Question

Which of the following is used in the preparation of aerated water (soda)? (a) \(\mathrm{SO}_{2}\) (b) \(\mathrm{HCl}\) (c) \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) (d) \(\mathrm{CO}\)

Short answer

Carbon dioxide (2") is used to make aerated water.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Composition of Aerated Water

Aerated water, commonly known as soda water or carbonated water, is made by dissolving carbon dioxide gas in water under pressure. This gives the water its characteristic fizziness.

Determine the Appropriate Gas

Given that carbon dioxide (2") is the gas used to create the bubbles in fizzy drinks, we can eliminate the other options that do not match this description. This means that 2" is the substance used in the preparation of aerated water.

Verification

To verify, consider each option: 2"). Sulfur dioxide (2") is not used in soda, hydrochloric acid (a"). Therefore, only carbon dioxide (2") is the correct answer.

Key concepts

Carbon dioxide

Carbon dioxide, or \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\), is a naturally occurring chemical compound composed of two oxygen atoms bonded to a single carbon atom. It exists as a gas at room temperature and is colorless and odorless. The presence of carbon dioxide is crucial for life on Earth as it plays a significant role in plant photosynthesis, where plants use it to produce oxygen.

• Carbon dioxide is heavier than air and can dissolve in water.
• When dissolved under pressure, it adds a sparkling effect to beverages such as soda.

In carbonated drinks, carbon dioxide creates fizz by forming tiny bubbles when released from the pressurized liquid. This is not only interesting from a scientific perspective, but it also adds a unique sensory experience when drinking. By understanding the role of carbon dioxide in carbonation, we can better appreciate its importance in the food and beverage industry.

Aerated water

Aerated water, also known as carbonated water or soda water, is simply water where carbon dioxide gas is dissolved. This process creates a bubbly, effervescent effect that is characteristic of soda drinks.

• The water becomes sparkling due to carbon dioxide dissolving in it under high pressure.
• This carbonation process involves maintaining water in a closed container, preventing the gas from escaping.

When you open a bottle of aerated water, the pressure inside the container decreases, allowing the gas to form bubbles that rise to the surface. This is why you hear a hiss of gas when you first open a fizzy drink. The process of making aerated water is common with both artificially flavored and naturally carbonated beverages, offering a refreshing alternative to still water.

Preparation of carbonated drinks

The preparation of carbonated drinks involves a few key steps, central to which is the dissolution of carbon dioxide into water or other base liquids under pressure. This process is often done within industrial machines designed for carbonation.

• Initially, the liquid is cooled as cold liquids absorb gases more effectively.
• Then, carbon dioxide is introduced under pressure, allowing the gas to fully dissolve.

This combination is then sealed in beverage containers to maintain fizz. The carbonation gives the drinks their distinctive effervescence. It’s this fizziness that provides both a unique texture and taste sensation, making carbonated beverages a beloved choice for many. Understanding this process highlights the fascinating interplay of chemistry and engineering in everyday products.