Bleaching powder is made from —a)Sulphur dioxide and gypsumb)Chlorine...
Introduction to Bleaching PowderBleaching powder, also known as calcium hypochlorite, is a widely used chemical for disinfecting and bleaching purposes. Its production involves specific raw materials that contribute to its chemical properties.
Raw Materials for Bleaching PowderThe correct answer is option 'D', which states that bleaching powder is made from lime and chlorine. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the components:
- Lime (Calcium Hydroxide): Lime is derived from the thermal decomposition of limestone. It provides the necessary calcium component in bleaching powder.
- Chlorine: Chlorine is a highly reactive gas that can be obtained through the electrolysis of sodium chloride (common salt) in water. It serves as the bleaching agent, imparting the powder’s strong oxidizing properties.
Formation ProcessThe chemical reaction for producing bleaching powder can be summarized as follows:
1.
Chlorination of Lime: When chlorine gas is bubbled through a suspension of calcium hydroxide, the reaction forms calcium hypochlorite.
2.
Resulting Compound: The resultant compound, bleaching powder (Ca(OCl)2), is then dried and processed for commercial use.
Applications of Bleaching PowderBleaching powder has various applications, including:
- Water Treatment: Used to disinfect drinking water by killing bacteria and other pathogens.
- Textile Industry: Employed for bleaching fabrics and as a bleaching agent in the production of paper.
- Household Cleaning: Acts as a strong disinfectant and stain remover.
ConclusionIn conclusion, the production of bleaching powder from lime and chlorine is a chemical process that results in a powerful disinfectant and bleaching agent, essential for numerous applications across various industries.