Question

Action of water or dilute mineral acids on metals can give: (a) Tritium (b) Dihydrogen (c) Trihydrogen (d) Mono hydrogen

Short answer

(b) Dihydrogen

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Scenario

When metals react with water or dilute mineral acids, they typically undergo a chemical reaction that results in the release of hydrogen in some form. Our task is to identify the correct form of hydrogen that is produced in these reactions.

Chemical Reaction Overview

Metals like zinc, iron, and aluminum react with water or dilute mineral acids to form metal salts and hydrogen gas. For example, when zinc (Zn) reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl), it forms zinc chloride (ZnCl_2) and dihydrogen (H_2):\[Zn + 2HCl \rightarrow ZnCl_2 + H_2 \uparrow\]

Analyzing Hydrogen Forms

The produced gas in the reactions is H_2 , which is known as dihydrogen. This means it consists of two hydrogen atoms. Tritium is an isotope of hydrogen and not typically a product of these reactions. Trihydrogen and monohydrogen do not exist as stable molecular entities under normal conditions.

Conclusion

The substance produced in the reaction between metals and water or dilute mineral acids is dihydrogen, often represented as H_2 .

Key concepts

Chemical Reactions with Metals

In the realm of chemistry, understanding how metals interact with acids and water is fundamental. Metals, such as zinc and iron, possess the ability to undergo chemical reactions when exposed to certain conditions. These reactions generally lead to the formation of new substances. They play a crucial role in a wide array of applications, from industrial processes to everyday household tasks.
When a metal reacts with water or a dilute mineral acid (like hydrochloric acid), this is often a single displacement reaction. Essentially, the metal replaces hydrogen in the water or acid, forming a metal salt and releasing hydrogen gas. For example:

• In the reaction of zinc with hydrochloric acid, zinc displaces the hydrogen, forming zinc chloride and releasing hydrogen gas.
• This is visually represented as: \[Zn + 2HCl \rightarrow ZnCl_2 + H_2 \uparrow\]

In these reactions, the metal atoms lose electrons and become positively charged ions, while the hydrogen ions gain electrons and form hydrogen molecules. This exchange of electrons is the essence of the redox process that occurs in chemical reactions with metals.
Grasping these concepts can illuminate the wide-ranging importance of metal reactions in technology and nature.

Dihydrogen Formation

Dihydrogen, or hydrogen gas, is the simplest and most abundant element in the universe. In chemical reactions with metals, dihydrogen is often a common product. During these reactions, dihydrogen is released as a gas composed of two hydrogen atoms bonded together (H₂). This bonding makes it a diatomic molecule, which is the simplest form of a hydrogen molecule.
Understanding dihydrogen formation enhances our comprehension of these chemical processes, which are integral in various scientific and industrial fields. The production of hydrogen gas from metal reactions is noteworthy because it can be harnessed as a clean energy source. Here’s why dihydrogen formation is essential:

• Dihydrogen acts as an energy carrier, with significant potential in hydrogen fuel cells, which can power vehicles and generate electricity.
• The simplicity and abundance of hydrogen make it a sustainable option for clean energy development.

These aspects place dihydrogen at the forefront of solutions for energy needs in an environmentally conscious world.

Properties of Hydrogen

Hydrogen is characterized by its simplicity and abundance in the universe, contributing to its vital role in chemical reactions and industry. It has unique properties:

• In gaseous form, hydrogen is colorless, odorless, and tasteless.
• Being the lightest element, hydrogen is buoyant in air.
• It exists predominantly as a diatomic molecule (H₂), meaning two hydrogen atoms are bonded together.
• Hydrogen gas is highly flammable, reacting explosively with oxygen.

These properties facilitate its use in various industries and scientific research. Hydrogen's capacity to form compounds with a wide range of elements makes it pivotal in organic and inorganic chemistry.
The efficient energy potential and environmentally friendly profile further underscore why hydrogen is heralded as the future of clean energy solutions. As we explore ways to transition to sustainable energy models, understanding hydrogen's properties is more relevant than ever.