Question

Among the metals, Ti, V, W, Zr, Th and Au, the no. of metals purified by van Arkel method is

Short answer

2 metals: Ti and Zr.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Van Arkel Method

The Van Arkel method, also known as the iodide process, is a technique for purifying metals by converting them into volatile compounds. This method is beneficial for metals such as Zirconium (Zr) and Titanium (Ti) that form volatile metal iodides. Hence, Zr and Ti can be purified using the Van Arkel method.

Checking Each Metal for Iodide Formation

We need to identify which of the given metals, Ti, V, W, Zr, Th, and Au, can be purified using the Van Arkel method. We know from literature that typically Titanium (Ti) and Zirconium (Zr) form volatile iodides, which are decomposed to recover pure metal.

Count the Metals

Now, let's count the metals that can be purified using the Van Arkel method from the given list: Ti, V, W, Zr, Th, and Au. From our knowledge, Ti and Zr can be purified using this method. Therefore, the count is two metals.

Key concepts

Metal Purification

Metal purification is a critical process in producing high quality and functional metals that meet specific industry standards. Purification involves removing impurities and undesired elements from a metal to improve its properties. Various methods are employed to purify metals, each tailored to the specific properties of the metal involved.

Purification is essential because it enhances the metal's durability, workability, and conductivity, which are important for industrial applications. Different purification techniques include electrolysis, zone refining, and distillation. However, when it comes to metals like zirconium and titanium, specific methods like the Van Arkel process are utilized.

• Improved durability and strength.
• Enhanced electrical and thermal conductivity.
• Increased corrosion resistance.

Understanding the specific techniques and principles behind metal purification like the Van Arkel method helps in optimizing the properties needed for particular industrial applications.

Volatile Metal Iodides

Volatile metal iodides are intermediate compounds in the purification of metals such as titanium and zirconium using the Van Arkel method. These iodides are formed when metal reacts with iodine to produce a compound that can be easily vaporized.

This volatility allows impurities to be separated, as the metal can later be recovered by decomposing the volatile iodide. The metal initially reacts with iodine at a controlled temperature to form the volatile iodide. This iodide is then subjected to a higher temperature to decompose it back into the pure metal and iodine.

• Formation of volatile metal iodides is crucial for separating impurities.
• Allows purification by decomposition of the volatile compound.
• Useful in purifying metals that would otherwise be difficult to refine.

The method is especially advantageous for metals that form stable volatile iodides, making the process of achieving high purity levels more efficient and straightforward.

Titanium and Zirconium Purification

Titanium and zirconium are two metals that can be effectively purified using the Van Arkel method due to their ability to form volatile iodides. These metals are widely used in aerospace, chemical processing, and other industrial applications due to their excellent strength-to-weight ratios and corrosion resistance.

In the Van Arkel process, these metals react with iodine to form titanium or zirconium iodides at a controlled temperature. The formed iodide is volatile, allowing it to separate from impurities easily. Once separated, the iodides are decomposed on a hot filament at a high temperature to yield ultra-pure titanium and zirconium metal.

• Highly effective for producing ultra-pure metal.
• Increases metal's quality and value for industrial purposes.
• Ensures lower energy consumption and environmental impact compared to other methods.

Thus, the Van Arkel method is an invaluable technique for purifying titanium and zirconium, aiding in the delivery of metals that meet stringent quality requirements for advanced technological applications.