Question

Electrolysis of \(X\) gives \(Y\) at anode. Vacuum distillation of \(Y\) gives \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{2} .\) The number of peroxy (O-O) bonds present in \(\mathrm{X}\) and \(\mathrm{Y}\) respectively are (a) 1,1 (b) 1,2 (c) zero, 1 (d) zero, zero

Short answer

The number of peroxy bonds in \(X\) and \(Y\) are zero, 1.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the substances involved

According to the problem, electrolysis of \(X\) gives \(Y\) at the anode, and vacuum distillation of \(Y\) gives \(H_2 O_2\). Here, \(H_2 O_2\) is hydrogen peroxide, which contains one \(O-O\) bond, known as the peroxy bond.

Determine the nature of \(X\) and \(Y\)

The electrolysis process usually involves substances like \(H_2 SO_4\) or \(Na_2 SO_4\) leading to the production of \(SO_4^{2-}\) ions at the anode. The \(SO_4^{2-}\) ion does not contain an \(O-O\) bond; therefore, \(X\) does not have a peroxy bond, which suggests it is zero.

Analyze the properties of \(Y\)

\(Y\) must lead to the formation of \(H_2 O_2\) upon vacuum distillation. A likely candidate for \(Y\) is \((H_2 SO_5)\), known as Caro's acid, where the peroxy group \((O-O)\) is present. Thus, \(Y\) has one \(O-O\) bond.

Conclusion

From the analysis above, \(X\) does not have a peroxy bond (0), while \(Y\) has one peroxy bond (1). This aligns with option (c) zero, 1.

Key concepts

Peroxy Bond

A peroxy bond is a distinctive type of chemical bond characterized by the linkage between two oxygen atoms, denoted as an \(O-O\) bond. This bond is crucial because it is relatively unstable and reactive compared to typical \(O-H\) or \(C-O\) bonds. This instability makes compounds with peroxy bonds highly interesting in chemistry and useful in various applications. This kind of bond is frequently found in substances that act as oxidizing agents.
Peroxy bonds appear in chemical processes involving oxidation and reduction reactions. They are vital in creating explosives, bleaching agents, and antiseptics. The presence of this bond in substances like hydrogen peroxide lends such compounds their characteristic oxidizing properties.
In applications, the reactivity of the peroxy bond is exploited in industry and medicine, providing critical functions in synthesizing materials and disinfecting environments. Understanding peroxy bonds helps chemists predict how these compounds will behave, ensuring safe and effective use in various contexts.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen Peroxide \((H_2O_2)\) is a simple compound with a familiar formula but significant applications. Its unique feature is the peroxy bond \((O-O)\), making it a powerful oxidizing agent. This bond gives hydrogen peroxide its characteristic reactive nature, which is utilized in numerous industries.
Hydrogen peroxide is widely used as a disinfectant and antiseptic. In medical settings, it cleans wounds and prevents infections. Its oxidizing power makes it useful in bleaching agents for both personal care and cleaning products. Additionally, hydrogen peroxide sees use in environmental applications, helping treat wastewater by breaking down pollutants.
Despite its usefulness, hydrogen peroxide requires handling with care. Concentrated solutions can be hazardous, posing risks of burns and oxygen production, which could lead to combustion. Hence, understanding its chemical properties and reactivity is essential for safe application and handling.

Caro's Acid

Caro's acid, chemically known as peroxymonosulfuric acid \((H_2SO_5)\), is a compound with a significant chemical structure due to its peroxy bond. As a potent oxidizing agent, it is used in many chemical reactions requiring rigorous oxidizing conditions. It can be generated from the combination of concentrated sulfuric acid \((H_2SO_4)\) with hydrogen peroxide \((H_2O_2)\), illustrating the blending of powerful acidic and oxidizing properties.
One key feature of Caro's acid is the presence of the \(O-O\) or peroxy bond in its structure. This attribute makes it especially reactive and useful in robust chemical applications, including depolymerization reactions and as a catalyst in organic synthesis. Caro's acid is also employed in some industrial processes for cleaning and bleaching due to its strong oxidative capabilities.
While beneficial, handling Caro's acid requires precaution because of its powerful reactivity, which can pose handling and stability challenges. Proper knowledge of its chemical nature and applications ensures safe and efficient utilization in various chemical processes. Understanding this compound aids chemists in harnessing its full potential while managing safety concerns.