Question

By using which process, sodium carbonate is generally prepared?

• A. Deacon's process
• B. Castner-Kellner process
• C. Nelson cell process
• D. Solvay process

Hint:

Associate key industrial processes with their main products: - Solvay Process \(\rightarrow\) Na₂CO₃ (Soda Ash) - Castner-Kellner/Nelson Cell \(\rightarrow\) NaOH (Caustic Soda) - Haber-Bosch Process \(\rightarrow\) NH₃ (Ammonia) - Contact Process \(\rightarrow\) H₂SO₄ (Sulfuric Acid) - Deacon's Process \(\rightarrow\) Cl₂ (Chlorine)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question asks for the principal industrial method used to manufacture sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃), also known as soda ash.
Step 2: Analyzing the Options:
- (A) Deacon's process: This is an industrial process for the manufacture of chlorine gas (Cl₂) by the oxidation of hydrogen chloride (HCl) using atmospheric oxygen and a copper(II) chloride catalyst.
- (B) Castner-Kellner process: This is an electrolytic process for the manufacture of very pure sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and chlorine gas from brine.
- (C) Nelson cell process: This is another, older electrolytic process for the manufacture of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and chlorine gas from brine, using a diaphragm cell.
- (D) Solvay process (also known as the ammonia-soda process): This is the major industrial process used worldwide for the production of sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃). The raw materials are brine (NaCl), ammonia (NH₃), and limestone (CaCO₃).
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Solvay process is the general method for preparing sodium carbonate. Therefore, option (D) is correct.