Question

\(\mathrm{KO}_{2}\) (potassium super oxide) is used in oxygen cylinders in space and submarines because it: (a) Produces ozone (b) Absorbs \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) (c) Absorbs \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\) and increase \(\mathrm{O}_{2}\) contents (d) Eliminates moisture

Short answer

Option (c): It absorbs CO_2 and increases O_2 contents.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Reaction

Potassium superoxide (KO_2) reacts with carbon dioxide (CO_2) in a chemical reaction. This reaction produces potassium carbonate (K_2CO_3), oxygen (O_2), and sometimes moisture is involved under different conditions.

Write the Chemical Equation

The balanced chemical equation for the reaction of KO_2 with CO_2 is: 2 KO_2 + 2 CO_2  K_2CO_3 + O_2 This equation shows that KO_2 absorbs carbon dioxide and produces oxygen.

Evaluate Each Option

- Option (a) Produces ozone: This is incorrect because the reaction does not produce ozone (O_3). - Option (b) Absorbs CO_2: This is partially correct, but it does not include the increase in O_2. - Option (c) Absorbs CO_2 and increases O_2 contents: This is correct as it reflects both the absorption of CO_2 and the production of O_2. - Option (d) Eliminates moisture: While moisture can be absorbed in other reactions, it is not mentioned in this specific reaction.

Key concepts

Chemical Reaction with CO2

Potassium superoxide ( KO_2 ) plays a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide. This is particularly valuable in closed environments like space stations and submarines. When KO_2 comes into contact with CO_2 , a chemical reaction occurs. In this reaction, KO_2 absorbs the CO_2 , effectively removing it from the environment. This absorption is vital because CO_2 can accumulate in closed spaces, causing potential harm to humans. The absorption of carbon dioxide not only makes the air safer to breathe but also facilitates another important chemical process—oxygen generation. Hence, potassium superoxide serves a dual purpose by fighting carbon dioxide build-up and contributing to life support systems.

Oxygen Generation

One of the remarkable benefits of KO_2 reacting with carbon dioxide is the generation of oxygen ( O_2 ). As the KO_2 absorbs CO_2 , it forms potassium carbonate ( K_2CO_3 ) and concurrently releases oxygen back into the environment. This chemical transformation is beneficial, particularly in oxygen-limited environments. By generating oxygen, KO_2 helps replenish the air, maintaining a breathable atmosphere. This unique ability to generate oxygen while removing CO_2 is why KO_2 is often used in life-support systems, providing a consistent source of fresh oxygen for occupants.

Balanced Chemical Equation

To understand the chemical interactions more clearly, let's look at the balanced chemical equation for KO_2 reacting with CO_2: \[ 2 \mathrm{KO}_{2} + 2 \mathrm{CO}_{2} \rightarrow 2 \mathrm{K}_2\mathrm{CO}_{3} + \mathrm{O}_{2} \]This equation indicates how two molecules of potassium superoxide react with two molecules of carbon dioxide. The result is the formation of two molecules of potassium carbonate and one molecule of oxygen.Writing balanced chemical equations is essential in chemistry. It ensures that the same number of each type of atom is present on both sides of the equation. This reflects the law of conservation of mass, indicating that matter is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction. Hence, the balanced equation serves as a blueprint for understanding the proportions and relationships between reactants and products.