Silver articles become black when exposed to air due to formation of:a)Silver nitrateb)Silver sulphidec)Silver hydroxided)Silver nitrideCorrect answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Question

Answer

The silver article becomes black when exposed to air because silver reacts with sulphur which is present in the atmosphere and then forms silver sulphide .

Hence, option (b) is the correct answer

Answer

Answer

Due to reaction of silver and Sulphur in atmosphere

Answer

Formation of Silver Sulphide

When silver articles are exposed to air, they undergo a chemical reaction with the sulfur compounds present in the atmosphere. This reaction leads to the formation of a black layer on the surface of the silver article, causing it to turn black. This black layer is known as silver sulphide (Ag2S).

Explanation:

1. Reaction with Hydrogen Sulphide:
The main reason for the blackening of silver articles is the reaction between silver and hydrogen sulphide (H2S) gas present in the air. Hydrogen sulphide is a common gas found in the atmosphere, especially in polluted areas and near industrial sites.

2. Formation of Silver Sulphide:
The reaction between silver and hydrogen sulphide can be represented by the following equation:
2Ag + H2S → Ag2S + H2

In this reaction, silver (Ag) reacts with hydrogen sulphide (H2S) to form silver sulphide (Ag2S) and hydrogen gas (H2) as a byproduct. The silver sulphide formed is a black compound, which is responsible for the black coloration of silver articles.

3. Properties of Silver Sulphide:
Silver sulphide (Ag2S) is a compound that has a black color and is insoluble in water. It has a low melting point and is relatively stable. It does not react easily with acids or bases.

4. Protective Layer:
Although the blackening of silver articles may be considered undesirable from an aesthetic point of view, the formation of silver sulphide actually provides a protective layer on the surface of the silver. This layer prevents further oxidation and corrosion of the silver. It acts as a barrier, protecting the underlying silver from tarnishing.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, silver articles turn black when exposed to air due to the formation of silver sulphide (Ag2S). This reaction occurs between the silver in the articles and hydrogen sulphide gas present in the atmosphere. The silver sulphide formed provides a protective layer on the surface of the silver, preventing further oxidation and corrosion.

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