Chapter U4.1, Problem 4E

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The chemical equation for the reaction of bleach and ammonia needs to be explained.

Concept Introduction :

Bleach is sodium hypochlorite which can decolorize many colored solutions.

Answer to Problem 4E

The reaction of bleach and ammonia is somewhat like a double decomposition reaction.

Explanation of Solution

The reaction is represented as follows:

  $\text{NaOCl }\left(aq\right)+{\text{NH}}_{\text{3}}\left(aq\right)\to \text{NaOH }\left(aq\right)+{\text{NH}}_{\text{2}}\text{Cl }\left(g\right)$

In this reaction, Cl of NaOCl is substituted by H of NH₃. As a result, NH₂Cl is produced which is a gas along with NaOH.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reaction of bleach and ammonia must be explained.

Concept Introduction :

The reaction between bleach and ammonia produces a gas.

Answer to Problem 4E

In the reaction of bleach and ammonia effervescence is expected to be observed due to the evolution of NH₂Cl which is a gas.

Explanation of Solution

The reaction is represented as follows:

  $\text{NaOCl }\left(aq\right)+{\text{NH}}_{\text{3}}\left(aq\right)\to \text{NaOH }\left(aq\right)+{\text{NH}}_{\text{2}}\text{Cl }\left(g\right)$

As seen from the reaction, reactants are all liquid. One of the products (NH₂Cl) is gas which will be observed during the reaction as effervescence.