Problem 5 - 43 Years JEE ADVANCED (1978-2020) + JEE MAIN Chapterwise & Topicwise Solved Papers Chemistry

Question

The synonym for water gas when used in the production of methanol is: [Main April 10, 2019 (I)] (a) natural gas (b) fuel gas (c) laughing gas (d) syn gas

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct synonym is syn gas (option d).

Step 1: Identify the Production Context

The question asks for a synonym for water gas specifically in the context of methanol production. It's important to recall what gas is typically used in industrial methanol production.

Step 2: Understand Methanol Production

Methanol is primarily produced using a synthesis gas, which is a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen. This gas is derived from hydrocarbons or coal and is central to many industrial chemical syntheses.

Step 3: Review the Options

Consider the provided options: (a) Natural gas: primarily methane, not a direct synonym for water gas. (b) Fuel gas: a general term and not specific to methanol production. (c) Laughing gas: commonly known as nitrous oxide, unrelated to methanol synthesis. (d) Syn gas: short for synthesis gas, matches the composition of water gas.

Step 4: Selecting the Correct Synonym

Based on the definition and context, the correct synonym for water gas in methanol production is 'syn gas', as it refers to synthesis gas, which is used to produce methanol.

Key Concepts

Water Gas

Water gas is a significant gas mix used in various industrial applications. It consists mainly of hydrogen (H₂) and carbon monoxide (CO) and is created through a process called steam reforming. In this process, water vapor is combined with carbonaceous materials like coal or coke. This reaction at high temperatures leads to the formation of water gas.
A key feature of water gas is its ability to be further processed into synthesis gas for methanol production.

• It is a flexible gas form, initially discovered in the 19th century.
• Ideal for energy conversion and fuel production.
• From this base composition, various other gases can be synthesized.

The efficient generation of water gas marks an essential step in many chemical manufacturing processes.

Synthesis Gas

Synthesis gas, often abbreviated as syngas, is closely related to water gas and plays a vital role in the production of methanol.
It comprises a mixture primarily of hydrogen and carbon monoxide and is derived from similar materials to water gas like natural gas, coal, or biomass via thermal conversion.

• Syngas serves as a substrate in a variety of chemical processes.
• It is pivotal for the Fischer-Tropsch process, which helps in creating synthetic fuels.
• Common in methanol production due to its rich hydrogen content.

The ability to efficiently manipulate syngas composition allows it to be tailored for diverse industrial applications, making it a cornerstone of chemical manufacturing.

Industrial Chemistry

Industrial chemistry refers to the branch of chemistry that applies physical and chemical processes towards the transformation of raw materials into useful products.
The field is extensive, dealing with the mass production of basic chemicals like methanol. This sector employs synthesis gas as a critical feedstock.

• Utilizes large-scale chemical reactions to produce high-demand materials.
• Supports energy transformation and product diagnostics.
• Facilitates innovation in developing new synthetic pathways for creating essential chemicals.

The integration of water and synthesis gases in industrial chemistry exemplifies how fundamental materials undergo conversion in the presence of catalysts, maximizing production efficiency and meeting global material demands.