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Magazine Chapter 15: Problem 65
Which of the following oxides of nitrogen is a coloured gas? (a) \(\mathrm{N}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) (b) NO (c) \(\mathrm{N}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{4}\) (d) \(\mathrm{NO}_{2}\)
Short Answer
Expert verified
The colored gas is \(\mathrm{NO}_{2}\).
Step by step solution
01
Understanding the Task
The exercise asks us to identify which of the given nitrogen oxides is a colored gas. We have four options to examine: \(\mathrm{N}_{2} \mathrm{O}\), NO, \(\mathrm{N}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{4}\), and \(\mathrm{NO}_{2}\).
02
Analyzing \(\mathrm{N}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) (Nitrous Oxide)
The first option, \(\mathrm{N}_{2} \mathrm{O}\), also known as nitrous oxide or laughing gas, is a colorless gas. Since we are looking for a colored gas, this option is not correct.
03
Analyzing NO (Nitric Oxide)
The second option, NO, is called nitric oxide. It is a colorless gas as well, so this does not satisfy the requirement of being colored.
04
Analyzing \(\mathrm{N}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{4}\) (Dinitrogen Tetroxide)
\(\mathrm{N}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{4}\) is generally a colorless or pale yellow gas. This oxide can exist in equilibrium with \(\mathrm{NO}_{2}\) and is not vividly colored on its own, thus it does not meet the criteria of being a colored gas.
05
Analyzing \(\mathrm{NO}_{2}\) (Nitrogen Dioxide)
\(\mathrm{NO}_{2}\) is a reddish-brown gas. It is known for its distinctive color and is often observed as a polluting brown haze over cities. This matches the criteria for being a colored gas.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
Nitrous Oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is a compound with the chemical formula \(\mathrm{N}_2\mathrm{O}\). It is a colorless, non-flammable gas at room temperature with a slightly sweet odor and taste. Medical and dental professionals widely use it as an anesthetic and analgesic due to its sedative properties.
- Properties: Despite its use in anesthesia, nitrous oxide is not reactive and is considered relatively safe in controlled doses.
- Uses: Apart from medical applications, it is also used in the food industry as a propellant, particularly in whipped cream dispensers, and in automotive racing to increase engine power.
Nitric Oxide (NO)
Nitric Oxide, represented by the formula \(\mathrm{NO}\), is another oxide of nitrogen that is colorless when in its gaseous state. It is a significant intermediary in various chemical reactions, particularly those related to combustion and atmospheric processes.
- Formation: Nitric oxide is naturally formed in our bodies and plays a crucial role in cell signaling. Additionally, it forms during the burning of fossil fuels and is emitted as a pollutant.
- Reactivity: Although colorless, it is quite reactive, especially with oxygen, where it further oxidizes to form nitrogen dioxide \(\mathrm{NO}_2\).
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
Nitrogen Dioxide, known chemically as \(\mathrm{NO}_2\), stands out due to its distinctive reddish-brown color. It is a highly visible pollutant and a significant component of the brown atmospheric haze often found over urban areas.
- Characteristics: \(\mathrm{NO}_2\) is known for its acrid smell and irritating effects on the respiratory tract, making it a concern in air quality management.
- Environmental Impact: The presence of \(\mathrm{NO}_2\) in the atmosphere contributes to the formation of tropospheric ozone and can lead to acid rain, due to its ability to form nitric acid \(\mathrm{HNO}_3\) when dissolved in water.
Colored Gas Identification
Colored gases are unique due to their distinct appearances and can serve as important markers in chemical analysis and environmental monitoring. Identifying a gas by color is useful when addressing air quality concerns, pollution sources, or conducting chemical reactions in a lab setting.
- Example: As noted with \(\mathrm{NO}_2\), its reddish-brown color provides a visual cue that is useful in identifying and measuring pollution levels in urban settings.
- Role in Analysis: The color of a gas can indicate specific reactions or processes taking place, especially when changes in concentration or environmental conditions occur.
