ALKALI AND ALKALINE EARTH METALS

13.1 ALKALI METALS

Periodic discussion and general characteristics
The elements in the Group IA of the periodic table other than
hydrogen are called alkali metals, because these dissolve in water
giving alkali.
e.g., 2 Li + H2O 2LiOH + H2
2 Na + H2O 2NaOH + H2
Li (3): 1s2 2s1 [He] 2s1
Na (11): 1s22s22p63s1 [Ne] 3s1
K (19): 1s22s22p63s23p64s1 [Ar] 4s1
Ru (37): 1s22s22p63s23p64s23d104p65s1 [Kr] 5s1
Cs (55): [Xe]6s1
• Due to one electron in the valance shell, their valency is 1 and
oxidation number is +1 in combined state.
• Highly electropositive and extremely reactive elements.
• Low ionization potential and low electronegativity.
• Typical metals possessing metallic lustre, malleability and
ductility.
• Silvery white when freshly cut but tarnish in air.
• Good conductors of electricity.
• Relatively soft solids that can be cut with knife. These have
relatively low densities.
• Low melting and boiling points. And the m pt and b pt decrease
down the group.
• Powerful reducing agents.
Alkali metals impart characteristic colour in Bunsen flame. This is
used as a confirmatory test for the presence of the alkali metals. The

1
characteristic colour is produced when the energy of the flame is
absorbed by the electrons resulting jumping of electrons to higher
energy level. In a very short interval of time, the electrons jump back
to lower (ground) state releasing excess energy in the form of visible
light of different colour. Sodium produces yellow flame and Lithium
produces Golden yellow flame and K, Rb and Cs give violet flame.

60) Write short notes on characteristics of alkali metals. 5

54) Give the characteristics of alkali metals. 5
76) Why do alkali metals impart characteristic colour when introduced to
the flame? 2
72) Give reason: Alkali metals impart characteristic colour to the flame test.
69) Alkali metal impart characteristic colour to the flame. Give reason. 2
76) Sodium metal burns with air giving golden yellow flame. Why? 2
60) What would happen when the nitrate of an alkali metal is heated? (not
in syllabus) 2
Solution: When nitrate of alkali metal is heated oxygen and metal nitrate
is formed
NaNO3 → NaNO2 + 1/2O2

Which of the following has lowest melting point? (IOM)

a. Li b. Na c. K d. Cs

Sodium
Occurance
Sodium is the sixth most abundant element in the earth’s crust. It is
the fourth most abundant metal in the earth crust.
Its main minerals are as following:
1. Sodium chloride: The most abundant mineral and ore of
Sodium. Found in sea water, various lakes and as rock salt. Sea
water normally contains 1.5% of NaCl. Dead sea contains 8% of
NaCl.

2
 2. Chile Saltpetre (NaNO3)
3. Glaubar’s Salt ( Na2SO4.10H2O)
4. Borax (Na2B4O7.10H2O) etc.

Extraction from Down’s process

Sodium is generally extracted from the most common, abundant
and cheap mineral (ore) Sodium chloride.
However it cannot be extracted by chemical (Carbon or aluminum)
reduction process because
1. Sodium chloride cannot be easily roasted to get Sodium oxide.
Besides Sodium oxide cannot be reduced by Carbon, itself being
stronger reducing agent.
2. Carbon reduction has to be carried out at high temperature
where sodium forms sodium carbide rather than free sodium
metal.
Even electrolytic reduction encountered following difficulties.
a. NaCl melts at 8020C. Boiling point of Na is 8830C. Therefore if
sodium metal is produces at such temperature, Na metal forms
metallic fog with NaCl. Such fog can corrode and short circuit
the cell and it is difficult to handle and separate.
b. Both sodium and chlorine produced are highly reactive so can
corrode the cell.
To overcome these difficulties, JC Down mixed sodium chloride
with calcium chloride in the ratio 2:3 which lowers the melting point
to about 6000C. At this temperature neither sodium and chlorine
corrode the cell nor is metallic fog formed. Even less energy is
enough to maintain the temperature.
The Down’s cell is a cylindrical iron tank lined inside of refractory
material. Graphide anode is kept at the centre and cylindrical iron
cathode surrounds it. Anode and cathode are separated by an iron
gauze which keeps the products of electrolysis separated.

3
On passing electricity, these reactions occur,

At anode,
At cathode,

The net cell reaction is:

The sodium metal liberated at cathode rises through the molten
sodium chloride because it is lighter. Chlorine gas liberated at anode
escapes out. With the progress of reaction, the concentration of NaCl
decreases and more fresh NaCl can be added to continue the
working of the plant. Calcium is not liberated instead of sodium
because it requires higher voltage of electricity.
Advantages:
1. Highly pure Sodium metal is obtained (99.8%).
2. Chloride is formed as a byproduct which is very useful
industrial chemical.
3. Impure salt can be directly used.

53) Why alkali metals cannot be obtained by chemical reduction method?

75) Give reason: Carbon reduction process is not applicable for extraction
of alkali metals. 1
72) Why is carbon reduction process is not applied for the extraction of
alkali metal? Name any suitable method for extraction of these metals. 1+1

70) Can sodium be extracted by the electrolysis of aqueous solution of

sodium chloride? If not, why? 2
Solution: Sodium cannot be extracted by the electrolysis of aqueous
solution of sodium chloride because discharge potential of hydrogen is
lower than that of sodium. Hence hydrogen is liberated first instead of

4
sodium. Moreover, sodium if formed reacts with water to form sodium
hydroxide and hydrogen.
Na +H2O NaOH + H2

72) Why is mixture of CaCl2 and KF added to NaCl during the extraction
of sodium? 2
62) How is sodium extracted by Down’s process? Sketch a diagram of the
Down’s cell and write reaction involved. What are the difficulties on
obtaining sodium by this process and how are they removed? 7
75) Sketch a well labeled diagram for the manufacture of sodium by
Down’s process. What are the advantages of this process? 6
59) Describe the extraction of sodium by Down’s process. 6
69) How is sodium extracted from Down’s process? 5
74/73/69) Write the principle and process along with self-explanatory
diagram for the manufacture of sodium by Down’s process. 6
70/67) Explain the chemistry of down’s process for the extraction of
sodium. 5
63) Write the principle involved in the extraction of sodium form sodium
chloride and also draw a self-explanatory diagram for the Down’s process of
the extraction of sodium. 5
56) How is sodium extracted from sodium chloride using Down’s
electrolytic cell? 5
70) Sketch well labeled diagram for the extraction of sodium by Down’s
process and explain the principle involved in the process. 6

Properties
Physical properties
• Soft silvery white metal with metallic lustre could be easily cut
with knife.
• Less denser than water.
• M. pt. 970C B pt. 8830C.

Chemical properties

5
 Action with air
When sodium metal is exposed to air its surface get tarnished due to
the formation of layer of sodium carbonate in following steps.
4Na + O2→2Na2O
Na2O + H2O → 2NaOH
2NaOH + CO2 →Na2CO3 + H2O
First Sodium metal absorbs oxygen forming sodium oxide which
absorbs the moisture changing into sodium hydroxide. The Sodium
hydroxide further absorbs Carbondioxide forming sodium
carbonate.
Therefore sodium metal is generally stored dipped in kerosene.

56/52) What happens when a piece of sodium metal is exposed to air? 2

70) What happens when sodium is exposed to moist air? 1
62) How does sodium react with moist air? 1.5
75/72) Give reason: Sodium metal gets tarnished in air. 1
69) Why is sodium metal kept in kerosene? 1

75/74) Write the reactions for the conversion of sodium into washing soda.
73) Convert sodium into washing soda. 1
70) Starting form Sodium how would you prepare Na2CO3.10H2O.

Action with water

When a piece of sodium is dropped in the water it reacts violently
with water forming caustic soda and hydrogen gas. This is a highly
exothermic reaction. If large amount of sodium is used explosion
occurs.
2Na + 2H2O →2NaOH + H2
Even the hydrogen gas formed is highly inflammable gas making
the reaction more dangerous.
Therefore sodium fire cannot be extinguished by water.

6
57) What happens when a piece of sodium metal is dropped into water? 2
59) Write the action of sodium with H2O. 2
74/70) Why is sodium fire at laboratory not extinguished by adding water?
67) Why is sodium fire not extinguished by adding water? 1

Burning in Oxygen
Sodium burns in oxygen forming mainly sodium peroxide and
small amount of sodium oxide.

Burning in Carbondioxide
Sodium also burns in the atmosphere of Carbondioxide, therefore
even Carbondioxide cannot be used for the fire extinguisher for
sodium fire.

Action with acids

It reacts with minerals acids forming salt and displaces hydrogen
gas.

Action with Hydrogen

When sodium is heated with hydrogen gas, Sodium hydride is
formed which is unstable compound.

Metal hydrides are the compounds where hydrogen has an

oxidation number of -1.

Action with other non metals

Sodium reacts with other non metals forming generally binary
compounds like

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 Action with ammonia
When sodium is heated with ammonia gas at about 3000C,
Sodamide is formed.
2Na + 2NH3 2NaNH2 + H2
Sodium metal dissolves in liquid ammonia forming deep blue
solution. Here first sodium ionizes as
Na Na+ + e-
Then both sodium ion and free electron are ammoniated as:
Na+ + x NH3 Na+(NH3)x
e- + y NH3 e-(NH3)y

51) What is the main product obtained when sodium is allowed to react
with dry ammonia at 3000C – 4000C? 2
70) What happens when sodium is heated with NH3? 1
67) What happens when sodium is treated with ammonia? 1
59) Write the action of Sodium with NH3. 2
62) How does sodium react with NH3? 1.5

Action with alcohols

Sodium displaces hydrogen gas form alcohols. This reaction shows
slight acidic nature of alcohols.

Action with Mercury

Sodium forms homogenous mixture with mercury which is called
sodium amalgam.
Uses of Sodium

8
• In sodium vapour lamp, which illuminates streets with yellow
light distinctly visible in the foggy as well.
• To prepare useful compounds like Sodamide, Sodium cyanide,
Sodium peroxide etc.
• Sodium amalgam is used as a reducing agent.
• As a lab reagent specially for foreign element detection.

69/59) Mention biological importances of Sodium and Potassium metals. 2

Solution: Sodium and potassium are present in the human body in the
form of ions their main functions in the body include
-to maintain the osmotic pressure
-to help in nerve impulse
-to maintain electro-neutrality in body fluids, etc.

Sodium Hydroxide
Manufacture
Sodium hydroxide can be obtained by one of the following
processes both of which electrolyze brine solution (nearly saturated
NaCl solution) using mercury cathode which has more affinity for
sodium ions over hydrogen ions. Therefore sodium is discharged at
the cathode rather than hydrogen.
1. Castner-Kellner Cell
Principle:
Sodium chloride dissociates in water to give Na+ and Cl- ions as;
NaCl → Na+ + Cl-
The Cl ions migrate towards the anode, lose electron and convert
-

into chlorine gas.

2 Cl- → Cl2 + 2 e- (Oxidation)
In Castner-Kellner process, H+ ions are not easily discharged due to
high discharge potential of H+ ions, on the contrary Na+ ions are
easily discharge on the mercury surface.
2 Na+ + 2e- → 2 Na (Reduction)

9
The sodium thus liberated dissolves in mercury forming an
amalgam.
Na + Hg → NaHg (Sodium Amalgum)
Plant

Fig: Castner-Kellner Cell for manufacture of Caustic Soda

Working and Explanation:

A Castner-Kellner cell consists of rectangular tank divided into three
compartments by slate partitions that do not touch the bottom.
There is a thin layer of Mercury on the bottom which separates the
remaining components of the compartments and act as intermediary
electrode in the same time.
The outer compartments are fitted with graphite anodes dipped in
the brine solution. The middle compartment contains dilute NaOH
solution where a series of iron cathode is suspended.
The Mercury pool acts as cathode in the outer compartments and
anode in the middle by induction.
The Amalgam formed in outer chamber is made to flow in the
middle compartment by rocking motion of the Eccentric wheel fitted
below. Where Sodium ionizes again and dissolves in the dilute

10
NaOH solution and equivalent amount of hydrogen ions are
discharged at the iron cathodes (H+ ion form water). Thus
concentration of Na+ and OH- ions increases in the middle
compartment.
Once the NaOH becomes sufficiently concentrated, it is taken out
and further processed to form NaOH pellets or conc. NaOH.

Kellner –Solvay Cell

The mercury containing dissolved sodium is sent to another
chamber called Decomposer where sodium reacts with water
forming sodium hydroxide and hydrogen. Denuder is packed with
graphite blocks as hydrogen is easily liberated over graphite surface.
2Na/Hg + 2H2O → 2NaOH + H2 + 2Hg
the mercury is recycled to dissolve more of sodium.
The solution, which flows out from denuder, is a NaOH solution,
which is evaporated to dryness.

58) Describe the manufacture of sodium hydroxide stressing on principle

and diagrammatic sketch. 8
66) How is sodium hydroxide manufactured? 4
74/73) Sketch a well labeled diagram for the manufacture of caustic soda
(NaOH) by Castner Kellner’s process. Explain the principle and procedure
involved in it.
52/51) Describe in brief the manufacture of sodium hydroxide by Castner-
Kellner process. 5

57) Write down the principle involved in the manufacture of caustic soda
by Solvay Kellner’s process. 3
71) Describe the principle behind manufacture of sodium hydroxide by
Kellner Solvay cell. 6
72) Describe the manufacture of caustic soda using Kellner Solvay process.

Properties

11
 Physical properties
• White deliquescent solid, soapy in touch
• Highly soluble in water, solution highly corrosive to skin and
vegetable matter hence called caustic soda
• Strong alkali, turns litmus blue, phenolphthalein pink

Chemical properties
Action of air:
Solid NaOH absorbs moisture from the air turning itself into a
solution (deliquescency). Then it further reacts with CO2 in the air
forming sodium carbonate.
NaOH + CO2 Na2CO3 + H2O

67) What happens when CO2 is passed through sodium hydroxide

solution? 1
70) How does NaOH react with CO2? 1
69/66) How is caustic soda converted into washing soda? 1
75/65) How would you convert NaOH into Washing soda? 1.5

69) How is caustic soda converted into baking soda? 1

Alkaline properties:
NaOH is a typical strong alkali, so reacts with acid giving salt and
water.
NaOH+ HCl NaCl + H2O
NaOH + H2SO4 Na2SO4 + H2O
It reacts with ammonium salt giving sodium salt, water and
ammonia gas.
NaOH + NH4Cl NaCl + H2O + NH3
NaOH + (NH4)2SO4 Na2SO4 + H2O + NH3

Reaction with salt solutions

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NaOH reacts with a number of soluble salts of metals giving
insoluble hydroxide.
FeSO4 + NaOH Fe(OH)2 + Na2SO4
FeCl3 + NaOH Fe(OH)3 + NaCl

Reaction with Amphoteric metals:

It reacts with amphoteric metals like Zn, Al, Si etc forming salt and
hydrogen gas.
Zn + NaOH Na2ZnO2 + H2
Al +
Si + NaOH + H2O Na2SiO2 + H2

70) How does NaOH react with Zn? 1

75/ 72) Write the action of Caustic soda with zinc. 1
72) Write the action of NaOH with Zinc. 1
73) What happens when Caustic soda is treated with zinc? 1

74) Convert Caustic soda into sodium silicate. 1

Action with non metals:

Action on halogens (Studied in Halogens chapter-Non metals)

72) Write the action of NaOH with chlorine. 1

72) Write the action of Caustic soda with chlorine. 1

73) What happens when Caustic soda is heated with Sulhpur? 1

72) Write the action of NaOH with sulphur. 1

72) Write the action of NaOH with phosphorus. 1

61/52) What happens when sodium hydroxide is heated with yellow

phosphorous. 1
58) How does sodium hydroxide react with white and red phosphorus? 2

13
 71) Give properties of NaOH. (not a proper question though) 1
Uses
• Very important industrial alkali, used in production a large
number of important compounds
• In manufacture of Soap.
Oil + NaOH Soap + Glycerol
• In refining of oil
• In paper and pulp industries
• In manufacture of Rayon
• As a common laboratory reagent

71) Give the uses of Sodium hydroxide. 2

Sodium carbonate
Manufacture By Ammonia Solvay process
Principle:
Brine solution is saturated is ammonia by bubbling ammonia gas
and the ammonical brine is then treated with carbon dioxide. First
ammonium bicarbonate is formed which further reacts with sodium
chloride to give sodium bicarbonate
NH3 + CO2 + H2O NH4HCO3
NH4HCO3 + NaCl NaHCO3 + NH4Cl

Sodium bicarbonate is sparingly soluble in water in presence of

sodium chloride. Hence sodium bicarbonate formed gets
precipitated out, which is separated out by filtration. The sodium
bicarbonate is then calcined to get sodium carbonate.
NaHCO3 Na2CO3 + H2O + CO2

Working of the Plant:

1. Saturation of brine

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In ammonia absorber, brine solution (about 30% NaCl) is saturated
with ammonia gas. Impurities like CaCl2, MgCl2 etc present in brine
are precipitated as hydroxide and carbonates are removed.
NH3 + H2O NH4OH
MgCl2 + 2NH4OH Mg(OH)2 + 2NH4Cl
2NH3 + H2O + CO2 (NH4)2CO3
CaCl2 + (NH4)2CO3 CaCO3 + 2NH4Cl
Ammoniated brine is then pumped to the carbonation tower.
2. Carbonation
Carbonation tower works on counter current principle.
Ammoniated brine is allowed to trickle down a tower and carbon
dioxide is passed from the bottom at about 2 atm pressure and
temperature is maintained to about 30 ºC. Sodium bicarbonate and
ammonium chloride are formed.
NH3 + H2O + CO2 NH4HCO3
NaCl + NH4HCO3 NaHCO3 + NH4Cl
Sodium carbonate is filtered and filtrate (NH4Cl with little
NH4HCO3) is pumped to the ammonia generator.
3. Recovery of ammonia
In ammonia generator, ammonium chloride reacts with lime to
generate ammonia gas.
NH4Cl + Ca(OH)2 CaCl2 NH3 H2O
NH4HCO3 NH3 + H2O + CO2
4. Generation of CO2
In lime kiln, limestone is heated to produce CO2 required for
carbonation.
CaCO3 CaO + CO2
CaO is treated with water to get slaked lime and pumped into
ammonia generator.
CaO + H2O Ca(OH)2

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 5. Calcination
Sodium bicarbonate obtained by filtration is heated to get
anhydrous sodium carbonate.
6. Crystallization
Aqueous sodium carbonate solution may be subjected to
crystallization to get washing soda.
Na2CO3 (aq) Na2CO3.10H2O
68) Write the chemical principle and stepwise procedure involved in the
manufacture of sodium carbonate by Solvay process and sketch a well
labeled diagram for it. What are the merits of this process? 6+2
61) Describe the manufacture of sodium carbonate by ammonia soda
process. Also mention the function of limestone in the manufacturing
process. 8+2
76/65) Explain the principle and process and write a well labeled diagram
for the manufacture of Washing soda by Solvay ammonia process.
70) How is sodium carbonate manufactured by Solvay ammonia process?
Why is it difficult to get potassium carbonate by this method? 6+2
75/73/72) Sketch a neat and well labeled diagram for the manufacture of
sodium carbonate by Solvay ammonia process. Explain the chemical
principle involved. What are the advantages of this process? 6
54) Describe the steps in the manufacture of Sodium carbonate by Solvay
process. 5

MCQ The byproduct of Solvay process is (IOM)

CaO b. NaHCO3 c.CaCl2 d) NaHCO3 and CO2

Properties
Physical Properties
• Sodium carbonate crystal called washing soda, water of
crystallization 10.

16
 • Efflorescent substance(loses water of crystallization when
exposed to open atmosphere)

Chemical properties
1. Action of Heat
On exposure to open atmosphere, washing soda (Na2CO3.10H2O)
loses 9 of its water of crystallization.
Na2CO3.10H2O Na2CO3. H2O + 9 H2O
On further heating (below 100 C) it loses the remaining water
0

molecule giving anhydrous salt, also called soda ash.

Na2CO3. H2O Na2CO3
Heating to temperature near 7500C results decomposition into
sodium oxide and Carbondioxide.
Na2CO3 Na2O + CO2

73) What happens when washing soda is exposed to air? 1

67) What happens when washing soda is heated? 1

76/73) What happens when washing soda is heated upto 7500C? 1
76) How would you convert washing soda into Soda ash? 1
2. Action with Sand
Sodium silicate is formed when it is fused with sand.
Na2CO3 + SiO2 Na2SiO3 + CO2
76/73) What happens when washing soda is fused with excess sand (SiO 2)?
76) How would you convert washing soda into Sodium silicate? 1
3. Action with SO2
Sodium carbonate reacts with sulphur dioxide in presence of
sulphur to give sodium thiosulphate.
Na2CO3+ SO2 Na2SO3+ CO2
Na2SO3 +S Na2S2O3

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 4. Formation of insoluble carbonates
When sodium carbonate is treated with some soluble salts like
CaCl2, BaCl2, AgNO3, MgCl2 etc the carbonates of respective metals
are precipitated out.
CaCl2 + Na2CO3 CaCO3 + 2NaCl
BaCl2 + Na2CO3 BaCO3 + 2NaCl
5. Action with calcium hydroxide
It forms caustic soda with calcium hydroxide (milk of lime).
Na2CO3 + Ca(OH)2 CaCO3 +2NaOH
6. Action with acids
It is readily decomposed by acids with effervescence due to
evolution of CO2. This reaction can be used for the detection of
carbonate.
2HCl + Na2CO3 2NaCl + CO2 + H2O
7. Action of water (Hydrolysis)
It is soluble in water due to hydrolysis into sodium hydroxide
(strong base) and carbonic acid (weak acid). The solution is slightly
basic (alkaline).
Na2CO3 + H2O 2NaOH + H2CO3
Uses of Sodium carbonate (Washing soda)
1. The largest use for manufacture of glass.
2. As water softening agent.
3. For making wood pulp, paper etc.
4. As a reagent.

76/68) Give any two uses of sodium carbonate. 1

75/73) Give two major uses of Washing soda. 1

75/72/65) Write the molecular formula of Baking soda and Soda ash. 1.5

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75/72/55) What are the chemical formula of caustic soda, washing soda and
baking soda? What are their main uses? 2
58) Write the chemical formulae of washing soda and baking soda. What
are their uses? 2

50) What happens when sodium chloride is heated with yellow

phosphorus? (not in syllabus) 1

What happens when carbon dioxide is passed into ammonical brine

solution?
Answer – When carbon dioxide is passed into ammonical brine solution
then sodium bi carbonate is formed.
NH3 + H2O→ NH4OH
CO2 + H2O→H2CO3
NH4OH + H2CO3→NH4HCO3 + H2O
NH4HCO3 + NaCl→NaHCO3

Discuss the manufacture if washing soda from Solvay ammonia process.

Answer –Sodium Carbonate is an important compound. It is manufactured
by Ammonia-Solvay Process.
Principal
In the preparation of sodium carbonate by solvay ammonia process carbon
dioxide is passed into concentrated solution of bine saturated with
ammonia and ammonium bicarbonate is obtained.

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Raw Materials
The raw materials for the manufacture of sodium carbonate are
1. Brine
2. Ammonia, which is made by Haber’s Process
3. CO2, CaOH, which are obtained from limestone.

Ammonia-Solvay Process
The Ammonia-Solvay Process consists of the following steps.
Step I – Ammonation of Brine
In first step, ammonia gas is mixed with brine. This process is carried in
Ammonation Tower. The ammonationtower consists of mushroom shaped
buffels at short intervals. Brine is introduced from the top and ammonia is
introduced from bottom. They both flow towards each other. Buffels control
the flow of brine and ensure that they are mixed to the point of saturation
with ammonia.
Step II – Carbonation of Ammoniated Brine
In this step, ammoniated brine is mixed with carbon dioxide brine is mixed
with carbon dioxide in a tower called carbonating tower. Ammoniated Brine
is fed from the top where as carbon dioxide ascends from the bottom.
When these two substances meet, the following chemical reactions takes
place
2NH3 + CO2 + H2O→ (NH4)2CO3
(NH4)2CO3 + CO2 + H2O —-> 2NH4HCO3
2NH4HCO3 + NaCl→NaHCO3 + NH4Cl
Sodium bicarbonate is relatively insoluble, which is precipitated out from
the solution by cooling the lower part of the tower. Sodium bicarbonate is
separated from soluble ammonium chloride by vacuum filtration.
Step III – Production of Soda Ash
Sodium bicarbonate is heated in a long iron tube to obtain anhydrous
sodium carbonate or Soda Ash.
This carbon dioxide is recycled to the solvay tower. This hydrated sodium
carbonate is also called washing soda.

Recovery of Ammonia
Ammonia gas is recovered from the remaining solution by treating it with
Calcium Hydroxide.
2NH4Cl + Ca(OH)2 →CaCl2 + 2H2O + NH3

20
Fig:-Ammonia-Solvay Process

Fig:- Down’s process

21
B. chlorine gas is reacted with dilute and cold NaOH?
Answer – when chlorine gas is reacted with dilute and cold NaOH then
Hypohlite.
Cl2 + 2NaOH (Cold and dil.) →NaCl + NaClO + H2O

c. washing soda is heated?

Answer – on heating washing soda it loses water and forms soda ash
Na2CO3.10H2O$
How can you manufacture sodium hydroxide using Kellner –Solvay cell?
Answer – Manufacture of sodium hydro-oxide by Kellner Solvay Process
The cell is provided with flowing mercury cathode and graphite anode.
When brine solution is electrolyzed, sodium ions are discharged at mercury
cathode and form sodium amalgam which flows out of voltameter and
decomposed with water to give sodium hydroxide. On the other hand
chloride ions are discharged at graphite anode to give chlorine gas which
escapes out of the voltameter.
NaCl (aq.) → Na+ + Cl-
At Anode: Cl → Cl
Cl + Cl→Cl 2
At Cathode: Na+ + e →Na
Na + Hg →NaHg
2NaHg + 2H2O→ 2NaOH + 2Hg +H2
This cell has no compartments. Mercury enters into the cell and forms a
thick layer on the bottom of the cell. It serves as the cathode and is made
to flow slowly across the bottom during electrolysis. The anode consists of
platinum or carbon rods. The electrolyte is sodium chloride solution when
electrolysis is carried, sodium ion are discharged at mercury cathode and
form sodium amalgam which flows out the other end. Chlorine is evolved at
the anode and escapes out. Sodium ions discharge on the mercury
cathode in preference to H+ ions which have a large over-voltage on
mercury and the sodium atom so formed dissolve to form sodium amalgam.
This amalgam flows out at the other end in a vessel containing water in the

22
presence of iron (on which hydrogen has a very small over-voltage). It
decomposes to give caustic soda and hydrogen.

7.
Briefly describe the steps involved in the manufacture of sodium carbonate
by Solvay process.
Answer – Sodium Carbonate is an important compound. It is manufactured
by Ammonia-Solvay Process. the steps involved in the manufacture of
sodium carbonate by Solvay process are as follows
Step I – Ammonation of Brine
In first step, ammonia gas is mixed with brine. This process is carried in
Ammonation Tower. Theammonationtower consists of mushroom shaped
buffels at short intervals. Brine is introduced from the top and ammonia is
introduced from bottom. They both flow towards each other. Buffels control
the flow of brine and ensure that they are mixed to the point of saturation
with ammonia.
Step II – Carbonation of Ammoniated Brine
In this step, ammoniated brine is mixed with carbon dioxide brine is mixed
with carbon dioxide in a tower called carbonating tower or Sonvai tower.
Ammonated Brine is fed from the top where as carbon dioxide ascends
from the bottom. When these two substances meet, the following chemical
reactions takes place
2NH3 + CO2 + H2O (NH4)2CO3
(NH4)2CO3 + CO2 + H2O → 2NH4HCO3
2NH4HCO3 + NaCl→NaHCO3 + NH4Cl
Sodium bicarbonate is relatively insoluble, which is precipitated out from
the solution by cooling the lower part of the tower. Sodium bicarbonate is
separated from soluble ammonium chloride by vacuum filteration.
Step III – Production of Soda Ash
Sodium bicarbonate is heated in a long iron tube to obtain anhydrous
sodium carbonate or Soda Ash.
This carbon dioxide is recycled to the solvay tower. This hydrated sodium
carbonate is also called washing soda.
Step IV - Recovery of Ammonia
Ammonia gas is recovered from the remaining solution by treating it with
Calcium Hydroxide.
2NH4Cl + Ca(OH)2 → CaCl2 + 2H2O + NH3

23
8.
Give the preparation, properties and uses of sodium hydroxide.
Answer – Manufacture of sodium hydro-oxide by Kellner Solvay Process
The cell is provided with flowing mercury cathode and graphite anode.
When brine solution is electrolyzed, sodium ions are discharged at mercury
cathode and form sodium amalgam which flows out of voltameter and
decomposed with water to give sodium hydroxide. On the other hand
chloride ions are discharged at graphite anode to give chlorine gas which
escapes out of the voltameter.
NaCl (aq.)→ Na+ + Cl-
At Anode: Cle→Cl
Cl + Cl→Cl 2
At Cathode: Na+ + e→Na
Na + Hg →NaHg
2NaHg + 2H2O→ 2NaOH + 2Hg +H2
This cell has no compartments. Mercury enters into the cell and forms a
thick layer on the bottom of the cell. It serves as the cathode and is made
to flow slowly across the bottom during electrolysis. The anode consists of
platinum or carbon rods. The electrolyte is sodium chloride solution when
electrolysis is carried, sodium ion are discharged at mercury cathode and
form sodium amalgam which flows out the other end. Chlorine is evolved at
the anode and escapes out. Sodium ions discharge on the mercury
cathode in preference to H+ ions which have a large over-voltage on
mercury and the sodium atom so formed dissolve to form sodium amalgam.
This amalgam flows out at the other end in a vessel containing water in the
presence of iron (on which hydrogen has a very small over-voltage). It
decomposes to give caustic soda and hydrogen.
The properties of sodium hydroxide are
-It is white opaque crystalline solid
-It is highly hygroscopic

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-It is highly soluble in alcohol
1.
Explain the principal, process and draw a well labeled diagram for the
manufacture of washing soda by Solvay’s ammonia process. Write
molecular formula of backing soda and soda ash. How do you convert
NaOH into washing soda?
Answer – Sodium Carbonate is an important compound. It is manufactured
by Ammonia-Solvay Process.
Principal
In the preparation of sodium carbonate by solvay ammonia process carbon
dioxide is passed into concentrated solution of bine saturated with
ammonia and ammonium bicarbonate is obtained.

Raw Materials
The raw materials for the manufacture of sodium carbonate are
1. Brine
2. Ammonia, which is made by Haber’s Process
3. CO2, CaOH, which are obtained from limestone.

Ammonia-Solvay Process
The Ammonia-Solvay Process consists of the following steps.
Step I – Ammonation of Brine
In first step, ammonia gas is mixed with brine. This process is carried in
Ammonation Tower. The ammonationtower consists of mushroom shaped
buffels at short intervals. Brine is introduced from the top and ammonia is
introduced from bottom. They both flow towards each other. Buffels control
the flow of brine and ensure that they are mixed to the point of saturation
with ammonia.
Step II – Carbonation of Ammoniated Brine
In this step, ammoniated brine is mixed with carbon dioxide brine is mixed
with carbon dioxide in a tower called carbonating tower or Sonvai tower.
Ammonated Brine is fed from the top where as carbon dioxide ascends
from the bottom. When these two substances meet, the following chemical
reactions takes place
2NH3 + CO2 + H2O —-> (NH4)2CO3
(NH4)2CO3 + CO2 + H2O —-> 2NH4HCO3
2NH4HCO3 + NaCl —-> NaHCO3 + NH4Cl
Sodium bicarbonate is relatively insoluble, which is precipitated out from
the solution by cooling the lower part of the tower. Sodium bicarbonate is

25
separated from soluble ammonium chloride by vacuum filteration.
Step III – Production of Soda Ash
Sodium bicarbonate is heated in a long iron tube to obtain anhydrous
sodium carbonate or Soda Ash.
This carbon dioxide is recycled to the solvay tower. This hydrated sodium
carbonate is also called washing soda.

Recovery of Ammonia
Ammonia gas is recovered from the remaining solution by treating it with
Calcium Hydroxide.
2NH4Cl + Ca(OH)2 —-> CaCl2 + 2H2O + NH3

Fig:- Ammonia-Solvay Process

The molecular formula of backing soda and soda ash are NaHCO 3 and
NaCO3 respectively.
To convert NaOH into washing soda it is treated with moist carbon dioxide
2NaOH + CO2→Na2CO3 + H2O à Na2CO3.10H2O

2.
Sketch a well labeled diagram for the extraction of sodium by down’s
process and explain the principle involved in the process.

26
a. why is sodium kept in kerosene ?
b. alkali metals impart characteristic color to the flame. Give reason.
Answer –

Fig:-downs process cell for the extraction of sodium

Sodium is the strongest reducing agent and is highly reactive. It cannot be

extracted by chemical reduction method or carbon reduction method. It is
because Sodium metal has less affinity with carbon but more affinity with
halogen or oxygen, High temperature is needed for the reduction of halide
or oxide of sodium metal by carbon and at high temperature carbon reacts
with sodium metal to form sodium carbide,Aqueous solution cannot be
used for the electrolytic reduction of sodium chloride because active
sodium metal reacts with water to form NaOH and hydrogen.

27
In order to overcome above difficulties Sodium metal is extracted by
electrolysis of the fused sodium chloride by down’s process. In this process
sodium is obtained by the electrolysis of a mixture of sodium chloride (40%)
and calcium chloride (60%) in fused state. The function of calcium chloride
is to lower the operating temperature from 820° C (m.pt of NaCl) to about
600°C.
NaCl→Na+ + Cl-
At anode: Cl- -e-→Cl
Cl + Cl→ Cl2
At cathode: Na+ + e-→Na↑
The main reasons for lowering temperature are:
-Melting point of sodium chloride is very high. It is very difficult to maintain it
in the molten state during electrolysis.
-Sodium is volatile at the temperature needed for the electrolysis and
therefore a part of the metal produced vaporizes.
-Molten sodium get dispersed in molten sodium chloride to form a metallic
fog at high temperature.
-Both sodium and chlorine, products of electrolysis have corrosive action
on the material of the vessel employed for the electrolysis at such a high
temperature.
Down’s cell consists of a steel tank lined with heat resistant bricks. A
circular graphite rod is placed in the centre of the cell which is surrounded
by a cylindrical iron cathode. Anode and cathode are separated by a steel
gauze cylinder through which molten sodium chloride can pass but molten
sodium cannot. The purpose of using steel gauge is to keep sodium
separate from chorine which would otherwise react each other. Anode is
covered by a dome shaped steel hood which provides the outlet for the
escape of chlorine gas. The molten metal liberated at the cathode moves
up and flows into the receiver containing kerosene oil. Sodium metal
obtained by this method is about 99.5% pure. Chlorine is the by product in
this process.
Sodium is kept in kerosene because it reacts with moist air to form sodium
carbonate
4Na + O2→2Na2O
Na2O + H2O → 2NaOH

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2NaOH + CO2 →Na2CO3 + H2O

Alkali metals impart characteristic color to the flame because when alkali
metals or its compound are introduced into a flame, the electron absorbs
energy from the flame and gets excited to higher level which on coming to
ground state emits energy in the form of visible spectrum
3.
Describe with neat diagram the technical preparation of sodium hydroxide
by Solvay-Kellner process. Write down the action of NaOH as A. aluminium
B. aluminium chloride
Answer – Manufacture of sodium hydro-oxide by Kellner Solvay Process
The cell is provided with flowing mercury cathode and graphite anode.
When brine solution is electrolyzed, sodium ions are discharged at mercury
cathode and form sodium amalgam which flows out of voltmeter and
decomposed with water to give sodium hydroxide. On the other hand
chloride ions are discharged at graphite anode to give chlorine gas which
escapes out of the voltmeter.
NaCl (aq.)→ Na+ + Cl-
At Anode: Cle→Cl
Cl + Cl→Cl 2
At Cathode: Na+ +e→Na
Na + Hg →NaHg
2NaHg + 2H2O→2NaOH + 2Hg +H2
This cell has no compartments. Mercury enters into the cell and forms a
thick layer on the bottom of the cell. It serves as the cathode and is made
to flow slowly across the bottom during electrolysis. The anode consists of
platinum or carbon rods. The electrolyte is sodium chloride solution when
electrolysis is carried, sodium ion are discharged at mercury cathode and
form sodium amalgam which flows out the other end. Chlorine is evolved at
the anode and escapes out. Sodium ions discharge on the mercury
cathode in preference to H+ ions which have a large over-voltage on
mercury and the sodium atom so formed dissolve to form sodium amalgam.
This amalgam flows out at the other end in a vessel containing water in the
presence of iron (on which hydrogen has a very small over-voltage). It
decomposes to give caustic soda and hydrogen.

29
Sodium hydroxide reacts with aluminium to form sodium Meta aluminate
Al +2NaOH +2H2O → 2NaAlO2 +3H2
Sodium hydroxide reacts with aluminium chloride to form sodium chloride
and aluminium hydroxide
AlCl3 + 3NaOH →3 NaCl +Al(OH)3

5.
Describe manufacture of sodium carbonate by ammonia soda process.
Also mention the function of lime stone in the manufacturing process.
Answer – Sodium Carbonate is an important compound. It is manufactured
by Ammonia-Solvay Process.
Principal
In the preparation of sodium carbonate by solvay ammonia process carbon
dioxide is passed into concentrated solution of bine saturated with
ammonia and ammonium bicarbonate is obtained.

Raw Materials
The raw materials for the manufacture of sodium carbonate are
1. Brine
2. Ammonia, which is made by Haber’s Process
3. CO2, CaOH, which are obtained from limestone.

Ammonia-Solvay Process
The Ammonia-Solvay Process consist of the following steps.
Step I – Ammonation of Brine
In first step, ammonia gas is mixed with brine. This process is carried in
Ammonation Tower. The ammonationtower consist of mushroom shaped
buffels at short intervals. Brine is introduced from the top and ammonia is
introduced from bottom. They both flow towards each other. Buffels control
the flow of brine and ensure that they are mixed to the point of saturation
with ammonia.
Step II – Carbonation of Ammonated Brine
In this step, ammonated brine is mixed with carbon dioxide brine is mixed
with carbon dioxide in a tower called carbonating tower or Sonvai tower.
Ammonated Brine is fed from the top where as carbon dioxide ascends

30
from the bottom. When these two substances meet, the following chemical
reactions takes place
2NH3 + CO2 + H2O→ (NH4)2CO3
(NH4)2CO3 + CO2 + H2O → 2NH4HCO3
2NH4HCO3 + NaCl→ NaHCO3 + NH4Cl
Sodium bicarbonate is relatively insoluble, which is precipitated out from
the solution by cooling the lower part of the tower. Sodium bicarbonate is
separated from soluble ammonium chloride by vacuum filteration.
Step III – Production of Soda Ash
Sodium bicarbonate is heated in a long iron tube to obtain anhydrous
sodium carbonate or Soda Ash.
This carbon dioxide is recycled to the solvay tower. This hydrated sodium
carbonate is also called washing soda.

Recovery of Ammonia
Ammonia gas is recovered from the remaining solution by treating it with
Calcium Hydroxide.
2NH4Cl + Ca(OH)2 → CaCl2 + 2H2O + NH3
The function of lime stone in the manufacturing process is to produce
carbon dioxide for carbonation of brine
CaCO3 →CaO + CO2
CaO + H2O →Ca(OH)2

6.
Describe the neat and well labeled diagram of the technical preparation of
NaOH by
i. Solvay-Kellner process
Manufacture of sodium hydro-oxide by Kellner Solvay Process
The cell is provided with flowing mercury cathode and graphite anode.
When brine solution is electrolyzed, sodium ions are discharged at mercury
cathode and form sodium amalgam which flows out of voltmeter and
decomposed with water to give sodium hydroxide. On the other hand
chloride ions are discharged at graphite anode to give chlorine gas which
escapes out of the voltmeter.
NaCl (aq.)→ Na+ + Cl-

31
At Anode: Cl- e → Cl
Cl + Cl→Cl 2
At Cathode: Na+ + e → Na
Na + Hg →NaHg
2NaHg + 2H2O→2NaOH + 2Hg +H2
This cell has no compartments. Mercury enters into the cell and forms a
thick layer on the bottom of the cell. It serves as the cathode and is made
to flow slowly across the bottom during electrolysis. The anode consists of
platinum or carbon rods. The electrolyte is sodium chloride solution when
electrolysis is carried, sodium ion are discharged at mercury cathode and
form sodium amalgam which flows out the other end. Chlorine is evolved at
the anode and escapes out. Sodium ions discharge on the mercury
cathode in preference to H+ ions which have a large over-voltage on
mercury and the sodium atom so formed dissolve to form sodium amalgam.
This amalgam flows out at the other end in a vessel containing water in the
presence of iron (on which hydrogen has a very small over-voltage). It
decomposes to give caustic soda and hydrogen.

Answer -
ii. CastnerKellner process
Answer – Caustic Soda or Sodium Hydroxide is one of the most important
chemicals of industrial useand its preparation by CastnerKellner’s Process
is given below
CastnerKellner’s Process
Caustic Soda is manufacture by an electrolytic process. This process is
carried out in an electrolytic cell known as Castner-Kellner’s cell and the
process is called Castner-Kellner’s Process.

Construction ofCastner-Kellner’s Cell

Sodium hydroxide is obtained by the electrolytic solution is a 25% of
NaClsolution (brine).in a specially desined cell called castner-
kellnercell.The anode consist of carbon rods whereas cathode iron rods.

Working of Castner-Kellner’s Cell

Sodium chloride dissociates in water to give Na+ and Cl- ions are

32
2NaCl 2Na+ + 2Cl-

The Cl- ions migrate towards carbon rods, it gains electron and convert into
chlorine gas.
2Cl→Cl2 + 2e- (Oxidation)
In castner-kellner’s process, H+ ions are not easily discharged due to high
voltage of H+ ions, on the contrary Na+ ions are easily discharge over
mercury surface. The sodium thus liberated dissolves in mercury forming
an amalgam.
2Na+ + 2e→2Na (Reduction)
Na + Hg → Na/Hg (Amalgum)’
The mercury containing dissolved sodium is sent to another chamber called
Denuder where sodium reacts with water forming sodium hydroxide and
hydrogen. Denuder is packed with graphite blocks as hydrogen is easily
liberated over graphite surface.
2Na/Hg + 2H2O →2NaOH + H2 + 2Hg
the mercury is recycled to dissolve more of sodium.
The solution, which flows out from denuder, is a NaOH solution, which is
evaporated to dryness.

33