Question

The process used for the removal of hardness of water is: (a) Baeyer (b) Hoope (c) Calgon (d) Serpeck

Short answer

The process used for the removal of hardness of water is (c) Calgon.

Step-by-step solution

Identifying Keywords

Identify the keywords in the question. Here, the main keywords are "removal of hardness of water." This indicates that we are looking for a chemical process or method related to water treatment.

Understanding the Options

Understand the options given: (a) Baeyer, (b) Hoope, (c) Calgon, (d) Serpeck. Each of these names usually refers to a specific chemical process or method. We need to determine which one relates to water treatment.

Analyzing Each Option

Analyze each option to identify which relates to water hardness removal. "Baeyer" is related to the synthesis of aldehydes, "Hoope" is associated with aluminum production, and "Serpeck" is a process for producing aluminum. "Calgon," however, is a well-known brand and method for water softening.

Selecting the Correct Option

Since "Calgon" is specifically used in water softening processes to remove hardness by using a complex phosphate compound, it is the correct answer.

Key concepts

Calgon Process

The Calgon process is specifically designed for water softening, which means it helps in removing hardness from water. Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium ions, which can create problems ranging from poor soap efficiency to damaging water heaters and pipes. The Calgon process helps mitigate these problems effectively.

Calgon is a trade name for a water softening agent that acts through a chemical known as sodium hexametaphosphate. This compound works by binding with calcium and magnesium ions in the water. When these ions are bound, they cannot form the insoluble salts that cause hardness.

• This means a chemical reaction happens between Calgon and the hardness-causing ions.
• The reaction holds the ions in a soluble form, preventing them from depositing as scale.

Essentially, Calgon sequesters the hardness ions, making them unable to interfere with soap or form deposits. This efficiency makes the Calgon process popular and reliable for softening hard water in both domestic and industrial settings.

Water Softening Methods

Water softening is a critical step in water treatment, focusing on removing calcium, magnesium, and sometimes iron and manganese ions that cause hardness. Hard water is less effective with soap, leaves residue, and scales in pipes, thus it's necessary to soften it.

There are various methods employed for water softening:

• Ion Exchange Method: Uses a resin to exchange calcium and magnesium ions with sodium or potassium ions, thus reducing hardness.
• Lime Softening: Involves adding lime to precipitate calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide, effectively softening the water.
• Reverse Osmosis: Filters water through a semi-permeable membrane, removing a significant portion of ions that cause hardness.
• Sequestering Agents: Like the Calgon process, these bind with ions to prevent them from causing hardness.

Each method has its pros and cons depending on the situation, such as cost, effectiveness, and environmental impact.

Chemistry of Water Treatment

The chemistry involved in water treatment includes numerous processes and reactions designed to purify water, making it safe for drinking and suitable for industrial use. Understanding the chemistry behind these processes allows us to make informed decisions about the best treatment methods for different scenarios.

Key chemical processes in water treatment are:

• Precipitation: Where chemicals are added to form insoluble particles from dissolved ions, which can then be filtered out.
• Oxidation-Reduction: Transforms contaminants into less harmful substances through electron transfer.
• Filtration: Uses physical and chemical means to remove suspended solids and dissolved ions.
• pH Adjustment: Balances acidity and alkalinity to optimize conditions for other treatments.
• Chemical Disinfection: Involves chlorine, ozone, or other disinfectants to kill bacteria and pathogens.

Water treatment relies on precise chemical reactions to address impurities, safeguarding public health and ensuring water quality.