What is water of crystallisation? Write the common name and chemical formula of a commercially important compound which has 10. molecules of water. How is this compound obtained? Write its chemical equation also. List any two uses of this compound.

Water of crystallisation refers to the fixed number of water molecules that are chemically bound within a crystalline compound. These water molecules are integral to the structure of the compound and are typically included in the chemical formula.

Common Name and Chemical Formula of a Commercially Important Compound:

  • Common Name: Washing Soda
  • Chemical Formula: Na2​CO3​·10H2_22​O

Obtaining Washing Soda: Washing soda is obtained through the Solvay process, which involves the reaction of sodium chloride (salt), ammonia, and carbon dioxide in water. This process yields sodium bicarbonate, which is then heated to produce sodium carbonate. The sodium carbonate is then crystallised from water, incorporating ten molecules of water of crystallisation.

Chemical Equations:

  • NaCl + NH3​ + CO2​ + H2​O → NaHCO3​ + NH4​Cl
  • 2NaHCO3​ → Na2​CO3​ + CO2​ + H2​O
  • Na2​CO3​ + 10H2​O → Na2​CO3​·10H2​O

Uses of Washing Soda:

  • Water Softening: Washing soda is used to soften hard water by precipitating calcium and magnesium ions.
  • Cleaning Agent: It is used in laundry detergents and other cleaning products due to its ability to remove grease, oil, and stains.

Question-Related To Chapters Acid, Base, Salt: Exam Point of View