Problem 1 - Chemistry in 30 days

Question

The laboratory test "tailing of mercury" is applied to identify (b) \(\mathrm{O}_{3}\) (c) \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) (d) \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{2}\) (a) \(\mathrm{O}_{2}\)

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

(a) \(\mathrm{O}_{2}\) is identified by the test.

Step 1: Understand the Test

The 'tailing of mercury' test is used to identify the presence of oxygen gas. When mercury is thrust into a vessel containing oxygen, a tail-like vapor is observed if oxygen is present.

Step 2: List the Options

We need to identify which of the options corresponds to the presence of oxygen gas. The options given are: (a) \(\mathrm{O}_{2}\), (b) \(\mathrm{O}_{3}\), (c) \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\), and (d) \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{2}\).

Step 3: Identify the Presence of Oxygen Gas

Among the options, \(\mathrm{O}_{2}\) represents oxygen gas. The 'tailing of mercury' test is specifically used for \(\mathrm{O}_{2}\).

Step 4: Match with the Correct Option

We determined that the 'tailing of mercury' is a test for \(\mathrm{O}_{2}\). So, option (a) \(\mathrm{O}_{2}\) is correct.

Key Concepts

Tailing of Mercury

The "tailing of mercury" is a fascinating and classic chemistry laboratory test used to detect the presence of oxygen gas. When a sample of mercury is introduced into an environment containing oxygen, an observable phenomenon occurs where the mercury forms a tail-like vapor. This tailing effect is due to the interaction between mercury and oxygen under specific conditions, making it a simple yet effective method for the identification of oxygen.

• History: This method has been used for many years as a traditional test in various educational and research settings.
• Relevance: Although not widely used in modern scientific applications, it remains a valuable teaching tool for understanding chemical reactions involving gases.

The tailing effect serves as a visible affirmation of oxygen presence, and it illustrates the principles of gas interaction with metals like mercury.

Identification of Oxygen Gas

Identifying oxygen gas in a lab setting is crucial for many experiments and processes. Oxygen, denoted scientifically as \(\mathrm{O}_2\), is a colorless and odorless gas that can be identified through several specific tests, including the tailing of mercury.

• Simplicity: The tests for oxygen are designed to be straightforward so that even beginners can perform them successfully.
• Visibility: Tests often give a visible result, like a glowing splint reigniting in the presence of oxygen, making identification easy.

Being able to identify oxygen accurately is important, not just for experiment validation, but also for ensuring the safety and accuracy in chemical reactions.

Oxygen Gas Detection

Detecting oxygen gas is a fundamental task in both chemistry laboratories and industrial applications. Various methods can be employed based on the context and the required precision.

• Common Methods: Besides the tailing of mercury, oxygen can also be detected with electronic sensors and chemical indicators.
• Applications: Oxygen detection is used in environmental monitoring, medical technologies, and industrial processes.

The right choice of detection method depends on factors like the necessary sensitivity, the environment where the detection is performed, and the available resources.

Chemistry Laboratory Tests

Conducting tests in a chemistry laboratory is essential for exploring chemical principles and verifying theoretical concepts. Laboratory tests, such as the tailing of mercury for oxygen detection, allow scientists to observe the outcomes of chemical interactions directly.

• Educational Value: These tests are often part of educational curricula to enhance understanding through hands-on experience.
• Research Utility: Even simple tests provide valuable data that can be used in research to develop new theories or applications.

Learning how to conduct and interpret laboratory tests is a vital skill for students and professionals in chemistry, and it forms the basis for safe and effective experimentation.