Question

The carbon dioxide exhaled by sailors in a submarine is often removed by reaction with an aqueous lithium hydroxide solution. (a) Write a balanced equation for this process.

Short answer

2LiOH + CO_2 → Li_2CO_3 + H_2O.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Reactants

In the problem, the reactants involved are carbon dioxide ( CO_2 ) and lithium hydroxide ( LiOH ). The goal is to determine how these reactants combine in a chemical reaction to facilitate the removal of CO_2 .

Determining the Products

When carbon dioxide ( CO_2 ) reacts with lithium hydroxide ( LiOH ), the typical products are lithium carbonate ( Li_2CO_3 ) and water ( H_2O ). This reaction is typical for metal hydroxides reacting with carbon dioxide.

Writing the Unbalanced Equation

Based on the identified reactants and products, the initial unbalanced chemical equation is CO_2 + LiOH ightarrow Li_2CO_3 + H_2O . This step involves writing out how these compounds participate in a chemical equation.

Balancing the Equation

To balance the equation, ensure that the same number of each type of atom appears on both sides. Noticing the need for 2 lithium (Li) atoms on the product side, adjust the coefficients: 2LiOH + CO_2 ightarrow Li_2CO_3 + H_2O Check the balance: 2 Li, 2 O in LiOH, 1 C, and 3 O in CO_2 , resulting in 1 Li_2CO_3 and 1 H_2O with 2 Li, 3 O split between CO_3 and H_2O. The equation is balanced in terms of atoms.

Final Answer

The balanced chemical equation for carbon dioxide reacting with aqueous lithium hydroxide is: 2LiOH + CO_2 ightarrow Li_2CO_3 + H_2O.

Key concepts

lithium hydroxide

Lithium hydroxide ( LiOH ) is a chemical compound that plays a crucial role in various chemical reactions, particularly those involving the absorption of carbon dioxide ( CO_2 ). This compound is typically found in either solid or aqueous form. It readily reacts with acids, releasing water and creating other compounds during reactions. Here is how it works in simple terms:

• When carbon dioxide comes into contact with lithium hydroxide, it initiates a chemical reaction.
• The lithium ions ( Li^+ ) and hydroxide ions ( OH^- ) in the compound help in neutralizing carbon dioxide and ultimately lead to the formation of harmless by-products.

Lithium hydroxide is favored in industrial applications for its efficient and rapid reaction capabilities. It is a key material in environments where carbon dioxide needs to be controlled or eliminated swiftly, especially in enclosed spaces like submarines. Its uses extend from chemistry labs to specialized settings, showcasing its versatility.

carbon dioxide removal

Carbon dioxide removal is an essential process in many technological and environmental contexts, one notable application being in submarines. In confined spaces, carbon dioxide can accumulate quickly as people exhale this gas naturally. Without proper mitigation, it leads to a decrease in air quality and poses health risks.

• To tackle this, a chemical reaction is employed to capture and convert the carbon dioxide into less harmful substances.
• Using lithium hydroxide for this purpose is effective due to its high reactivity with CO_2 and its ability to produce solid products like lithium carbonate (Li_2CO_3), which can then be safely disposed of.

The reaction is represented by the balanced equation:\[ 2\text{LiOH} + \text{CO}_2 \rightarrow \text{Li}_2\text{CO}_3 + \text{H}_2\text{O} \]This equation highlights that two moles of lithium hydroxide react with one mole of carbon dioxide, forming one mole of lithium carbonate and one mole of water. This effectively removes the carbon dioxide from the environment, maintaining healthy breathing conditions.

chemical reaction in submarines

Chemical reactions in submarines are vital due to the enclosed environment where fresh air is limited. The atmosphere inside needs continuous regulation to ensure the safety and comfort of the crew members. One of the critical reactions used is the absorption of carbon dioxide using lithium hydroxide.

• This reaction not only purges CO_2 but also contributes to maintaining the overall breathable air quality inside the submarine.
• The chemical reaction is simple and efficient, involving lithium hydroxide capturing CO_2 exhaled by humans, transforming it into lithium carbonate and water.

Given the limited space and resources inside a submarine, this reaction is particularly advantageous because:

• It occurs quickly, ensuring CO_2 levels remain low.
• The by-products are non-toxic, contributing to onboard safety.
• The materials involved are lightweight and economical, making them ideal for such a confined setting.

This reaction is a perfect example of how chemistry is utilized in specialized environments to solve everyday challenges faced by people in unique circumstances.