Question

A mixture of nitro cellulose and nitro glycerine is a (a) double base propellent (b) monopropellent (c) hybrid propellent (d) biliquid propellent

Short answer

(a) double base propellent

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Ingredients

We need to identify the key ingredients involved in the mixture. Nitrocellulose and nitroglycerine are both common components in certain types of explosives and propellants, often used in the composition of propellants for firearms and rockets.

Identifying Propellent Types

Propellents are classified into different types based on their composition: double base propellants contain two main components, usually nitrocellulose and nitroglycerine; monopropellants are single-component; hybrid propellents are composed of fuel and oxidizer in different phases; biliquid propellants use two liquid components.

Matching the Mixture to the Propellent Type

The mixture described consists of nitrocellulose and nitroglycerine. This composition fits the description of a double base propellant, which contains these two ingredients as its main components, providing energy and stability.

Confirming the Correct Option

Given that nitrocellulose and nitroglycerine are the traditional components of double base propellants, option (a) is the correct answer.

Key concepts

Understanding Nitrocellulose

Nitrocellulose is a derivative of cellulose, the primary structural component in plant cell walls. When cellulose is treated with a mixture of sulfuric and nitric acid, nitrocellulose is produced. This compound is known for its explosive properties and is often utilized in a variety of applications.

• It was first discovered in the 1800s and initially used for making celluloid, an early type of plastic.
• Due to its high flammability, it became an integral component of explosives and propellants.

One of the key qualities of nitrocellulose is its ability to provide a rapid release of energy upon ignition. In the context of propellants, this characteristic makes it invaluable for applications requiring fast combustion rates. Consequently, it's widely used in firearm propellants and some rocket applications.

The Versatility of Nitroglycerine

Nitroglycerine, another key player in explosives chemistry, is an oily liquid that is known for its remarkable capacity to store chemical energy. It was made popular by Alfred Nobel and is a critical ingredient in dynamite and many propellant formulations.

• Its explosive nature stems from its ability to decompose rapidly, releasing a significant amount of gas and heat.
• In medicine, small doses are used for treating heart conditions due to its ability to dilate blood vessels.

In propellant formulations, nitroglycerine is valued for its energy content. When combined with nitrocellulose, it forms a double base propellant, adding both vitality and smoothness to the combustion process. Its stability and energetic attributes are finely balanced, necessitating careful handling and storage.

Different Types of Propellants

Propellants are substances used to create thrust by expelling matter at high speed. They can be classified into several categories, each with specific applications and characteristics.

• **Double Base Propellants**: Comprised primarily of nitrocellulose and nitroglycerine, these are widely used due to their explosive and stable nature.
• **Monopropellants**: Contain a single component, usually a liquid that decomposes to produce gas. Hydrazine is a common example.
• **Hybrid Propellants**: Combine solid and liquid components, used in some rocket engines for flexibility and control.
• **Biliquid Propellants**: These use two separate liquid components that are combined just before or during combustion, offering controllability but with increased complexity.

Each type has its own set of advantages and limitations, with the choice depending on the specific requirements of the application, such as size, weight, and desired thrust characteristics.

Exploring Explosives Chemistry

Explosives chemistry is a fascinating area that involves the study of reactive substances capable of releasing large amounts of energy in a rapid and confined manner. It covers a wide spectrum of compounds and materials, including propellants, explosives, and pyrotechnics.

• Reactions in explosives chemistry are typically characterized by rapid oxidation and the release of gases such as nitrogen and carbon dioxide.
• Key to this chemistry is the balance between stability and reactivity, ensuring safety in storage and transport while maintaining potent performance during use.
• Advancements in this field have led to more efficient and safer formulations, with applications ranging from military and civilian sectors to aerospace and mining.

Understanding these principles is crucial for developing new propellant types that can deliver increased power and efficiency while minimizing risks. As technology progresses, innovations in explosives chemistry will continue to play a vital role in numerous industrial and commercial domains.