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Chapter 10: Problem 13

Describe in detail the Solvay process for the manufacture of caustic soda.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The Solvay process involves four steps to manufacture sodium hydroxide. From ammonia recovery, carbonating tower, lime kiln and final causticization, together, these steps convert brine solution into Sodium Hydroxide.

Step by step solution

01

Ammonia Recovery

In this step, concentrated brine is saturated with ammonia. By doing so, Calcium and Magnesium ions are precipitated in form of their hydroxides. It's done because these ions if remain in solution will interfere during carbonation stage.
02

Carbonating Tower

The prepared solution is transferred to the carbonating tower. Carbon-dioxide is passed through it from the top. In this phase, Sodium Bicarbonate and Ammonium Chloride are formed. Sodium Bicarbonate is heavy and precipitates while Ammonium Chloride remains in solution.
03

Lime Kiln

Sodium Bicarbonate is transferred to lime kiln where it's heated to form Sodium Carbonate. It is done in a reverberatory furnace. The temperature range is 1300°C to 1600°C.
04

Causticizing

In the final stage, the produced Sodium Carbonate is causticized using Calcium Hydroxide to form Sodium Hydroxide. It happens in a Causticizing kettle at 120°C and under 1-2 atm pressure.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Give reason for the following: (a) Group 1 elements are strong reducing agents but poor complexing agents. (b) Caesium is used in photoelectric cells. (c) Sodium metal is kept under kerosene oil. (d) Lithium shows anomalous behaviour. (e) LiF is insoluble in water.

Write the balanced equation for the following reactions. (a) Treatment of \(\mathrm{AgNO}_{3}\) with sodium thiosulphate (c) Treatment of lithium with ammonia

Explain why lithium is the strongest reducing agent in spite of its high ionisation energy.

Justify the following: (a) Lithium forms the normal oxide whereas potassium forms the super oxide an burning in air. (b) The melting point gap between lithium and sodium is maximum.

Discuss the manufacture of sodium hydroxide.
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