double decomposition between silver nitrate and sodium
chloride solution
C
Rusting of iron
Fermentation of glucose solution
D
Respiration
Neutralisation reaction between an acid and an alkali
1
Comments
Combustion, double decomposition and neutralisation are fast reactions. Rusting and respiration are slow
reactions.
Answer A
1.1
1 Which of the following reactions occur at (a) a high
rate, (b) a low rate?
I Fe3+(aq) + 3OH–(aq) → Fe(OH)3(s)
II 2Cu(s) + O2(g) → 2CuO(s)
III S2O32–(aq) + 2H+(aq) → S(s) + H2O(l) + SO2(g)
IV 4K(s) + O2(g) → 2K2O(s)
2 You are given the chemicals and apparatus as listed
below.
• A piece of zinc of mass 2.0 g
• A beaker containing sulphuric acid
• A stopwatch
(a) Using the chemicals and apparatus given,
describe an experiment to measure the rate of
reaction between zinc and sulphuric acid.
(b) State the units for the rate of reaction.
(c) State two assumptions for this experiment.
Figure 1.11
3 A student intends to study the rate of reaction
between iron and dilute sulphuric acid. The equation
for the reaction is as follows.
(a) What is the total time required for the magnesium
ribbon to react completely with hydrochloric
acid?
(b) Based on the graph, is the reaction rate at the
first minute higher or lower than the reaction at
the second minute? Explain your answer.
(c) Is this a normal behaviour? Suggest one reason
for this behaviour.
(d) The reaction between hydrochloric acid and
another metal produces 12 cm3 of hydrogen
after 1.0 minute. Is this reaction rate higher or
lower than the reaction between magnesium
and hydrochloric acid? Explain your answer.
Fe(s) + H2SO4(aq) → FeSO4(aq) + H2(g)
Suggest two methods that he can use to measure
the rate of reaction.
4 The graph in Figure 1.11 shows the results of
an experiment to measure the rate of reaction
of magnesium ribbon with an excess of dilute
hydrochloric acid.
Rate of Reaction
304
What is the average rate of reaction?
(b) 4.0 g of magnesium is added to excess dilute
sulphuric acid. If the average rate of reaction is
0.0030 mol s–1, what is the mass of magnesium
unreacted after 0.5 minute?
[Relative atomic mass of Mg = 24]
5 The table below shows the results for two experiments
carried out under room conditions.
Reaction
Result
I
1 g of nickel powder
+ 50 cm3 of 1 mol
dm–3 hydrochloric
acid
Time taken to
collect 60 cm3
of hydrogen
gas = 120 s
1 g of zinc powder
+ 50 cm3 of 1 mol
dm–3 hydrochloric
acid
Time taken to
collect 45 cm3
of hydrogen
gas = 56 s
II
7 In the presence of manganese(IV) oxide, hydrogen
peroxide decomposes according to the equation:
MnO2
2H2O2(aq) ⎯⎯→ 2H2O(l) + O2(g)
A sample of hydrogen peroxide decomposed in the
presence of a catalyst and the volume of oxygen
gas produced was collected at regular time intervals.
The results of the experiment were recorded in the
following table.
Based on the information given in the table above,
predict which metal is more reactive, nickel or zinc?
6 (a) The volume of hydrogen gas collected at regular
intervals for the reaction between granulated
zinc and dilute hydrochloric acid is shown below.
1.2
Time (s)
Volume of H2 (cm3)
0
0
20
16
40
26
60
32
70
36
80
36
1
1—
2
1
2—
2
Time (min)
0
1
Volume of
O2 (cm3)
0
32 46 56 64 69 74 74
2
3
4
5
1
Experiment
Calculate
(a) the average rate of reaction for the first 144
seconds.
(b) the average rate of reaction for the overall
reaction in cm3 s–1.
(c) the average rate of reaction between the first
minute and the 3rd minute.
(d) the rate of reaction at the 150th second.
Factors that Affect the
SPM
Rate of Reaction
’08/P1
Uranium is the radioactive isotope used for making
nuclear bombs. Uranium decays slowly to form lead.
The decay of uranium and other radioactive elements
is unique. These nuclear reactions are not influenced by
factors such as surface area, temperature and catalyst.
1 The rate of reaction is affected by the following
factors:
(a) Total surface area (or particle size) of the
solid reactant
(b) Concentration of reactant
(c) Temperature of reaction
(d) Use of catalyst
(e) Pressure (for reactions involving gases)
2 When the condition of reaction changes, the
rate of reaction also changes.
3 Table 1.3 explains briefly how these conditions
of reaction affect the rate of reaction between
zinc metal and dilute sulphuric acid.
4 Reaction involving gases
(a) Changes in pressure will not affect
reactions in aqueous solutions.
(b) Changes in pressure will only affect
reactions involving gases.
(c) Increasing the pressure will compress
more gas molecules into a given space.
Hence the gaseous particles will collide
more frequently and the rate of reaction
increases.
305
Rate of Reaction
Table 1.3
Surface area (particle size)
• When zinc foil is broken into
smaller pieces, the total surface area
increases.
• The smaller the size of zinc foil, the
greater the total surface area exposed
to the hydrogen ions. Hence the rate
of reaction increases.
Concentration of reactant
1
• In dilute acid, there are not so many
hydrogen ions present.
• In more concentrated acid, there are
more hydrogen ions in the solution.
Hence the rate of reaction increases.
Temperature of reaction
• When the temperature of a reaction
increases, the particles move faster
because they have higher kinetic
energy. Hence the rate of reaction
increases.
Catalyst
Some catalysts used in industry. The catalysts are in pellet form
for larger surface area.
SPM
’10/P2
• Manipulated variable: Size (total surface area)
of magnesium
• Responding variable: Time taken to collect
60 cm3 of hydrogen gas
• Constant variables: Temperature, concentration
and volume of sulphuric acid as well as
mass of magnesium
2 The results of the experiments are shown
below.
Factors that Influence the Rate of Reaction
Effect of Surface Area on the Rate of Reaction
1 Two experiments are carried out to study the
rate of reaction between magnesium and dilute
sulphuric acid under different conditions.
Mg(s) + H2SO4(aq) → MgSO4(aq) + H2(g)
Experiment
Conditions of experiment
I
1.0 g of magnesium ribbon and 50 cm3
of 1.0 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid
1.0 g of magnesium powder and 50 cm3
of 1.0 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid
II
The size (surface area) of magnesium is manipulated
Rate of Reaction
A catalyst will increase the rate of
reaction. This will be explained in
Section 1.3.
306
Time taken to collect
60 cm3 of H2 (s)
30
Average rate of
reaction (cm3 s–1)
2
10
6
3 The results show that the time taken to collect
60 cm3 of gas using magnesium powder is
shorter than using magnesium ribbon. This
is due to the smaller size of particles (total
surface area is greater) in magnesium powder
than in magnesium ribbon.
1 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid. This means that
the higher the concentration of hydrochloric
acid, the higher the rate of reaction.
4 (a) It is important to know
• how to plot graphs (on the same axis),
or
• how to interpret graphs on rate of
reaction if information on the conditions
of reaction are given.
(b) The two features on the graph to be
considered are
• the gradient of the graph which shows
the rate of reaction,
• the height of the graph which shows
the total amount of product formed.
Effect of Concentration of Reactant on the Rate
of Reaction
1 Two experiments are carried out to study the
rate of reaction between magnesium and
’04/P1
’05/P3 hydrochloric acid.
SPM
’06/P1
Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq) → MgCl2(aq) + H2(g)
• Manipulated variable: Concentration of
hydrochloric acid
• Responding variable: Time taken for
magnesium to dissolve completely
• Constant variables: Size of magnesium
ribbon, volume of hydrochloric acid and
temperature of experiment
2 The results of the experiments are shown below.
Conditions of
experiment
Experiment
1 Two experiments are carried out to study the
rate of reaction between zinc and sulphuric
acid at different temperatures.
Zn(s) + H2SO4(aq) → ZnSO4(aq) + H2(g)
• Manipulated variable: Temperature of sulphuric
acid
• Responding variable: Volume of hydrogen
gas evolved
• Constant variables: Mass of zinc, concentration
and volume of sulphuric acid
2 The results are shown in Figure 1.12.
Time taken for
magnesium to
dissolve
completely (s)
I
5 cm magnesium
ribbon and 50 cm3 of
1 mol dm–3
hydrochloric acid
78
II
5 cm magnesium
ribbon and 50 cm3 of
2 mol dm–3
hydrochloric acid
39
Concentration of acid is manipulated
Figure 1.12 Comparing the rates of reaction at
different temperatures
3 The shorter the time taken for a reaction to
complete, the higher the rate of reaction.
The results show that the time taken for
magnesium to react completely in 2 mol
dm–3 hydrochloric acid is shorter than that in
3 The results show that the higher the temperature
of sulphuric acid, the steeper the graph and
hence, the higher the rate of reaction.
Experiment
Mass of zinc
Volume of
sulphuric acid
Concentration of
sulphuric acid
Temperature of
sulphuric acid
I
1.0 g of zinc powder
20 cm3
0.1 mol dm–3
28 °C
II
1.0 g of zinc powder
20 cm
0.1 mol dm
35 °C
3
Conditions remain unchanged
307
–3
Temperature of acid is manipulated
Rate of Reaction
1
Effect of Temperature on the Rate of Reaction
4 In general, the rate of reaction increases if the
temperature of the reactants is increased.
occurs. In this reaction, manganese(IV) oxide acts
as a catalyst and catalyses the decomposition
of hydrogen peroxide to give oxygen gas and
water.
Effect of Catalysts on the Rate of Reaction
MnO2
1 Definition
A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate
of a reaction but is itself chemically unchanged
at the end of the reaction.
2 In contrast, a substance that decreases the rate
of a chemical reaction is called an inhibitor.
3 At room temperature, hydrogen peroxide
decomposes very slowly. But when a very small
amount of manganese(IV) oxide is added to
hydrogen peroxide, a vigorous effervescence
1
The Characteristics of Catalysts
Only a small amount
of catalyst is needed
to increase the rate of
reaction.
The physical appearance
of a catalyst may change at
the end of the reaction. For
example, small pieces of
catalyst may become fine
powder after the reaction.
2H2O2(aq) ⎯⎯⎯→ 2H2O(l) + O2(g)
4 The reaction between zinc and dilute acid is a
slow reaction.
Zn(s) + 2H+(aq) → Zn2+(aq) + H2(g)
When it is catalysed by copper(II) sulphate
solution, the reaction speeds up.
SPM
’06/P1,
’08/P1,
’10/P1,
’11/P1
• The catalyst remains chemically unchanged after
the reaction.
• Thus the chemical properties, mass and chemical
composition of the catalyst remain unchanged at
the end of the reaction.
Characteristics
of a catalyst
A catalyst increases the rate of a chemical reaction
but it does not change (increase or decrease) the
yield of a chemical reaction.
CuSO4
Zn(s) + H2SO4(aq) ⎯⎯⎯→ ZnSO4(aq) + H2(g)
catalyst
A catalyst lowers the
activation energy of a
reaction (see Section 1.3
– The Collision Theory)
(a) In general, catalysts are highly specific.
For example, iron catalyses the reaction:
N2 + 3H2
2NH3
but not the reaction:
2SO2 + O2
2SO3
(b) However, some catalysts can catalyse
several different reactions. For example,
MnO2 can catalyse the following
reactions:
MnO2
2H2O2(aq) ⎯⎯⎯→ 2H2O(l) + O2(g)
MnO2
2KClO3(s) ⎯⎯⎯→ 2KCl(s) + 3O2(g)
Catalysts can be poisoned by impurities. When a catalyst is poisoned, its effectiveness as a catalyst is decreased.
Rate of Reaction
308
Examples of Catalysts
1 Transition metals and compounds of transition metals are often used as catalysts for
industrial processes.
2 Table 1.4 shows some examples of catalysts and the reactions catalysed by them.
Table 1.4 Some common catalysts
Type of reaction
Catalyst used
(a) Haber process for the manufacture of ammonia.
N2(g) + 3H2(g)
Iron, Fe
2NH3(g)
(b) Contact process for producing sulphur trioxide.
2SO2(g) + O2(g)
Vanadium(V) oxide, V2O5
2SO3(g)
Sulphur trioxide is used for the manufacture of sulphuric acid.
(c) Ostwald process for producing nitrogen monoxide.
4NH3(g) + 5O2(g)
Platinum, Pt
4NO(g) + 6H2O(g)
Nitrogen monoxide is used for the manufacture of nitric acid.
Nickel, Ni
(e) Cracking process
When big alkane molecules are passed over a catalyst at 600 °C, a
mixture of small alkane and alkene molecules is produced.
This process is called catalytic cracking.
(Refer Sections 2.2 and 2.3 on alkanes and alkenes)
Aluminium oxide, Al2O3
or
Silicon(IV) oxide, SiO2
2
1
(d) Manufacture of margarine
In the presence of a catalyst at 200 °C, vegetable oils react with
hydrogen to produce margarine. This process is called hydrogenation.
Effect of Pressure on the Rate of Reaction
’06
1 The changes in pressure will only affect
reactions involving gases. An increase in
pressure increases the rate of reaction. In
contrast, a decrease in pressure decreases the
rate of reaction. In the following reactions
involving gases, the rate of reaction increases
if the pressure is increased.
Which of the following statements about catalysts
are true?
I A catalyst is specific in its reaction.
II A catalyst changes the quantity of product
formed.
III Only a small amount of a catalyst is needed to
change the rate of reaction.
IV The chemical properties of the catalyst remain
unchanged at the end of a reaction.
A I and II only
C I, II and III only
B II and IV only
D I, III and IV only
Answer D
N2(g) + 3H2(g)
2NH3(g) (Haber process)
2SO2(g) + O2(g)
2SO3(g) (Contact process)
2 Pressure has no effect on reactions involving
only solids or liquids. For example, the
following reactions are not affected by changes
in pressure.
CaCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) →
CaCl2(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)
A catalyst takes part in a chemical reaction. In actual fact, a
catalyst combines with the reactants to form an unstable
intermediate species. This species then decomposes to
re-form the catalyst and to produce the products.
2H2O2(aq) → 2H2O(l) + O2(g)
309
Rate of Reaction
1.1
To investigate the effect of the surface area of a reactant on the rate of reaction
SPM
’06/P2
Procedure
Problem statement
How does the surface area of a solid reactant affect
the rate of reaction?
1
Hypothesis
The smaller the size of the marble chips, that is, the
larger the total surface area of the marble chips, the
higher the rate of reaction.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Size of the marble chips
used
(b) Responding variable : Volume of gas given off at
30-second intervals
(c) Constant variables : Temperature of the
experiment, mass of marble chips, concentration
and volume of hydrochloric acid
Apparatus
Conical flask, delivery tube, retort
stand and clamp, burette, measuring
cylinder and stopwatch.
Materials
Marble chips, powdered marble and
0.08 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid.
Figure 1.13
1 A burette is filled with water and inverted over
a basin containing water. The burette is clamped
to the retort stand. The water level in the burette
is adjusted and the initial burette reading is
recorded.
2 5.0 g of marble chips are placed in a small
conical flask.
3 50 cm3 of 0.08 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid is
added to the marble chips.
4 The conical flask is then stoppered and the
stopwatch is started immediately (Figure 1.13).
5 The burette readings are recorded at 30-second
intervals.
Experiment I
The rate of reaction using large marble chips
Results
Time (s)
0
30
60
90
120
150
180
210
240
Burette reading (cm3)
50.00 45.50 41.50 38.00 35.00 33.00 31.00 29.00 28.00
Volume of gas (cm3)
0.00
Experiment II
4.50
8.50 12.00 15.00 17.00 19.00 21.00 22.00
The rate of reaction using powdered marble
Constant variable is also known as
fixed variable or controlled variable.
Experiment 1.1
Procedure
1 Steps 1 to 4 in Experiment I are repeated using 5.0 g of powdered marble. All other conditions such as
temperature, volume and concentration of hydrochloric acid are kept constant.
2 The results of the experiment are recorded in the following table.
Results
Time (s)
0
30
60
90
120
150
180
210
240
Burette reading (cm3)
50.00 42.00 35.00 29.50 25.50 22.00 19.50 17.50 16.00
Volume of gas (cm3)
0.00
Rate of Reaction
8.00 15.00 20.50 24.50 28.00 30.50 32.50 34.00
310
3
4
5
Figure 1.14
Discussion
1 Figure 1.15 shows the graphs that will be
obtained if the reactions in Experiments I and II
are completed.
6
volume of the hydrochloric acid used in both the
experiments are the same.
The gradients of the graphs for Experiments
I and II become less steep as the reactions
proceed. This shows that the rates of reaction
(a) are very high at the beginning of the
reactions,
(b) decrease as the reactions proceed,
(c) become zero when the reactions are
completed. At this time, the graphs become
horizontal.
The rate of reaction between the marble and
hydrochloric acid decreases because
(a) the mass of the remaining unreacted marble
decreases,
(b) the concentration of hydrochloric acid
decreases.
The reaction in Experiment I stops after t2 minutes
while the reaction in Experiment II stops after t1
minutes, where t1 < t2. This shows that the rate of
reaction for Experiment II (powdered marble) is
higher than the rate of reaction for Experiment I
(marble chips).
The total volume of carbon dioxide collected
in the burette is usually slightly less than the
theoretical value (48 cm3 for the experiment
above). This is because carbon dioxide is slightly
soluble in water. To overcome this problem, a gas
syringe is used to collect carbon dioxide released
during the experiment (Figure 1.16).
Figure 1.16 Measuring the volume of gas using a
gas syringe
Same maximum volume of CO2
collected because mass of CaCO3,
concentration and volume of HCl are
kept constant.
Conclusion
Graph II is steeper than graph I. This shows that the
rate of reaction in Experiment II is higher than the
rate of reaction in Experiment I as powdered marble
is used in Experiment II. Thus, the rate is higher with
powdered marble than with marble chips. Hence, we
can conclude that the smaller the particle size, the
larger the total surface area exposed for reaction
and the higher the rate of reaction. The hypothesis
is accepted.
Figure 1.15
2 Figure 1.15 shows that both graphs level off at
the same value. This indicates that the maximum
volume of carbon dioxide collected at the end
of reaction for both Experiments I and II are
the same (that is, 44 cm3). This happens because
the mass of the marble, concentration and
311
Rate of Reaction
1
Based on the results obtained, a graph of the total
volume of carbon dioxide produced against time
for each experiment is plotted on the same axes
(Figure 1.14).
1.2
To study the effect of concentration on the rate of reaction between sodium
thiosulphate solution and dilute sulphuric acid
SPM
’07/P1,
’11/P2
Apparatus
10 cm3 and 100 cm3 measuring cylinders, 100 cm3
conical flask, white paper marked with a cross ‘X’
and stopwatch.
Problem statement
How does the concentration of a reactant affect the
rate of reaction between sodium thiosulphate and
dilute sulphuric acid?
Materials
0.2 mol dm–3 sodium thiosulphate solution, 1.0 mol
dm–3 sulphuric acid and distilled water.
Procedure
1 50 cm3 of 0.2 mol dm–3 sodium thiosulphate
solution is measured out using a 100 cm3 measuring
cylinder. The solution is then poured into a clean,
dry conical flask.
2 The conical flask is placed on a piece of paper
with a cross ‘X’ marked on it (Figure 1.17).
3 5 cm3 of dilute sulphuric acid is measured out
by using a 10 cm3 measuring cylinder. The acid
is then quickly poured into sodium thiosulphate
solution. The stopwatch is started immediately.
4 The reaction mixture is swirled once and the cross
‘X’ is viewed from above. A yellow precipitate
will appear slowly in the conical flask.
5 The stopwatch is stopped as soon as the cross
disappears from view and the time taken is recorded.
6 Steps 1 to 5 are repeated with different mixtures
of sodium thiosulphate solution and distilled
water as shown in the following table.
1
Figure 1.17
Hypothesis
The more concentrated the sodium thiosulphate
solution, the higher the rate of reaction.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable: Concentration of sodium
thiosulphate solution
(b) Responding variable: Time taken for the cross
‘X’ to disappear
(c) Constant variables: Concentration and volume of
dilute sulphuric acid as well as the temperatures
of the solutions
Results
Experiment
1
2
3
4
5
Volume of Na2S2O3 (cm )
50
40
30
20
10
Volume of water (cm )
0
10
20
30
40
Volume of H2SO4 (cm )
5
5
5
5
5
0.20
0.16
0.12
0.08
0.04
24
30
42
62
111
3
3
3
Concentration of Na2S2O3 (mol dm–3)
Time taken (s)
Experiment 1.2
1
—
—
—
— (s–1)
Time
0.042 0.033 0.024 0.016 0.009
The ionic equation is as follows:
Discussion
1 The following equation shows the reaction
between sodium thiosulphate, Na2S2O3 and dilute
sulphuric acid:
Na2S2O3(aq) + H2SO4(aq) →
Na2SO4(aq) + H2O(l) + SO2(g) + S(s)
Rate of Reaction
Different volumes (V1) of
Na2S2O3 solution are
diluted with water to make
up to 50 cm3 solution (V2).
S2O32–(aq) + 2H+(aq) → S(s) + SO2(g) + H2O(l)
The sulphur is precipitated as fine yellow
particles that cause the solution to turn cloudy.
312
2 As the amount of sulphur increases, the cross ‘X’
becomes more and more difficult to see. Finally,
the cross ‘X’ disappears from view when a certain
mass of sulphur is precipitated. Hence, the time
recorded for the disappearance of the cross ‘X’ is
the time taken for the formation of a fixed mass
of sulphur.
Mass of sulphur produced
3 Rate of reaction = —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Time taken
1
Hence, rate of reaction ∝ —
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Time taken for the cross
‘X’ to disappear
4 The concentration of sodium thiosulphate solution
after mixing with water can be obtained by using
the following formula:
M1V1
Concentration of Na2S2O3 = —
—
—
—
—
V2
7 The conical flask used for each experiment must
have the same size (for example, 100 cm3 volume).
If the conical flask of a larger size is used, the
time, t, taken for the cross ‘X’ to disappear will
increase. Conversely, if a smaller conical flask
is used, the time taken for the cross to disappear
will be shorter.
8 If the experiment is repeated with dilute
sulphuric acid of different concentrations, but
the concentration of sodium thiosulphate is kept
constant, the rate of reaction will also be directly
proportional to the concentration of the acid used.
0.2  Volume of Na2S2O3 used
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— mol dm–3
50
5 Based on the results obtained, two graphs can be
plotted.
(a) The graph of concentration of sodium
thiosulphate against time (Graph I, Figure 1.18).
Conclusion
1 (a) From graph I, we can conclude that the
higher the concentration of sodium
thiosulphate, the shorter the time taken for a
certain mass of sulphur to be precipitated, that
is, for the cross ‘X’ to disappear from view.
(b) This means that the higher the
concentration of sodium thiosulphate, the
higher the rate of reaction.
2 From graph II, it can be concluded that the
concentration of sodium thiosulphate is directly
1
proportional to —
—
—.
time
1
Concentration of Na2S2O3 ∝ —
—
— …(1)
time
1
3 But the rate of reaction is ∝ —
—
— … (2)
time
Hence, combining equations (1) and (2), we have,
1
—
— ∝ reaction rate
concentration of Na2S2O3 ∝ —
time
That is, rate of reaction ∝ concentration of
Na2S2O3 solution. The hypothesis is accepted.
Figure 1.18
(b) The graph of concentration of sodium
1
thiosulphate against —
—
— (Graph II, Figure 1.19).
time
6 Different volumes of distilled water are added
to sodium thiosulphate solution so that the
final volume of the diluted sodium thiosulphate
solution is 50 cm3 in each experiment. Hence,
the concentration of sodium thiosulphate solution is
directly proportional to its volume before dilution.
313
Rate of Reaction
1
Figure 1.19
3
’06
Which of the following reactants produces the highest
rate of reaction with magnesium powder?
A 50 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–­3 nitric acid
B 50 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–­3 ethanoic acid
C 50 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–­3 sulphuric acid
D 50 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid
Comments
Magnesium reacts with the hydrogen ions of the acids.
Mg(s) + 2H+(aq) → Mg2+(aq) + H2(g)
Ethanoic acid is a weak acid and produces very few
H+ ions. HNO3, H2SO4 and HCl are strong acids. But
each mole of H2SO4 produces two moles of H+ ions.
Hence, 50 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid contains
the highest concentration of H+ ions.
Answer C
Experiment 1.3
1
1.3
SPM
To study the effect of temperature on the rate of reaction between sodium
’05/P1
thiosulphate solution and dilute sulphuric acid
5 The stopwatch is started immediately and the
Problem statement
conical flask is swirled gently.
How does temperature affect the rate of reaction between
6 The cross ‘X’ is viewed from above. The stopwatch
sodium thiosulphate solution and sulphuric acid?
is stopped as soon as the cross disappears from view
Hypothesis
The higher the temperature of the
and the time taken is recorded.
reactant, the higher the rate of
7 The solution in the conical flask is poured out.
reaction.
The conical flask is washed thoroughly and dried.
50 cm3 of 0.1 mol dm–3 sodium thiosulphate
Variables
solution is poured into the conical flask.
(a) Manipulated variable: The temperature of
8 The solution is heated over a wire gauze until the
sodium thiosulphate solution
temperature reaches about 45 °C (Figure 1.21).
(b) Responding variable: The time taken for the
cross ‘X’ to disappear
(c) Constant variables: The concentrations and
volumes of both sodium thiosulphate solution
and dilute sulphuric acid
Apparatus
Conical flask, 10 cm3 measuring
cylinder, thermometer, stopwatch,
white paper marked with a cross
‘X’, wire gauze, tripod stand and
Bunsen burner.
Materials
0.1 mol dm–3 sodium thiosulphate
solution and 1.0 mol dm–3 sulphuric
acid.
Figure 1.20
Procedure
1 50 cm3 of 0.1 mol dm–3 sodium thiosulphate
solution is poured into a clean, dry conical flask.
2 The temperature of the sodium thiosulphate
solution is measured with a thermometer.
3 The conical flask is placed on a white paper
marked with a cross ‘X’ (Figure 1.20).
4 5 cm3 of 1 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid is quickly
poured into the sodium thiosulphate solution.
Rate of Reaction
Figure 1.21
314
9 The hot conical flask is placed over a white paper
marked with a cross ‘X’.
10 5 cm3 of 1 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid is measured
out using a 10 cm3 measuring cylinder.
11 When the temperature of sodium thiosulphate
solution falls to 40°C, the sulphuric acid is
quickly poured into the thiosulphate solution.
12 The stopwatch is started immediately and the
conical flask is swirled gently.
13 The cross ‘X’ is viewed from the top and the
time taken for the cross to disappear from view is
recorded.
14 Steps 7 to13 are repeated at higher temperatures
as shown in the following table.
Experiment
1
2
3
4
5
Temperature
(°C)
30
40
50
55
60
Time (s)
52
27
16
13
10
1
—
—
—
— (s–1)
Time
Discussion
1 The graph shows that the temperature of sodium
thiosulphate solution is proportional (but not
1
linearly) to —
—
—.
time
1
2 Temperature ∝ —
—
— … (1)
time
1
But rate of reaction ∝ —
—
— … (2)
time
Combining equations (1) and (2), we have,
Rate of reaction ∝ temperature
0.019 0.037 0.063 0.077 0.100
Based on the results of the experiment, a graph of
temperature of sodium thiosulphate solution against
1
—
—
— is plotted (Figure 1.22).
time
Conclusion
The higher the temperature of the experiment, the
higher the rate of reaction.
4
’05
The rate of reaction between sodium thiosulphate
solution and dilute sulphuric acid can be determined
by using the arrangement of apparatus as shown
below.
Which of the following conditions will cause the mark
‘X’ to take the shortest time to disappear from sight?
Sulphuric acid
A
B
C
D
Sodium thiosulphate solution
Volume (cm3)
Concentration
(mol dm–3)
Volume (cm3)
Concentration
(mol dm–3)
Temperature (°C)
5
5
5
10
1.0
1.0
0.5
0.5
45
45
45
40
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
30
35
30
35
315
Rate of Reaction
1
1
Figure 1.22 Graph of temperature against —
—
—
time
Results
Comments
The shorter the time taken for the mark ‘X’ to disappear, the faster the reaction.
The rate of reaction is affected by temperature and concentration.
The higher the temperature, the faster the reaction. (Answer B or D is correct).
The higher the concentration of sulphuric acid or sodium thiosulphate in the reaction mixture, the faster the
reaction (Answer D is incorrect).
Answer B
1.4
To study the effect of a catalyst on the rate of decomposition of hydrogen peroxide
1
Problem statement
How do catalysts affect the rate of decomposition of
hydrogen peroxide?
Hypothesis
Manganese(IV) oxide increases the
decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.
rate
4 0.5 g of manganese(IV) oxide, MnO2, is added to
hydrogen peroxide and shaken. The changes that
take place in the test tube and on the glowing
splint are recorded.
of
Results
Variables
(a) Manipulated
variable: The presence of
manganese(IV) oxide
(b) Responding variable: The release of oxygen gas
(c) Constant variables: Volume and concen­tration of
hydrogen peroxide
Observation
Experiment
Apparatus
Test tube and wooden splint
Materials
Hydrogen peroxide and manganese(IV) oxide
Procedure
1 A test tube is half-filled with hydrogen peroxide.
2 A glowing splint is placed at the mouth of the
test tube to test for the gas evolved (Figure 1.23).
Inside the test
tube
On the glowing
splint
H2O2 without No effervescence
MnO2
The glowing
splint does not
light up.
H2O2 with
MnO2
The glowing
splint is
rekindled and
burns brightly.
Bubbles of
oxygen gas are
produced
Discussion
1 The following equation shows the decomposition
of hydrogen peroxide:
2H2O2(aq) → 2H2O(l) + O2(g)
Experiment 1.4
2 The glowing splint is rekindled in the presence
of oxygen gas.
Conclusion
The rate of evolution of oxygen gas increases when
manganese(IV) oxide is added to hydrogen peroxide.
This proves that manganese(IV) oxide acts as a
catalyst and speeds up the decomposition of hydrogen
peroxide to water and oxygen. The hypothesis is
accepted.
Figure 1.23 The effect of a catalyst on the
decomposition of hydrogen peroxide
3 The changes that take place inside the test tube
and on the glowing splint are recorded.
Rate of Reaction
316
reaction in Experiment II. We can therefore
conclude that the higher the concentration
of hydrogen peroxide, the higher the rate
of reaction.
(c) The maximum volume of oxygen gas
produced in Experiment I is twice that
produced in Experiment II. This is because
the number of moles of hydrogen peroxide
used in Experiment I is twice that used in
Experiment II.
The reaction mixture remaining after Experiment 1.4
can be filtered to obtain the manganese(IV) oxide. It
is found that (a) the mass of manganese(IV) oxide
before and after the experiment is the same (0.5 g),
(b) the chemical properties of manganese(IV) oxide
remain unchanged.
SPM
’05/P1
Explaining the Effectiveness of Different Catalysts
on the Rate of Decomposition of Hydrogen Peroxide
1 The graphs in Figure 1.24 show the effect of
concentration of hydrogen peroxide on the
rate of decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.
1 Figure 1.25 shows the results of an experiment
carried out to study the effect of different
catalysts (of the same mass) on the rate of
decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.
Graph I: more O2 produced and higher rate
of reaction because larger volume and
higher concentration of H2O2 is used.
Maximum volumes of O2 collected are the
same for Experiments I and II because the
concentration and volume of H2O2 used
are the same.
Figure 1.24 The effect of concentration of hydrogen
peroxide on the rate of decomposition
of hydrogen peroxide
Figure 1.25 The effect of different catalysts
on the rate of reaction
In Experiment I, 50 cm of 0.14 mol dm of
hydrogen peroxide and 0.2 g of manganese(IV)
oxide are used. In Experiment II, a solution
containing 25 cm3 of the same hydrogen
peroxide mixed with 25 cm3 of water and 0.2 g
of manganese(IV) oxide are used.
For both the experiments, the temperature is
kept constant.
2 (a) For Experiment I
Concentration of H2O2
= 0.14 mol dm–3
higher concentration
3
–3
In Experiment I, 50 cm3 of hydrogen peroxide
and 0.5 g of manganese(IV) oxide are used.
In Experiment II, 50 cm3 of hydrogen peroxide
and 0.5 g of iron(III) oxide are used.
For both the experiments, the concentration
and volume of hydrogen peroxide as well as
the temperature are kept constant.
2 Analysis of the reaction rate curve in Figure 1.25.
(a) At any particular instant, the gradient of
graph I is greater than the gradient of graph
II. This means that the rate of reaction in
Experiment I is higher than the rate of reaction
in Experiment II. Thus, the experiment
proves that manganese(IV) oxide is a more
effective catalyst than iron(III) oxide in the
decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.
(b) The maximum volumes of oxygen gas
collected in both the experiments are the
same because the volume and concentration
of hydrogen peroxide used are the same. This
experiment shows that a catalyst does not
change the yield of the products.
For experiment 2, hydrogen peroxide is
diluted.
(M1V1)before dilution = (M2V2)after dilution
Concentration of H2O2 after dilution
0.14 mol dm–3  25 cm3
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
50 cm3
lower concentration
= 0.07 mol dm–3
(b) At any particular instant, the gradient of
graph I is greater than the gradient of graph
II. This means that the rate of reaction
in Experiment I is higher than the rate of
317
Rate of Reaction
1
The Effect of Concentration of Hydrogen
Peroxide on the Rate of Reaction
Effect of surface area
Effect of temperature
Reaction of HCl(aq) with marble chips
Reaction of HCl(aq) with zinc powder
Graph I : Large marble chips
Graph II : Small marble chips
Graph III : Powdered marble
Graph I : at 30°C
Graph II : at 40°C
mass of
marble is
the same
Comment: The smaller the size of marble chips, the
higher the reaction rate.
mass of zinc (in excess), volume
and concentration of HCl are
kept constant
Comment: When the temperature is raised, the rate
of reaction also increases.
Factors affecting the rate of reaction
Effect of catalyst
1
Effect of concentration of reactant
Reaction of HCl(aq) with magnesium
Decomposition of hydrogen peroxide
Graph I : 0.5 mol dm–3 HCl mass of Mg and
Graph II : 1.0 mol dm–3 HCl volume of HCl (in excess)
Graph III : 2.0 mol dm–3 HCl are kept constant
Graph I : Fe2O3 used as catalyst
Graph II : MnO2 used as catalyst
Graph III : No catalyst
Comment: When the concentration of hydrochloric acid
increases, the rate of reaction also increases.
Comment: A catalyst increases the reaction rate. MnO2
is a more effective catalyst than Fe2O3.
Effect of concentration and volume of acid used
Reaction of HCl(aq) with magnesium
Reaction of HCI(aq) with magnesium
Graph I : Mg in excess
20 cm3 of 0.2 mol dm–3 HCI
Graph II : Mg in excess
20 cm3 of 0.1 mol dm–3 HCl
Graph I : Mg in excess
10 cm3 of 0.2 mol dm–3 HCI
Graph II : Mg in excess
30 cm3 of 0.1 mol dm–3 HCl
Comment:
Graph
Reaction rate
Amount of
H2 released
Rate of Reaction
I
II
Higher
Lower
0.002 mol
(48 cm3)
0.001 mol
(24 cm3)
Comment:
Graph
Reaction rate
Amount of
H2 released
318
I
II
Higher
Lower
0.001 mol
(24 cm3)
0.0015 mol
(36 cm3)
is kept in a refrigerator will last longer because
the decaying reaction that destroys the food
can be slowed down.
4 In the supermarkets, fish, meat and other
types of fresh foods are kept in deep-freeze
compartments where the temperature is about
–20 °C. This keeps the food fresh for a few
months because the very low temperature
slows down the chemical reactions that cause
the food to decay.
Applications of Factors that Affect Rates
of Reaction in Daily Life and in Industrial
Processes
Combustion of Charcoal
1 Combustion of charcoal in excess oxygen
produces carbon dioxide and water. Heat
energy is released during combustion.
2 Large pieces of charcoal will not burn easily
because the total surface area exposed to
oxygen is small.
3 If small pieces of charcoal are used, they can
burn easily. This is because the total surface area
exposed to the air increases. Thus, the rate of
reaction with oxygen (combustion) increases.
1 Pressure cookers are used to speed-up cooking.
2 In the pressure cooker, the higher pressure enables
SPM water or oil to boil at a temperature higher than
’06/P1
their normal boiling points. Furthermore, an
increase in pressure causes an increase in the
number of water molecules or cooking oil
molecules coming into contact and colliding
with the food particles.
3 At a higher temperature and pressure, the rate
of reaction becomes higher. Thus, food cooks
faster in pressure cookers.
Coal is mainly carbon. Coal mining is dangerous
because coal dust present in the coal mine catches
fire very easily. Because of this, serious accidents in
coal mines can happen due to the explosion of coal
dust. Human lives are often lost in such explosions.
Uses of Catalysts in Industry
Storing Food in Refrigerators
1 Catalysts do not increase the yields of reactions.
However, catalysts are used widely in industrial
processes to increase the rates of reactions
so that the same amount of products can be
obtained in a shorter time. As a result, the use of
catalysts brings down the cost of production.
2 In the chemical industry, small pellets of solid
catalysts are used instead of big lumps. This is
to give a larger surface for catalytic reaction to
occur and hence a faster reaction will result.
3 The table below summarises the raw materials
and the conditions needed for the Haber,
Contact and Ostwald processes.
1 The decomposition and decay of food is a
SPM chemical reaction caused by the action of
’05/P2
/SB microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi.
These microorganisms multiply very rapidly
at the temperature range of 10–60 °C.
2 Room temperature is the optimum temperature
for the breeding of microorganisms in food.
As a result, food turns bad quickly at room
temperature.
3 At low temperatures, for example, 5 °C (the
normal temperature of a refrigerator), the activities
of bacteria are slowed down. Hence, food that
Industrial process
Substances
Manufacture of ammonia
(Haber process)
Nitrogen and hydrogen
Optimum conditions/equation reaction
Temperature: 450–500 °C
Pressure: 250 atmospheres
Catalyst: Finely divided iron (Fe)
N2(g) + 3H2(g)
Manufacture of sulphuric
acid (Contact process)
Sulphur (to make SO2),
air and water
450 °C, 250 atm
Fe (catalyst)
2NH3(g)
Temperature: 400–450 °C
Pressure: 1–2 atmospheres
Catalyst: Vanadium(V) oxide, V2O5
319
Rate of Reaction
1
Cooking Food in Pressure Cookers
Industrial process
Substances
Optimum conditions/equation reaction
• The following reaction scheme shows the steps
involved in the manufacture of sulphuric acid:
oxidation
oxidation
step 1
step 2
S ⎯⎯→ SO2 ⎯⎯→ SO3 ⎯→ H2S2O7 ⎯→ H2SO4
step 3
step 4
• In step 2, sulphur dioxide is oxidised to sulphur trioxide.
450 °C, 1 atm
2SO2(g) + O2(g)
Manufacture of nitric
acid (Ostwald process)
Ammonia, air and water
2SO3(g)
V2O5 (catalyst)
Temperature: 900 °C
Pressure: 5 atmospheres
Catalyst: platinum
• The following reaction scheme shows the steps
involved in the manufacture of nitric acid.
oxidation
oxidation
oxidation
step 1
step 2
step 3
1
NH3 ⎯⎯⎯→ NO ⎯⎯⎯→ NO2 ⎯⎯⎯→ HNO3
In step 1, ammonia is oxidised to nitric oxide.
4NH3(g) + 5O2(g)
900 °C, 5 atm
Pt (catalyst)
4NO(g) + 6H2O(g)
Solving Problems on Rate of Reaction
6
Curve I in Figure 1.26 is obtained by treating 5.0 g
of granulated zinc with 2.0 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid
(in excess) at 30 °C.
Mass and
nature of Zn
C
D
Figure 1.26
A
B
Rate of Reaction
Temperature
2 mol dm–3
40 °C
1 mol dm–3
30 °C
Comments
Curves I and II show that:
(a) The total volume of hydrogen produced in Experiment
II is the same as that produced in Experiment I.
This means that the amount of zinc used is 5 g
and not 2.5 g. Answer A is incorrect.
(b) Reaction II is slower than reaction I.
This means that zinc powder or a higher
temperature of 40 °C is not used in Experiment II.
Answers B and C are incorrect.
The low rate is achieved by using sulphuric acid
more dilute than 2 mol dm–3 (1 mol dm–3).
Answer D
Which of the following conditions will produce
graph II?
Concentration
Mass and
of H2SO4
nature of Zn
2.5 g of
2 mol dm–3
granulated Zn
5.0 g of Zn
2 mol dm–3
powder
5.0 g of
granulated Zn
5.0 g of
granulated Zn
Concentration
of H2SO4
Temperature
30 °C
30 °C
320
7
Two experiments were carried out to determine
the rate of oxygen gas production during the
decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. In Experiment
I, 20 cm3 of 2 mol dm–3 hydrogen peroxide were
used and the results of the experiment are shown on
graph I in Figure 1.27.
(b) Differences in terms of rate of reaction
Graph II is steeper than graph I because the rate of
reaction in Experiment II is expected to be higher
than Experiment I. When the concentration of
hydrogen peroxide is increased from 2 mol dm–3
to 4 mol dm–3, the rate of reaction also increases.
Difference in terms of volume of oxygen released
Step 1 To calculate the volume of oxygen
produced in Experiment I
2H2O2(aq) → 2H2O(l) + O2(g)
Figure 1.27
(a) Sketch a graph on the same axes to show the
results of the experiment that will be obtained
if 5 cm3 of 4 mol dm–3 hydrogen peroxide were
used for the reaction.
(b) Explain your answer in (a).
(c) State the constant variables for both the
experiments.
Step 2 To calculate the volume of oxygen
produced in Experiment II
Number of moles of H2O2 used in Experiment II
45
=—
—
—
—
— = 0.02
1000
∴ Volume of oxygen collected at room
temperature in Experiment II
1
1
= —  0.02  24 000 = 240 cm3 (— V cm3)
2
2
Solution
(a)
(c) Constant variables:
In both the experiments, the same mass of the
catalyst and the same temperature of reaction
are used.
1.2
1 State three ways that can be used to increase the rate of
reaction of zinc powder with dilute sulphuric acid.
2 Excess calcium carbonate is added to hydrochloric
acid at room temperature. The volume of carbon
dioxide collected is recorded at regular time intervals.
The results of the experiment are shown in Figure
1.28.
(a) At what time does the reaction stop?
(b) Why does the reaction stop at this particular
time?
(c) The experiment is repeated by using the same
hydrochloric acid but at a lower temperature
than room temperature. On the same axes,
plot a graph to show the results of the second
experiment.
(d) State the constant variables for both the
experiments.
Figure 1.28
321
Rate of Reaction
1
Number of moles of H2O2 used in Experiment I
2  20
=—
—
—
—
—
— = 0.04
1000
∴ Volume of oxygen collected at room
temperature in Experiment I
1
= —  0.04  24 000 = 480 cm3 (V cm3)
2
3 Hydrogen peroxide decomposes as represented by
the equation:
(c) Give one inference that can be made from the
results in Experiment I.
(d) Explain why the initial readings on the electronic
balance are different for the three experiments.
2H2O2(aq) → 2H2O(l) + O2(g)
5 Four experiments are carried out to study the rate of
reaction between zinc (in excess) and sulphuric acid
at different conditions.
In each experiment 80 cm3 of 0.1 mol dm–3 sulphuric
acid is used. The time taken to collect 192 cm3 of
hydrogen gas produced are shown below.
(a) On the same axes, sketch two graphs of total
amount (in mol) of oxygen gas given off against
time to show the results of Experiments I and II
under the conditions stated below.
Experiment I:
100 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3 H2O2
Experiment II:
300 cm3 of 0.2 mol dm–3 H2O2
Experiment
1
(b) Explain your answer based on the graphs that
you have sketched.
4 In an experiment carried out at room temperature
(28 °C), 8.0 g of marble chips are added to 100 cm3
of dilute hydrochloric acid in a conical flask. The mass
of the conical flask and its contents is determined
using an electronic balance at the beginning of the
experiment (that is, as soon as the marble chips are
added) and then after 1 minute.
Electronic
Electronic
balance
balance
Experiment Temperature reading at
reading
(°C)
the
after 1
beginning (g) minute (g)
I
28
270.35
270.04
35
271.42
270.01
III
40
268.20
266.00
(a) State a hypothesis for the experiment.
(b) State the constant variables for the experiment.
1.3
I
Zinc + H2SO4
35
40
II
Zinc + H2SO4
38
18
III
Zinc + H2SO4 +
1 cm3 of CuSO4
35
12
IV
Zinc + H2SO4 +
1 cm3 of Na2SO4
35
40
particles (atoms, molecules or ions) collide
with each other. However, not all collisions
will result in a chemical reaction to form the
products of the reaction. It is likely that the
particles collide and bounce back without
producing any changes. The collisions that are
successful in producing a chemical reaction
are called effective collisions.
4 Collisions of particles that are unsuccessful
in producing a chemical reaction are called
ineffective collisions.
5 The collision theory states that for a chemical
reaction to occur, the reacting particles must
(a) collide with each other so that the breaking
and formation of chemical bonds can occur.
SPM
The Collision Theory
’05/P1
1 According to the kinetic theory of matter, all
matter is made up of tiny, discrete particles.
These particles are continually moving and so
have kinetic energy.
2 Based on the assumption that the particles in
matter are moving all the time and collide with
each other, the collision theory was introduced
to explain
(a) how chemical reactions occur, and
(b) the factors (such as particle size,
concentration, temperature, catalyst and
pressure) affecting the rates of reactions.
3 When the reactants are mixed, the reactant
Rate of Reaction
Temperature Time
(°C)
(s)
(a) Sketch the graphs of total volume of hydrogen
released against time for Experiments I, II and III
on the same axes.
(b) Explain why the reaction rate for (i) Experiment
I is different from that of Experiment II, (ii)
Experiment II is different from that of Experiment
III.
(c) What conclusion can you make by comparing
Experiments III and IV?
(d) The reaction mixture in Experiment III is filtered.
Excess sodium hydroxide is added to the filtrate.
(i) Predict what you would observe.
(ii) Write an ionic equation for the reaction.
(e) Based on your answer in (d), what inference
can you make with regards to the property of a
catalyst?
The experiment is repeated at 35 °C and 40 °C. The
experimental results are shown below.
II
Substances
322
5 (a) If two molecules with sufficient energy
(that is, energy equal to or more than
the activation energy) collide in the
correct orientation, the chemical bonds
in the reactant molecules will break and
reaction will occur to form new bonds in
the product molecules (Figure 1.31). For
example,
Activation Energy
1 Activation energy is the minimum energy that
the reactant particles must possess at the time
of collision in order for a chemical reaction to
take place.
2 The activation energy can also be considered as
an energy barrier that must be overcome by the
colliding particles in order that collision will
result in the formation of product molecules.
3 Figure 1.29 shows the energy profile diagram
for the exothermic reaction: A + B → C + D.
An exothermic reaction is the reaction that
releases heat energy (Refer Section 4.1). In the
energy profile diagram, the y-axis represents the
energy content of the reactants and products,
while the x-axis represents the progress of the
reaction (reaction coordinate).
H2(g) + I2(g)
2HI(g)
Figure 1.31 Effective collision (sufficient energy
and correct orientation)
(b) However, if two molecules, with energy
equal to or more than the activation energy,
but collide with each other in an incorrect
orientation, then reaction will not occur.
(c) If two reactant molecules, with energy
less than the activation energy, collide in
the correct orientation, then reaction will
also not occur. The colliding molecules
will simply rebound and move away from
each other.
SPM
’07/P2
The energy of the products
is lower than the energy
of the reactants. Therefore
heat is released during
the reaction.
Relating the Frequency of Effective
Collisions with Factors Influencing the
Rate of Reaction
Figure 1.29 Energy profile diagram for an exothermic
reaction
4 Figure 1.30 shows the energy profile diagram
for the endothermic reaction: E + F → G + H.
An endothermic reaction is a reaction that
absorbs heat energy.
1 Based on the collision theory, two important
factors that determine the rate of a chemical
reaction are
(a) the frequency of effective collisions and
(b) the magnitude of the activation energy.
2 Frequency of effective collisions
For a given reaction, if the frequency of collisions
between the reactant molecules is high, it follows
that the frequency of effective collisions that
causes a reaction to occur will also be high. As a
result, the rate of reaction increases.
3 Magnitude of activation energy
Reactions that have high activation energy will
occur at a slow rate. This is because only a small
fraction of the molecules possess sufficient
energy to overcome the activation energy for
the reaction to occur. In contrast, reactions that
The energy of the products
is higher than the energy
of the reactants. Therefore
heat is absorbed during
the reaction.
Figure 1.30 The energy profile diagram for an
endothermic reaction
323
Rate of Reaction
1
(b) possess energy that is equal to, or more than
the minimum energy called the activation
energy.
(c) collide in the correct orientation.
Effect of Concentration on the Rate of Reaction
possess low activation energy will occur at a
high rate. This is because most of the molecules
have sufficient energy to overcome the activation
energy and this enables the reaction to occur.
4 In general, any factor that increases the rate
of effective collisions will also increase the
rate of reaction.
1 Magnesium reacts with dilute hydrochloric
acid as represented by the equation
Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq) → MgCl2(aq) + H2(g)
When the concentration of hydrochloric acid
increases, the rate of reaction also increases.
2 Figure 1.33 shows the arrangement of particles
in 1 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid and 2 mol dm–3
(more concentrated) hydrochloric acid.
Effect of Size of Reactant (Surface Area) on the
Reaction Rate
1
1 The sodium chloride crystal as shown in Figure
1.32(a) has a total surface area of 16 cm2.
When this crystal is divided into smaller
crystals as shown in Figure 1.32(b), the total
surface area is increased to 24 cm2.
Total surface area of the NaCl crystal in
Figure 1.32(a)
= (1  2)  4 + (2  2)  2
= 16 cm2
Figure 1.33 Arrangement of particles in dilute and
concentrated solutions
When the concentration of hydrochloric acid
increases, the number of particles per unit
volume also increases and the particles are
closer together.
3 When the number of particles increases, the
frequency of collisions also increases. As a result,
the frequency of effective collisions increases.
This causes the rate of reaction to increase.
Total surface area in Figure 1.32(b)
= (1  1)  6  4
= 24 cm2
5
’05
The decomposition of hydrogen peroxide produces
oxygen gas. Curve P is obtained when 25 cm3 of 0.1
mol dm–3 hydrogen peroxide undergoes decomposition.
Figure 1.32
The smaller the particle size, the greater the
total surface area exposed for reaction to occur.
2 Dilute sulphuric acid reacts with magnesium
as represented by the equation
Mg(s) + H2SO4(aq) → MgSO4(aq) + H2(g)
If small pieces of magnesium or magnesium
powder are used, the rate of reaction between
magnesium and sulphuric acid will increase.
3 The smaller the size of the solid, the larger the
total surface area exposed for collisions. This
means that the frequency of effective collisions
(that is, collisions with the correct orientation
and with energy equal to or greater than the
activation energy) between reacting particles
will increase. As a result, the rate of reaction
also increases.
Rate of Reaction
If the experiment is repeated using another hydrogen
peroxide solution, which solution will produce
curve Q?
A 10 cm3 of 0.25 mol dm–3 hydrogen peroxide
B 15 cm3 of 0.15 mol dm–3 hydrogen peroxide
C 20 cm3 of 0.20 mol dm–3 hydrogen peroxide
D 25 cm3 of 0.15 mol dm–3 hydrogen peroxide
Comments
• Steepness of curves P and Q
Curve Q is more steep than curve P. This means
324
that the rate of reaction is higher. That is, the
hydrogen peroxide used for curve Q is more
concentrated.
• Maximum volume of oxygen gas produced in
curve Q is less than that in curve P. This means
that the number of moles of hydrogen peroxide
used in curve Q is less than that in curve P.
Number of moles of hydrogen peroxide
concentration (mol dm–3)  volume (cm3)
=—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1000
Relative
concentration
Number of
moles of H2O2
For curve P
A
B
C
D
0.1 mol dm–3
More concentrated
More concentrated
More concentrated
More concentrated
2.5  10–3
2.5  10–3
2.25  10–3
4.0  10–3
3.75  10–3
An increase in pressure will not increase the speed
of the reacting particles. In actual fact, the increase in
rate at high pressures is caused by the particles being
squeezed closer together. This increases the frequency
of effective collisions and hence the rate increases.
Effect of Temperature on the Rate of Reaction
1 Calcium carbonate reacts with hydrochloric
acid to form carbon dioxide as represented by
the following equation
CaCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) →
CaCl2(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)
Answer B
Figure 1.35 shows the graphs of total volume
of carbon dioxide given off against the time taken
for the reaction between calcium carbonate and
dilute hydrochloric acid at 25 °C and 30 °C.
Effect of Pressure on the Rate of Reaction
1 In chemical reactions involving gases, increasing
the pressure increases the rate of reaction.
Conversely, decreasing the pressure decreases
the rate of reaction. For example, the rate of
reaction between nitrogen and oxygen to
produce nitrogen monoxide can be increased
by increasing the pressure.
SPM
’05/P2
’06/P1
N2(g) + O2(g) → 2NO(g)
Figure 1.35 Effect of temperature on
the rate of reaction
2 At low pressures, the gaseous molecules are
spread far apart (Figure 1.34(a)). When the
pressure is increased, the volume of the gas is
reduced (Figure 1.34(b)).
2 At low temperatures, particles of reactants
move at a slower speed. However, when the
temperature is increased, the particles absorb
the heat energy. As a result, the kinetic energy
of the particles increases. Hence,
(a) the reacting particles move faster, and
(b) the number of reacting particles with the
activation energy required for the reaction
increases.
3 Consequently, the frequency of effective
collisions increases and hence, the rate of
reaction also increases.
4 Temperature has a great effect on the rate of
reaction. For most reactions, the rate of reaction
approximately doubles when the temperature
of reaction increases by 10 °C.
Figure 1.34 Effect of pressure on gaseous molecules
This means that at high pressures,
(a) the number of gaseous molecules per unit
volume is increased, and
(b) the gaseous molecules are packed closer
together.
325
Rate of Reaction
1
Solution
3 As a result, increasing the pressure causes the
gaseous molecules to collide more frequently.
Consequently, the frequency of effective
collisions increases and the rate of reaction
also increases.
Effect of Catalysts on Reaction Rates
4 A catalyst provides an alternative reaction
route (or pathway) for the reaction to occur.
In the presence of a positive catalyst, this
alternative route has a lower activation energy.
In other words, a positive catalyst lowers the
activation energy required for the reaction
(Figure 1.37). As a result, more reacting particles
possess sufficient energy to overcome the lower
activation energy required for effective collisions.
Hence, the frequency of effective collisions
increases and the rate of reaction increases.
1 The decomposition of hydrogen peroxide to
water and oxygen occurs very slowly at room
temperature.
2H2O2(aq) → 2H2O(l) + O2(g)
In the presence of a catalyst, the decomposition
of hydrogen peroxide occurs rapidly.
2 Figure 1.36 shows the rate of evolution of oxygen
for the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide
without a catalyst and in the presence of a catalyst
such as manganese(IV) oxide or iron(III) oxide.
Ea = Activation energy
without catalyst
Ea’ = Activation energy
with catalyst
Ea’ < Ea
1
Figure 1.37 Effect of catalyst on the activation energy
of a reaction
Figure 1.36 The effect of a catalyst on the
decomposition of hydrogen peroxide
3 A chemical reaction occurs when reactant
particles collide with one another. In the presence
of a catalyst, the reactant particles can collide
with the catalyst and also with each other. This
causes the reactants to react in a different way.
Thus, the activation energy of the reaction can
be increased or decreased depending on the
type of catalyst used.
Effective collisions:
Collisions that produce a
reaction.
Reaction rate increases when
the effective collisions increase.
Enzymes are biological catalysts. Enzymes are protein
molecules produced in living cells. The enzyme,
catalase, is found in the liver. This enzyme can catalyse
the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (a toxic
substance produced by metabolism in human bodies)
to harmless substances, that is, water and oxygen.
Enzymes are also used in detergents to remove protein
stains (for example, food or bloodstains) on clothings.
Collision theory: a reaction only
occurs if the particles (a) have
sufficient energy to overcome the
activation energy and (b) collide
in the correct orientation.
Activation energy: the
minimum energy the
reac­ting substances must
possess before reaction can
occur.
is used to explain the following factors
particle size
When the particle size is
decreased, the total
surface area exposed for
reaction increases.
concentration/pressure
When the concentration/
pressure is increased, the
number of particles per
unit volume increases.
temperature
When the temperature is
increased, the number of
particles with the activation
energy required increases.
Frequency of effective collisions increases
Rate of Reaction
326
catalyst
A catalyst will lower the
activation energy required
for the reaction by providing
an alternative route with a
lower activation energy.
Rate of reaction increases
6
’03
Experiment
Experimental
set-up
Time taken for
all the zinc to
dissolve (s)
Temperature
I
II
30
12
35 °C
35 °C
By using collision theory, explain why the time taken
for Experiment II is different from that of Experiment I.
Comments
In these two experiments, the constant variables are
• volume, concentration and temperature of sulphuric
acid used,
• mass and surface area of zinc used.
Solution
The time taken for Experiment II is shorter. This
implies that the reaction for Experiment II is faster.
Thus, copper(II) sulphate acts as the catalyst.
• If a catalyst is added, the rate of reaction increases
because the catalyst provides an alternative route
with a lower activation energy for the reaction to
occur.
• Hence, the minimum energy required for the
reaction is less. As a result, more reacting particles
possess sufficient energy to overcome the lower
activation energy required for effective collisions.
Hence, the frequency of effective collisions
increases and the rate of reaction increases.
1.3
3 Four experiments were carried out to study the rate of
reaction between nitric acid and calcium carbonate of
different sizes. In Experiment I, V cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3
nitric acid is added to big lumps of excess calcium
carbonate in a conical flask. The total volume of
carbon dioxide produced is plotted against time
taken (Figure 1.38).
1 Which of the following changes will increase the rate
of reaction between sodium thiosulphate solution and
sulphuric acid?
I By using sulphuric acid of a higher concentration
II By increasing the temperature of sodium thiosulphate
solution used
III By increasing the volume of sodium thiosulphate
used
IV By adding a small amount of sodium hydroxide
solution to the reaction mixture
Explain your answer in terms of the collision theory.
2 An experiment is carried out to study the decomposition
of hydrogen peroxide. In this experiment, 2.0 g of
manganese(IV) oxide is added to 30 cm3 of 0.2
mol dm–3 hydrogen peroxide. The volume of oxygen
produced is recorded at 30-second intervals.
(a) Calculate the maximum volume of oxygen gas
produced in the experiment at room conditions.
[1 mol of gas occupies 24 dm3 at room
conditions]
(b) (i) Sketch a graph of volume of oxygen produced
against time.
(ii) Explain the shape of the graph.
(c) (i) What is the function of manganese(IV) oxide
in this experiment?
(ii) Based on collision theory, explain the effect of
manganese(IV) oxide on the decomposition
of hydrogen peroxide.
Figure 1.38
(a)(i) What is the difference between the rate of
reaction at the first minute and the rate of
reaction at the second minute?
(ii) Explain this difference in terms of collision
theory.
(b) The experiment was repeated three times by
changing the reaction conditions for each experiment
as shown below.
327
Rate of Reaction
1
Two experiments were carried out to study the rate
of reaction between zinc and excess sulphuric acid at
room temperature. The table below shows the results
of the experiments.
Experiment
II
Nitric acid at a lower temperature
III
Small lumps of calcium carbonate but
of the same mass
IV
2.0 mol dm–3 nitric acid but of the
same volume (V cm3)
1
1.4
(i) Sketch the graphs for Experiments II, III and IV
on Figure 1.38 and label each of these graphs.
(ii) Explain the difference between the reaction rates
for Experiments I and II in terms of collision
theory.
Change in conditions of reaction
4 With the aid of an energy profile diagram, explain
how a negative catalyst (inhibitor) affects the rate of
reaction.
4 Nowadays, enzymes are used extensively in
industry to enable reactions to proceed rapidly
at room temperature and pressure.
5 In our daily living, we face many social and
environmental issues that threaten the quality
of living. For example, air and water pollution,
food shortages, diseases and so on.
6 We must use science and technology to
overcome these problems in a rational and
systematic way so that the quality of life can
be improved.
7 We should be thankful for the contribution of
scientists in enhancing the quality of life in
modern living.
Practising Scientific
Knowledge to Enhance
Quality of Life
1 In our homes, we require machines to increase
the rates of reactions and machines to reduce the
rates of reactions. Examples of such machines are
microwave ovens and refrigerators respectively.
2 In the hospitals, oxygen tents are used to save
lives. The high concentration of oxygen helps
patients with difficulty in breathing to breathe
normally.
3 In human bodies, enzymes (biological catalysts)
are needed to catalyse complex biochemical
reactions.
1 The rate of reaction is defined as the amount of
a reactant used up or the amount of a product
obtained per unit time.
2 The rate of a reaction is inversely proportional to the
time taken for the reaction.
3 Different chemical reactions take place at different
rates. A fast reaction takes a shorter time to complete
than a slow reaction.
4 The rate of reaction can be determined in the school
laboratory by measuring the
• changes in the mass of the reactant,
• changes in volume of gas produced,
• time taken for formation of precipitate.
5 The rate of reaction can be expressed in terms of
(a) the average rate of reaction over a period of
time, or (b) the instantaneous rate of reaction at a
given time.
6 The rate of a reaction is affected by the following
factors:
Rate of Reaction
7
8
9
10
328
• Particle size (surface area) of solid reactant
• Concentration of reactants
• Temperature of reactants
• Presence of catalyst
• Pressure (for reactions involving gases)
Transition metals (Fe, Ni and Pt) and compounds
of transition metals (MnO2 and V2O5) are often used
as catalysts.
According to the collision theory, a reaction will occur
if the reacting particles
• collide with each other
• possess activation energy
• collide in the correct orientation
The collisions that are successful in producing a
chemical reaction are called effective collisions.
Any factor that increases the rate of effective
collisions will also increase the rate of reaction.
1
Multiple-choice Questions
1.1
Rate of Reaction
1 Calcium carbonate reacts with dilute hydrochloric acid to produce carbon
dioxide. The total volume of carbon dioxide collected during the reaction is
’11 shown below.
Time (s)
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
4 The diagram below shows
the apparatus set-up used to
determine the rate of reaction.
40
The apparatus set-up is not
suitable to be used for determining
the rate of reaction for
A Na2SO3(s) + H2SO4(aq) →
Na2SO4(aq) + H2O(l) + SO2(g)
What is the overall average rate of reaction?
A 0.825 cm3 s–1
C 1.100 cm3 s–1
3 –1
B 0.943 cm s D 1.300 cm3 s–1
2 The average rate of reaction of calcium carbonate with hydrochloric acid is
0.0080
mol s–1. What is the time taken for 9.60 g of calcium carbonate to
completely react with excess hydrochloric acid?
[Relative atomic mass: C, 12;
O, 16; Ca, 40]
A 12 s
B 24 s
C 120 s
D 240 s
3 Calcium carbonate reacts with dilute hydrochloric acid to produce carbon
dioxide gas.
The plot of volume of CO2 produced against time is shown as follows.
1
Volume of
0.00 12.00 20.00 26.50 31.00 32.50 33.00 33.00 33.00
CO2 (cm3)
B Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq) →
MgCl2(aq) + H2(g)
C NaHCO3(s) + HNO3(aq) →
NaNO3(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)
MnO2(s)
D 2H2O2(aq) ⎯⎯⎯→
2H2O(l) + O2(g)
5 The graph shows the total
volume of carbon dioxide
evolved when 10.0 g of calcium
carbonate (in excess) reacts
with 20.0 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3
dilute hydrochloric acid.
volume of gas(cm3)
Z
Y
X
0
Which of the following can be deduced from the graph?
I The average rate of reaction is 1.5 cm3 s–1.
II The rate of reaction decreases with time.
III The rate of reaction at 35 seconds is zero.
IV The gradient of the curve decreases because the concentration of acid
decreases.
A I and II only
C I, II and III only
B III and IV only
D II, III and IV only
329
t1
TC 55
t2
t3 time(s)
Which of the following
statements is correct?
A The reaction is faster at point
Y than at point X.
B The reaction is fastest at
point Z.
C The reaction reaches
completion at time t3.
D The total volume of carbon
dioxide evolved is the
same if 12.0 g of calcium
carbonate is used.
Rate of Reaction
6 Two experiments on the
decomposition of hydrogen
peroxide were carried out. The
graphs in the following diagram
show the total volume of
oxygen collected against time for
each of the experiments.
The rate of reaction is best determined by
A measuring the volume of SO2 produced at regular time intervals.
B measuring the concentration of hydrochloric acid at regular time intervals.
C recording the time as soon as the ‘cross’ mark disappears.
D recording the time as soon as precipitate appears.
1.2
Factors that Affect the Rate of Reaction
8 Ammonia is produced using the Haber process. The table shows the mass
of ammonia produced at four conditions of temperature and pressure.
1
’04
Which of the following graphs
shows how the rates of reaction
vary with time for the experiments?
A
Condition
Mass of
ammonia
produced (kg)
Time taken
I
II
III
IV
300
250
150
200
4 hours
2 ½ hours
8 minutes
12 minutes
At which condition is the rate of production of ammonia the highest?
A Condition I
C Condition III
B Condition II
D Condition IV
9 Zinc powder reacts with hydrochloric acid according to the equation:
B
Zn(s) + 2HCl(aq) → ZnCl2(aq) + H2(g)
In order to have the highest initial rate, which of the following solutions
should be used for the reaction with zinc powder?
A 30 g of HCl in 1000 cm3 of water C 15 g of HCl in 100 cm3 of water
B 20 g of HCl in 1000 cm3 of water D 4.0 g of HCl in 50 cm3 of water
10 Two experiments were carried out at 25 °C to study the rate of reaction
between magnesium carbonate powder (in excess) and an acid. The
volume of carbon dioxide liberated was measured at regular intervals.
C
D
Experiment
Acid used
I
100 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid
II
100 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid
Which of the following graphs represents the results obtained in
Experiments I and II?
A
C
7 The diagram shows the apparatus
set-up for an experiment to
’07 determine the rate of reaction
between sodium thiosulphate
and hydrochloric acid
D
B
S2O32–(aq) + 2H+(aq) →
H2O(l) + SO2(g) + S(s)
Rate of Reaction
330
Temperature (°C)
Concentration (mol dm–3)
Form of zinc
A
30
0.5
Small pieces
B
25
1.0
Powder
C
35
1.0
Small pieces
D
35
1.0
Powder
12 For the following reaction:
Zn + H2SO4 → ZnSO4 + H2 , which factor does not affect the rate of reaction?
’08 A Surface area of zinc
C Volume of sulphuric acid
B Concentration of sulphuric acid D Temperature of sulphuric acid
13 Graph X in the diagram below shows the result of the decomposition of
10 cm3 of 0.4 mol dm–3 hydrogen peroxide. The experiment was carried
out at 30 °C.
Which of the following conditions produces graph Y if 0.1 g of
manganese(IV) oxide was used as the catalyst for both experiments?
Volume of H2O2
(cm3)
Concentration of H2O2
(mol dm–3)
Temperature (°C)
A
10
0.25
30
B
12.5
0.40
30
C
20
0.25
30
D
20
0.40
40
14 The graph in the diagram below shows the changes in the concentration
of hydrogen peroxide, H2O2, when powdered manganese(IV) oxide is
’04 added to it.
The gradients of the graph at times t1 and t2 are different because the
I concentration of hydrogen peroxide decreases.
II volume of hydrogen peroxide decreases.
331
III temperature of hydrogen
peroxide decreases with time.
IV mass of manganese(IV)
oxide decreases.
A I only
B I and II only
C III and IV only
D I, III and IV only
15 The following equation shows
the reaction between powdered
’03 calcium carbonate and dilute
hydrochloric acid
CaCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) →
CaCl2(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)
The production of carbon dioxide
can be slowed down by
I reducing the temperature of
hydrochloric acid used.
II adding distilled water to
hydrochloric acid before the
reaction.
III using larger pieces of calcium
carbonate.
IV reducing the pressure on the
reaction mixture.
A I, II and III only
B I, III and IV only
C I, II and IV only
D I, II, III and IV
16 A piece of magnesium ribbon is
allowed to react with 100 cm3 of
1.0 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid.
Which of the following changes
will increase the rate of reaction?
I Increasing the temperature of
hydrochloric acid.
II Replacing the magnesium
ribbon with magnesium
powder.
III Replacing the acid with
50 cm3 of 2.0 mol dm–3
hydrochloric acid.
IV Adding 50 cm3 of 1.0 mol
dm–3 hydrochloric acid.
A I and II only
B III and IV only
C II and IV only
D I, II and III only
17 What is the most suitable
method for cooking 100 g of
’06 potatoes within a short time?
A Steam the potatoes in a
steamer
B Fry the potatoes in a copper
pot
Rate of Reaction
1
11 2.5 g of zinc were allowed to react with 100 cm3 of hydrochloric acid
under different conditions as shown below.
Under which conditions will hydrogen gas be given off at the highest rate?
C Boil the potatoes in a saucepan
D Boil the potatoes in a
pressure cooker
1
18 Iron(III) oxide is a brown solid and
iron(III) salts are brown in colour.
When iron(III) oxide is added to
hydrogen peroxide solution in a
test tube, a fast reaction occurs
and oxygen gas is liberated.
What is left in the test tube at
the end of the reaction?
A A brown solution only.
B A brown solid and a brown
solution.
C A brown solid and a
colourless solution.
D A white solid and a
colourless solution.
19 The diagram below shows
the total volume of carbon
dioxide given off when dilute
hydrochloric acid reacts with
calcium carbonate powder.
As the reaction proceeds, the
gradient of the graph becomes
less steep because
I the mass of calcium
carbonate decreases.
II the total surface area of
calcium carbonate decreases.
III the volume of hydrochloric
acid decreases.
IV the temperature of the
mixture increases.
A I and II only
B I, II and III only
C II, III and IV only
D I, III and IV only
20 Which of the following reactions
takes place in the Ostwald
process?
A N2(g) + 3H2(g)
2NH3(g)
B 2SO2(g) + O2(g)
2SO3(g)
C 2NH3(g) + O2(g)
2NO(g) + 3H2(g)
D 4NH3(g) + 5O2(g)
4NO(g) + 6H2O(l)
Rate of Reaction
21 Which of the following pairs of catalyst and processes are correctly
matched?
Catalyst
Process
I
Iron
Manufacture of ammonia in the Haber process
II
Nickel
Manufacture of nitric acid in the Ostwald process
III
Vanadium(V)
oxide
Manufacture of sulphuric acid in the Contact
process
IV
Lead(IV) oxide
Production of oxygen by the decomposition of
hydrogen peroxide
A I and II only
B II and III only
22 Which of the following reactions
require a catalyst to speed up
the reaction?
I 2H2O2 → 2H2O + O2
II 2SO2 + O2 → 2SO3
III SO3 + H2SO4 → H2S2O7
IV Na2S2O3 + H2SO4 →
Na2SO4 + H2O + SO2 + S
A I and II only
B I and III only
C I, III, and IV only
D II, III and IV only
23 Which of the following reactions
require a catalyst to speed up
the reaction?
I N2 + 3H2 → 2NH3
II SO3 + H2SO4 → H2S2O7
III 2H2O2 → 2H2O + O2
IV Na2S2O3 + 2HCl →
2NaCl + H2O + SO2 + S
A I and II only
B I and III only
C I, III and IV only
D II, III and IV only
24 The reaction between sulphuric
acid and magnesium carbonate
is carried out at different
conditions.
Which reaction is fastest?
A
B
332
C I, II and IV only
D I, III and IV only
C
D
25 Magnesium ribbons of the same
length are added separately to
each of the following solutions
of hydrochloric acid.
In which solution will the
magnesium ribbon disappear first?
[The hydrochloric acid used is in
excess]
Volume Concentration Temperature
of HCI
of HCI
of HCI
(cm3) (mol dm–3)
(°C)
A
300
1.0
30
B
200
1.0
25
C
100
2.0
30
D
200
2.0
25
26 The energy profile diagram
for an uncatalysed reaction is
shown below.
∆H
Ea
A
No change
Decrease
B
Decrease
No change
C
Decrease
Decrease
D
Increase
Increase
27 Carbon dioxide is produced
when magnesium carbonate
reacts with dilute hydrochloric
acid.
MgCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) →
MgCl2(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)
Which of the following changes
will increase the initial rate of
carbon dioxide production?
A Heat the reaction mixture
B Increase the size of solid
magnesium carbonate
C Increase the volume of
hydrochloric acid
D Increase the pressure on the
reaction mixture
28 Calcium carbonate is added
to excess hydrochloric acid
at 30 °C. The experiment is
repeated at 40 °C. The volume
of carbon dioxide released for
each experiment is measured at
room temperature and pressure.
Which of the following graphs
represents the results of these
two experiments?
A
B
C
1.3 The Collision Theory
D
29 Three experiments are carried
out to study the rate of
decomposition of hydrogen
peroxide by the catalyst,
manganese(IV) oxide. In all
these three experiments, the
mass of the catalyst used is the
same. The experimental results
are shown in the following
diagram.
Solutions of hydrogen peroxide
used
Solution P: 50 cm3 of 2.0 mol
dm–3 H2O2
Solution Q: 100 cm3 of 1.0 mol
dm–3 H2O2
Solution R: 100 cm3 of 3.0 mol
dm–3 H2O2
30 Based on the collision theory,
what are the effects of a rise
’06 in temperature on the reactant
particles?
I The kinetic energy of the
reactant particles increases.
II The number of reactant
particles per unit volume
increases.
III The frequency of collisions
between reactant particles
increases.
IV The activation energy of the
reactant particles increases.
A I and II only
B I and III only
C II and IV only
D III and IV only
31 When zinc powder is added to
dilute sulphuric acid, gas bubbles
’11 are produced slowly. When a few
drops of copper(II) sulphate are
added to the reaction mixture,
gas bubbles are produced
vigorously. Which statement best
explains the effect of copper(II)
sulphate on the reaction?
A It lowers the activation energy.
B It increases the collision
frequency between the
reacting particles.
C It increases the concentration
of sulphate ions and hence
increases the rate of reaction.
D It causes the reacting
particles to collide in the
correct orientation.
32 The diagram below shows the
energy profile for the following
reaction
Which of the following
statements are correct?
I The curve X is obtained
using solution R.
II The curve Y is obtained
using solution P.
III The curve Z is obtained
using solution Q.
IV The curve Z is obtained
using solution R.
A I and II only
B II and IV only
C I, II and III only
D I, II and IV only
333
X(g) + Y(g) → Z(g)
by
by
by
by
The curves, P and Q, represent
two different paths for this
Rate of Reaction
1
The reaction was repeated using
a catalyst.
What is the effect of the catalyst
on the heat of reaction (∆H)
and activation energy (Ea) for
the reaction?
reaction. What conclusion
can be drawn based on the
diagram?
A The reaction by path
P occurs at a higher
temperature.
B The reaction by path P
occurs at a higher rate than
by path Q.
C The activation energy for
path P is (x + y) kJ.
D The activation energy for
path Q is (x – y) kJ.
33 Consider the reaction between
magnesium and dilute
hydrochloric acid.
1
Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq) →
MgCl2(aq) + H2(g)
Which of the following will
increase the frequency of
collisions between the reactants?
I Increase the concentration of
hydrochloric acid.
II Increase the temperature of
reaction.
III Use magnesium ribbon
instead of magnesium
powder.
IV Remove the hydrogen gas
produced.
A
B
C
D
I and II only
III and IV only
I, II and III only
II, III and IV only
34 The reaction between Fe3+ and
SO32– is represented by the
’06 equation:
2Fe3++ SO32–+ H2O → 2Fe2+ + H2SO4
brown
green
It is found that the change of colour
from brown to green occurs at
a higher rate when the reaction
mixture is heated. This is due to the
I decrease in activation energy.
II increase in the frequency of
collisions between Fe3+ and
SO32– ions.
III increase in the kinetic energy
of Fe3+ and SO32– ions.
IV increase in the frequency of
effective collisions.
A I and II only
B II and III only
C I, III and IV only
D II, III and IV only
35 Iron is used in the Haber process
to manufacture ammonia from
nitrogen and hydrogen.
Why is iron used in this process?
A To increase the rate of
reaction between nitrogen
and hydrogen
B To absorb the smell of
ammonia
C To oxidise nitrogen to form
ammonia
D To increase the yield of
ammonia
36 The rate of reaction between
1 mol dm–3 hydrochloric
acid and 3 g of magnesium
powder is higher than the rate
of reaction between 1 mol
dm–3 ethanoic acid and 3 g of
magnesium powder.
What is the explanation for this
observation?
A Hydrochloric acid is more
soluble in water than
ethanoic acid.
B The kinetic energy of
hydrochloric acid is higher
than ethanoic acid.
C Hydrochloric acid forms a
soluble salt whereas
ethanoic acid forms an
insoluble salt.
D The concentration of H+ ions
in hydrochloric acid is higher
than ethanoic acid.
Structured Questions
1 Diagram 1 shows two experiments to investigate one
factor that affects the rate of reaction between zinc
’06 and dilute sulphuric acid.
Experiment II
Experiment I
Diagram 1
(a) What is the factor that affects the rate of reaction
in Experiments I and II?
[1 mark]
(b) State two constant variables in both experiments.
[2 marks]
(c) The following equation represents the reaction
that occurs in both the experiments.
Zn(s) + H2SO4(aq) → ZnSO4(aq) + H2(g)
Rate of Reaction
334
recorded. The experiment is repeated using
different acids as shown below. All experiments
are carried out at the same temperature.
Experiment
Reactants
I
50 cm of 1.0 mol dm HCl
+
5.0 cm of magnesium
ribbon
t1
II
50 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3
CH3COOH
+
5.0 cm of magnesium
ribbon
t2
(d) Graph 1 shows the results for both experiments.
Graph 1
Based on Graph 1:
(i) Which experiment has a higher rate of
reaction?
[1 mark]
(ii) How do you come to this conclusion? [1 mark]
(iii) Explain what happens after time t. [1 mark]
(iv) Why are both curves at the same level after
time t?
[1 mark]
3
Time taken (s)
–3
(i) Write the ionic equation for the reaction
between magnesium and an acid. [1 mark]
(ii) Which is shorter t1 or t2? Why?
[3 marks]
(c) Three experiments are carried out to investigate the
factors that affect the rate of the following reaction:
’08
Mg + 2HCl → MgCl2 + H2
The conditions of this experiment are shown below.
(e) State the conclusion for the experiments. [1 mark]
(f) Another experiment was carried out using excess
zinc powder and dilute sulphuric acid with
different concentrations.
Sketch the curve of concentration of dilute
sulphuric acid against the time taken to collect a
fixed quantiy of the product.
[2 marks]
2 (a) Propane, C3H8, burns in excess oxygen to form
carbon dioxide and water as represented by the
equation
Temperature
(°C)
Experiment
Reactants
I
Excess magnesium
powder
+
25 cm3 1.0 mol
dm–3 HCl
35
II
Excess magnesium
ribbon
+
25 cm3 0.5 mol
dm–3 HCl
25
III
Excess magnesium
ribbon
+
25 cm3 1.0 mol
dm–3 HCl
35
The results of this experiment are shown in
Diagram 2.
C3H8 + 5O2 → 3CO2 + 4H2O
At time t, the rate of reaction of propane is 0.20
mol s–1.
Calculate
(i) the rate of consumption (using up) of
oxygen, and
(ii) the rate of production of carbon dioxide at
time t.
[2 marks]
(b) 50 cm3 of 1.0 mol dm–3 of hydrochloric acid is
poured into a conical flask. A piece of 5.0 cm
magnesium ribbon is added to the acid. The time
taken to dissolve the magnesium completely is
Diagram 2
335
(i) Which curves (X, Y or Z) represent the results
[3 marks]
of Experiments I, II and III?
Rate of Reaction
1
(i) Choose one of the products shown in
the equation that is most suitably used to
measure the rate of reaction.
[1 mark]
(ii) Give one reason for your answer in (i).
[1 mark]
(a) What is the average rate of reaction for Experiment
II?
[2 marks]
(ii) Give one reason why the final volume of
gas obtained in curve X is half the final
volume of gas in curve Z.
[1 mark]
(b) Use the collision theory to explain why the
time taken for Experiment II is shorter than for
Experiment I.
[3 marks]
3 Three experiments were carried out to investigate the
factors influencing the rate of reaction.
Three pieces of 0.12 g of magnesium ribbon are
added separately to excess hydrochloric acid.
The time taken for all the magnesium to dissolve is
taken. Table 1 shows the results of the experiments.
Experiment
I
II
III
Reactants
0.12 g Mg
+ excess
HCl(aq)
0.12 g Mg
+ excess
HCl(aq)
0.12 g Mg
+ excess
HCl(aq) +
CuSO4(aq)
Temperature
(oC)
30
35
35
Time (s)
60
32
10
(c) Explain why the time taken for Experiment III is
longer than for Experiment II.
[3 marks]
(d) Suggest another method that can be used to
increase the rate of decomposition of hydrogen
in Experiment II.
[1 mark]
(e) Write a chemical equation for the catalytic
decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.
[1 mark]
(f) Experiments II and III were allowed to continue
until the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide
was completed. Sketch a graph of total volume
of gas against time for Experiments II and III on
the same axes.
[2 marks]
5 Dilute sulphuric acid reacts with sodium thiosulphate
solution to produce sulphur. The presence of sulphur
causes the solution to become cloudy.
Five experiments were carried out to study the rate
of reaction between dilute sulphuric acid and sodium
thiosulphate solution. The reaction takes place in a
conical flask placed over a white paper marked with
a cross, ‘X’. The time taken for the cross to disappear
from view was recorded.
In each experiment, the volume and concentration of
sodium thiosulphate solution were kept constant. The
experimental results are shown in Table 3.
1
Table 1
(a) Write the chemical equation for the reaction between
magnesium and hydrochloric acid.
[1 mark]
(b) Calculate the maximum volume of hydrogen gas
produced in Experiment I.
[2 marks]
(c) Predict the maximum volume of hydrogen gas
produced in Experiment III. Explain your answer.
[2 marks]
(d) Calculate the average rate of reaction in
Experiment II.
[1 mark]
(e) (i) Which experiment has the highest rate?
Justify your answer.
(ii) Sketch the graphs for the volume of
hydrogen gas against time for Experiments
I, II and III on the same axes.
[3 marks]
[Relative atomic mass: Mg = 24; Molar gas volume,
24 dm3 at r.t.p.]
Experiment
4 Three experiments were carried out to study the effect
of iron(III) oxide, Fe2O3, on the rate of decomposition
of 0.5 mol dm–3 hydrogen peroxide. Table 2 shows
the mixtures of substances used and the time taken
to collect 30 cm3 of the colourless gas given off in
each experiment.
Experiment
Mixture of substances
Time taken
I
20.0 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 H2O2
A few
weeks
II
20.0 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 H2O2
+ 0.2 g of Fe2O3
35 s
III
20.0 cm3 of 0.5 mol dm–3 H2O2
+ 25.0 cm3 of water + 0.2 g of
Fe2O3
45 s
Time taken
(s)
A
0.15
20
65
B
0.10
30
45
C
0.10
20
85
D
0.05
30
55
E
0.05
20
105
Table 3
(a) The reaction between dilute sulphuric acid and
sodium thiosulphate (Na2S2O3) produces sulphur,
sodium sulphate, sulphur dioxide and water.
Complete the following equations:
(i) Na2S2O3 + H2SO4 → ____ + ____ + ____
(ii) S2O32– + 2H+ → ____ + ____ + ____
[2 marks]
(b)
Table 2
Rate of Reaction
Concentration
Temperature
of acid
(°C)
–3
(mol dm )
336
(i) Which of the experiments shown above
should be chosen to compare the effect
of concentration of the acid on the rate of
reaction?
[1 mark]
(ii) Give one reason why you chose these
experiments.
[1 mark]
(iii) What conclusion can be made from the
experiments in (i)?
[1 mark]
(c)
(i) Which of the experiments should be chosen
to compare the effect of temperature on
the rate of reaction?
[1 mark]
(ii) Give one reason for your choice. [1 mark]
(iii) What conclusion can be made from the
experiments you have chosen in (i)?
(a) Table 5 shows the conditions used for carrying
out Experiment 1. Complete Table 5 to predict
the conditions used for obtaining the results of
Experiments 2, 3 and 4. In each case, state the
constant variables and manipulated variables
used and briefly explain your answer.
Experi­
ment
1
Experi­
ment
2
Experi­
ment
3
Experi­
ment
4
6 Four experiments were carried out to investigate the
decomposition of hydrogen peroxide to form water
and oxygen gas.
Volume of
hydrogen peroxide
(cm3)
40
40
…
…
MnO2
2H2O2(aq) ⎯⎯⎯→ 2H2O(l) + O2(g)
Volume of water
(cm3)
40
40
40
0
The total volume of oxygen evolved at one-minute
intervals were recorded in Table 4.
Temperature (°C)
30
30
32
30
Mass of MnO2
used (g)
1.0
…
1.0
1.0
Volume of oxygen gas released (cm3)
Time
(min) Experiment Experiment Experiment Experiment
1
2
3
4
0
0
0
0
0
1
18
0
25
34
2
33
0
35
60
3
36
0
37
69
4
37
0
38
75
5
38
0
38
76
6
38
0
38
76
Table 5
[5 marks]
(b) Copper(II) oxide is a less effective catalyst than
manganese(IV) oxide for the decomposition of
hydrogen peroxide. If copper(II) oxide is used to
replace manganese(IV) oxide in Experiment 1,
what is the effect of this change on
(i) the volume of oxygen collected at 1.0 minute?
(ii) the volume of oxygen collected after the
reaction has completed?
Explain your answers.
[2 marks]
(c) ‘A catalyst remains chemically unchanged at the
end of the reaction’.
(i) What is meant by chemically unchanged?
(ii) How would you prove that your answer in
(i) is correct?
[3 marks]
Table 4
Essay Questions
1 (a) Two experiments are carried out to study the rate
of reaction between iron and dilute acids.
Experiment
Reactants
I
1.12 g of iron and 50 cm3 of
2.0 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid
II
1.12 g of iron and 50 cm3 of
2.0 mol dm–3 hydrochloric acid
The following graphs show the results of the
experiments.
337
Rate of Reaction
1
[1 mark]
(d) Explain your answer in (c)(iii) based on collision
theory.
[2 marks]
Based on the graph:
(i) Calculate the average rate of reaction for
Experiment I.
[2 marks]
(ii) Explain the difference in the rate of reaction
between Experiment I and Experiment II
before 100 s.
[6 marks]
(c) Ethanedioic acid, H2C2O4, decolourises potassium
manganate(VII) slowly at room temperature. The
reaction is catalysed by manganese(II) sulphate,
MnSO4. Describe how you would prove that the
sulphate ions, SO42–, do not act as a catalyst in
this reaction.
[3 marks]
(b) Describe an experiment to show that lead(IV)
oxide is a more effective catalyst than copper(II)
oxide for the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.
Your answer should include a labelled diagram
on the apparatus set-up for the experiment.
[12 marks]
4 (a) Two experiments are carried out to study the rate
of reaction between zinc and two acids, R and T.
’07
The data for the experiments are shown below.
’07
Experiment
Reactants
Observation
Products
I
Excess zinc
and 25 cm3
of 1.0 mol
dm–3 acid R
The
temperature
of the
reaction
mixture
increases
Zinc
sulphate and
hydrogen
II
Excess zinc
and 25 cm3
of 1.0 mol
dm–3 acid T
The
temperature
of the
reaction
mixture
increases
Zinc
chloride and
hydrogen
2 (a) Iron powder will dissolve in cold dilute hydrochloric
acid while coarse iron filings do not dissolve until
the acid is heated. Explain these observations.
[7 marks]
1
(b) There is a high risk of explosions occurring in coal
mines. Explain why this is so.
[6 marks]
(c) ‘Temperature is important in preserving food’. Give
one example from your daily life to justify this
statement.
[4 marks]
(d) When a drop of blood is added to hydrogen
peroxide solution, a vigorous effervescence occurs.
Explain this observation.
[3 marks]
3 (a) (i) Define the term rate of reaction?
[2 marks]
(ii) At high temperatures and pressures, nitrogen
reacts with hydrogen to form ammonia.
N2(g) + 3H2(g)
2NH3(g)
Use the collosion theory to explain how
high pressure increases the rate of reaction
between nitrogen and hydrogen. [5 marks]
(b) Describe an experiment to demonstrate the effect
of the concentration of sodium thiosulphate on
the rate of reaction between hydrochloric acid and
sodium thiosulphate. Draw the apparatus used for
this experiment and state the hypothesis and
variables in this experiment.
[10 marks]
(i) State the names of the acids used in
experiments I and II.
[2 marks]
(ii) Write the chemical equation for the reaction
that occurs in Experiment I.
[2 marks]
(iii) Draw the energy profile diagram for the
reaction in Experiment II. On the energy
profile diagram, show the
• activation energy without catalyst, Ea,
• activation energy with a catalyst, Ea’,
• heat of reaction, ΔH.
Explain the energy profile diagram.
[10 marks]
(b) Explain the factors that affect the rate of reaction
in the following daily activities:
(i) Combustion of charcoal
(ii) Cooking food in a pressure cooker [6 marks]
Experiments
The experiment was repeated using sodium
thiosulphate solutions at 30 °C, 35 °C, 40 °C and
45 °C.
Diagram 1 shows the stopwatch readings for each of
the experiments.
1 Sodium thiosulphate solution reacts with dilute
sulphuric acid to produce a yellow precipitate
of sulphur. 50 cm3 of 0.10 mol dm–3 sodium
thiosulphate solution at 25 °C was measured into a
250 cm3 conical flask. The conical flask was placed
on a white paper marked with the ‘X’ sign.
5 cm3 of 0.50 mol dm–3 sulphuric acid was added
to the sodium thiosulphate solution and the mixture
shaken. At the same time, the stopwatch was started.
The time was taken as soon as the ‘X’ sign was no
longer visible.
Rate of Reaction
338
at 25 °C
Time, t1 ______ s
at 30 °C
at 35 °C
Time, t2 ______ s
at 45 °C
at 40 °C
Time, t3 ______ s
Time, t5 ______ s
Time, t4 ______ s
[3 marks]
(b) State the variables in this experiment.
Manipulated variable:
Responding variable:
Constant variable:
[3 marks]
1
(c) Construct a table containing the information on temperature, time and ————— for the experiments.
time
[2 marks]
1
(d) (i) Draw a graph of temperature against ————— on a graph paper.
time
[4 marks]
[3 marks]
(ii) Based on the graph in (i), what conclusion can be drawn from this experiment?
(e) Predict the time taken for the ‘X’ sign to disappear if the experiment is repeated at 50 °C.
[3 marks]
(f) State the hypothesis for this experiment.
[3 marks]
(g) Based on your hypothesis, explain why meat and fish are always kept in refrigerators.
[3 marks]
2 An experiment was carried out to investigate the rate of reaction between granulated zinc and dilute
hydrochloric acid. The results of the experiment are shown below.
’09
Time (s)
0
30
40
Burette reading
50.00 40.00 33.50
(cm3)
……
……
21.50 20.00
Volume of gas
evolved (cm3)
……
……
28.50 30.00 32.50 32.50
0.00
10
20
10.00 16.50
50
60
70
80
17.50
17.50
Diagram 2 shows the burette readings at 30 seconds and 40 seconds respectively.
29
25
TC 56
28
24
At 30 s
At 40 s
Diagram 2
(a) Based on this experiment, what is meant by the rate of reaction?
(b) Based on Diagram 2, what are the volumes of gas evolved at 30 seconds and 40 seconds?
(c) State one conclusion, based on the experimental results.
339
[3 marks]
[3 marks]
[3 marks]
Rate of Reaction
1
Diagram 1
(a) Record the readings of the stopwatch in the spaces provided in Diagram 1.
FORM 5
THEME: Interaction between Chemicals
CHAPTER
2
Carbon Compounds
SPM Topical Analysis
2008
Year
1
Paper
2
A
Section
Number of questions
4
2009
1
B
–
3
1
C
–
2
A
1
2
2010
1
B
1
3
1
C
–
–
7
2011
2
3
A
A
C
–
1
—
2
–
1
–
4
2
3
A
B
C
–
–
1
–
ONCEPT MAP
CARBON COMPOUNDS
Organic carbon compounds:
Produce CO2 and H2O on complete combustion
Hydrocarbons (elements C and H only)
Physical properties:
Insoluble in water, low melting and boiling points,
non-conductors of electricity
Alkanes
(saturated)
Reactions:
• Combustion
• Substitution
hydrogenation
Alkenes
(non-saturated)
Reactions:
• Combustion
• Addition
• Polymerisation
Isomerism (same molecular
formula, different structural formulae)
Natural rubber
(natural polymers)
• Coagulation
• Vulcanisation
Non-hydrocarbons
(Elements: C, H, O)
hydration
dehydration
Alcohols
Reactions:
• Combustion
• Oxidation
• Dehydration
• Esterification
oxidation
Carboxylic acids
Reactions:
• With metals/metal
carbonates/alkalis
to form salts
• Esterification
esterification
Esters
Physical properties:
• Sweet fruity smell
• Insoluble in water
Fats and Oils
• Fats: saturated, higher melting point
• Oils: unsaturated, lower melting point
8 Almost all organic compounds contain the
elements carbon and hydrogen. Hence the
complete combustion of carbon compounds
produces carbon dioxide and water.
Carbon Compounds
1 Carbon compounds are compounds that
contain the element carbon.
2 Carbon compounds can be classified into two
groups: inorganic compounds and organic
compounds.
3 Organic compounds are carbon compounds
in which carbon is bonded to other elements
by covalent bonds. Examples of organic
compounds are hydrocarbons, alcohols,
carboxylic acids and esters.
4 Most carbon compounds are derived from
living organisms. Nowadays many organic
compounds can be synthesised in laboratories.
5 Most inorganic compounds do not contain
carbon. Examples of inorganic compounds
containing the element carbon are carbonates,
hydrogen carbonates, oxides of carbon and
cyanides.
6 Carbon atom (proton number 6) has the
electron arrangement: 2.4. Hence, each carbon
atom can form four covalent bonds in organic
compounds.
7 The covalent bonds in carbon compounds may
be
(a) single bond,
(b) double bond or
(c) triple bond.
Carbon compounds
Organic
compounds
Example:
• Hydrocarbons
• Alcohols
• Carboxylic acids
• Esters
• Carbohydrates
Inorganic
compounds
Example:
• Hydrogen
carbonates
• Carbonates
• Carbides
• Oxides of carbon
• Cyanides
2
2.1
Organic compounds are the largest group of chemicals
we know today, numbering in thousands. All the food
and medicines we consume are organic compounds
as well as most of the synthetic products such as
clothing and household materials.
To investigate the products formed by complete combustion
of organic compounds
Apparatus
Ethanol and palm oil, limewater,
ice and water, anhydrous cobalt(II)
chloride paper.
Procedure
Filter funnel, test tubes, delivery tubes,
spirit lamp, suction pump and beaker.
1 A filter funnel is connected to the suction pump
via test tubes A and B where test tube A is dipped
in ice water and test tube B contains limewater.
2 A spirit lamp filled with ethanol is lit and placed
under the filter funnel and the suction pump
turned on.
3 The changes in test tubes A and B are noted.
4 The liquid collected in test tube A is tested with
anhydrous cobalt(II) chloride paper.
5 Steps 1 to 4 are repeated using a spirit lamp with
palm oil.
Figure 2.1 Combustion of organic compounds
341
Carbon Compounds
Activity 2.1
Materials
Results
Test
tube
Observation
Inference
A
A colourless liquid
is formed and it
changes anhydrous
cobalt(II) chloride
paper from blue to
pink
The colourless
liquid formed in
test tube A is water
B
Limewater turns
milky
Carbon dioxide gas
is produced
Conclusion
1 The combustion of organic compounds such as
ethanol and palm oil produces water and carbon
dioxide.
2 During the combustion of an organic compound,
(a) the carbon combines with oxygen to form
carbon dioxide,
(a) the hydrogen combines with oxygen to form
water.
excess oxygen (complete combustion), carbon
dioxide and water are produced.
8 Incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons will
produce water, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide
and carbon (as soot).
2
Hydrocarbons
1 Hydrocarbons are organic compounds that
contain the elements carbon and hydrogen
only.
2 Hydrocarbons that have only single covalent
bonds between all the carbon atoms in the
molecule are called saturated hydrocarbons.
Example Propane
H
|
H—C—
|
H
H H
|
|
C—C—H
|
|
H H
Hydrocarbon
carbon-carbon
single bond
Saturated hydrocarbons
have only single bonds
between the carbon
atoms.
Examples: Ethane, propane
3 Hydrocarbons that have at least one carboncarbon double bond (C = C) or triple bond
(C ≡ C) in the molecule are called unsaturated
hydrocarbons.
Example Propene
H H
H
|
|
|
H—C=C—C—H
|
H
1
carbon-carbon
double bond
SPM
’10/P1
The complete combustion of 0.1 mol of a
hydrocarbon Z in excess oxygen produces 0.3 mol
of carbon dioxide and 0.4 mol of water. Determine
the molecular formula of hydrocarbon Z.
4 The main sources of hydrocarbons are:
(a) Petroleum (crude oil)
(b) Natural gas
(c) Coal
5 Petroleum is a complex mixture of
hydrocarbons.
6 Fractions of hydrocarbons are separated by
a process called fractional distillation. The
fractions are separated based on the difference
in boiling points. The fractions with lower
boiling points will be distilled off earlier.
7 Hydrocarbons contain carbon and hydrogen
only. Thus when hydrocarbons are burnt in
Carbon Compounds
Unsaturated
hydrocarbons have double
or triple bonds between
the carbon atoms.
Examples: Ethene, propene
Solution
Since 0.1 mol of Z produces 0.3 mol of carbon
dioxide and 0.4 mol of water, 1 mol of Z will
produce 3 mol of carbon dioxide and 4 mol of water.
C + O2 → CO2
The number of moles of carbon in 1 mol of Z
= the number of moles of carbon dioxide = 3.
1
2H + —O
→ H2O
2
2
The number of moles of hydrogen in 1 mol of Z
= 2 3 the number of moles of water = 2 3 4 = 8.
Hence the molecular formula of Z is C3H8.
342
7 Table 2.1 shows the prefixes used to indicate
the number of carbon atoms per molecule
of an organic compound, the names and
molecular formulae of the first ten alkanes.
2.1
1 Classify the following substances into organic
compounds and inorganic compounds.
Table 2.1 Prefixes used to indicate the number
of carbon atoms, names and molecular
formulae of alkanes
2 (a) What is meant by hydrocarbon?
(b) State three sources of hydrocarbon.
Number of
carbon atoms
per molecule
Prefix
Name of
alkane
1
Meth
Methane
CH4
2
Eth
Ethane
C2H6
3
Prop
Propane
C3H8
4
But
Butane
C4H10
5
Pent
Pentane
C5H12
6
Hex
Hexane
C6H14
7
Hept
Heptane
C7H16
8
Oct
Octane
C8H18
9
Non
Nonane
C9H20
10
Dec
Decane
C10H22
3 State two main products that are formed when
rubber is burnt in excess air. Explain your answer.
2.2
Alkanes
1 Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons with the
general formula Cn H2n+2, where n = 1, 2, 3…
2 Alkanes are called saturated hydrocarbons
SPM because the molecules contain only single
’11/P1
covalent bonds between carbon atoms.
3 The molecular formula is a chemical formula
that shows the actual number of atoms of
each element present in one molecule of the
substance.
4 The molecular formula of an alkane can be
obtained by substituting n in the general
formula Cn H2n+2 with the number of carbon
atoms.
5 In the naming of alkanes according to the
IUPAC system, all members of the alkane
series have their names ending with -ane
(IUPAC is the abbreviation for International
Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry).
6 The first part (prefix) of the name of an
alkane depends on the number of carbon
atoms in the molecule.
Molecular
formula
8 The structural formula of an organic compound
is the chemical formula that shows the
arrangement of atoms and covalent bonds
between atoms in a molecule of the compound.
9 Note that when writing the structural formula
of alkanes,
(a) each carbon atom should have four single
covalent bonds.
(b) each hydrogen atom should have one single
covalent bond.
(c) the carbon atoms are connected by single
bonds.
10 The structural formulae of the first ten straight
chain alkanes are shown as follows:
Table 2.2 The structural formulae of the first ten straight chain alkanes
H
|
H–C–H
|
H
methane (CH4)
H
H
|
|
H–C – C–H
|
|
H
H
ethane (C2H6)
H H H
|
| |
H–C–C–C–H
|
|
|
H H H
propane (C3H8)
H H H H
|
|
|
|
H–C–C–C–C–H
|
| |
|
H H H H
butane (C4H10)
H H H H H
|
|
|
|
|
H–C–C–C–C–C–H
|
|
|
|
|
H H H H H
pentane (C5H12)
H H H H H H
|
| |
|
|
|
H–C–C–C–C–C–C–H
|
|
|
|
|
|
H H H H H H
hexane (C6H14)
343
Carbon Compounds
2
Rubber, sugar, limestone, carbon dioxide,
calcium carbonate, sand, sodium chloride,
vinegar, polyvinylchloride, urea, ammonium
sulphate.
H H H H H H H
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
H–C–C–C–C–C–C–C–H
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
H H H H H H H
heptane (C7H16)
H H H H H H H H
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
H–C–C–C–C–C–C–C–C–H
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
H H H H H H H H
octane (C8H18)
H H H H H H H H H
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
H–C–C–C–C–C–C–C–C–C–H
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
H H H H H H H H H
nonane (C9H20)
H H H H H H H H H H
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
H–C–C–C–C–C–C–C–C–C–C–H
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
H H H H H H H H H H
decane (C10H22)
Physical Properties of Alkanes
1 On going down the alkane series, the physical properties change gradually as shown in Table 2.3.
2
Table 2.3 Physical properties of alkanes
Name of
alkane
Molecular
formula
Relative molecular Melting point Boiling point
mass
(°C)
(°C)
Physical
state
Density
(g cm–3)
Methane
CH4
16
–182
–162
Gas
—
Ethane
C2H6
30
–183
–89
Gas
—
Propane
C3H8
44
–188
–42
Gas
—
Butane
C4H10
58
–138
–0.5
Gas
—
Pentane
C5H12
72
–130
36
Liquid
0.626
Hexane
C6H14
86
–95
69
Liquid
0.659
Heptane
C7H16
100
–90
98
Liquid
0.684
Octane
C8H18
114
–57
126
Liquid
0.703
Nonane
C9H20
128
–54
151
Liquid
0.718
Decane
C10H22
142
–30
174
Liquid
0.730
2 Melting and boiling points of alkanes
(a) Alkanes exist as simple covalent molecules.
Alkanes have low melting and boiling
points because of the weak van der Waals
forces between molecules. Little energy is
required to overcome the weak forces of
attraction.
(b) When the number of carbon atoms per
molecule of alkane increases, the relative
molecular mass increases and the melting
point and boiling point increase. This
is because the larger the molecular size,
the stronger the van der Waals forces of
attraction between the molecules.
3 The physical states of alkanes
The first four members are gases as
their boiling points are below room
temperature (25 °C). The alkanes from C5
Carbon Compounds
Figure 2.2 The boiling points of alkanes increase
with relative molecular mass
344
to C18 are liquids with the rest of the alkanes
being solids.
4 Densitites of alkanes
Alkanes are less dense than water. The density
of alkanes increases gradually down the series
as the molecular mass increases.
5 Solubility of alkanes
(a) All alkanes are insoluble in water. When
liquid alkane is shaken with water, two
separate layers of liquids are formed.
(b) Alkanes are soluble in organic solvents
such as propanone.
6 Electrical conductivity of alkanes
All alkanes do not conduct electricity because
they are covalent compounds, consisting of
molecules.
SPM
’05/P1
CH4 + Cl2 → CH3Cl + HCl
chloromethane
CH3Cl + Cl2 → CH2Cl2 + HCl
dichloromethane
CH2Cl2 + Cl2 → CHCl3 + HCl
trichloromethane
CHCl3 + Cl2 → CCl4 + HCl
tetrachloromethane
Chemical Properties of Alkanes
H
Cl
Cl
|
Cl2
|
Cl2
|
H — C — H ⎯→ H — C — H ⎯→ H — C — Cl
|
|
|
H
H
H
CH3Cl
CH2Cl2
1 Reactivity of alkanes
Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons and are less
reactive compared to unsaturated hydrocarbons.
2 Combustion of alkanes
(a) Alkanes undergo complete combustion
in the presence of excess air or oxygen to
produce carbon dioxide and water.
SPM For example
’05/P1,
CH4 + 2O2 → CO2 + 2H2O
’11/P2
1 H substituted
2 H substituted
Cl Cl
|
Cl2
|
⎯→ H — C — Cl ⎯→ Cl — C — Cl
| |
Cl Cl
CHCl3 CCl4
Cl2
methane
2C2H6 + 7O2 → 4CO2 + 6H2O
ethane
3 H substituted
(b) The combustion of alkanes is highly
exothermic, that is, produces a lot of heat
energy. Hence alkanes are used as fuels.
(c) Incomplete combustion of alkanes will
produce carbon (black smoke), carbon
monoxide and water.
(d) The larger the molecular size of the alkane
molecule,
(i) the smokier or sootier the flame,
(ii) the more heat produced on complete
combustion.
3 Substitution reactions
SPM (a) When a mixture of alkane and chlorine
’10/P1
is exposed to sunlight or ultraviolet light,
substitution reaction occurs slowly and
a mixture of organic compounds and
hydrogen chloride is produced.
(b) In a substitution reaction, the hydrogen
atoms in an alkane are replaced gradually
by chlorine atoms.
For example The reaction between methane
and chlorine
4 H substituted
The Effects of Methane on Everyday Life
1 Methane, commonly known as natural gas, is
used as a fuel.
2 It is produced by the anaerobic decay of
plants and organic matter by bacteria.
Hence methane is found in landfills and peat
swamps.
3 Methane is a greenhouse gas. It can trap
radiation energy from the sun and also
contribute to global warming.
Methane is also known as marsh gas because it is
found in marshes and stagnant ponds. It can cause
fires in garbage landfills and peat swamps.
345
Carbon Compounds
2
In the substitution reaction of CH4 with Cl2, the carbon
atom still has four covalent bonds, either bonded to H
atom or Cl atom.
9 The names and molecular formulae of the first
nine members of the alkene series are shown
in Table 2.4.
2.2
1 Name and give the molecular formula of an alkane
with
(a) three carbon atoms
(b) five carbon atoms
(c) six carbon atoms
Table 2.4 The names and molecular formulae of the
first nine members of the alkene series
Number of
carbon atoms
per molecule
Prefix
Name of
alkene
2
Eth
Ethene
C2H4
3 Ethane reacts with chlorine under certain conditions
to form chloroethane.
(a) State the condition for reaction to take place.
(b) Name the reaction that takes place.
(c) Write an equation for the reaction that occurs.
3
Prop
Propene
C3H6
4
But
Butene
C4H8
5
Pent
Pentene
C5H10
4 A saturated hydrocarbon X has a relative molecular
mass of 58. Identify X. [Relative atomic mass:
H, 1; C, 12]
6
Hex
Hexene
C6H12
7
Hept
Heptene
C7H14
8
Oct
Octene
C8H16
9
Non
Nonene
C9H18
10
Dec
Decene
C10H20
2
2 Petrol used in cars consists mainly of octane.
(a) Give the molecular formula of octane.
(b) Write an equation for the complete combustion
of octane.
2.3
Alkenes
1 Alkenes are hydrocarbons with the general
formula CnH2n, where n = 2, 3, 4….
2 Alkenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons and
contain at least one double bond between
carbon atoms.
3 The functional group in alkenes is the carboncarbon double bond (C=C).
4 The molecular formula of an alkene can be
obtained by substituting n in the general
formula CnH2n with the number of carbon
atoms.
5 In the naming of alkenes according to the
IUPAC system, all members of the alkene
series have their names ending with -ene.
6 The first part (prefix) of the name of an alkene
depends on the number of carbon atoms in
the molecule.
7 The first member of the alkene series is ethene,
C2H4 because there must be a minimum of two
carbon atoms to form a carbon-carbon double
bond (C=C). Hence methene does not exist.
8 Note that when writing the structural formula
of alkenes,
(a) there is a carbon-carbon double bond
(C=C) in the chain.
(b) each carbon atom forms four bonds (four
single bonds or one double bond + two
single bonds).
(c) each hydrogen atom should have one
single covalent bond.
Carbon Compounds
Molecular
formula
10 The structural formulae of the first nine
straight chain alkenes with one terminal
double bond (double bonds at the end of a
chain) are shown as follows:
H H
|
|
H–C=C–H
ethene
H H H
|
|
|
H–C–C=C–H
|
H
propene
H H H H
|
|
|
|
H–C–C–C=C–H
|
|
H H
butene
H H H H H
|
|
|
|
|
H–C–C–C–C=C–H
|
| |
H H H
pentene
346
2 Similarly, the carbon chain of an alkane drawn as a
straight chain is the same as that drawn in a bent
chain.
H H H H H H
|
|
|
|
|
|
H–C–C–C–C–C=C–H
|
|
|
|
H H H H
hexene
H
|
H—C—
|
H
H H H H H H H
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
H–C–C–C–C–C–C=C–H
|
| |
|
|
H H H H H
heptene
H H H H H H H
| | | | | | |
C–C–C–C–C–C=C–H
| | | | |
H H H H H
octene
H
|
C—
|
H
H
|
C — H is the same as
|
H
H
|
H—C—H
H
|
H—C—C—
|
|
H H
H
|
C—H
|
H
Physical Properties of Alkenes
1 The physical properties of alkenes are the
same as that of alkanes.
Low melting and
boiling points due to
weak van der Waals
forces between molecules
H H H H H H H H H
| | | | | | | | |
H–C–C–C–C–C–C–C–C=C–H
| | | | | | |
H H H H H H H
nonene
Insoluble in water
but soluble in
organic solvents
such as propanone
Physical properties
of alkenes
H H H H H H H H H H
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
H–C–C–C–C–C–C–C–C–C=C–H
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
H H H H H H H H
decene
Do not conduct
electricity because
they consist of
covalent molecules
1 In the drawing of the structural formula of an alkene,
the hydrogen atom bonded to the carbon atom can
be written as (a) bonded to the side or (b) to the top
or (c) bottom of the carbon atom. This is because
the single covalent bond can be rotated freely.
2 The physical properties change gradually on
going down the alkene series as shown in
Table 2.5.
3 Similar to that of alkanes, the melting points
and boiling points of alkenes increase down
the homologous series. When the number
of carbon atoms per molecule increases, the
molecular size increases. Thus the van der
Waals forces of attraction between molecules
increases, increasing the amount of heat
needed to overcome the forces of attraction
during melting or boiling.
4 Similar to that of alkanes, the density of
alkenes increases gradually down the series as
the molecular mass increases.
H H
H
|
|
|
H — C = C — H or C =
|
H
H
|
C or H — C = C — H
|
|
|
H
H H
347
Less dense than
water hence will float
on the surface of
water
Carbon Compounds
2
H
|
H–C–
|
H
H
|
C—
|
H
Table 2.5 Physical properties of alkanes
Name of
alkene
Molecular
formula
Relative
molecular mass
Melting point
(°C)
Boiling point
(°C)
Density
(g cm–3)
Ethene
C2H4
28
–169
–104
Gas
–
Propene
C3H6
42
–185
–48
Gas
–
Butene
C4H8
56
–130
–6
Gas
–
Pentene
C5H10
70
–138
30
Liquid
0.64
Hexene
C6H12
84
–140
64
Liquid
0.67
Heptene
C7H14
98
–119
93
Liquid
0.70
Octene
C8H16
112
–104
122
Liquid
0.72
Nonene
C9H18
126
–94
146
Liquid
0.73
Decene
C10H20
140
–66
171
Liquid
0.74
(c) Alkenes undergo addition reactions. During
addition reactions, the carbon-carbon
double bond breaks open to form two
new single bonds. In this process, the
unsaturated hydrocarbon is converted to
a saturated compound.
Chemical Properties of Alkenes
2
Physical state at
room temperature
1 Combustion of alkenes
(a) Alkenes burns in excess air or oxygen to
’07/P1
form carbon dioxide and water. Heat energy
is released during combustion.
SPM
C2H4 + 3O2 → 2CO2 + 2H2O
2C3H6 + 9O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O
|
|
|
—C=C—+X—Y→—C—
alkene
|
(unsaturated)
X
(b) The combustion of an alkene is more
luminous and smokier than an alkane with
the same number of carbon atoms. This is
because the percentage by mass of carbon in
an alkene is higher than that of an alkane.
Example
Percentage by mass of carbon in hexene
(Mr of C6H12 = 84)
6 3 12
=—
—
—
—
—
— 3 100 = 85.7%
84
Percentage by mass of carbon in hexane
(Mr of C6H14 = 86)
6 3 12
=—
—
—
—
—
— 3 100 = 83.7%
86
(c) Incomplete combustion of alkenes
produces carbon (black smoke) and carbon
monoxide.
2 Addition reactions of alkenes
(a) Addition reactions are reactions in
which an unsaturated organic compound
combines with another compound to
form a single new saturated compound.
(b) Alkenes contain a double bond between
carbon atoms (C = C bond) which is very
reactive. Hence alkenes are more reactive
than alkanes.
Carbon Compounds
|
C—
|
Y
(saturated)
one double bond
two new single bonds
3 The following are examples of addition
reactions between alkenes and other elements/
compounds:
(a) Hydrogen (hydrogenation)
(b) Halogens (halogenation)
(c) Water (hydration)
(d) Acidified potassium manganate(VII) solution
(e) Hydrogen halides
4 Hydrogenation
(a) Hydrogenation is the addition of a hydrogen
molecule across a carbon-carbon double
bond in the presence of nickel or platinum
as a catalyst. An alkene is converted to an
alkane.
For example
SPM
’07/P1
Ni or Pt
C3H6 + H2 ⎯⎯⎯→ C3H8
propene
propane
(b) Hydrogenation is used to make margarine
(in solid form) from vegetable oils (in liquid
form).
348
|
—C ⎯
|
OH
5 Halogenation
(a) The addition reactions between alkenes
’10/P1,
’11/P2
and halogens (chlorine and bromine) are
called halogenation.
(b) Bromination is used as a chemical test to
distinguish alkanes from alkenes. Alkenes
decolourise the brown colour of liquid
bromine whereas alkanes do not decolourise
the brown colour of liquid bromine.
For example: When ethene is passed into
liquid bromine, the brown colour of
bromine is decolourised immediately and
a colourless organic liquid is formed.
SPM
Br2
bromine
room
⎯⎯⎯⎯→
temperature
ethene
(d) Like liquid bromine, acidified potassium
manganate(VII) solution is used to
distinguish between alkane and alkene
compounds. An alkene decolourises the
purple colour of acidified potassium
manganate(VII) solution whereas an alkane
does not.
8 Polymerisation
Alkenes undergo polymerisation to form
polymers.
SPM (a) Ethene undergoes additional polymerisation
’07/P1,
’06/P1
to form polyethene.
C2H4Br2
1,2-dibromoethane
(saturated)
6 Hydration
(a) Hydration occurs when a water molecule is
added across the double bond between the
atoms in the presence of phosphoric(V)
acid with H3PO4 as a catalyst at 300 °C.
SPM (b) An alkene is converted to an alcohol in
’07/P2
hydration. For example
H H
H
H
|
|
|
|
polymerisation
nH — C = C — H ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→ — C — C —
|
|
ethene
H
H n
H3PO4
C2H4 + H2O ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→
C2H5OH
300 °C, 60 atm
ethene
ethane-1, 2-diol
2
ethene
+
(c) In the formation of a diol, two hydroxyl
(–OH) groups are added across the double
bond in the alkene molecule.
For example:
C2H4 + H2O + [O] → C2H4(OH)2
ethanol
7 Reaction
with
acidified
potassium
manganate(VII) solution
(a) When an alkene reacts with acidified
potassium manganate(VII) solution, the
purple colour of potassium manganate(VII)
is decolourised immediately and an
organic compound called diol is formed.
(b) A diol is a saturated alcohol with two
hydroxyl (–OH) groups on adjacent carbon
atoms.
polyethene
(b) Propene undergoes polymerisation to
form polypropene.
H H H
| |
|
polymerisation
nH — C = C — C — H ⎯⎯⎯⎯→
|
H
propene
H
|
C —
|
H
CH3
|
C
|
H n
polypropene
To compare the chemical properties of alkanes and alkenes
having the same number of carbon atoms
Apparatus
Porcelain dish, wooden splint, dropper and Bunsen
burner.
SPM
’11/P2
Procedure
A Combustion of alkanes and alkenes in air
EXUQLQJVSOLQW
Materials
Hexane, hexene, liquid bromine and acidified
potassium manganate(VII) solution.
ILOWHUSDSHU
SRUFHODLQ
GLVK
KH[DQH
RUKH[HQH
KH[DQH
RUKH[HQH
Figure 2.3 Combustion of alkane and alkene
7&
349
Carbon Compounds
Activity 2.2
C2H4
|
C—
|
OH
3 The mixture is shaken gently.
4 The colour change that takes place in the test
tube is recorded.
5 Steps 1 to 4 are repeated using hexene.
1 About 1 cm3 of hexane and hexene are placed
separately into two separate porcelain dishes.
2 The organic liquids are ignited with a burning
splint.
3 A piece of filter paper is held above the
flames in each of the dishes to detect the
amount of soot formed.
4 The sootiness of the flame and the amount
of soot collected on the two pieces of filter
papers are recorded.
C Reactions
with
acidified
potassium
manganate(VII) solution
1 A few drops of potassium manganate(VII)
solution are placed in a test tube, followed
by about 1 cm3 of dilute sulphuric acid.
2 About 2 cm3 of hexane is then added to the
acidified potassium manganate(VII) solution.
3 The mixture is shaken gently.
4 The colour change that occurs in the test tube
is recorded.
5 Steps 1 to 4 are repeated using hexene.
B Reactions with bromine
1 About 1 cm3 of liquid bromine is placed in a
test tube.
2 About 2 cm3 of hexane is then added to the
liquid bromine.
Results
Observations
Test
2
Hexane
Hexene
Combustion
Burns in air with a sooty flame
Burns in air with a more sooty
yellow flame
Reaction with liquid bromine
The brown colour of liquid
bromine remains unchanged
The brown colour of liquid
bromine is decolourised
Reaction with acidified potassium
manganate(VII) solution
The purple colour of potassium
manganate(VII) solution remains
unchanged
The purple colour of potassium
manganate(VII) solution is
decolourised
Conclusion
The chemical properties of hexene are different from those of hexane:
(a) Both hexane and hexene undergo combustion but the flame of hexene is sootier than that of hexane.
(b) Hexene decolourises the brown colour of liquid bromine whereas hexane does not.
(c) Hexene decolourises the purple colour of acidified potassium manganate(VII) solution whereas hexane does
not.
Discussion
1 The combustion of hexene produces more soot than the combustion of hexane. This is because the percentage
by mass of carbon in hexene is higher than that of hexane.
2 Hexene undergoes addition reaction with bromine:
C6H12 + Br2
→
(brown)
C6H12Br2
1, 2-dibromohexane
(colourless)
3 Hexene undergoes addition reaction with acidified potassium manganate(VII)
C6H12 + H2O + [O]
→
from KMnO4
(purple)
Carbon Compounds
C6H12(OH)2
hexane-1,2-diol
(colourless)
350
Br H
Br
|
|
|
C H—C—C—C—H
|
|
|
H
H H
H
H H
|
|
|
D H — C — C — C — Br
|
|
|
H
H H
In the addition reaction of an alkene for example with
chlorine, the product formed has the two Cl atoms
bonded to the two C atoms adjacent to each other.
Products with two Cl atoms bonded to the same C
atom or across another C atom are not formed.
Example: Addition of chlorine to propene cannot form
the following products:
H
|
C—
|
H
Cl
|
C—H
|
Cl
H
|
H—C—
|
Cl
and
1
H
|
C—
|
H
H
|
C—H
|
Cl
Solution
Propene undergoes addition reaction with Br2 at the
carbon-carbon double bond, hence the product formed
has two Br atoms attached to two adjacent C atoms.
Answer: B
Homologous Series
’05
1 A homologous series is a family of organic
compounds with the same functional group
and with similar chemical properties.
2 A functional group is an atom or a group of
atoms that determines the chemical properties
of an organic compound.
3 All members in the same homologous series
have the same functional group and the same
chemical properties.
4 All members in the same homologous series
(a) have the same general formula
(b) can be prepared using similar methods
(c) show a gradual change in their physical
properties
(d) have similar chemical properties
(e) differ from each other by a –CH2 group
5 General formulae of some homologous series
are shown in Table 2.6.
The following is the equation that represents the
reaction between propene and bromine.
Propene + Br2 → P
Which of the following is the structural formula of
P?
Br H H
|
|
|
A H—C—C—C—H
|
|
|
Br H H
H
H
Br
|
|
|
B H—C—C—C—H
|
|
|
H
Br H
Table 2.6 General formulae of some homologous series
Homologous series
General formula
SPM
’07/P2
Functional group
Alkanes
CnH2n+2
Alkenes
CnH2n
– C = C – (double bond)
Alcohols
CnH2n+1OH
– O – H (hydroxyl group)
Carboxylic acids
CnH2n+1COOH
O
i
– C – O – H (carboxyl group)
Esters
CnH2n+1COOCmH2m+1
–
351
O
i
– C – O – (carboxylate group)
Carbon Compounds
2
H
|
H—C—
|
H
CnH2n+2
alkane
Hydrogenation
H2/Ni, 180 °C
– (CnH2n)n –
polymer
Addition
polymerisation
CnH2n+1OH
alcohol
Addition of halogen, X2
CnH2n
alkene
Addition of hydrogen
halide, HX
Addition of
acidified KMnO4
Addition of water,
H3PO4, 180 °C,
60 atm
CnH2nX2
CnH2n+1X
2
CnH2n(OH)2
diol
4 Isomers have different physical properties
because they have different structural
formulae.
5 For methane, ethane and propane, there is
only one structure. Therefore methane, ethane
and propane do not have isomers. All the
other alkanes, have isomers.
6 There are two different ways of arranging the
four carbon atoms and ten hydrogen atoms for
butane, C4H10. Thus butane has two isomers
as follows:
2.3
1 (a) What is the general formula of alkene?
(b) Give the molecular formula of an alkene with
(i) three carbon atoms
(ii) five carbon atoms
(iii) seven carbon atoms
2 Propane and propene are both hydrocarbons.
(a) State two common physical properties between
propane and propene.
(b) State one common chemical property between
propane and propene.
3 Write chemical equations for the reactions between
propene with
(a) chlorine
(b) water
(c) hydrogen
(d) excess oxygen
(e) acidified potassium manganate(VII)
2.4
Isomerism
(a) Straight chain
(all 4 C atoms form a straight chain)
H
H H
H
|
|
|
|
H—C—C—C—C—H
|
|
|
|
H
H H
H
(b) Branched chain
(3 C atoms form a straight chain with
1 C atom forming a branch)
H
|
H—C—H
H
H
|
|
H—C—C—C—H
|
|
|
H
H
H
SPM
’10/P1,
’10/P2,
’11/P2
1 Isomers are compounds which have the
same molecular formula but with different
structural formulae.
2 Isomerism is the existence of two or more
compounds that have the same molecular
formula but with different structural formulae.
3 Isomers will have the same chemical properties
when they have the same functional group.
Carbon Compounds
352
7 There are three different ways of arranging the five carbon atoms and twelve hydrogen atoms in
pentane, C5H12. Thus C5H12 has three isomers.
H H H H
H
|
|
|
|
|
H—C—C—C—C—C—H
|
|
|
|
|
H H H H
H
(b) One branched chain
(4 C atoms form a straight
chain with 1 C atom
forming a branch)
H
|
H—C—H
H
H H
|
|
|
H—C—C—C—C—H
|
|
|
|
H
H H H
(c) Two branched chains
(3 C atoms form a straight
chain with 2 C atoms
forming two branches)
H
|
H—C—H
H
H
|
|
H—C—C—C—H
|
|
H
H
H—C—H
|
H
8 All the alkenes above propene have isomers. Butene, C4H8 has three isomers as follows:
(a) Straight chain with a
double bond at the end of
the chain
(4 C atoms form a straight
chain with a double bond
at the first C atom)
H H H
H
|
|
|
|
H—C=C—C—C—H
|
|
H
H
(b) Straight chain with a double
bond in the middle of the
chain
(4 C atoms form a straight
chain with a double bond
at the second C atom)
H
H H
H
|
|
|
|
H—C—C=C—C—H
|
|
H
H
(c) Branched chain
(3 C atoms form a straight
chain with a double bond and
1 C atom forming a branch)
H
|
H—C—H
H
H
|
|
H—C=C—C—H
|
H
9 Naming of branched isomers of alkanes according to the IUPAC system
Step 1
Find the longest continuous chain of carbon
atoms in the molecule and name the longest
chain as the parent chain.
For example:
H
|
H—C—H
H
H H
|
|
|
H—C—C—C—C—H
|
|
|
|
H H H H
The longest chain has four carbon atoms. The
name of the parent chain is butane.
353
Carbon Compounds
2
(a) Straight chain
(5 C atoms form a straight
chain)
Step 2
1 Name the branched chain attached to the
parent chain as alkyl group.
2 The alkyl groups are named according to the
number of carbon atoms present.
Formula and name of alkyl groups
Number of carbon atoms
Formula
Name
1
–CH3
Methyl
2
–C2H5
Ethyl
3
–C3H7
Propyl
The alkyl group has the general formula CnH2n+1
where n = 1, 2, 3…
H
–CH3 (methyl group)
|
is attached to the
H—C—H
parent chain of four
H
H H carbon atoms
|
|
|
H—C—C—C—C—H
|
|
|
|
H H H H
2
Step 3
Identify the position of the alkyl group that is
attached to the parent chain by number.
(a) This is done by numbering the carbon atom in
the parent chain using the lowest number.
(b) Use hyphens to separate words from numbers
in the name, for example: 2 – methyl.
For example:
H
|
H—C—H
–CH3 (methyl group)
is attached to carbon
H
H
H
number 2
|
|
|
H — C1 — C2 — C3 — C4 — H
|
|
|
|
H
H
H
H
The name of the alkane is 2-methyl butane
carbon
no. 2
side chain is
–CH3
parent chain has
four carbon atoms
Step 4
1 If there are more than one similar branch, use
the following prefixes
(a) di for two similar branched chains
(b) tri for three similar branched chains
(c) tetra for four similar branched chains
2 Name the positions of carbon atoms in the
parent chain containing the branches. For
example, the positions of two branches may
be 2, 2 or 2, 3.
For example:
H
|
H—C—H
H
H H
|
|
|
H—C—C—C—C—H
|
|
|
H
H H
H—C—H
|
H
2,2–dimethyl butane
both –CH3 branches
attached to carbon no. 2
Carbon Compounds
354
two –CH3
branches
parent chain has
four carbon atoms
Step 5
If there are more than one alkyl group, list the
names of the alkyl groups in alphabetical order.
For example:
H
H
C2H5 CH3 H
|
|
|
|
|
H — C — C — C — C — C —
|
|
|
|
|
H
H
H
H
H
3-ethyl,4-methylhexane
H
|
C — H
|
H
SPM
10 Naming of alkenes according to the IUPAC system
’11/P1
For example
Step 1
H
H
H
H
|
|
|
|
H — C1 — C2 == C3 — C4 — H
||
HH
Correct name but-2-ene
Step 2
1 Select the position of the double bond by
choosing the smallest number for the carbon
atom with the C=C bond.
2 Name the position of the double bond with a
number followed by a hyphen, for example:
2-ene.
parents chain has 4
carbon atoms
2
H
|
H—C—H
H H
|
|
H—C=C—C—H
|
longest chain with C=C
H
has four carbon atoms
1 Select the longest carbon chain with the
double bond (C=C) as the parent alkene.
2 Name the parent alkene according to the
number of carbon atoms.
double bond
present
double bond at
carbon no. 2
Wrong name but-3-ene
3, the larger number is not used
Example
Step 3
methyl group at carbon
H
no. 2
|
H—C—H
H
H H
|
|
|
H—C—C=C—C—H
|
|
H
H
Identify the alkyl group and its position in the
parent chain as fixed in Step 2.
2-methylbut-2-ene
–CH3 group at carbon no. 2
355
C=C at carbon no. 2
Carbon Compounds
1 To choose the longest carbon chain as the parent chain, count the number of carbon atoms which could be in a
straight chain or a bent chain.
For example:
–C–
This is the longest
|
– C – chain with 6 C atoms
|
–C–C=C–C–C–
2 The alkyl group bonded by a single covalent bond to a carbon atom can rotate in a molecule. It may be drawn as
up or down or at the side in a 2-D structural formula.
For example: These two structures below are not isomers, they are the same compound.
H
|
C—H
|
H
H
H
|
|
H—C—C=C—
|
H
H—C—H
|
H
2
H
|
H—C—H
H
H
|
|
H—C—C=C—
|
H
H
|
C—H
|
H
3 The following alkene does not exist because the central carbon atom has five covalent bonds.
C
|
C=C—C
|
C
4 The following alkene structures are the same, they are not isomers.
(a) C = C — C — C — C is the same as C — C — C — C = C
(b) C = C — C — C; C — C — C = C; C — C — C — C are the same isomer.
|
|
i
C
C
C
2.4
(c)
H ⎯
1 Give the IUPAC name of the following compounds:
(a)
H
|
H—C—H
H
H H
|
|
|
H—C—C=C—C—H
|
|
HH
(b)
H
|
H H—C—H H
H
H
|
|
|
|
|
H ⎯ C ⎯ C ⎯ C ⎯ C = C ⎯ H
|
|
|
H
H H—C—H
|
H
Carbon Compounds
H
H
H
H
|
|
|
|
C ⎯ C ⎯ C = C ⎯ C ⎯ H
|
|
|
|
H H—C—H
H—C—H H
|
|
H
H
2 Draw and name all the isomers for C5H10.
3 Ethane reacts with chlorine in the presence of sunlight
to form a substituted product with the molecular
formula of C2H4Cl2. Draw and name all the possible
isomers of this product. Which of the isomer is also
formed when ethene reacts with chlorine in the
addition reaction?
356
Alcohols
7 All alcohols above ethanol have isomers. The
position of the hydroxyl (–OH) group and
the alkyl group are shown by numbering the
carbon atoms from the end of the carbon
chain which gives the smallest number to the
–OH group.
8 Propanol, C3H7OH has two isomers:
1 Alcohols have the general formula CnH2n+1OH
where n = 1, 2, 3… The CnH2n+1– group
represents the alkyl group.
2 The functional group of alcohol is the
hydroxyl (–OH) group. The hydroxyl (–OH)
group is joined to the carbon atom in the
alcohol molecule by a single covalent bond.
3 The molecular formula of an alcohol can
be obtained by substituting n in the general
formula CnH2n+1OH with the number of
carbon atoms.
4 Based on the IUPAC system of naming
straight chain alcohols, the letter e at the end
name of alkane is replaced by the suffix ol. For
example
CH4 (methane) → CH3OH (methanol)
C2H6 (ethane) → C2H5OH (ethanol)
Alkane
Alkane
formula
(CnH2n+2)
Structural formula
(a)
Alcohol formula
Methane
CH4
Methanol
CH3OH
Ethane
C2H6
Ethanol
C2H5OH
Propane
C3H8
Propanol
C3H7OH
Butane
C4H10
Butanol
C4H9OH
methanol
H
⎮
H—C—
⎮
O
⎮
H
H H H
| |
|
H–C–C–C–H
| |
|
H O H
|
H
3, the bigger number
is not used
The parent chain has
three carbon atoms
propan-2-ol
position of the –OH group
is at the second carbon atom
The –OH group is at the
second carbon atom
9 Butanol, C4H9OH has four isomers as
follows:
5 Note that when writing the structural formula
of alcohols,
(a) each carbon atom should have four single
covalent bonds.
(b) each hydrogen atom should have one
single covalent bond.
(c) each oxygen atom has two single covalent
bonds.
(d) the carbon atoms are connected by single
bonds.
6 Methanol and ethanol has one structural
formula each. Hence they have no isomers.
H
⎮
H—C—H
⎮
O
⎮
H
H H H
parent chain has three
carbon atoms
| |
|
H–C–C–C–H
Correct name propan-1-ol
| |
|
O H H
position of the –OH group
is at the first carbon atom
|
H
Wrong name propan-3-ol
The –OH group is at
the first carbon atom
(b)
Alcohol
IUPAC name
Structural formula
(a)
H H H H
| | | |
H–C–C–C–C—H
| | | |
O H H H
|
H
(b)
H H H H
⎮ ⎮ ⎮ ⎮
H–C–C–C–C—H
⎮ ⎮ ⎮ ⎮
H O H H
⎮
H
H
⎮
C—H
⎮
H
ethanol
357
IUPAC name
parent group has
four carbon atoms
butan-1-ol
position of the –OH group
is at the first carbon atom
parent group has
four carbon atoms
butan-2-ol
position of the –OH group
is at the second carbon
atom
Carbon Compounds
2
2.5
Structural formula
(c)
Example
IUPAC name
H
|
H
|
H
|
H—C—C—C—H
methyl group
at second
carbon atom
H
|
H—C—H
H
H
|
|
H–C–C–C–H
|
| |
O H H
|
H
methyl group at
second carbon atom
|
|
|
O
O
O
H
H
H
|
2-methylpropan-1-ol
parent group
has three
carbon atoms
|
|
three-OH groups
propan-1,2,3-triol
position of the
–OH group
is at the first
carbon atom
parent group has
three carbon atoms
three-OH groups
at 1st, 2nd and 3rd
carbon atoms
Industrial Production of Alcohols
2
(d)
H
|
H — C — H
H
H
|
|
H–C–C–C–H
|
|
|
H O H
|
H
methyl group at
second carbon atom
1 Ethanol (C2H5OH) can be produced industrially
by two processes:
(a) The hydration of ethene
(b) The fermentation of sugar or starch
2 Hydration of ethene
When a mixture of ethene and steam is passed
over the catalyst, phosphoric(V) acid (H3PO4)
at 300 °C and high pressure (65 atm), ethanol
is produced.
3 Fermentation
When yeast is added to sugar or starch, ethanol
and carbon dioxide are produced. The enzyme
called zymase, breaks down the glucose
molecules to form ethanol and carbon dioxide.
2-methylpropan-2-ol
parent group
has three
carbon atoms
position of the
–OH group
at second
carbon atom
10 In the naming of an alcohol with more than one
–OH group:
(a) di is used for two –OH groups
(b) tri is used for three –OH groups
SPM
’06/P1
yeast
C6H12O6 ⎯⎯→ 2C2H5OH + 2CO2
glucose
ethanol
carbon
dioxide
To prepare ethanol in the laboratory by fermentation and
distillation
3 The yeast paste is added to the glucose solution
and the mixture is stirred well.
4 The conical flask is closed with a rubber stopper
fitted with a delivery tube. The other end of the
delivery tube is dipped in limewater.
5 The apparatus is left in a warm place (about 25
– 35 °C) for about one week. The changes that
occur in the conical flask and the test tube are
recorded from time to time.
6 After about one week, the products in the
conical flask are filtered. The filtrate obtained is
transferred into a distillation flask.
7 The filtrate is distilled in a flask fitted with a
fractionating column and Liebig condenser.
Apparatus
Conical flask, boiling tube, thermometer, fractionating
column, wire gauze, retort stand, distillation flask,
rubber stopper, delivery tube, tripod stand and
Bunsen burner.
Activity 2.3
Materials
Glucose, yeast, distilled water and limewater.
Procedure
1 About 20 g of glucose is dissolved in 200 cm3 of
distilled water in a conical flask.
2 A little warm water (35 °C) is added to about 5 g
of yeast in a small beaker. The mixture is stirred
well to form a paste.
Carbon Compounds
358
Figure 2.4 Fermentation process
Figure 2.5 Fractional distillation
Conclusion
Ethanol can be prepared in the laboratory by the fermentation of glucose or any other carbohydrates.
2
Result
1 During fermentation, ethanol and carbon dioxide are produced.
2 The carbon dioxide produced causes limewater to turn cloudy.
3 The concentration of ethanol produced in fermentation can be increased by fractional distillation.
2 Ethanol is a volatile liquid because it has a
low boiling point at 78 °C.
3 Ethanol is very soluble in water because of the
presence of the hydroxyl group.
(a) The hydrocarbon part of alcohol is insoluble
in water.
(b) Hence alcohol with a large hydrocarbon
chain is insoluble in water.
(c) The solubility of alcohols in water decreases
as the molecular size increases.
4 Alcohols are neutral and have a pH of 7.
5 Alcohols are covalent compounds. They do not
conduct electricity.
Yeast is a living organism. Ethanol is actually a by-product
formed from the living process of yeast. The highest
concentration of ethanol prepared by fermentation is only
14%. This is because yeast is killed when the ethanol
formed exceeds 14%. Hence higher concentration of
ethanol has to be obtained from fractional distillation.
Physical Properties of Ethanol and Other
Alcohols
1 Ethanol is a colourless liquid and has a
characteristic odour.
To investigate the chemical properties of ethanol
Apparatus
Evaporating dish, wooden splint, test tube, boiling tube, delivery tube with stopper, glass wool, porcelain chips,
beaker, retort stand with clamp and test tube holder.
Ethanol, concentrated sulphuric acid, potassium dichromate(VI), blue litmus paper and liquid bromine.
(A) Combustion of ethanol in air
Procedure
1 About 2 cm3 of ethanol is poured into an evaporating dish.
2 The ethanol is ignited using a lighted wooden splint.
3 The flammability of ethanol and the sootiness of the flame are recorded.
359
Carbon Compounds
Activity 2.4
Materials
3 Acidified potassium dichromate(VI) solution is
an oxidising agent.
Result
2
Nature of combustion
Observation
Flammability
Easily burned
Colour of flame
Blue
Sootiness of flame
Non-sooty
Conclusion
Ethanol burns readily in air. The combustion of ethanol
produces a non-sooty, pale blue flame. The products
of combustion are carbon dioxide and water.
(B) Oxidisation of ethanol
Procedure
1 About 1 cm3 of concentrated sulphuric acid and
5 cm3 of potassium dichromate(VI) solution are
poured into a boiling tube.
2 About 5 cm3 of ethanol is added to the acidified
potassium dichromate(VI) solution.
3 A rubber stopper fitted with a delivery tube is
inserted into the boiling tube. The delivery tube
is inserted into a test tube placed in a beaker
half-filled with ice-cold water.
4 The mixture of ethanol and acidified potassium
dichromate(VI) is heated gently. Any colour
change in the mixture is noted.
5 The distillate is collected in the test tube and is
tested with litmus paper.
(C) Dehydration of ethanol
Procedure
1 Some glass wool is placed in a boiling tube.
2 About 2 cm3 of ethanol is poured into the boiling
tube to soak the glass wool.
3 Some porcelain chips are placed in the midsection of the boiling tube.
4 The boiling tube is closed with a rubber stopper
fitted with a delivery tube. The other end of the
delivery tube is placed under an inverted test
tube filled with water in a beaker.
5 The porcelain chips are heated strongly until red
hot. The Bunsen burner flame is then shifted to the
glass wool to vaporise the ethanol absorbed in it.
6 The gas is collected in two test tubes. The gas
produced is collected by displacement of water
and tested with
(a) a few drops of bromine water and shaken
(b) a few drops of acidified potassium
manganate(VII) solution and shaken
SPM
’05/P1
Figure 2.7 Dehydration of ethanol
Result
Figure 2.6 Oxidation of ethanol
Test on gas collected
Result
Compound
Reactant
mixture
Distillate
With bromine water
Observation
The acidified potassium
dichromate(VI) solution changes
from orange to green
Brown colour of
bromine is decolourised
With acidified potassium Purple colour of
manganate(VII) solution potassium manganate(VII)
is decolourised
A colourless liquid (a vinegary
smell) which changes blue litmus
paper to red
Conclusion
1 When ethanol vapour is passed over heated
porcelain chips (aluminium oxide), dehydration
occurs and ethene is produced.
2 Ethene is confirmed to be present by the
decolourisation of the brown colour of bromine
water and the purple colour of acidified
potassium manganate(VII) solution.
Conclusion
1 When ethanol is boiled with acidified potassium
dichromate(VI) solution, it is oxidised to ethanoic
acid.
2 Ethanoic acid is a colourless liquid with a vinegary
smell and turns blue litmus paper red.
Carbon Compounds
Observation
360
(b) Dehydration is carried out by
(i) passing alcohol vapour over heated
porcelain chips or
(ii) refluxing alcohol with concentrated
sulphuric acid (acts as a dehydrating
agent).
(c) Methanol does not undergo dehydration
since there is no alkene with one carbon
atom.
Chemical Properties of Ethanol and
Other Alcohols
1 (a) Alcohol undergoes complete combustion
when it burns in excess air to produce carbon
’08/P2
dioxide and water.
For example
C2H5OH + 3O2 → 2CO2 + 3H2O
SPM
ethanol
9
C3H7OH + — O2 → 3CO2 + 4H2O
2
propanol
The alcometer (breath tester) used for testing the
breath of suspected drink-driver contains potassium
dichromate(VI). The chemical will oxidise any ethanol
present in the breath and produces an electric current.
(b) Combustion of alcohol such as ethanol
gives out a lot of heat energy. Hence
ethanol is a good fuel.
(c) If the supply of oxygen is insufficient,
incomplete combustion of ethanol occurs.
Carbon monoxide gas, carbon (black soot)
and water are produced.
2 (a) Oxidation of alcohols produces the
corresponding carboxylic acids.
For example
1 Alcohols as fuels
When alcohol is burn in air, carbon dioxide
and water are produced, and a large quantity
of heat energy is released. Ethanol is a clean
fuel because it does not release toxic gases in
combustion.
2 Alcohols as solvents
Alcohols are good solvents for organic
compounds such as shellac, varnishes, paints,
perfumes and dyes.
3 Uses of alcohols in medicines
(a) Ethanol is used as a mild antiseptic for
skin infection and disinfection.
(b) Propan-2-ol is used as rubbing alcohol to
reduce fever.
4 Uses of alcohols in cosmetics
(a) Ethanol is used to make aftershave lotion
and nail polish.
(b) Propan-1,2,3-triol (common name is
glycerol) is used in moisturiser.
(c) Alcohols are used as solvents for perfumes.
5 Alcohols as a source of chemicals
(a) Ethanol is oxidised to make vinegar.
(b) Methanol is used to make formalin and
polymers.
6 The misuse and abuse of alcohols
(a) Ethanol is a component of alcoholic
drink. Excess drinking of alcohol increases
the risk of heart disease, kidney disease
and liver disease.
(b) Alcoholism is an addiction caused by
excessive drinking of alcohol for a prolonged
period of time.
K2Cr2O7/H2SO4
CH3CH2OH + 2[O] ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→
ethanol
CH3COOH + H2O
from K2Cr2O7
ethanoic acid
CH3CH2CH2OH + 2[O] ⎯→
propanol
CH3CH2COOH + H2O
propanoic acid
(b) Oxidation is carried out by heating the
alcohols with oxidising agents such as
acidified potassium manganate(VII)
solution
or
acidified
potassium
dichromate(VI) solution.
(c) When oxidation reaction occurs:
(i) The colour of potassium dichromate(VI)
changes from orange to green.
(ii) The colour of potassium manganate(VII)
changes from purple to colourless
(decolourisation).
3 (a) Dehydration of alcohols (except methanol)
produces the corresponding alkenes.
For example
SPM
C2H5OH ⎯→ C2H4 + H2O
’07/P2,
’06/P1
ethanol
ethene
C3H7OH ⎯→ C3H6 + H2O
propanol
propene
361
Carbon Compounds
2
Uses of Alcohol in Everyday Life
(c) Driving after drinking too much alcohol
can cause road accidents.
Number
of carbon
atoms
Alkane
Carboxylic acid
1
Methane
Methanoic acid
2
Ethane
Ethanoic acid
3
Propane
Propanoic acid
2.5
1 Compound X has a molecular formula of C4H8O.
When compound X is refluxed with acidified
potassium dichromate(VI), the mixture changes
colour from orange to green.
(a) Name the funtional group of compound X.
(b) What is the general formula of the homologous
series in which compound X is a member.
(c) Draw and name all the isomers of compound
X.
(d) Write the chemical equation for the reaction
between compound X and acidified potassium
dichromate(VI).
4 The name of the carboxylic acid will depend on
the number of carbon atoms in its molecule.
The carbon atom of the functional group is
counted as part of the carbon chain.
5 The molecular formula of a carboxylic acid can
be obtained by substituting n in the general
formula CnH2n+1COOH with the number of
carbon atoms.
6 In the writing of the structural formula of a
carboxylic acid,
(a) the –COOH group is always at the terminal
carbon atom (at the end of the chain).
(b) the carboxyl group consists of a carbon
atom which forms a double bond with
oxygen atom and a single covalent bond
with the hydroxyl (–OH) group.
2
2 Identify the compounds P, Q, R, S and T from the
reaction scheme given below:
Glucose
KMnO4/
yeast
Compound H2SO4
P
oxygen, heat
Compound
Q
porcelain chips, heat
Compound R
+
compound S
O
double bond
i
–C–O–H
Compound
T
single bond
3 State the type of reactions that occur and give the
molecular formulae of compounds W, X, Y and Z
in the following equations.
7 The molecular and structural formulae of the
first four members of carboxylic acids are shown
in Table 2.7.
concentrated H SO
2
4
(a) W ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→
C3H6 + H2O
Table 2.7 The names and formulae of the first four
members of carboxylic acids
phosphoric acid
(b) X + H2O ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→ C3H7OH
K Cr O /H SO
2
2 7
2
4
(c) C4H9OH + 2[O] ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→
Y + H2O
Name
(d) Z + 6O2 ⎯→ 4CO2 + 5H2O
2.6
Methanoic HCOOH
acid
Carboxylic Acids
Ethanoic
acid
1 Carboxylic acids are organic acids that have
the general formula CnH2n+1COOH, where n is
0, 1, 2, 3 ….
2 The functional group of carboxylic acids is the
carboxyl group, –COOH.
3 Based on the IUPAC system of naming, a
carboxylic acid is named by replacing the
final letter e in the name of the corresponding
alkane with oic acid.
Carbon Compounds
Molecular
formula
362
CH3COOH
Structural formula
O
i
H — C — OH
O
i
CH3 — C — OH
Propanoic C2H5COOH
acid
O
i
CH3 — CH2 — C — OH
Butanoic
acid
O
i
CH3 — CH2 — CH2 — C — OH
C3H7COOH
2 Ethanoic acid has a vinegary smell.
3 Ethanoic acid is soluble in water.
4 On going down the homologous series of the
carboxylic acids,
(a) the solubility in water decreases,
(b) the boiling point increases.
Preparation of Carboxylic Acid
1 Carboxylic acid is prepared in the laboratory by
the oxidation of the corresponding alcohol.
Example
oxidation
Ethanol ⎯⎯⎯→ ethanoic acid
oxidation
Propanol ⎯⎯⎯→ propanoic acid
Chemical Properties of Ethanoic Acid
oxidation
Butanol ⎯⎯⎯→ butanoic acid
1 Ethanoic acid is a weak acid because it
undergoes partial ionisation in water. Only a
small percentage of the ethanoic acid molecules
ionise to form hydrogen ions, H+. Most of the
ethanoic acid remains as molecules.
CH3COOH
CH3COO– + H+
2 Aqueous ethanoic acid turns blue litmus paper
red and is an electrolyte.
3 Ethanoic acid reacts with bases to form salts
and water in neutralisation. The salts produced
in the reaction are known as ethanoate. For
example
CH3COOH + NaOH → CH3COONa + H2O
ethanoic acid
sodium
ethanoate
2CH3COOH + CuO → (CH3COO)2Cu + H2O
ethanoic
acid
copper
oxide
(black)
copper(II)
ethanoate
(blue)
4 Ethanoic acid reacts with metal carbonates
to form salts, carbon dioxide and water. For
’05/P1
example
2CH3COOH + Na2CO3 ⎯→
2CH3COONa + CO2 + H2O
SPM
K2Cr2O7/H2SO4
CH3CH2OH + 2[O] ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→
CH3COOH + H2O
sodium ethanoate
2CH3COOH + CaCO3 ⎯→
(CH3COO)2Ca + CO2 + H2O
calcium ethanoate
5 Ethanoic acid reacts with reactive metals such
as magnesium and zinc to form salts and
hydrogen gas.
For example
2CH3COOH + Mg ⎯→ (CH3COO)2Mg + H2
Figure 2.8 Preparation of ethanoic acid by reflux
magnesium ethanoate
2CH3COOH + Zn ⎯→ (CH3COO)2Zn + H2
Physical Properties of Ethanoic Acid and
Other Carboxylic Acids
zinc ethanoate
6 Ethanoic acid reacts with an alcohol to form
ester and water.
For example
Ethanoic acid + ethanol → ethyl ethanoate + water
1 Ethanoic acid is a colourless liquid at room
temperature. Pure ethanoic acid is known as
glacial ethanoic acid because it freezes to
form colourless crystals which look like ice.
(ester)
363
Carbon Compounds
2
2 In the laboratory, ethanoic acid is prepared by
the oxidation of ethanol using an oxidising
agent such as
(a) acidified potassium dichromate(VI) or
(b) acidified potassium manganate(VII)
3 The method of heating a mixture of ethanol
and the oxidising agent in a flask fitted with
an upright Liebig condenser is known as
reflux.
4 Heating under reflux is used
(a) to prevent volatile substances (ethanol
and ethanoic acid) from escaping into the
atmosphere,
(b) to ensure that the reactants go to complete
reaction.
5 In the oxidation of ethanol by acidified potassium
dichromate(VI),
(a) the colour of potassium dichromate(VI)
solution changes from orange to green.
(b) the ethanoic acid produced has a vinegary
smell.
To study the chemical properties of ethanoic acid
Results
Apparatus
Test tubes, beakers, evaporating dish, delivery tube
and wooden splints.
Test
Materials
Ethanoic acid, sodium hydroxide solution, sodium
carbonate, limewater, magnesium ribbon, glacial
ethanoic acid and concentrated sulphuric acid.
2
Procedure
1 About 3 cm3 of dilute ethanoic acid is placed in a
test tube.
2 About 3 cm3 of sodium hydroxide is added to the
ethanoic acid and the mixture is shaken.
3 The reaction mixture is poured into an evaporating
dish and is heated until it becomes dry.
4 The residue left in the evaporating dish is
observed.
Effervescence occurs
and sodium carbonate
dissolves
(b) Gas released +
limewater
Gas produced turns
limewater cloudy
(C) Reaction between ethanoic acid and a metal
SPM
Procedure
’11/P2
1 About 5 cm3 of ethanoic acid is placed in a test tube.
2 A piece of magnesium ribbon is added to the
ethanoic acid.
3 A lighted splint is placed near the mouth of the
test tube to test the gas liberated.
Results
Observation
A white powder was left in the evaporating dish.
Test
Conclusion
Ethanoic acid reacts with a base, sodium hydroxide
to produce a salt and water.
(B) Reactions between ethanoic acid and a metal
carbonate
Observation
(a) Ethanoic acid +
magnesium
Effervescence occurs and
the magnesium ribbon
dissolves
(b) Gas released +
lighted splint
Gas burns with a ‘pop’
sound when the lighted
splint is placed at the
mouth of the test tube
Conclusion
Ethanoic acid reacts with magnesium, a metal to
form a salt and hydrogen gas.
Procedure
1 About 5 cm3 of ethanoic acid is placed in a test
tube.
2 A spatula of sodium carbonate is added to the
ethanoic acid.
3 The gas released is passed into limewater.
Activity 2.5
(a) Ethanoic acid +
sodium carbonate
Conclusion
Ethanoic acid reacts with sodium carbonate, a metal
carbonate to form a salt, carbon dioxide and water.
(A) Reaction of ethanoic acid with a base
(D) Reactions between ethanoic acid and alcohol
Procedure
1 2 cm3 of glacial ethanoic acid is placed into a test
tube.
2 4 cm3 of pure ethanol is added to the ethanoic acid.
3 About 1 cm3 of concentrated sulphuric acid is
added slowly and carefully to the mixture using
a dropper.
4 The reaction mixture is shaken and heated slowly
for about 3 minutes.
5 The content of the test tube is then poured into a
beaker half-filled with water.
Figure 2.9 Reaction with ethanoic acid and a
metal carbonate
Carbon Compounds
Observation
364
2 An ester is an organic compound formed when a
carboxylic acid reacts with an alcohol.
3 Esterification is the reaction between a carboxylic
acid and an alcohol to produce ester and water.
4 Concentrated sulphuric acid acts as a catalyst
to speed up esterification.
5 When ethanoic acid is warmed with ethanol
in the presence of a few drops of concentrated
sulphuric acid, esterification occurs. The ester
known as ethyl ethanoate and water are produced.
Observation
1 An oily product forms a layer on top of the
water’s surface.
2 The product is colourless and has a sweet fruity
smell.
Conclusion
1 Ethanoic acid reacts with ethanol, an alcohol to
form an ester and water.
2 Ester has a sweet fruity smell and is insoluble in
water.
conc. H2SO4
CH3COOH + C2H5OH ⎯⎯⎯⎯→
CH3COOC2H5 + H2O
Discussion
1 The sweet smelling oily product is an ester.
ethyl ethanoate
Chemical properties of other carboxylic acids
General
2RCOOH + CaCO3 →
(RCOO)2Ca + H2O + CO2
Example
2HCOOH + CaCO3 →
(HCOO)2Ca + H2O + CO2
2C2H5COOH + CaCO3 →
(C2H5COO)2Ca + H2O + CO2
(d) react with alcohols to form esters and water.
SPM General
’06/P1
RCOOH + R′OH → RCOOR′ + H2O
Example
HCOOH + C2H5OH →
HCOOC2H5 + H2O
C2H5COOH + C2H5OH →
C2H5COOC2H5 + H2O
1 All members of the carboxylic acids have
similar chemical properties because they have
the same functional group, –COOH.
2 The general formula of a carboxylic acid can
also be written as RCOOH where R is H or an
alkyl group.
3 All members of this carboxylic group will
(a) react with alkalis to form salts and water
General
RCOOH + NaOH → RCOONa + H2O
Example
HCOOH + NaOH → HCOONa + H2O
C2H5COOH + NaOH →
C2H5COONa + H2O
(b) react with active metals to form salts and
hydrogen gas
General
2RCOOH + Mg → (RCOO)2Mg + H2
Example
2HCOOH + Mg → (HCOO)2Mg + H2
2C2H5COOH + Mg →
(C2H5COO)2Mg + H2
(c) react with metallic carbonates to form salts,
carbon dioxide and water
Uses of Carboxylic Acids in Daily Life
Carboxylic acid
365
Use
Methanoic acid
To coagulate latex
Ethanoic acid
To make vinegar
Benzoic acid
Used as a food preservative
Carbon Compounds
2
Figure 2.10 Reaction of ethanoic acid and ethanol
cracking
Alkane
CnH2n+2
hydrogenation
Alkene
CnH2n
hydration
dehydration
combustion
combustion
Alcohol
CnH2n+2OH
combustion
2
2.6
SPM
’11/P1
1 Compound X with an empirical formula of CH2O
has a relative molecular mass of 60.
(a) Calculate the molecular formula of X and draw
its structural formula.
(b) Identify the functional group of X and give its
general formula.
(c) Write a balanced equation between X and
calcium carbonate. Predict the observation that
will take place.
[Relative atomic mass: of H,1; C,12; O,16]
2 (a) Give the name and molecular formula for a
carboxylic acid that has five carbon atoms.
(b) Give the molecular formula of the organic
compound formed when the carboxylic acid
named in (a) reacts with
(i) sodium hydroxide
(ii) magnesium metal
3 The functional group of esters is the carboxylate
group, –COO–.
4 The name of an ester is derived from the alcohol
and the carboxylic acid used to prepare it.
(a) The first part of the name of the ester is
taken from the alkyl group of the alcohol.
Example
Q
Step II
R
(a) Identify compound Q and compound R.
(b) State the condition of reaction in Step II.
(c) Name the types of reactions that have occurred
in Steps I and II.
2.7
Alcohol
Alkyl group
Methanol
Methyl
Ethanol
Ethyl
Propanol
Propyl
Butanol
Butyl
Carboxylic acid
Carboxylate group
Methanoic acid
Methanoate
Ethanoic acid
Ethanoate
Propanoic acid
Propanoate
(c) In general, the names of esters are of
the form ‘alkyl carboxylate’ where alkyl
comes from the alcohol used to prepare
the ester.
Example
Esters
1 The general formula for an ester is
CnH2n+1COOCmH2m+1, where n = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4…
and m = 1, 2, 3, 4….
2 The general formula for an ester can also be
written as R–COO–R′ where R and R′ are alkyl
groups.
Carbon Compounds
esterification
(b) The second part of the name comes from
the carboxylic acid. The ending –oic of
carboxylic acid is replaced by –oate.
Example
3 Compound P, with a molecular formula of C3H8O
is converted to compounds Q and R in the
following reaction scheme.
Step I: K2Cr2O7/H2SO4
Carboxylic Acid
CnH2n+1COOH
Ester
RCOOR′
Carbon dioxide and water
P
oxidation
366
Alcohol
Carboxylic acid
Names of ester
Methanol
Methanoic acid
Methyl methanoate
Methanol
Ethanoic acid
Methyl ethanoate
Ethanol
Ethanoic acid
Ethyl ethanoate
Ethanol
Propanoic acid
Ethyl propanoate
5 In the writing of the structural formula of an
ester using the general formula R–COO–R′,
the part R– CO comes from the carboxylic acid
and the part of O– R′ comes from the alcohol.
6 Generally,
O
i
R – C – OR′
from carboxylic acid
from alcohol
ethanol
O
i
CH3CH2C O – CH2CH3
O
i
CH3CH2C O–CH2CH3 + H2O
from propanoic acid from ethanol
Steps in naming an ester
propanoic acid
ethyl propanoate
SPM
’07/P1,
’06/P1
Example:
Step 1
the alcohol part (bonded
to –O) is –CH3, hence the
prefix is methyl
O
i
CH3 — CH2 — C — O — CH3
Identify the alcohol part of the ester.
The alcohol part is the alkyl part bonded to
oxygen atom by single bond.
Step 2
O
i
CH3 — CH2 — C — O — CH3
Identify the carboxylic acid part of the ester.
The acid part is the alkyl part bonded to the
carbon atom with a double bond with oxygen.
the carboxylic part (with – C=O) has altogether
3 C atoms, hence it is from propanoic acid
Step 3
Name of ester is methyl propanoate
Combine the two parts to name the ester.
The alcohol part is named first.
2
’07
The molecular formula below represents an organic
compound.
Solution
O
i
CH3 — C — O — CH2 — CH2 — CH3
this is the acid part as
it is bonded to C=O
this is the alcohol
part as it is bonded
to O atom
O
i
CH3 — C — O — CH2 — CH2 — CH3
from ethanoic acid
(ester is ethanoate)
What is the name of the compound?
from propanol
(prefix is propyl)
The name of the compound is propyl ethanoate.
367
Carbon Compounds
2
Example
Hence, the name of the ester is ethyl
propanoate.
7 The reaction between an alcohol and a carboxylic
acid to produce an ester and water is known
as esterification.
General Alcohol + carboxylic acid →
ester + water
Example C2H5OH + CH3CH2COOH →
Writing the structural formula of an ester
SPM
’07/P1
To predict the formula of an ester prepared from
a named alcohol and a named carboxylic acid.
Example
Write the structural formula of the ester produced
from butanol and propanoic acid.
General formula is
Step 1
Write the general formula of ester in the form
R – COO – R′
O
i
R – C – O – R′
Alcohol is butanol, with four C atoms.
Hence R′ is –CH2CH2CH2CH3.
Step 2
Write down the structural formula of the alcohol
part to replace –R′(R bonded to O by single
bond)
2
O
i
R – C – O – CH2CH2CH2CH3
Carboxylic acid is propanoic acid, with three C
atoms. Hence RCO– is CH3CH2CO–.
Step 3
Write down the structural formula of the acid
part to replace R– (R bonded to C=O)
O
i
CH3CH2C–
Structural formula of ester is:
O
i
CH3 — CH2 — C — O — CH2 — CH2 — CH2 — CH3
Step 4
Replace –OR′ with the alcohol part and the
R–CO– with the carboxylic part in R – COO – R′
for the full structure of the ester.
3
Preparation of Ethyl Ethanoate
’07
1 Small quantities of ethyl ethanoate can be
prepared by heating a mixture of glacial
ethanoic acid with pure ethanol in the
presence of a small quantity of concentrated
sulphuric acid in a boiling tube.
2 To prepare large quantity of esters, the alcohol
and carboxylic acid need to be heated under
reflux.
3 Heating under reflux is necessary as ethanol,
C2H5OH is very volatile. If the mixture is not
heated under reflux, the ethanol C2H5OH will
vaporise and escape into the atmosphere before
it can react with ethanoic acid, CH3COOH.
Write the chemical equation for the reaction between
methanol and ethanoic acid.
Solution
Methanol, an alcohol reacts with ethanoic acid, a
carboxylic acid to produce an ester and water. The
ester will be methyl ethanoate.
CH3OH + CH3COOH → CH3COOCH3 + H2O
Carbon Compounds
368
SPM
To prepare ethyl ethanoate
’04/P3
Apparatus
Round bottomed flask, Liebig condenser, oil bath,
porcelain chips
Materials
Pure ethanol, glacial ethanoic acid and concentrated
sulphuric acid
Procedure
1 About 30 cm3 of pure ethanol and 25 cm3 of
glacial ethanoic acid are placed in a round bottom
flask. Small pieces of porcelain chips are added
to prevent bumping and to ensure smooth boiling.
2 About 5 cm3 of concentrated sulphuric acid is
added to the reaction mixture. The mixture is
shaken gently to ensure complete mixing.
3 The Liebig condenser is fitted vertically to the
round bottom flask. The mixture is boiled under
reflux for about 30 minutes.
4 After boiling, pure ethanol is obtained by
distillation.
Figure 2.11 Preparation of ethyl ethanoate by reflux
Conclusion
Ethyl ethanoate is produced when ethanoic acid and
ethanol are heated in the presence of concentrated
sulphuric acid as a catalyst.
CH3COOH + C2H5OH → CH3COOC2H5 + H2O
Natural Sources of Esters
2.7
1 Name the following esters and identify the
alcohols and carboxylic acids required to prepare
these esters.
(a) HCOOCH3
(b) CH3COOC3H7
(c) C3H7COOCH3
1 Most of the simple esters exist naturally
in flowers and fruits. For example, pentyl
ethanoate is found in bananas, octyl ethanoate
in lime and methyl butanoate in apples.
2 These volatile esters are responsible for the
fragrant smell of flowers and fruits.
3 Vegetable oils and animal fats are esters with
large molecules. For example, coconut oil and
palm oil.
4 Waxes such as beeswax, wax found on leaves
and candle wax are solid esters.
3 Methanol reacts with butanoic acid under certain
conditions to produce an ester.
(a) Write a balanced equation for the reaction
that occurs.
(b) State the conditions for the reaction that took
place.
(c) State two physical properties of the ester
produced.
Used as solvents
for many organic
compounds
Uses of esters
To make
synthetic
polymers
Esters in oils
are used to
make soap
Used as
medicine, for
example, aspirin
369
Carbon Compounds
Activity 2.6
2 Name and draw the structural formulae of
the organic compounds produced from the
reactions between the following pairs of organic
compounds.
(a) Methanol + propanoic acid
(b) Propan-1-ol + ethanoic acid
(c) Propan-1-ol + methanoic acid
Uses of Esters in Daily Life
To make perfumes,
cosmetics and artificial
food flavourings
2
Observation
A colourless liquid with a fragrant odour is obtained.
2.8
stearic acid is C17H35COOH or CH3(CH2)16COOH
Oils and Fats
2 A fatty acid with a carbon-carbon double bond is
an unsaturated acid.
’08/P1
For example:
Oleic acid is C17H33COOH or
CH3(CH2)7CH = CH(CH2)7COOH
SPM
1 Oils and fats are naturally occurring esters
and are found in animals and plants.
2 Fats (for example, butter) are found in animals.
Oils are usually found in plants and fish.
3 Fats are solids at room temperature. In contrast
oils are liquids at room temperature. Hence
fats have higher melting points than oils.
4 When fats and oils are hydrolysed, glycerol
SPM and long chain carboxylic acids are formed.
’08/P1
Hydrolysis means the decomposition (breaking
up) of a chemical substance by water.
The importance of oils and fats for body
processes
Sources of energy:
Fats are high energy
food, they provide
energy for our
bodies.
2
Ester + water → carboxylic acid + glycerol
5 The carboxylic acids produced from fats are
also known as fatty acids. Fatty acids usually
contain 16 or 18 carbon atoms per molecule.
6 Glycerol is an alcohol that contains three
hydroxyl (–OH) groups per molecule.
H
|
H—C—
|
OH
H
|
C—
|
OH
Source of nutrients:
Fats are required to
enable the human
body to absorb
vitamins A, D, E
and K
Importance of oils and
fats in our bodies
H
|
C—H
|
OH
Thermal insulation:
The layer of fat
beneath the skin
regulates body
temperature
propane-1,2,3-triol (glycerol)
7 There are two types of carboxylic acids, namely,
saturated carboxylic acids and unsaturated
carboxylic acids.
(a) Saturated carboxylic acids do not contain
double bonds.
(b) Unsaturated carboxylic acids contain
double bonds.
8 Animal fats usually contain a high percentage
of saturated carboxylic acids whereas vegetable
oils and fish oil contain a high percentage of
unsaturated carboxylic acids upon hydrolysis.
9 Saturated fats are fats that contain saturated
carboxylic acids. Unsaturated fats are fats that
contain unsaturated carboxylic acids.
10 The presence of double bonds in unsaturated
fats causes them to have lower melting points
than saturated fats. Hence unsaturated fats
(commonly known as oils) exist as liquids at
room temperature.
Protection:
The layer of fats
around the vital
organs acts as a
protective cushion
Conversion of Unsaturated Fats to
Saturated Fats
1 Vegetable oils can be converted to saturated
fats by hydrogenation.
2 Hydrogenation is the chemical process in
which hydrogen is added to the double bond
between carbon atoms (C = C bond).
3 The hydrogenation process will change liquid
vegetable oils to solid fats.
4 In the manufacture of margarine from
vegetable oil, hydrogenation is carried out by
passing hydrogen gas into palm oil at 200 °C
and 4 atmospheres in the presence of nickel
powder as catalyst.
Ni
Palm oil + hydrogen ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→
200 °C, 4 atm
margarine (fat)
1 A fatty acid with the general formula of CnH2n+1COOH
is a saturated acid.
For example:
Palmitic acid is C15H31COOH or CH3(CH2)14COOH
and
Carbon Compounds
5 The hardness of margarine formed depends
on the degree of hydrogenation. Partial
hydrogenation will produce soft margarine.
370
Effects of Eating Food High in Fats on
Health
2.8
1 State one similarity and one difference between
fats and oils
(a) in terms of their molecular structures.
(b) in terms of their physical properties.
1 Food high in fats is high in calories. Hence
high comsumption can lead to obesity.
2 Saturated fats contain a high percentage of
cholesterol. Excess intake of saturated fats
increase the risk of
(a) hypertension (high blood pressure)
(b) cardiovascular disease (heart disease)
(c) stroke
2 Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid whereas oleic
acid is an unsaturated fatty acid.
(a) Explain what is meant by a saturated fatty
acid and an unsaturated fatty acid.
(b) Give a test to differentiate stearic acid from oleic
acid.
1 There are two types of oil extracted from fresh
oil palm fruits.
(a) Palm oil from the flesh of the fruit
(b) Palm kernel oil from the kernel or seed
2 The flowchart shows the steps involved for the
extraction of palm oil in the palm oil mill.
Sterilisation
Fruit branches are sterilised to
kill fungus and bacteria
Stripping
Fruits are separated from the
branches
Digestion
Fruits are heated to break down
the oil-bearing cells
Pressing
Purification
2.9
Natural Rubber
Natural Polymers
1 Polymers can be classified into two broad
categories: natural polymers and synthetic
polymers.
2 Examples of naturally-occurring polymers are
natural rubber, carbohydrates and proteins.
3 The monomer of natural rubber is isoprene,
C5H8. Hence natural rubber is polyisoprene.
Natural rubber is produced by the addition
polymerisation of isoprene.
Oil is pressed out from fruits
H CH3 H H
|
|
|
|
addition polymerisation
n(H — C = C — C = C — H) ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→
Mixture is filtered to separate the
oil. Oil is then dried.
isoprene (monomer)
H
CH3 H
H
|
|
|
|
—
( C ⎯ C = C ⎯ C—
)n
|
|
H
H
Advantage of palm oil as a vegetable oil
Rich in Vitamins
A and E
Lower the LDL or bad
cholesterol and raise the
HDL or good cholesterol in
the body
poly(isopropene) – natural rubber
4 The monomers for carbohydrates such as
sugar, starch and cellulose is glucose.
When starch is heated with dilute acid, glucose is
produced. This reaction is called hydrolysis.
Advantage of palm oil as
a vegetable oil
Withstand heat and
resistant to oxidation,
hence suitable to be
used for deep frying
– (C6H10O5)n– + nH2O → nC6H12O6
starch
Highly competive in
price.
Cheaper than other
types of vegetable oils
glucose
5 The monomers of proteins are amino acids.
Amino acids are joined together by peptide
linkages. Hence proteins are polypeptides.
371
Carbon Compounds
2
3 (a) Name the process in which palm oil is
converted to margarine.
(b) State the conditions required for this conversion.
(c) State one difference in physical property between
palm oil and margarine.
Industrial Extraction of Palm Oil
(a) the hydrogen ions from the acid neutralise
the negative charges on the membranes’
surfaces of the colloidal particles.
(b) When the neutral rubber particles collide,
the membranes will break, releasing the
rubber polymers to form lumps. Hence
the latex solidifies.
8 The coagulation of latex can occur without the
addition of acid if the latex is exposed to air
for a few days. This is because
(a) the bacteria present in the latex produces
organic acids.
(b) the hydrogen ions from the acids produced
neutralises the negative charges on the
rubber particles.
9 Coagulation of latex can be prevented by the
addition of aqueous ammonia because
(a) the hydroxide ions from aqueous ammonia
neutralise the acids produced by bacteria.
(b) the negative charges at the membranes of
rubber particles are maintained.
2
Coagulation of Latex
1 The milky fluid from tapped rubber trees is
called latex.
2 The conversion of latex to the solid form is
known as coagulation.
3 Latex is a colloidal solution containing an
aqueous suspension of rubber particles.
4 Each rubber particle contains rubber polymers
enclosed with a protein membrane with
negative charge.
5 The negative charge on the membrane’s surface
repel colloidal particles from one another,
preventing the rubber polymers from
combining together. Hence the latex remains
in liquid form.
6 Coagulation of rubber can be speeded up by
the addition of acids.
7 The addition of a weak acid on latex causes
coagulation because
add a weak
coagulation
acid
of latex
• Latex is coagulated by adding a weak
acid such as methanoic acid or ethanoic
acid. When an acid is added to latex,
the hydrogen ions from the acid will
neutralise the negative charges on the
surfaces of the colloidal particles.
As a result, the particles become neutral
and can come closer and collide with
one another.
• The collisions between
latex particles break
open the protein
membrane and releases
the rubber polymers.
• The rubber polymers can
coalesce (combine) and
form lumps of rubber.
This process of forming
lumps of rubber is called
coagulation of latex.
• The lumps of rubber are
white solids and are quite
elastic.
Figure 2.12 The coagulation of latex
Activity 2.7
To investigate the coagulation of latex and methods to
prevent coagulation
Apparatus
Beaker, glass rod and dropper
Procedure
1 About 50 cm3 of latex are placed in three beakers
labelled A, B and C respectively.
2 Using a dropper, dilute ethanoic acid is added to
the latex in beaker B. The mixture is stirred with
a glass rod until the latex becomes acidic (blue
litmus paper turns red).
Materials
Fresh latex, dilute ethanoic acid, dilute aqueous
ammonia and blue litmus paper.
Carbon Compounds
SPM
’08/P3
372
3 Aqueous ammonia is slowly added to beaker
C until the latex becomes alkaline (red litmus
paper turns blue).
4 The three beakers are left overnight. The changes
that occurred are recorded.
Beaker
Results
Latex only
B
Latex + acid
Coagulation of latex
occurs rapidly
C
Latex + aqueous
ammonia
Latex does not
coagulate (no visible
changes)
Observation
Coagulation occurs
slowly
Properties of Natural Unvulcanised
Rubber and Vulcanised Rubber
2
A
Chemicals added
to latex
6 Vulcanisation is the process of hardening
rubber by heating it with sulphur or sulphur
compounds.
7 Vulcanisation of rubber is carried out by
(a) heating natural rubber with sulphur at
about 140 °C, using zinc oxide as catalyst,
(b) immersing rubber in a solution of disulphur
dichloride (S2Cl2) in methylbenzene.
8 In vulcanised rubber, the sulphur atoms form
cross-links between long chains of rubber
polymers.
SPM
’10/P1
1 Natural rubber has the following properties:
(a) Quite elastic
(b) Water repellent
(c) Does not conduct electricity
2 Elasticity is the ability of an object to be
stretched and then returned to its original
shape when the stress is removed.
3 Natural rubber before treatment with sulphur
is unvulcanised rubber.
4 Unvulcanised natural rubber has few practical
uses because
(a) it is not elastic enough
(b) it becomes soft and sticky when heated
(c) it becomes brittle and crack easily when
oxidised by oxygen.
5 When unvulcanised rubber is stretched, the
coiled rubber molecule is lengthened and
straightened.
c
s
s
c
rubber polymer
c
s
s
c
c
s
s
c
sulphur
cross-links
TC 2/15
c c
Figure 2.15 Vulcanised rubber has sulphur cross-links
9 Vulcanised rubber has many uses because
of improved properties. Vulcanisation makes
the rubber more elastic, stronger and more
resistant to heat and oxidation.
Improved properties of
vulcanised rubber
Stronger and harder
polymer chain of rubber
under ordinary conditions
Observation
Conclusion
1 Acids such as ethanoic acid speed up the
coagulation of latex.
2 Alkalis such as aqueous ammonia slow down the
coagulation of latex.
3 Coagulation of latex can occur by itself slowly.
Figure 2.13 To investigate the coagulation of latex
Beaker
Chemicals added
to latex
polymer chain of rubber
when straightened
Figure 2.14 Unvulcanised rubber is not very elastic
373
Explanation
The sulphur cross-links
prevent the polymer
chains from slipping
past one another when
stretched
Carbon Compounds
Improved properties of
vulcanised rubber
Improved properties of
vulcanised rubber
Explanation
More elastic
The sulphur cross-links
pull the chains back to
their original arrangement
when released
More resistant to heat
The presence of sulphur
increases the melting
point of rubber
More resistant to
oxygen
Explanation
Sulphur cross-links
reduce the number of
double bonds in the
molecules of vulcanised
rubber
2
To produce vulcanised rubber and to compare the properties
of vulcanised rubber and unvulcanised natural rubber
(A) Preparation of natural rubber and vulcanised
rubber
Materials
Vulcanised rubber and unvulcanised rubber.
Apparatus
Glass plate, beaker, a pair of tongs and razor blade.
Procedure
1 A strip of vulcanised rubber is hung using a clip.
2 The original length of the vulcanised rubber strip
is measured.
3 A 20 g weight is hung on the strip of vulcanised
rubber.
4 The increase in length of the vulcanised rubber strip
is measured.
5 The weight is removed and the final length of the
vulcanised rubber strip is measured again.
6 Steps 1 to 5 are repeated using the unvulcanised
rubber strip of the same length to replace the
vulcanised rubber strip.
Materials
Disulphur dichloride in methylbenzene and rubber
latex.
Procedure
1 A small quantity of latex is poured on a glass plate.
2 A glass rod is used to level the latex to produce a
flat, thin layer of latex about 1 mm thick.
3 The glass plate is put aside for one day for the
latex to coagulate.
4 The rubber produced is cut into two strips of
rubber of equal size using a razor blade.
5 One of the strips of rubber is dipped into a solution
of disulphur dichloride in methylbenzene for 2-3
minutes to produce a strip of vulcanised rubber.
6 The strip of vulcanised rubber is then removed
from the solution and dried with filter paper.
(B) To compare the elasticity of vulcanised rubber
and unvulcanised rubber
Apparatus
Clip, retort stand with clamp, metre rule and
weight.
FOLS
UHWRUWVWDQG
UXOHU
WKUHDG
JZHLJKW
SPM
’06/P3
Figure 2.16 To compare the elasticity of rubber
Results
Activity 2.8
UXEEHUVWULS
Original length
(cm)
Stretched length
with weight (cm)
Increase in length
(cm)
Final length after
weight is removed
(cm)
Unvulcanised
rubber
X
X1
X1 – X = Y1
Y3
Vulcanised rubber
X
X2
X2 – X = Y2
Y4
Type of rubber
Carbon Compounds
374
Discussion
1 The increase in length of vulcanised rubber
(stretched length) is less than the increase in
length of unvulcanised rubber (that is, Y2 < Y1).
This shows that vulcanised rubber is harder and
stronger than unvulcanised rubber.
2 The vulcanised rubber has a higher ability to
return to its original length after the weight
is taken off (that is Y4 < Y3). This shows that
the vulcanised rubber is more elastic than
unvulcanised rubber.
Conclusion
Vulcanised rubber is harder, stronger and more
elastic than unvulcanised rubber.
Uses of Natural Rubber
2 Unvulcanised natural rubber is used for
making adhesive (glue) and as crepe rubber in
insulating blankets.
3 Vulcanised rubber has many uses in industries
and home.
Vehicle tyres
Surgical gloves and
protective gloves
Shock absorbers
Insulating layer for electric
cables and equipment
Shoe soles
2
1 Unvulcanised natural rubber has limited uses
as it is soft, has poor heat resistance and does
not wear well. It becomes soft and sticky when
heated. It also becomes hard and brittle due
to oxidation.
Rubber hoses
Things
made from
vulcanised
natural
rubber
Conveyor belts
Balloons
Rubber mattresses
Rubber bands
Research on Natural Rubber in Malaysia
1 In Malaysia, the research and development on
rubber is conducted by the
(a) Rubber Research Institute of Malaysia
(RRIM)
(b) Malaysian Rubber Producer Research
Association (MRPRA)
(c) Rubber Board of Malaysia
2 The scope of research and development activities
include
(a) finding new uses of rubber and rubber
products
(b) improving the quality of natural rubber
(c) automating the tapping system so as to
overcome labour shortage.
375
Carbon Compounds
2.9
2.11
1 Complete the following table.
Natural polymer
Monomer
Uses of Various Organic Materials in
Everyday Life
Protein
Isoprene
1 Organic compounds were originally extracted
from living things, products or remains of
living things. The term organic actually means
‘derived from living organisms’. Living things
are made of complex organic compounds that
have structural, chemical or genetic functions.
2 However since the nineteenth century, organic
compounds have been synthesised in the
laboratory from inorganic materials. In 1828,
the German chemist Friedrich Wohler was able
to synthesise urea (an organic compound)
from ammonium cyanate (an inorganic
compound).
3 In present times, thousands of organic
compounds are synthesised every year to
fulfill our needs in the modern society.
These synthetic organic compounds include
synthetic polymers, vitamins, medicines,
cosmetics, pesticides, paints, varnishes,
glues, adhesives, synthetic fibers for clothing
materials and others.
4 Organic synthesis is the preparation of
specific and desired organic compounds from
readily available resources.
5 Research and development towards natural
organic compounds enable us to
(a) simulate the structure of natural organic
compounds and make useful synthetic
organic compounds which are imitations
of natural compounds. Examples: Dyes,
food flavours, fragrances and medicines.
(b) extract the active ingredients from
traditional medicines. Cheaper and more
effective medicines without side effects
can then be made commercially. Generic
medicines are made to lower the cost of
medicines for consumers.
(c) produce seeds of higher quality and more
resistant towards pests, so as to increase
the yield of food production.
(d) find new uses for agriculture products.
For example, oil palm waste is used to
produce biomass fuel and make composite
construction materials.
6 The economical development of our country
depends heavily on products of organic
Carbohydrate
Starch
2 State the chemicals used in the following processes
in rubber industries and their effects on the
properties of rubber.
(a) Coagulation
(b) Vulcanisation
2
3 What causes latex to coagulate under natural
conditions? Suggest a method to prevent this
phenomenon.
2.10
Order in Homologous
Series
1 Organic compounds are grouped in families
called the homologous series to make the
study of organic chemistry more systematic
and orderly.
2 Alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, carboxylic acids and
esters are examples of homologous series.
3 The chemical properties of members of a
homologous series are the same as they have
the same functional group.
4 The physical properties of members of a
homologous series show a regular pattern
and change gradually as the number of
carbon atoms increases.
Descending the
homologous
series as the
number of
carbon atoms
increases
• Relative molecular
mass increases
• Melting point
increases
• Boiling point
increases
• Volatility decreases
• Density increases
• Solubility decreases
5 The order in the physical properties of members
in a homologous series enables us to predict
the properties of an unknown member in the
series.
Carbon Compounds
The Variety of Organic
Materials in Nature
376
1 Organic carbon compounds include hydrocarbons
such as alkanes and alkenes, alcohols, carboxylic
acids, esters, fats and oils and natural rubber.
2 Physical properties of alkanes and alkenes:
(a) Low melting and boiling points
(b) Insoluble in water, soluble in organic solvents
(c) Non-conductors of electricity
3 Chemical properties of alkanes (general formula:
CnH2n+2):
(a) Combustion in excess oxygen to form CO2 and
H2O
(b) Substitution reactions with halogen under
ultraviolet light
4 Chemical properties of alkenes (general formula:
CnH2n):
(a) Combustion in excess oxygen to form CO2 and
H2O
(b) Addition reaction
(i) with H2 (hydrogenation) to form alkanes
(ii) with H2O (hydrolysis) to form alcohols
(iii) with KMnO4 to form diols
(iv) with Cl2 or Br2 to form dichloroalkanes or
dibromoalkanes
(c) Polymerisation to form polymers
5 Chemical properties of alcohols (general formula:
CnH2n+1OH):
(a) Combustion in excess oxygen to form CO2 and
H2O
(b) Oxidation by acidified KMnO4 or K2Cr2O7 to form
carboxylic acids
(c) Dehydration by heated porcelain to form
alkenes
(d) Esterification with carboxylic acids (with conc.
H2SO4 as a catalyst) to form esters
6 Preparation of ethanol, C2H5OH:
(a) Fermentation of glucose by yeast
7
8
9
10
11
12
377
(b) Hydrolysis of ethene (phosphoric acid as a
catalyst)
Chemical properties of carboxylic acids (general
formula: CnH2n+1COOH):
(a) Reacts with reactive metals to form salts and H2
gas
(b) Reacts with metal carbonates to form salts and
CO2 gas
(c) Reacts with alkalis to form salts and H2O
(d) Esterification with alcohols to form esters and
H2O
Physical properties of esters (general formula:
RCOOR′):
(a) Have sweet/ fragrant/ fruity smells
(b) Insoluble in water
Fats and oils are esters.
(a) Fats are solids (with lower melting points) and
are saturated (without C = C bonds).
(b) Oils are liquids (with higher melting points) and
are unsaturated (with C = C bonds).
(c) Oils can be converted to margarine by
hydrogenation.
Hydrolysis of fats (or oils) will produced fatty acids
(long chained carboxylic acids) and glycerol.
Coagulation is the conversion of liquid latex to
rubber solid. It
(a) can be speeded by the addition of acids.
(b) can occur slowly when the bacteria present
produce acids.
(c) can be prevented by the addition of aqueous
ammonia.
Vulcanisation of rubber is the conversion of natural
rubber to vulcanised rubber by forming sulphur
cross-links between rubber polymers. Vulcanised
rubber is stronger, harder, more elastic and more
resistant to heat and oxidation.
Carbon Compounds
2
8 In 2012, universities and research institutes in
collaboration with Agensi Innovasi Malaysia
have successfully developed products such as
disease-resistant chilli, lumber from oil palm,
coconut body armour, biopesticide to control
mosquito larvae and mosquito repellant gel.
compounds such as petroleum, palm oil and
natural rubber.
7 Presently, research and development of natural
resources in our country is encouraged to
produce new and useful organic compounds.
New synthetic medicines are developed
to combat disease and new polymers are
synthesised to replace the use of metals and
even replace organs in our bodies.
2
Multiple-choice Questions
2.1
Carbon Compounds
2
1 Which of the following is an
organic compound?
A Calcium carbonate
B Glucose
C Carbon monoxide
D Copper(II) oxide
2 Which of the following products
are formed from the complete
combustion of all organic
compounds?
A Water and carbon dioxide
B Carbon dioxide and carbon
monoxide
C Water, carbon dioxide and
nitrogen dioxide
D Carbon and water
2.2
Alkanes
3 Which of the following is a
saturated hydrocarbon?
’06 A Alkane
B Alkene
C Alcohol
D Carboxylic acid
4 Which of the following substances
can undergo substitution reaction
’06 with chlorine in sunlight?
A Ethane
B Ethene
C Ethanol
D Ethanoic acid
5 What are the products formed
when ethane is burnt with
’07 excess oxygen?
A Carbon and hydrogen
B Carbon dioxide and water
C Carbon monoxide and water
D Carbon monoxide and
hydrogen
Carbon Compounds
6 Which of the following produces
the most soot when burned in air?
A Methane
B Ethane
C Butane
D Hexane
2.3
Alkenes
7 Which of the following
substances can be used to
’04 differentiate propene from
propane?
A Limewater
B Bromine water
C Sodium hydroxide solution
D Potassium dichromate(VI)
solution
8 Which of the following is
the structural formula of an
’05 unsaturated hydrocarbon?
A H—
H H H H
|
|
|
|
C—C=C—C—H
|
|
H
H
H H H H
|
|
|
|
B H—C—C=C—C—H
|
|
H
OH
C H—
D H—
H O
|
i
C—C—O—H
|
H
H
|
C—
|
H
H
|
C—
|
H
378
H
|
C—
|
H
H
|
C—H
|
H
9 Propene can be transformed to
propane by the process of
’07 A hydration
B oxidation
C dehydration
D hydrogenation
10 A hydrocarbon compound is
burnt completely in air to form
’05 7.2 cm3 of carbon dioxide gas
and 7.2 cm3 of water vapour.
What is the molecular formula
of the hydrocarbon compound?
[Given that 1 mol of gas
occupies 24 dm3 at room
temperature]
A C2H6
B C3H6
C C3H8
D C6H6
11 What is the product formed
when propene is shaken with
’10 chlorine water?
A 1, 1- dichloropropane
B 2, 2 -dichloropropane
C 1, 2- dichloropropane
D 1, 3- dichloropropane
12 The diagram below shows
the structural formula of a
’11 compound.
H
|
H—C—H
H
H H
|
|
|
H—C=C—C—C—H
|
|
H H
What is the name of this
compound?
A Pentene
B Methylbutene
C 2-methylbut-1-ene
D 2-methylbut-2-ene
H
|
A —C—
|
H
H
|
C—
|
H
H
|
C—
|
H
H
|
C—
|
H
H
|
B —C—
|
H
CH3
|
C—
|
H
H
|
C—
|
H
CH3
|
C—
|
H
H
|
C —C—
|
H
CH3
|
C—
|
CH3
H
|
C—
|
H
H
|
C—
|
H
CH3
|
D —C—
|
H
H
|
C—
|
H
H
|
C—
|
H
H
|
C—
|
H
2.4
16 Which of the following pairs of
compounds are isomers?
A Butane and butene
B Butane and 2-methylbutane
C But-1-ene and
2-methylpropene
D 2,2-dimethyl propane and
2-methylpropane
2.5
15 The structural formula of a
compound is given below.
H
|
H—C—H
H
H H
|
|
|
H—C—C—C—C—H
|
|
|
|
H H H H
Which of the following is the
IUPAC name for the compound?
H
|
H—C—H
H
H
|
|
H—C—C=C—H
|
H
Pentane
Methylbutane
2-methylbutane
3-methylbutane
Alcohols
17 The diagram shows the set-up
of apparatus for the reaction of
’06 yeast with glucose solution.
Isomerism
14 Which of the following is
true of all the isomers of a
hydrocarbon?
A They have the same structural
formula.
B They have the same functional
group.
C They have the same chemical
properties.
D They produce the same
number of moles of carbon
dioxide and water on
complete combustion.
’05
A
B
C
D
What is the name of the reaction
that has taken place in the conical
flask after a few days?
A Oxidation
B Hydration
C Hydrolysis
D Fermentation
18 The following chemical equation
shows the conversion of ethanol
’04 to ethanoic acid.
C2H5OH + 2[O] →
CH3COOH + H2O
What is the name of the process
shown by the above equation?
A Dehydration
B Reduction
C Oxidation
D Fermentation
19 The diagram shows the structural
formula of compound X.
379
What is the name of the
compound formed when
compound X reacts with
potassium permanganate?
A Butanol
B 2-methylpropanol
C Butan-1,2-diol
D 2-methylpropan-1,2-diol
20 The diagram below shows
the structural formula of
’04 pent-1-ene.
H H H
|
|
|
H—C=C—C—
|
H
H
|
C—
|
H
H
|
C—H
|
H
Which of the following are
the possible alcohols that
can produce pent-1-ene on
dehydration?
I Pentan-1-ol
II Pentan-2-ol
III Pentan-3-ol
IV 2-methylbutan-1-ol
A I and II only
B II and IV only
C I and IV only
D I, II and III only
21 The diagram below shows the
set-up of the apparatus for a
’05 reaction.
glass wool
soaked with
ethanol
porcelain
chips
compound X
heat heat
water
Which of the following is
compound X?
A Ethane
TC 2/18
B Ethene
C Ethanoic acid
D Carbon dioxide
Carbon Compounds
2
13 Polypropene is a polymer that
is formed from the combination
’07 of propene molecules. Which of
the following represents part of
the structure of polypropene?
22
CH3
|
H3C – C – OH
|
H
2
Which of the following may
be true of the compound
represented in the figure
above?
A Decolourise the brown colour
of bromine water.
B Decolourise the purple colour
of cold aqueous potassium
permanganate.
C Changes the orange colour
of potassium dichromate to
green when heated.
D Produces a sweet-smelling
liquid when heated with
ethanol and concentrated
sulphuric acid.
2.6
fermentation
X
oxidation
Y
Which of the following pairs of
compounds may be compound
X and compound Y?
X
23 Compound X has the following
properties:
• Reacts with sodium carbonate
to produce a gas that turns
limewater milky.
• Reacts with ethanol to
produce a sweet-smelling
compound.
Which of the following
compounds may be compound
X?
A Carbonic acid
B Ethanoic acid
C Propanol
D Ethyl ethanoate
24 A liquid produced effervescence
when reacted with zinc metal.
’05 Which of the following may be
the molecular formula of the
liquid?
A HCOOH
B HCOOCH3
C CH3OH
D CH3COONa
25 The diagram shows the
conversion of glucose to
compound X and subsequently
to compound Y.
Carbon Compounds
Y
A
Ethanol
Ethanoic acid
B
Ethanol
Ethene
C
Propanol
Propanoic acid
D
Yeast
Carbon dioxide
2.7
Carboxylic Acids
Which of the following is the
structural formula for compound
Z?
O
i
A C2H5 — C — O — CH3
Glucose
Esters
26 Scented flowers contain naturally
occurring esters. Which of the
’04 following is a property of an
ester?
A Soluble in water
B Low boiling point
C Higher density than water
D Change blue litmus to red
27 The diagram below represents
the structural formula of a
’04 carbon compound.
O
i
CH3 — CH2 — C — O — CH2 — CH2 — CH2 — CH3
The compound is produced by
the reaction between
A ethanol and butanoic acid
B butanol and ethanoic acid
C butanol and propanoic acid
D propanol and butanoic acid
28 The diagram below shows the
process of producing compound
’05 Z.
C3H6
O
i
B CH3 — C — O — C3H7
O
i
C C2H5 — C — O — C2H5
O
i
D C2H5 — C — O — C3H7
29 Which of the following equations
can produce a product with a
’06 sweet fruity scent?
I CH3COOH + NaOH →
CH3COONa + H2O
II CH3OH + C2H5COOH →
C2H5COOCH3 + H2O
III C2H5OH + 2[O] →
CH3COOH + H2O
IV C5H11OH + CH3COOH →
CH3COOC5H11 + H2O
A I and III only
B II and IV only
C III and IV only
D I, II and IV only
30 The diagram shows the
conversion of ethanol to
compound X and subsequently
to compound Y.
acidified KMnO4
C2H5OH ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→ X
CH3OH, concentrated
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→ Y
H2SO4, reflux
+ steam
Ethanol
+
C2H5OH
Y
oxidation
Compound Z
380
X
Which of the following may be
compound Y?
A Ethanoic acid
B Ethyl ethanoate
C Ethyl methanoate
D Methyl ethanoate
A I only
B III only
Oils and Fats
31 Which of the following belong
to the homologous series of
esters?
I Palm oil
II Margarine
IIISodium butanoate
IV Glycerol
A I and II only
B I and III only
C III and IV only
D I, II and III only
C I, II and III only
D I, II, III and IV
34 The diagram shows the change in structure of natural rubber after process
P.
c c
c c
c c
c c
c c
c c
c
s
s
c
c
s
s
c
c c
rubber X
32 Which of the following molecular
formulae of fatty acids is formed
from the hydrolysis of a nonsaturated fat?
A C15H31COOH
B C17H35COOH
C C17H33COOH
D C23H47COOH
c
s
s
c
c c
rubber Y
Which of the following statements is true about the change?
A Rubber X is more elastic than rubber Y.
TCY.2/19
B Rubber X is stronger than rubber
C Rubber X is more resistant to heat than rubber Y.
D Rubber X is more easily oxidised than rubber Y.
35 A rubber tapper faces a problem of transporting latex to a glove-making
factory in liquid form. To solve the problem he has to add a substance
’06 into the latex to prevent the coagulation of the latex.
Choose the correct substance and the explanation to solve the problem.
Substance
2.9
process P
Natural Rubber
33 Which of the following chemicals
can cause latex to coagulate?
I Methanoic acid
II Sulphuric acid
III Ethanoic acid
IV Nitric acid
Explanation
A
Water
To make the latex more dilute
B
Ethanoic acid
Contains H+ ions that neutralise the negative
charge on the membrane of the rubber particle
C
Ammonia
solution
Contains OH– ions that neutralise the H+ ions
from the acids produced by bacteria
D
Sodium chloride
solution
As a preservative to maintain the original state of
the latex
Structured Questions
(b) Complete Table 1 by filling in the molecular
formula of propane and the name of C4H10.
1 Table 1 shows the names, molecular formulae, melting
points and boiling points of a few straight chain
members of a homologous series.
Name
Ethane
Molecular
formula
Melting
point (°C)
Boiling
point (°C)
C2H6
–183
–89
–188
–42
C4H10
–138
–0.5
C5H12
–130
36
Propane
Pentane
[2 marks]
(c) Draw the structural formula of the first member
of this homologous series.
[1 mark]
(d) Predict the physical states of
(i) propane
(ii) pentane
[1 mark]
[1 mark]
(e) Give the name and the molecular formula of the
member of the same homologous series after
pentane.
[2 marks]
(f) Write a balanced equation for the complete
combustion of ethane.
[1 mark]
Table 1
(a) Give the name and the general formula of this
homologous series.
[2 marks]
381
Carbon Compounds
2
2.8
(b) State the function of concentrated sulphuric acid
[1 mark]
in this reaction.
(c) (i) Name the reaction for the preparation of
[1 mark]
ethyl ethanoate.
(ii) Write the chemical reaction for the reaction
[1 mark]
in (i).
2 Propene is an important hydrocarbon in the petrochemical
industries. Diagram 1 shows the conversion of propene
into other organic compounds.
Polypropene
process II
(d) The experiment is repeated by replacing ethanol
with methanol.
[1 mark]
(i) Name the ester formed.
(ii) Draw the structural formula of the ester
[1 mark]
formed.
(iii) State one physical property of the ester.
process
process
Propene
Propan-1-ol
I
III
Propane
process IV
Compound X
[1 mark]
Diagram 1
(e) The flowchart shows the conversion of ethene to
ethanol and then to ethanoic acid.
Based on Diagram 1, answer the following questions.
2
(a) State the homologous series of propene.
[1 mark]
(b) Name process I.
[1 mark]
Ethene
(c) Under certain conditions, propene reacts to form
polypropene. Write an equation for the formation
of polypropene in process II.
[1 mark]
(d)
(i) Explain briefly how process III is carried out
in industries.
[2 marks]
(ii) Draw the structural formula of propan-1-ol.
[1 mark]
(e) Acidified potassium manganate(VII) is added to
propene in process IV.
(i) Predict the observation that will take place.
process I
Ethanol
process II
Ethanoic
acid
Based on the flowchart, write the chemical
equation for
[1 mark]
(i) process I
(ii) process II
[1 mark]
(iii) State a suitable chemical that can be used
[1 mark]
to carry out process II.
4 Diagram 3 shows conversions I, II and III starting with
glucose.
[1 mark]
(ii) Write a balanced equation for the reaction
that has occurred.
[1 mark]
Glucose
(f) Both propene and propane are combustible in
air. Compare and explain the difference in the
quantity of soot produced by the two compounds
during combustion.
[2 marks]
yeast
Liquid
A
II
Liquid
B
reagent
III
concentrated
H2SO4 asid
Liquid C
3 Diagram 2 shows the set-up of apparatus for the
preparation of ethyl ethanoate by heating ethanol
and ethanoic acid under reflux.
Diagram 3
(a) (i) Name conversion I.
[1 mark]
(ii) Draw the structural formula of liquid A.
water out
[1 mark]
(b) Liquid B has a vinegary smell.
(i) Name the type of reaction that takes place
[1 mark]
in conversion II.
(ii) Write a chemical equation for conversion II.
TC 2/20
water in
xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
[1 mark]
(c) Give one chemical test that can be used to
[2 marks]
distinguish liquid B from liquid A.
ethanol, ethanoic acid
and concentrated
sulphuric acid
(d)
heat
Diagram 2
(i) Name the homologous series of which
[1 mark]
liquid C is a member.
(ii) Name liquid C.
[1 mark]
(iii) State one use of liquid C.
[1 mark]
(e) Suggest another method to produce liquid A
other than from glucose in conversion I.
(a) Why is ethanol and ethanoic acid heated under
reflux?
[1 mark]
Carbon Compounds
I
382
[1 mark]
(c) Name compound X.
5 Diagram 4 shows the conversion of latex to compound
X.
Latex
process I
Natural process II
rubber
c
s
s
c
c
s
s
c
c
s
s
c
(d) State two differences in physical properties
between natural rubber and compound X.
TC 2/21
[2 marks]
(e) How is process II carried out in the industry?
[1 mark]
(f) (i) Name a chemical that can be used to retain
[1 mark]
latex in the liquid form.
(ii) Explain the function of the chemical named
[1 mark]
in (i).
c c
compound X
Diagram 4
(a) Name process I and process II.
[1 mark]
[2 marks]
(b) Name a chemical that can be used to carry out
process I.
[1 mark]
(g) Give one use of compound X.
[1 mark]
Essay Questions
2 (a) Diagram 1 shows the formation of carboxylic acids
from alcohols.
(b) The information below is referring to carbon
compound X.
•
•
•
•
•
Alcohols
Carboxylic acids
2
1 (a) Draw the structural formulae of two isomers of
but-1-ene and give their IUPAC names. [4 marks]
Diagram 1
Carbon 40.0%
Hydrogen 6.7%
Oxygen 53.3%
Relative molecular mass = 60
Relative atomic mass of H = 1, C = 12
and O = 16
Using suitable reagents and with the help of a
labelled diagram, describe how you can prepare
a named carboxylic acid in the laboratory.
Include the observation and a test to show that
the product formed is an acid. Write a chemical
equation for the reaction involved.
[10 marks]
Based on the information of the carbon compound
X,
(i) determine the molecular formula of X.
(ii) draw the structural formula of X.
(iii) name the carbon compound X.
(iv) write the general formula for its homologous
series.
[8 marks]
(b) Many artificial flavours used in the food industry
are esters. Various types of esters can be formed
from the esterification between an alcohol and a
carboxylic acid. Name one possible ester that can
be formed and describe how you can prepare
the named ester in the laboratory. Name the
alcohol and carboxylic acid that is used and the
chemical equations involved.
(c) Margarine can be made from palm oil. Compare
and contrast margarine and palm oil in terms of
their structures and physical properties. Briefly
describe how palm oil can be converted to
margarine.
[8 marks]
[10 marks]
Experiment
1
Your
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
Hexane is a saturated hydrocarbon whereas hexene
is an unsaturated hydrocarbon. Both are colourless
liquids. However they undergo different reactions
toward addition reaction.
You are required to plan an experiment to differentiate
the two compounds.
383
planning should include the following:
Statement of the problem
All the variables
Hypothesis
List of materials and apparatus
Procedure
Tabulation of data
[17 marks]
Carbon Compounds
FORM 5
THEME: Interaction between Chemicals
CHAPTER
3
Oxidation and Reduction
SPM Topical Analysis
2008
Year
1
Paper
2009
3
2
Section
A
B
C
Number of questions
1
—
6
–
1
5
–
1
2010
2
4
3
A
B
C
–
–
1
1
–
4
2011
2
3
A
B
C
–
–
–
–
1
3
2
3
A
B
C
1
–
–
–
ONCEPT MAP
Oxidising agent
A substance that accepts (gains) electrons and is itself
reduced in the process
Reducing agent
A substance that donates (loses) electrons and is itself
oxidised in the process
Oxidation
• Gain of oxygen/increase in oxidation number
• Loss of hydrogen/loss of electrons
Reduction
• Loss of oxygen/decrease in oxidation number
• Gain of hydrogen/gain of electrons
Rusting of iron
Fe → Fe2+ + 2e– → Fe2O3.xH2O
OXIDATIONREDUCTION (REDOX)
REACTIONS
Oxidation of Fe2+ ions:
Fe2+ → Fe3+ + e–
Reduction of Fe3+ ions:
Fe3+ + e– → Fe2+
Combustion of metals
Reactivity series of metals
K > Na > Ca > Mg > Al > Zn > Fe >
Sn > Pb > Cu > Ag > Au
Prevention of rusting
• Galvanising
• Sacrificial metal
• Alloying
Displacement of halogens from
the halides
e.g. Cl2 + 2KBr → 2KCl + Br2
Displacement of metals from their salts
e.g. Zn + CuSO4 → ZnSO4 + Cu
Heating metal oxides with
carbon and hydrogen
Electrochemical series
K > Na > Ca > Mg > Al > Zn > Fe >
Sn > Pb > H > Cu > Ag
Position of C and H in the reactivity
series of metals
K > Na > Ca > Mg > Al > C > Zn > H
> Fe > Sn > Pb > Cu > Ag
Electrolytic cell
• Electrons flow from anode (+ve) to
cathode (–ve) in the external circuit
• Extraction of iron
2Fe2O3 + 3C → 4Fe + 3CO2
• Extraction of tin
SnO2 + C → Sn + CO2
Chemical cell
• Electrons flow from anode (–ve) to cathode (+ve) in the external circuit
Redox Reactions
Oxidation and Reduction Reactions
Oxidation in Terms of Loss of Hydrogen
1 Oxidation can also be defined as the loss of
hydrogen from a substance. If a substance
loses hydrogen during a reaction, it is said
to be oxidised.
2 When hydrogen sulphide gas is mixed with
chlorine gas at room temperature, a yellow
precipitate of sulphur is formed and hydrogen
chloride gas is released.
SPM
’08/P1,
’09/P1
1 Oxidation can be defined as
(a) acceptance (gain) of oxygen,
(b) donation (loss) of hydrogen,
(c) loss of electrons and,
(d) increase in the oxidation number of the
element.
2 In contrast, reduction can be defined as
(a) loss of oxygen,
(b) gain of hydrogen,
(c) gain of electrons and,
(d) decrease in the oxidation number of the
element.
H2S(g) + Cl2(g) → 2HCl(g) + S(s)
loss of hydrogen
(oxidation)
In this reaction, hydrogen sulphide loses
hydrogen and is oxidised to sulphur.
3 When ammonia gas is passed over hot
copper(II) oxide, the following reaction occurs.
A newly cut apple turns yellow on exposure to air. This
is due to the oxidation of apples by oxygen. The reaction
is catalysed by the enzymes present in apples.
2NH3(g) + 3CuO(s) → N2(g) + 3Cu(s) + 3H2O(l)
oxidation
Oxidation in Terms of Gain of Oxygen
Ammonia undergoes oxidation because it
loses hydrogen. In other words, ammonia is
oxidised to nitrogen.
1 Oxidation is a chemical reaction in which
oxygen is added to a substance. If a substance
(element or compound) gains oxygen during
a reaction, it is said to be oxidised.
2 When calcium burns in oxygen, the following
reaction occurs:
2Ca(s) + O2(g) → 2CaO(s)
Reduction in Terms of Loss of Oxygen
1 A reduction reaction is the reverse process of
an oxidation reaction. Reduction is defined
as the loss of oxygen from a substance. If a
substance loses oxygen during a reaction, it
is said to be reduced.
2 When a mixture of zinc powder and
copper(II) oxide is heated, the following
reaction occurs.
addition of oxygen
(oxidation)
(a) This process is known as oxidation.
(b) Calcium is oxidised to calcium oxide
because it gains oxygen in this reaction.
3 Methane burns in air as represented by the
equation:
oxidation
CH4(g) + 2O2(g) ⎯⎯⎯→ CO2(g) + 2H2O(g)
oxidation
In this reaction,
(a) the carbon atom in methane is oxidised
to carbon dioxide,
(b) the hydrogen atoms in methane is oxidised
to water.
Therefore, combustion is an oxidation reaction.
loss of oxygen
(reduction)
Zn(s) + CuO(s) → ZnO(s) + Cu(s)
3 In this reaction, copper(II) oxide has lost its
oxygen. It is said to be reduced to metallic
copper.
385
Oxidation and Reduction
3
3.1
oxidation
Reduction in Terms of Gain of Hydrogen
1 Reduction can also be defined as the addition
of hydrogen to a substance. If a substance
gains hydrogen during a reaction, it is said
to be reduced.
2 When a mixture of hydrogen and chlorine
is exposed to sunlight, a vigorous reaction
occurs and white fumes of hydrogen chloride
are produced.
Mg(s) + H2O(g) → MgO(s) + H2(g)
reduction
4 In this reaction, magnesium has gained oxygen
and is oxidised. In contrast, water has lost its
oxygen and is reduced.
addition of hydrogen
(reduction)
Respiration is a redox process. When respiration occurs,
the food is oxidised and oxygen molecules accept
electrons and are reduced to water. Photosynthesis is
also a redox reaction.
H2(g) + Cl2(g) → 2HCl(g)
3 In this reaction, chlorine has gained
hydrogen. This means that chlorine has
been reduced.
3
6CO2(g) + 6H2O(l) → C6H12O6(aq) + 6O2(g)
sugar
Electrons are removed from water molecules and are
used to reduce carbon dioxide to sugar.
Oxidising and Reducing Agents
1 An oxidising agent is a substance that brings
about (causes) oxidation in another substance.
In bringing about oxidation, the oxidising
agent is itself reduced.
2 A reducing agent is a substance that brings
about reduction in another substance and is
itself oxidised.
3 The following are examples of oxidising and
reducing agents.
Antoine Lavoisier (1743–1794)
Antoine Lavoisier is known as the Father of Modern
Chemistry. He was the first chemist who explained the
oxidation and reduction reactions that occur during
combustion.
Redox Reactions
1 Oxidation and reduction always take place
together. A redox reaction is defined as a reaction
in which both oxidation and reduction take place
simultaneously.
2 In a redox reaction, when one substance in
a reaction is oxidised, the other substance is
reduced.
3 When steam is passed over heated magnesium,
magnesium oxide and hydrogen are produced.
Oxidation and Reduction
SPM
’08/P1,
’09/P1
Oxidising agents
Reducing agents
• Chlorine and
bromine
• Acidified potassium
manganate(VII)
• Acidified potassium
dichromate(VI)
• Concentrated nitric
acid
• Metals such as
sodium, magnesium,
zinc and aluminium
• Sulphur dioxide gas
and hydrogen
sulphide gas
• Sodium sulphite and
sodium thiosulphate
4 In a redox reaction involving A and B: if A
is an oxidising agent, then B is the reducing
agent and vice versa.
386
Reaction
The reaction between copper(II) oxide and carbon:
oxidised
(gain oxygen)
2CuO(s) + C(s) → 2Cu(s) + CO2(g)
Oxidising agent
Reducing agent
Copper(II) oxide
• Copper(II) oxide
oxidises carbon to
carbon dioxide.
• It is reduced to copper.
Carbon
• Carbon reduces
copper(II) oxide to
copper.
• It is oxidised to carbon
dioxide.
Chlorine
• Chlorine oxidises
hydrogen sulphide to
sulphur.
• It is reduced to
hydrogen chloride.
Hydrogen sulphide
• Hydrogen sulphide
reduces chlorine to
hydrogen chloride.
• It is oxidised to
sulphur.
reduced
(loss of oxygen)
The reaction between chlorine and hydrogen sulphide:
oxidised
(loss of hydrogen)
3
Cl2(g) + H2S(g) → 2HCl(g) + S(s)
reduced
(gain hydrogen)
1
The equation for the reaction between iron(III)
oxide and carbon monoxide is shown below.
In many cases, oxidation or reduction reactions are
accompanied by colour changes.
Br2(brown) → Br–(colourless) … reduction
MnO4–(purple) → Mn2+ (colourless) … reduction
Cr2O72–(orange) → Cr3+ (green) … reduction
Fe2+ (green) → Fe3+ (brown/yellow) … oxidation
2I– (colourless) → I2(brown) … oxidation
Fe2O3(s) + 3CO(g) → 2Fe(s) + 3CO2(g)
Identify the oxidising and reducing agents in this
reaction.
Solution
Fe2O3 is an oxidising agent because it oxidises
CO to CO2 and is itself reduced to Fe.
oxidation
Methylhydrazine, CH3NHNH2 is a powerful reducing
agent.
Fe2O3(s) + 3CO(g) → 2Fe(s) + 3CO2(g)
4CH3NHNH2 + 5N2O4 → 4CO2 + 9N2 + 12H2O
It is used as rocket fuel for the Apollo 11 project which
landed the first man on the moon on 21 July 1969.
The compound is toxic and carcinogenic (cancer causing).
It is also found in trace amounts in raw common
mushrooms.
reduction
CO is a reducing agent because it reduces
Fe2O3 to Fe and is itself oxidised to CO2.
387
Oxidation and Reduction
3.1
To identify oxidation and reduction processes in the reaction between metal oxides and
carbon
Problem statement
In the reaction between metal oxide and carbon,
which reagent undergoes oxidation and which
reagent undergoes reduction?
Materials
Powdered carbon, powdered copper(II) oxide, iron(III)
oxide and lead(II) oxide.
3
Hypothesis
(a) Carbon undergoes oxidation to form carbon
dioxide gas.
(b) Copper(II) oxide, iron(III) oxide and lead(II)
oxide undergo reduction to form copper, iron and
lead respectively.
Figure 3.1 Heating copper(II) oxide with carbon
Procedure
1 A spatula of copper(II) oxide is placed in a crucible.
2 Another spatula of powdered carbon is added to
the copper(II) oxide.
3 The two substances are mixed thoroughly and the
mixture is then heated strongly.
4 The observations are recorded in the table given
below.
5 Steps 1 to 4 are repeated using iron(III) oxide and
lead(II) oxide in place of copper(II) oxide.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : Type of metal oxide
(b) Responding variable : Reaction products
(c) Constant variables : Carbon
and
the
conditions of reaction
Apparatus
Crucible, clay-pipe triangle, tripod stand, spatula and
Bunsen burner.
Results
Metal oxide
Colour of metal oxide
before heating
Observation
(a) Copper(II) oxide
Black
Brown spots (copper) are formed in the black mixture.
(b) Iron(III) oxide
Brown
Grey solid (iron) is formed.
(c) Lead(II) oxide
Yellow
Greyish-black solid (lead) is formed.
Experiment 3.1
Discussion
In all the reactions above, metal oxides have lost oxygen to form the metals.
This shows that carbon has reduced metal oxides to the corresponding metals.
Conclusion
Carbon undergoes oxidation and the metal oxides undergo reduction. The hypothesis is accepted.
The chemical equations for the redox reactions are
(a) 2CuO(s) + C(s) → 2Cu(s) + CO2(g)
(b) 2Fe2O3(s) + 3C(s) → 4Fe(s) + 3CO2(g)
(c) 2PbO(s) + C(s) → 2Pb(s) + CO2(g)
Oxidation and Reduction
388
Table 3.1 Oxidation numbers of elements in the free
state
SPM
’08/P1
The oxidation number of an element is an
arbitrary charge assigned to the element according
to a set of rules. Oxidation number is also known
as the oxidation state.
Oxidation numbers of elements in ionic
compounds
1 An ionic compound can contain monatomic
ions (for example, Na+ and Cl– ions) or
polyatomic ions (for example, NH4+ or
SO42– ions).
2 For a monatomic ion in an ionic compound,
the oxidation number is the charge on the ion.
Magnesium oxide, MgO is an ionic compound.
In magnesium oxide, magnesium exists as
magnesium ions, Mg2+ and oxygen exists as
oxide ions, O2–. Thus, magnesium is said
to have the oxidation number of +2 and
oxygen has the oxidation number of –2.
Element
Formula
Oxidation number
Hydrogen
H2
0
Oxygen
O2
0
Chlorine
Cl2
0
Sulphur
S
0
Iron
Fe
0
Copper
Cu
0
2 For monatomic ions, the oxidation number
equals to the charge on the ion (Table 3.2).
Table 3.2 Oxidation numbers of monatomic ions
Simple ion
Formula of ion Oxidation number
Hydrogen ion
H+
Sodium ion
Na+
+1
Magnesium ion
Mg
+2
Aluminium ion
Al3+
+3
Oxidation numbers of elements in covalent
compounds
Chloride ion
Cl–
–1
Oxide ion
O2–
–2
Carbon dioxide, CO2 is a covalent compound.
However, when determining the oxidation
numbers of carbon and oxygen, you will have
to consider that this molecule exists as ions.
• Each oxygen atom is considered as an oxide
ion (O2–) and carries a charge of –2. So two
oxide ions carry a total charge of –4.
• As a result, each carbon ion carries a charge of
+4 so that CO2 exists as a neutral molecule.
Nitride ion
N3–
–3
+1
2+
3 The sum of the oxidation states of all the atoms
present in the formula of a compound is zero.
The compound can be an ionic compound or
a covalent compound. For example,
(a) in calcium carbonate, CaCO3
CaCO3
CO2
(+2) + (+4) + 3(–2) = 0
(b) in aluminium nitrate, Al(NO3)3
(+4) + 2  (–2) = 0
Al(NO3)3
Therefore, the oxidation number of carbon is
+4 and the oxidation number of oxygen is –2.
(+3) + 3(+5) + 9(–2) = 0
4 For a polyatomic ion (that is, an ion that
contains a few atoms), the sum of the
oxidation numbers of all the atoms equals the
charge on the ion. For example,
(a) in a sulphate ion, SO42–
Rules for Assigning Oxidation Numbers
To work out the oxidation number, the following
rules must be applied.
1 An atom or a molecule of an element in the
SPM free state (that is, not combined with other
’06/P1
’07/P1 elements) has an oxidation number of zero
(Table 3.1).
SO42–
(+6) + 4(–2) = –2
389
sum of the oxidation
numbers is the same as the
charge on the polyatomic ion
Oxidation and Reduction
3
Oxidation Number
3
8 The oxidation number of hydrogen in all its
compounds is +1 except in metal hydrides.
A metal hydride is a compound consisting
of hydrogen and a metal only. The oxidation
number of hydrogen in metal hydrides is –1.
(a) Non-metallic hydride
(b) in an ammonium ion, NH4+
NH4+
sum of the oxidation
numbers is the same as the
charge on the polyatomic ion
(–3) + 4(+1) = +1
(c) in a nitrate ion, NO3–
NO3–
sum of the oxidation
numbers is the same as the
charge on the polyatomic ion
(+5) + 3(–2) = –1
(d) in a dichromate(VI) ion, Cr2O72–
Cr2O72–
sum of the oxidation numbers
is the same as the charge on
2(+6) + 7(–2) = –2 the polyatomic ion
5 In a given compound, the more electronegative atom is given a negative oxidation
number and the less electronegative (or more
electropositive) atom has a positive oxidation
number.
HCl
(+1)
NaH
(+1)
(+1) (+5) 3(–2)
Oxidation and Reduction
(+2)
2(–1) (+3)
3(–1)
BaO
(–2) (+2)
H2O2
6 The oxidation number of fluorine remains
unchanged in all its compounds and is
always –1. This is because fluorine is the most
electronegative element.
F2O
BrF3
Na3AlF6
2(–1) (+2)
(+3) 3(–1) 3(+1) (+3) 6(–1)
Notice that
(a) the oxidation number of oxygen in F2O is
+2 and not –2
(b) the oxidation number of bromine in BrF3
is +3 and not –1.
7 Chlorine, bromine and iodine usually have
the oxidation number of –1 except when
combined with a more electronegative element.
For example,
HClO
Cl2O
(+1) (+1) (–2)
2(+1) (–2)
(+1) (–1)
(–1)
AlH3
(–2)
(b) Peroxides
electronegativity increases
(–2)
CaH2
H2O
2(+1)
KIO3
2(+1)
9 The oxidation number of oxygen in all its
compounds is –2 except in fluorine compounds
(see point 6) and in peroxides. The oxidation
number of oxygen in peroxides is –1.
(a) Oxides
KI
(–1)
(b) Metal hydrides
I, Br, Cl, N, O, F
H2S
BaO2
2(+1) 2(–1) (+2)
2(–1)
10 Metals usually have positive oxidation numbers.
For example, the oxidation number of a Group
1 element in a compound is always +1. The
oxidation number of a Group 2 element in a
compound is always +2.
11 Some metals show different oxidation numbers
in their compounds. For example, manganese
shows oxidation numbers of +2, +4, +6 and
+7 (Table 3.3).
Table 3.3 Oxidation numbers of manganese
Compound
MnSO4
Oxidation
number of
manganese
+2
MnO2 K2MnO4 KMnO4
+4
+6
+7
12 Non-metals usually have negative oxidation
numbers. However, chlorine, bromine, iodine
and nitrogen can have positive or negative
oxidation number (Table 3.4) depending on
the elements which combine with them.
390
Table 3.4 Oxidation numbers of chlorine and nitrogen
Chlorine compound
Oxidation number of chlorine
Nitrogen compound
Oxidation number of nitrogen
HCl
HClO
HClO2
ClO2
HClO3
HClO4
–1
+1
+3
+4
+5
+7
NH3
N2O
NO
NO2–
NO2
NO3–
–3
+1
+2
+3
+4
+5
Calculating the Oxidation Numbers of Elements in Compounds and Ions­
2
4
What is the oxidation number of sulphur in the
thiosulphate ion, S2O32–?
Solution
Let the oxidation number of manganese = x
Oxidation number of K = +1
Oxidation number of O = –2
KMnO4
Solution
Let the oxidation number of sulphur = x
Oxidation number of O = –2
S2O32–
3
What is the oxidation number of manganese in the
compound, KMnO4?
2(x)
3(–2)
Sum of the oxidation numbers of all atoms in the
polyatomic ion is equal to the charge on the ion.
2x + 3(–2) = –2
x = +2
The oxidation number of sulphur in S2O32– ion is +2.
+1
x
4(–2)
Sum of the oxidation numbers of all the elements in
the neutral compound, KMnO4, is zero.
(+1) + x + 4(–2) = 0
x = +7
The oxidation number of manganese in KMnO4 is +7.
3
1,1,1-trichloroethane (C2H3Cl3) is used as a solvent for
halogens. The oxidation numbers of carbon, hydrogen
and chlorine are shown below.
Calculate the oxidation number of nitrogen in nitric
acid, HNO3.
C2H3Cl3
Solution
Let the oxidation number of nitrogen = x
Oxidation number of H = +1
Oxidation number of O = –2
HNO3
2(0) + 3(+1) + 3(–1) = 0
The oxidation number of an element in the free state
is always zero. However, in some cases (for example,
carbon in the C2H3Cl3), the oxidation number of the
element in the compound can also be zero.
+1
x
3(–2)
Sum of the oxidation numbers of all the elements in
the compound is zero.
(+1) + x + 3(–2) = 0
x = +5
The oxidation number of nitrogen in HNO3 is +5.
IUPAC Nomenclature of Inorganic Compounds
1 The IUPAC system is used to name inorganic
compounds in order to avoid confusion that
may arise due to elements having different
oxidation numbers.
2 For example, there are two oxides of copper:
copper(I) oxide, Cu2O, and copper(II) oxide,
CuO. Copper(I) oxide is a brown powder
whereas copper(II) oxide is a black powder. The
Roman numerical figures (I) and (II) refer to the
oxidation numbers of copper in the compound.
The oxidation number of nitrogen in HNO3 is +5 and
not 5. The oxidation number of the element must be
accompanied by a positive or negative sign on the left
of the number.
391
Oxidation and Reduction
Oxidation Number and IUPAC
Nomenclature
Formula Oxidation
of
number of
compound
metal
3
1 (a) For an ionic compound or a covalent
compound that contains a metal with more
than one oxidation number, the Roman
numerical figure is stated in brackets
after the name of the metal to show the
oxidation number of the metal.
(b) For example, tin forms two types of chlorides,
SnCl2 (ionic) and SnCl4 (covalent). SnCl2
is called tin(II) chloride and SnCl4 is called
tin(IV) chloride.
(c) Similarly, lead(II) oxide refers to the
compound with the formula PbO whereas
lead(IV) oxide refers to the compound
PbO2.
2 Table 3.5 shows the formulae and the IUPAC
names of some compounds containing metals.
IUPAC name
FeCl2
+2
Iron(II) chloride
FeCl3
+3
Iron(III) chloride
CuCl
+1
Copper(I) chloride
CuSO4
+2
Copper(II) sulphate
Mn(NO3)2
+2
Manganese(II) nitrate
MnO2
+4
Manganese(IV) oxide
Oxidation and Reduction
+1
Magnesium nitrate
(NOT magnesium(II)
nitrate)
AlCl3
+3
Aluminium chloride
(NOT aluminium(III)
chloride)
Formula
Oxidation
of
number of metal
compound in negative ion
Table 3.6 Naming inorganic compounds containing
elements of Groups 1, 2 and 3
K2SO4
+2
Table 3.7 Name of compounds containing metals in
negative ions
3 The metallic elements in Groups 1, 2 and 3 of
the Periodic Table always have the oxidation
numbers +1, +2 and +3 respectively. According to
the IUPAC nomenclature, the Roman numerical
figure is not used in naming a compound if the
metal shows only one oxidation state in its
compounds.
4 Table 3.6 shows some examples of naming
compounds containing elements of Groups 1,
2 and 3.
Formula Oxidation
of
number of
compound
metal
Mg(NO3)2
5 For a negative ion that contains a metal with
more than one oxidation state, the Roman
number is stated in brackets after the name of
the metal, and the name of the metal ends with
-ate. For example,
(a) manganate(VII) refers to the negative ion
containing the manganese metal with
oxidation number +7, that is, MnO4–.
(b) chromate(VI) refers to the negative ion
containing chromium metal with oxidation
number +6, that is, CrO42–.
(c) dichromate(VI) refers to the negative ion
containing two chromium atoms with
oxidation number +6, that is, Cr2O72–.
(d) hexacyanoferrate(III) refers to the negative
ion containing six cyano (CN–) groups and
iron metal with oxidation number +3, that
is, [Fe(CN)6]3–.
Table 3.7 shows the names of some compounds
containing metals in negative ions.
Table 3.5 Naming inorganic compounds
containing metals
Formula Oxidation
of
number of
compound
metal
Name of compound
K2MnO4
+6
Potassium
manganate(VI)
KMnO4
+7
Potassium
manganate(VII)
K2CrO4
+6
Potassium
chromate(VI)
K2Cr2O7
+6
Potassium
dichromate(VI)
K4Fe(CN)6
+2
Potassium
hexacyanoferrate(II)
K3Fe(CN)6
+3
Potassium
hexacyanoferrate(III)
Name of compound
Potassium sulphate
(NOT potassium(I)
sulphate)
392
IUPAC name
Notice that in K4Fe(CN)6, the negative ion is
[Fe(CN)6]4– while in K3Fe(CN)6, the negative
ion is [Fe(CN)6]3–.
6 Oxoanions are anions (negative ions) that
consist of an oxygen atom and another nonmetallic atom. Examples of oxoanions are
nitrate ion, NO3– and sulphate ion, SO42–. For a
non-metal that shows more than one oxidation
number in its oxoanion, the Roman number
stated in brackets refers to the oxidation number
of the non-metal.
7 Table 3.8 shows the common names and the
IUPAC names for some compounds containing
oxoanions.
Table 3.8 Common names and IUPAC names for some compounds
Oxidation number
IUPAC name
Na2SO3
+4 (for S)
Sodium sulphate(IV)
Sodium sulphite
Na2SO4
+6 (for S)
Sodium sulphate(VI)
Sodium sulphate
NaNO2
+3 (for N)
Sodium nitrate(III)
Sodium nitrite
NaNO3
+5 (for N)
Sodium nitrate(V)
Sodium nitrate
NaClO
+1 (for Cl)
Sodium chlorate(I)
Sodium hypochlorite
NaClO3
+5 (for Cl)
Sodium chlorate(V)
Sodium chlorate
HNO2
+3 (for N)
Nitric(III) acid
Nitrous acid
HNO3
+5 (for N)
Nitric(V) acid
Nitric acid
H2SO4
+6 (for S)
Sulphuric(VI) acid
Sulphuric acid
1
Common name of
compound
3
Molecular formula of
compound
(a) the changes in oxidation numbers or
(b) the transfer of electrons; that is, acceptance
(gain) or donation (loss) of electrons.
3 Using oxidation numbers to identify redox
reactions
(a) Oxidation is a process in which the oxidation
number of the element is increased.
(b) Reduction is a process in which the oxidation
number of the element is decreased.
4 The following equation shows the reaction
between iron and chlorine.
’06
What is the oxidation number for oxygen in the
thiosulphate ion, S2O32–?
A –2
B –3
C +2
D +3
Solution
The oxidation number for oxygen in a polyatomic
ion, such as NO3–, S2O32– or Cr2O72– is always –2.
Answer A
Comment
The oxidation number of oxygen in covalent
compounds, such as CO2 or SO3 is also –2.
Oxidation and Reduction in Terms of
Changes in Oxidation Numbers
1 Most redox reactions occur without involving
hydrogen or oxygen. For example, the reaction
between chlorine and iron(II) chloride is a
redox reaction:
(oxidation number increases)
oxidation
0
0
+3 –1
2Fe(s) + 3Cl2 → 2FeCl3
reduction
(oxidation number decreases)
In this redox reaction,
(a) the iron metal is oxidised to
chloride because its oxidation
increases from 0 to +3.
(b) chlorine (Cl2) is reduced to
ion (Cl–) because its oxidation
decreases from 0 to –1.
2FeCl2(aq) + Cl2(g) → 2FeCl3(aq)
2 For reactions that do not involve hydrogen or
oxygen, an oxidation or reduction reaction is
discussed in terms of
393
iron(III)
number
chloride
number
Oxidation and Reduction
(c) chlorine acts as the oxidising agent because
it oxidises iron and is itself reduced.
(d) iron acts as the reducing agent because it
reduces chlorine and is itself oxidised.
5 When chlorine gas is passed into potassium
bromide solution, the following reaction occurs:
Sulphur dioxide usually acts as a reducing agent. However,
in the following reactions, sulphur dioxide acts as an
oxidising agent because hydrogen sulphide and carbon
are stronger reducing agents than sulphur dioxide.
(a)
(oxidation number increases)
oxidation
0
–1
–1
–2
0
0
SO2(g) + 2H2S(g) ⎯⎯⎯→ 2H2O(l) + 3S(s)
Cl2(g) + 2KBr(aq) → 2KCl(aq) + Br2(aq)
oxidation number of S increases
(oxidation)
+4
0
oxidation number of S decreases
(reduction)
reduction
(oxidation number decreases)
(b)
oxidation
3
0
The oxidation number of potassium in the above
reaction does not change because potassium does not
take part in the reaction.
+4
7 A reaction is not a redox reaction if the substances
involved in the reaction do not undergo any
changes in oxidation numbers. For example,
+1 –2 +1
0
+1 –2
0
Oxidation and reduction always take place together. A
redox reaction must have
• a substance that undergoes oxidation and acts as
the reducing agent, and
• another substance that undergoes reduction and
acts as the oxidising agent.
reduction
(oxidation number decreases)
In this reaction,
(a) ammonia is oxidised to nitrogen because
the oxidation number of nitrogen increases
from –3 to 0.
(b) copper(II) oxide is reduced to copper
because the oxidation number of copper
decreases from +2 to 0.
(c) copper(II) oxide acts as an oxidising agent
and ammonia acts as a reducing agent.
(d) the oxidation numbers of hydrogen and
oxygen remain unchanged.
Oxidation and Reduction
+1 +6 –2
The reaction between sodium hydroxide (NaOH)
and sulphuric acid (H2SO4) is a neutralisation
reaction and not a redox reaction. As a result,
the oxidation numbers of all the elements
(sodium, oxygen, hydrogen and sulphur) are
the same before and after the reaction.
2NH3(g) + 3CuO(s) → N2(g) + 3H2O(l) + 3Cu(s)
+1 +6 –2
2NaOH(aq) + H2SO4(aq) → Na2SO4(aq) + 2H2O(l)
(oxidation number increases)
oxidation
+2
0
reduction
In this reaction,
(a) bromide ion (Br–) is oxidised to bromine
because the oxidation number of bromine
increases from –1 to 0.
(b) chlorine (Cl2) is reduced to chloride ion
(Cl–) because the oxidation number of
chlorine decreases from 0 to –1.
(c) chlorine acts as an oxidising agent and
potassium bromide acts as a reducing agent.
6 Ammonia reacts with copper(II) oxide as
represented by the equation:
–3
+4
SO2(g) + C(s) ⎯⎯⎯→ CO2(g) + S(s)
Oxidation and Reduction in Terms of
Electron Transfer
1 In terms of electron transfer,
(a) oxidation is defined as the loss of electrons
SPM from a substance. If a substance loses
’05/P1
electrons during a reaction, it has been
oxidised.
394
5
(b) reduction is defined as the gain of
electrons by a substance. If a substance
gains electrons, it has been reduced.
2 During a redox reaction, transfer of electrons
occurs between the reactants.
Write the half-equation for the reduction of acidified
manganate(VII) ion (MnO4–) to manganese(II) ion
(Mn2+) in the presence of acid.
Solution
Step 1: Write the reactants and products involved in
the reaction.
An oil rig is used for getting oil and gas out of the ground
in the petroleum industry. Use ‘OIL RIG’ to help you
remember oxidation and reduction in terms of electron
transfer.
OIL : OXIDATION IS LOSS OF ELECTRONS
RIG : REDUCTION IS GAIN OF ELECTRONS
MnO4– + H+ → Mn2+ + H2O
Step 2: Balance the number of atoms on both sides
of the equation:
MnO4– + 8H+ → Mn2+ + 4H2O
Step 3: Balance the number of charges on both
sides of the equation:
3 The reactant that loses electrons undergoes
oxidation and acts as a reducing agent.
For example,
Na(s) ⎯⎯⎯→ Na+(aq) + e– … (1)
oxidation
total charge
total charge
= (–1) + (+8) = +7
= +2
3
In this reaction,
(a) sodium atoms undergo oxidation by losing
electrons to form sodium ions (Na+).
(b) sodium acts as the reducing agent.
4 A substance that accepts electrons undergoes
reduction and acts as an oxidising agent.
For example,
MnO4– + 8H+ → Mn2+ + 4H2O
to balance the charges,
add 5e– to the left of
the equation
MnO4–(aq) + 8H+(aq) + 5e– →
Mn2+(aq) + 4H2O(l)
Cl2(g) + 2e– ⎯⎯⎯→ 2Cl–(aq) … (2)
reduction
6 (a) Zinc reacts with hydrochloric acid as
represented by the equation
In this reaction,
(a) each chlorine molecule (Cl2) accepts two
electrons to form two chloride ions (Cl–).
(b) chlorine acts as the oxidising agent and is
itself reduced.
5 Balancing half-equations for oxidation and
SPM reduction
’06/P1
Equations (1) and (2) as shown above are
known as half-equations. Half-equations must
be balanced in terms of
(a) the number of atoms, and
(b) the number of charges.
Zn(s) + 2HCl(aq) → ZnCl2(aq) + H2(g)
The ionic equation for the reaction is
oxidation
(loss of electrons)
Zn(s) + 2H+(aq) → Zn2+(aq) + H2(g)
reduction
(gain of electrons)
(b) The transfer of electrons can be represented
by the following half-equations:
Photographic films are coated with silver bromide,
AgBr. When the film is exposed to light, the following
redox reaction occurs:
Zn(s) → Zn2+(aq) + 2e– ... oxidation
2Ag+ + 2Br–­­­ → 2Ag + Br2
2H+(aq) + 2e– → H2(g) ... reduction
reducing agent
oxidising agent
The amount of silver produced depends on how much
light gets through the camera lens. In this reaction,
silver ions are reduced to silver by the gain of electrons
and bromide ions are oxidised to bromine by the loss
of electrons.
(c) In the reaction between hydrochloric acid
and zinc, zinc is oxidised to zinc chloride
whereas hydrochloric acid is reduced to
hydrogen.
395
Oxidation and Reduction
9 Combustion of metals in chlorine
Figure 3.3 shows the combustion of copper in
chlorine. When the hot copper foil is placed
in a gas jar of chlorine, a vigorous reaction
occurs and a green precipitate of copper(II)
chloride, CuCl2 is formed.
(d) Hydrochloric acid acts as an oxidising
agent by accepting electrons and is itself
reduced. Conversely, zinc acts as the reducing
agent by donating electrons and is itself
oxidised.
7 In terms of transfer of electrons, oxidising
agents are electron acceptors while reducing
agents are electron donors.
8 If a coil of copper is placed in a solution of
silver nitrate, the copper slowly dissolves and
the solution turns blue. At the same time, the
copper coil becomes coated with a layer of
silver metal (Figure 3.2).
Figure 3.3 Combustion of copper in chlorine
3
(a) In the reaction between copper and
chlorine to form copper(II) chloride, a
transfer of electron occurs between copper
metal and chlorine gas.
Figure 3.2 Oxidation of copper
(a) The overall equation for the reaction is
Cu(s) + Cl2(g) → CuCl2(s)
Cu(s) + 2AgNO3(aq) →
Cu(NO3)2(aq) + 2Ag(s)
reduction
(gain of electrons)
(b) The transfer of electrons can be represented
by the half-equations as shown below:
The reaction can be represented by the
ionic equation:
Cu(s) → Cu2+(s) + 2e– … oxidation
oxidation
(loss of electrons)
Cl2(g) + 2e– → 2Cl– (s) ... reduction
(c) In the reaction between copper and
chlorine, the copper atom (Cu)
(i) loses electrons
(ii) undergoes oxidation
(iii) is oxidised to copper(II) ion, Cu2+
(iv) acts as a reducing agent
(d) Conversely, the chlorine molecule (Cl2)
(i) gains electrons
(ii) undergoes reduction
(iii) is reduced to chloride ions, Cl–
(iv) acts as an oxidising agent
10 Combustion of metals in oxygen
When metals burn in oxygen,
(a) the metals undergo oxidation by losing
electrons to form metal ions,
(b) the oxygen undergoes reduction by gaining
electrons to form oxide ions (O2–).
The combustion of lead in oxygen is studied
in Activity 3.1.
Cu(s) + 2Ag+(aq) → Cu2+(aq) + 2Ag(s)
reduction
(gain of electrons)
(b) In this reaction, each silver ion (Ag+) accepts
one electron to form a silver atom (Ag).
Ag+(aq) + e– → Ag(s) ... reduction
An oxidising agent is an electron acceptor.
Hence, silver ion acts as an oxidising
agent in this reaction.
(c) Conversely, each copper atom donates two
electrons and are converted to copper(II)
ion (Cu2+) in the aqueous solution.
Cu(s) → Cu2+(aq) + 2e– ....oxidation
Reducing agents are electron donors. Hence,
copper acts as a reducing agent.
Oxidation and Reduction
oxidation
(loss of electrons)
396
To investigate the combustion of metals in oxygen and
chlorine
Apparatus
Gas jar, tongs, combustion spoon, gas
jar and Bunsen burner.
Materials
Magnesium ribbon, sodium and
chlorine.
Procedure
2 The magnesium ribbon is held with a pair of
tongs and lit in the Bunsen burner.
3 It is quickly placed into a gas jar filled with oxygen.
4 Any changes that occur are recorded.
(B) Reaction of sodium with chlorine
1 A small piece of sodium metal is placed in a
combustion spoon and heated.
2 When the sodium metal starts to burn, it is quickly
placed in a gas jar filled with chlorine gas.
3 Any changes that occur are recorded.
Figure 3.4 The combustion of magnesium in oxygen
(A) Combustion of magnesium in oxygen
1 A piece of 5 cm magnesium ribbon is cleaned
with sandpaper.
3
Figure 3.5 The combustion of sodium in chlorine
Observation
Experiment
Observation
Combustion of magnesium in oxygen
• The magnesium ribbon burns with a bright white flame.
• White fumes are produced.
• A white powder is formed.
Reaction of sodium with chlorine
• The sodium metal burns with a yellow flame.
• White fumes are produced.
• A white powder is formed.
5 In this reaction,
• magnesium acts as the reducing agent because
it reduces oxygen to oxide ion.
• oxygen acts as the oxidising agent because it
oxidises magnesium to magnesium ion.
(B) Combustion of sodium in chlorine
1 The combustion of sodium in chlorine produces
sodium chloride (white powder).
2 Sodium is oxidised by losing electrons to form
sodium ions, Na+.
Half-equation: Na(s) → Na+(s) + e–
oxidation
(loss of electrons)
3 Chlorine is reduced by gaining electrons to form
chloride ion, Cl–.
2Mg(s) + O2(g) → 2MgO(s)
Half-equation: Cl2(g) + 2e– → 2Cl–(s)
reduction
(gain of electrons)
397
Oxidation and Reduction
Activity 3.1
Discussion
(A) Combustion of magnesium in oxygen
1 The combustion of magnesium in oxygen produces
magnesium oxide (white powder).
2 Magnesium is oxidised by losing electrons to
form magnesium ions, Mg2+.
Half-equation: Mg(s) → Mg2+(s) + 2e–
3 Oxygen is reduced by gaining electrons to form
oxide ion, O2–.
Half-equation: O2(g) + 4e– → 2O2–(s)
4 The overall equation for the reaction is
4 The overall equation for the reaction is
oxidation
(loss of electrons)
2Na(s) + Cl2(g) → 2NaCl(s)
reduction
(gain of electrons)
5 In this reaction,
• sodium acts as the reducing agent because it
reduces chlorine to chlorine ion.
• chlorine acts as the oxidising agent because it
oxidises sodium to sodium ion.
Conclusion
1 In the combustion of magnesium in oxygen,
(a) magnesium undergoes oxidation to form
Mg2+ ions,
(b) oxygen undergoes reduction to form O2–
ions.
2 In the combustion of sodium in chlorine,
• sodium act as reducing agent by losing
electrons,
• chlorine act as oxidising agent by gaining
electrons.
3
Conversion of Fe2+ Ions to Fe3+ Ions
and Vice Versa
There are some chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide
(H2O2) and nitric(III) acid (nitrous acid, HNO2) which
can act as an oxidising agent or a reducing agent
depending on the conditions of the reaction. For example,
in reaction (1), hydrogen peroxide acts as an oxidising
agent, but in reaction (2), it acts as a reducing agent.
1 Iron metal (Fe) exhibits two oxidation states,
+2 and +3.
2 Fe2+ ions can be converted to Fe3+ ions. Similarly,
Fe3+ ions can be converted to Fe2+ ions.
H2O2 + 2I– + 2H+ → I2 + 2H2O … (1)
oxidising
agent
Oxidation of Fe2+ to Fe3+
reducing
agent
1 Iron(II) ion, Fe2+, can be converted to iron(III)
ions, Fe3+, by oxidation reaction.
oxidation (loss of electrons)
5H2O2 + 2MnO4– + 6H+ → 2Mn2+ + 8H2O + 5O2 … (2)
reducing
agent
SPM
’08/P2,
’09/P1
oxidising
agent
Fe2+(aq) → Fe3+(aq) + e–
2 Potassium manganate(VII) is an oxidising
agent that can oxidise Fe2+ ions to Fe3+ ions.
3 (a) When acidified potassium manganate(VII)
solution is added to a solution of iron(II)
salt, decolourisation occurs. MnO4– ions are
reduced to Mn2+ ions while Fe2+ ions (pale
green) are oxidised to Fe3+ ions (brown).
oxidation
(loss of electrons)
MnO (aq) + 8H (aq) + 5Fe (aq) → Mn2+(aq) + 4H2O(l) + 5Fe3+(aq)
–
4
+
2+
green
reduction
(gain of electrons)
brown
A catalytic converter
Catalytic converters are fitted to the exhaust pipes of
cars to reduce air pollution. In the catalytic converter,
the following redox reactions take place to convert
poisonous gases (NO, CO and petrol vapour) to nonpoisonous gases. For example,
Dilute sulphuric acid is always used to acidify KMnO4
solution.
(b) The half-equations for the reactions are:
2NO(g) + 2CO(g) → N2(g) + 2CO2(g)
oxidising
agent
Fe2+(aq) → Fe3+(aq) + e–
reducing
agent
Oxidation and Reduction
(oxidation – loss of electrons)
398
MnO4–(aq) + 8H+(aq) + 5e– →
Mn2+(aq) + 4H2O(l)
reduction (gain electron)
SO32– + H2O + 2Fe3+ → 2Fe2+ + H2SO4
(reduction – gain of electrons)
brown
4 The formation of Fe3+ ions can be confirmed
by using sodium hydroxide solution. When
sodium hydroxide solution is added to the
reaction product, a brown precipitate of
iron(III) hydroxide, Fe(OH)3, insoluble in
excess NaOH(aq) is obtained.
Cl2(aq) + 2Fe (aq) → 2Fe (aq) + 2Cl (aq)
SO32–(aq) + H2O(l) →
SO42–(aq) + 2H+(aq) + 2e–
(oxidation – loss of electrons)
3 The formation of Fe2+ ions can be confirmed
by using sodium hydroxide solution. When
sodium hydroxide solution is added to the
reaction product, a dirty green precipitate
of iron(II) hydroxide, Fe(OH)2, insoluble in
excess NaOH(aq), is obtained.
(c) Acidified potassium dichromate(VI)
solution (acidified with dilute sulphuric
acid)
Cr2O72–(aq) + 14H+(aq) + 6Fe2+(aq) →
6Fe3+(aq) + 2Cr3+(aq) + 7H2O(l)
Fe2+(aq) + 2NaOH(aq) →
Fe(OH)2(s) + 2Na+(aq)
(d) Concentrated nitric acid
4 Other reducing agents that can be used to reduce
Fe3+ ions to Fe2+ ions include the following.
(a) Metals more reactive (electropositive)
than iron. For example, zinc.
HNO3(aq) + 3Fe (aq) + 3H (aq) →
3Fe3+(aq) + 2H2O(l) + NO(g)
2+
+
(e) Acidified hydrogen peroxide
Zn(s) + 2Fe3+(aq) → 2Fe2+(aq) + Zn2+(aq)
H2O2(aq) + 2H (aq) + 2Fe (aq) →
2Fe3+(aq) + 2H2O(l)
2+
(b) Sulphur dioxide
SO2(g) + 2H2O(l) + 2Fe3+(aq) →
2Fe2+(aq) + 2H+(aq) + H2SO4(aq)
Reduction of Fe to Fe
2+
(c) Potassium iodide
1 Iron(III) ions, Fe3+, can be converted to iron(II)
ions, Fe2+, by reduction.
Br2(l) + 2Fe2+(aq) → 2Fe3+(aq) + 2Br–(aq)
3+
Fe3+(aq) + e– → Fe2+(aq)
(reduction – gain of electrons)
–
(b) Liquid bromine
+
2KI(aq) + 2Fe3+(aq) →
2Fe2+(aq) + 2K+(aq) + I2(s)
reduction (gain electron)
(d) Hydrogen sulphide
Fe3+(aq) + e– → Fe2+(aq)
H2S(aq) + 2Fe3+(aq) →
2Fe2+(aq) + 2H+(aq) + S(s)
2 (a) When sodium sulphite (Na2SO3) solution
is added to iron(III) chloride, and the
mixture is acidified with dilute sulphuric
acid, the colour of the solution changes
from brown to light green.
(e) Tin(II) chloride solution
Sn2+(aq) + 2Fe3+(aq) →
2Fe2+(aq) + Sn4+(aq)
399
Oxidation and Reduction
3
5 Other oxidising agents that can be used to
oxidise Fe2+ to Fe3+ are as follows.
(a) Chlorine gas or chlorine water
3+
oxidation (lose electron)
Sodium sulphite acts as the reducing
agent and reduces iron(III) ions to iron(II)
ions and is itself oxidised to sulphate ions
(SO42–).
(b) The half-equations for the reaction are:
Fe3+(aq) + 3NaOH(aq) → Fe(OH)3(s) + 3Na+(aq)
2+
green
3
To study the oxidation of Fe2+ ions to Fe3+ ions and the
reduction of Fe3+ ions to Fe2+ ions
SPM
’09/P2
Apparatus
Test tubes and droppers.
Materials
FeSO4, KMnO4, FeCl3, Na2SO3, dilute
H2SO4 and dilute NaOH solution.
4 Sodium hydroxide solution is then added to the
reaction mixture slowly until in excess.
5 The observations are recorded in the table
below.
Procedure
(A) Conversion of Fe2+ ions to Fe3+ ions
1 About 2 cm3 of iron(II) sulphate solution is poured
into a test tube.
2 About 2 cm3 of potassium manganate(VII) solution
is poured into another test tube, followed by about
2 cm3 of dilute sulphuric acid.
3 Using a dropper, about 2 cm3 of the acidified
potassium manganate(VII) solution is added slowly
to the iron(II) sulphate solution. The mixture is
shaken gently.
(B) Conversion of Fe3+ ions to Fe2+ ions
1 About 2 cm3 of iron(III) chloride solution is added
to a test tube.
2 Sodium sulphite (Na2SO3) solution is added to
iron(III) chloride solution, followed by dilute
sulphuric acid. The mixture is shaken gently.
3 Sodium hydroxide solution is then added slowly
to the reaction mixture until in excess.
4 The observations are recorded in the table
below.
Observations
Solution
Test
Observation
FeSO4(aq)
(a) Fe2+ ion + acidified KMnO4
• The light green iron(II) sulphate solution changes to
yellow.
• The purple colour of acidified KMnO4 solution turns
colourless (decolourised).
(b) Add excess NaOH(aq) to (a)
• A brown precipitate, insoluble in excess NaOH(aq) is
formed.
(c) Fe3+ ion + Na2SO3(aq)
• The colour of the solution changes from yellow to light
green.
(d) Add excess NaOH(aq) to (c)
• A dirty green precipitate, insoluble in excess NaOH(aq)
is obtained.
FeCl3(aq)
Conclusion
1 Fe2+ ions are oxidised to Fe3+ ions by the acidified KMnO4 solution.
2 Fe3+ ions are reduced to Fe2+ ions by the sodium sulphite (Na2SO3) solution.
3 Electropositive metals are strong reducing
agents. In contrast, the metallic ions of
electropositive metals are weak oxidising
agents. Figure 3.6 shows that in the
electrochemical series,
(a) the strength of a metal as a reducing agent
increases on going up the electrochemical
series,
(b) the strength of the metallic ion as an
oxidising agent increases on going down
the series.
Displacement of Metals from Their Salt
Solutions
1 The arrangement of metals according to their
tendency to lose electrons to form positive
’04/P1
’07/P1 ions is called the electrochemical series.
2 The higher the position of the metal in the
electrochemical series,
(a) the more electropositive the metal,
(b) the more readily the metal donates electrons
to form positive ions,
(c) the more easily the metal will undergo
oxidation.
Activity 3.2
SPM
Oxidation and Reduction
400
• Tendency of a metal
to ionise (by donating
electrons) increases.
•Tendency of an ion
to accept electrons
increases.
• Strength of a metal
as a reducing agent
increases.
• Strength of an ion as
an oxidising agent
increases.
4 Consider the formation of sodium ions (Na+)
from sodium metal (Na).
position in the electrochemical series) will
displace a less electropositive metal (lower
position in the electrochemical series) from the
salt solutions of the less electropositive metal.
6 Transfer of electrons occurs during displacement
reactions.
(a) The more electropositive metal donates
electrons and acts as a reducing agent.
The metal undergoes oxidation and is
oxidised to its metal ions.
(b) The metal ion (from the less electropositive
metal) in aqueous solution acts as an
oxidising agent. The metal ions undergo
reduction and is reduced to its metal.
Na metal has a strong tendency
to lose an electron to form sodium ion
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯→
Na(s) → Na+(aq) + e–
←⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
+
Na ion has a weak tendency
to accept an electron to form Na metal
(a) Sodium metal is placed at a high position
in the electrochemical series.
(b) This means that sodium metal donates
electrons very easily. As a result, sodium
is a strong reducing agent.
(c) Conversely, sodium ions (Na+) have a
weak tendency to accept electrons. Since
oxidising agents are electron acceptors,
sodium ions are weak oxidising agents.
5 A displacement reaction is a reaction in which
one element (metal or non-metal) displaces
another element (metal or non-metal) from its
salt solution. In the displacement reactions of
metals, the more electropositive metal (higher
3
Figure 3.6 Electrochemical series
A more electropositive metal is also a more reactive
metal. We can therefore state that a more reactive metal
will displace a less reactive metal from the solution of its
salts.
3.2
To study the redox reaction in terms of displacement reaction of a metal from its salt
solution
Problem statement
How does redox reaction occur in a displacement reaction in which a metal is displaced from its salt
solution?
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : A pair of metals and salt solutions
(b) Responding variable : Precipitation of metal and colour changes in the solutions
(c) Constant variables : Volumes and concentrations of solutions containing the metal ions
Apparatus
Beakers
401
Oxidation and Reduction
Experiment 3.2
Hypothesis
(a) The metal that acts as a reducing agent will form metal ion.
(b) The metal ion that acts as an oxidising agent will be precipitated as metal.
Materials
Copper(II) sulphate solution and silver nitrate
solution, zinc plate and copper plate.
Procedure
1 A strip of zinc plate and a strip of copper plate
are cleaned with sandpaper.
2 The zinc plate is then immersed in copper(II)
sulphate solution (beaker P) and the copper plate
is immersed in silver nitrate solution (beaker Q).
3 The mixture is left aside for half an hour.
4 The changes that take place on the zinc plate,
the copper plate, and in the copper(II) sulphate
solution and the silver nitrate solution are
recorded.
Figure 3.7 The displacement of a
metal from its salt solution
Observation
Reactants
Observation
Explanation
• A section of the zinc plate dissolves.
• Brown precipitate is deposited on the
zinc plate.
• The blue solution fades until it
becomes colourless.
• Zinc displaces copper metal (brown
precipitate) from copper(II) sulphate
solution.
• Copper metal is deposited on the zinc
plate.
• The blue colour fades as the
concentration of Cu2+ ions decreases.
(b) Copper plate
in silver nitrate
solution
• The copper plate dissolves.
• A greyish-black precipitate is
deposited on the copper plate.
• The colourless solution turns blue.
• Copper displaces silver metal (greyishblack) from the silver nitrate solution.
• Silver metal is precipitated on the
copper plate.
• The colourless solution turns blue
because of the formation of Cu2+ ions.
3
(a) Zinc plate
in copper(II)
sulphate solution
Conclusion
During the displacement reaction, the more electropositive metal will act as a reducing agent.
It reduces the metal ion (oxidising agent) which is less electropositive to form metal. The hypothesis is accepted.
Displacement of Copper by Zinc from
Copper(II) Sulphate Solution
The reaction can be represented by the
following half-equations:
(a) Zn(s) → Zn2+(aq) + 2e–
SPM
’08/P2
1 The following equation shows the reaction
between copper(II) sulphate solution and zinc.
(oxidation – loss of electrons)
Zinc acts as a reducing agent (electron donor)
(b) Cu2+(aq) + 2e– → Cu(s)
Zn(s) + CuSO4(aq) → ZnSO4(aq) + Cu(s)
(reduction – gain of electrons)
Copper ion acts as an oxidising agent (electron
acceptor)
Zinc is more electropositive than copper.
It displaces copper from its salt (that is,
copper(II) sulphate).
2 A displacement reaction is a redox reaction.
3 When copper(II) ion is displaced, the
concentration of Cu2+ ions in the solution
decreases. This causes the blue colour to fade.
oxidation (loss of electrons)
Displacement of Silver by Copper from Silver
Nitrate Solution
Zn(s) + CuSO4(aq) ⎯⎯→ ZnSO4(aq) + Cu(s)
1 The displacement reaction between copper and
silver nitrate solution is shown as follows.
reduction (gain of electrons)
Oxidation and Reduction
402
(a) Cu(s) → Cu2+(aq) + 2e–
oxidation (loss of electrons)
(oxidation – loss of electrons)
Copper acts as a reducing agent (electron
donor).
Cu(s) + 2AgNO3(aq) → Cu(NO3)2(aq) + 2Ag(s)
(b) Ag+(aq) + e– → Ag(s)
(reduction – gain of electrons)
Silver ion acts as an oxidising agent (electron
acceptor).
reduction (gain of electrons)
Copper is more electropositive than silver.
It displaces silver from its salt (that is, silver
nitrate).
2 The reaction can be represented by the
following half-equations:
3 When copper dissolves in silver nitrate solution,
the formation of copper(II) ion causes the
solution to turn blue. The intensity of blue
colour increases as more copper is dissolved.
2
’07
Solution
Metal
AgNO3
Q
Pb(NO3)2
FeSO4
MgSO4
No change
No change
No change
No change
No change
X
Silver is displaced
Y
Silver is displaced
Lead is displaced
Z
Silver is displaced
Lead is displaced
What is the correct position of the metals, in ascending
order, of the tendency of the metals to be oxidised?
A Q, X, Y, Z
C X, Y, Z, Q
B Q, X, Z, Y
D Y, Z, X, Q
Comments
The most reactive metal is the strongest reducing
agent, that is, it has the highest tendency to form
metal ions by losing electrons, that is to be oxidised.
Iron is displaced
No change
Q is the least reactive. It has no reactions with Pb2+,
Fe2+ and Mg2+.
Y is the most reactive. It can displace three metals
from their solutions.
Z is more reactive than X. It can displace two metals
from their salt solutions.
Answer B
Displacement of Halogens from Halide
Solutions
halogen will displace a less reactive halogen
from the solution of its halide ions.
3 Hence, chlorine displaces bromine from an
aqueous solution of bromide ions. It also
displaces iodine from an aqueous solution of
iodide ions. Similarly, bromine displaces iodine
from an aqueous solution of iodide ions.
1 In general, the stronger the oxidising strength
of the halogen, the weaker the reducing
’04/P1
’05/P1 strength of the corresponding halide ion is.
Thus, chlorine is a stronger oxidising agent
than iodine, but the iodide ion is a stronger
reducing agent than the chloride ion. Figure 3.8
shows the trend in the reactivity and oxidising
strength of the halogens and the reducing
strength of the halide ions.
2 The reactivity of the halogens can be used to
predict whether the displacement reactions of
halogens can occur or not. A more reactive
SPM
Cl2(aq) + 2KBr(aq) → 2KCl(aq) + Br2(aq)
Cl2(aq) + 2KI(aq) → 2KCl(aq) + I2(aq)
Br2(aq) + 2KI(aq) → 2KBr(aq) + I2(aq)
4 Conversely, bromine cannot displace chlorine
from an aqueous solution of chloride ions and
iodine cannot displace bromine or chlorine
403
Oxidation and Reduction
3
An experiment is carried out to determine the positions of the metals, Q, X, Y, Z in the electrochemical series.
The results of the experiment on displacement reactions are shown in the table below.
from an aqueous solution of bromide ions or
chloride ions respectively.
1,1,1-trichloroethane. The colours of halogens
in 1,1,1-trichloroethane are shown in Table 3.10.
Table 3.10 The colours of halogens in 1,1,1trichloroethane
Br2(aq) + KCl(aq) → No reaction
I2(aq) + KCl(aq) → No reaction
I2(aq) + KBr(aq) → No reaction
5 The colours of halogens in water are shown in
Table 3.9.
Halogen
Colour
Chlorine
Colourless
Bromine
Brown
Iodine
Purple
3
Table 3.9 The colour of halogens in water
Halogen
Concentrated
aqueous solution
Dilute aqueous
solution
Chlorine
Greenish-yellow
Colourless
Bromine
Brown
Yellow
Iodine
Brown
Yellow
The structural formula of 1,1,1-trichloroethane is:
HCl
⎮ ⎮
H ⎯ C ⎯ C ⎯ Cl
⎮⎮
HCl
6 Halogens can be identified by adding 1,1,1trichloroethane (CH3CCl3) to its aqueous
solution. Water and 1,1,1-trichloroethane are
immiscible and two layers are formed. The
upper layer is water and the lower layer is
It is very volatile and is used as a solvent in paper correction
fluid. It is produced as one of the organic products when
ethane reacts in chlorine in the presence of sunlight.
A The tendency of electrons
being removed from
halide ions to form
halogens increases
A Reactivity of
halogens increases
A Oxidising strength of
halogens increases
A The strength of halide
ion as a reducing
agent increases
Figure 3.8
3.3
To study the displacement reactions between halogens and halide ions
Problem statement
How do redox reactions occur in displacement reactions between halogens and aqueous solutions of halide
ions?
Experiment 3.3
Hypothesis
A more reactive halogen will displace a less reactive halogen from an aqueous solution of its halide ions.
Variables
(a) Manipulated variable : A pair of halogens and their halide ions
(b) Responding variable : Changes in colour in 1,1,1-trichloroethane, CH3CCl3
(c) Constant variable
: Volume of reaction mixture
Apparatus
Test tubes
Oxidation and Reduction
404
2 2 cm3 of chlorine water is added to the potassium
bromide solution. The mixture is shaken gently.
3 2 cm3 of 1,1,1-trichloroethane (CH3CCl3) is then
added to the mixture obtained in step 2. The
mixture is then shaken vigorously.
4 The test tube is allowed to stand for a few minutes
and the colour of the 1,1,1-trichloroethane layer
is recorded.
5 Steps 1 to 4 are repeated using the following
mixtures.
(a) Chlorine water and potassium iodide, KI
solution
(b) Liquid bromine and potassium chloride, KCl
solution
(c) Liquid bromine and potassium iodide solution
(d) Iodine solution and potassium bromide
solution
(e) Iodine solution and potassium chloride
solution
Materials
1,1,1-trichloroethane, potassium bromide, KBr(aq),
potassium chloride, KCl(aq), potassium iodide, KI(aq),
chlorine water, liquid bromine and iodine solution.
Figure 3.9 Displacement of bromine from
potassium bromide solution
Procedure
1 A test tube is filled with 2 cm3 of potassium
bromide, KBr solution.
3
Observation
Mixture
Colour of CH3CCl3
layer
Halogen in CH3CCl3
layer
Has displacement
reaction occurred?
Cl2(aq) + KBr(aq)
Brown
Bromine
Yes
Cl2(aq) + KI(aq)
Purple
Iodine
Yes
Br2(l) + KCl(aq)
Brown
Bromine
No
Br2(l) + KI(aq)
Purple
Iodine
Yes
I2(aq) + KBr(aq)
Purple
*Iodine
No
I2(aq) + KCl(aq)
Purple
*Iodine
No
ψ
The bromine present in the CH3CCl3 layer is due to the bromine added.
*The iodine present in the CH3CCl3 layer is due to the iodine added.
ψ
Discussion
1 When chlorine water is added to potassium
bromide solution, the colour of the solution
changes from colourless to brown because
chlorine displaces bromine from an aqueous
solution of bromide ions.
oxidation
Cl2(aq) + 2KBr(aq) → 2KCl(aq) + Br2(l)
reduction
4 The half-equations for the reactions are as
follows:
(a) 2Br–(aq) → Br2(l) + 2e–
Cl2(aq) + 2KBr(aq) → 2KCl(aq) + Br2(l)
2 If 1,1,1-trichloroethane is added to the reaction
mixture and shaken, two liquid layers are formed.
The lower organic layer (1,1,1-trichloroethane)
has a brown colour and shows the presence of
bromine. This means that the bromide ions have
been oxidised to bromine.
3 Displacement reactions can also be considered
in terms of oxidation and reduction. Chlorine
oxidises bromide ion (Br–) to bromine and
chlorine is itself reduced to chloride ion (Cl–).
(oxidation – loss of electrons)
(b) Cl2 (aq) + 2e– → 2Cl–(aq)
(reduction – gain of electrons)
Chlorine accepts electrons and acts as an
oxidising agent. Bromide ion (Br–) loses
electrons and acts as a reducing agent.
5 Other displacement reactions that occur in this
experiment are
405
Oxidation and Reduction
(b) I2(aq) + KBr(aq) → No reaction
I2(aq) + KCl(aq) → No reaction
This is because iodine is less reactive than
bromine and chlorine.
oxidation
Cl2(aq) + 2KI(aq) → 2KCl(aq) + I2(aq)
Conclusion
1 Chlorine displaces bromine from potassium
bromide solution and iodine from potassium
iodide solution. Bromine displaces iodine from
iodide solution but does not displace chlorine
from chloride solution. Iodine does not displace
chlorine from chloride solution or bromine from
bromide solution.
2 The experimental results prove that a more
reactive halogen can displace a less reactive
halogen from its halide solution. The hypothesis
is accepted.
reduction
oxidation
Br2(l) + 2KI(aq) → 2KBr(aq) + I2(aq)
reduction
6 The following displacement reactions do not occur.
(a) Br2(l) + KCl(aq) → No reaction
This is because bromine is less reactive than
chlorine.
3
Redox Reactions by the Transfer of
Electrons at a Distance
In Figure 3.9 (Experiment 3.3), the aqueous layer
contains KCl but the organic layer (CH3CCl3) does not
contain KCl. This is because KCl is an ionic compound
which is soluble in water but not in organic solvent.
3
1 If a solution containing an oxidising agent is
separated from a solution containing a reducing
’06/P2,
’11/P2 agent by an electrolyte, the redox reaction can
still occur by transfer of electrons at a distance.
The apparatus set-up is shown in Figure 3.10.
SPM
’04
Which of the following equations represent redox
reactions?
I Cu(s) + Cl2(g) → CuCl2(s)
II Cu(s) + 2A
Download