Question

The gas liberated during the hydrolysis of calcium carbide and aluminium carbide are respectively and

• A. methane and hydrogen
• B. acetylene and acetylene
• C. acetylene and methane
• D. hydrogen and ethylene

Answer 1

Answer:

C. acetylene and methane

Hydrolysis of Calcium Carbide (CaC₂)

• When calcium carbide (CaC₂) reacts with water (hydrolysis), it liberates acetylene gas (C₂H₂).

• The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is:

• CaC2(s) + 2H2O(l) → Ca(OH)2(aq) + C2H2(g)

• Key Facts:

  • Acetylene is a highly flammable hydrocarbon.

  • It is used in welding and cutting metals due to its high flame temperature when burned with oxygen.

  • Historically, acetylene was used for lighting in miners' lamps and early automobiles.

Hydrolysis of Aluminium Carbide (Al₄C₃)

• When aluminium carbide (Al₄C₃) reacts with water (hydrolysis), it liberates methane gas (CH₄).

• The balanced chemical equation for this reaction is:

• Al4C3(s) + 12H2O(l) → 4Al(OH)3(s) + 3CH4(g)

• Key Facts:

  • Methane is the simplest alkane and a primary component of natural gas.

  • It is a potent greenhouse gas.

  • Methane is used as a fuel and in the production of various organic chemicals.