In 1984, Bhopal gas tragedy took place because methyl isocyanate[2004]...
Bhopal tragedy took place when MIC reacted with water in a tank, an exothermic reaction started producing a lot of heat in the tank.as a result the safety valve of the tank burst due to increase in pressure.it gave rise to heavy gas leak which rapidly killed the people around..
In 1984, Bhopal gas tragedy took place because methyl isocyanate[2004]...
Methyl Isocyanate and Bhopal Gas Tragedy
There was a tragic incident in 1984 known as the Bhopal gas tragedy, where a deadly gas leak occurred in a pesticide plant in Bhopal, India. The gas leak resulted in thousands of deaths and long-term health issues for many survivors. The gas involved in this tragedy was methyl isocyanate (MIC).
Reaction of MIC
MIC is a highly reactive compound that can undergo various chemical reactions. In the case of the Bhopal gas tragedy, the reaction that led to the release of toxic gases involved MIC reacting with water.
Explanation of Reaction
When MIC comes into contact with water, it undergoes a chemical reaction that produces heat and releases toxic gases. This reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat, and can lead to a rapid increase in pressure within the storage tanks or pipelines containing MIC. If this pressure becomes too high, it can cause a rupture in the container, leading to the release of toxic gas into the environment.
Impact of the Reaction
In the case of the Bhopal gas tragedy, the reaction between MIC and water led to a catastrophic release of toxic gases into the surrounding area. The exposure to these gases resulted in immediate health effects for those who inhaled them and long-term health issues for many survivors.
Preventative Measures
To prevent such tragedies in the future, it is essential to ensure proper safety measures are in place when handling reactive compounds like MIC. This includes stringent safety protocols, regular maintenance of equipment, and emergency response plans in case of accidents.