Question

Formic acid on heating with concentrated H\(_2\)SO\(_4\) gives:

• A. CO
• B. H\(_2\)
• C. O\(_2\)
• D. CO\(_2\)

Hint:

When heating formic acid with concentrated sulfuric acid, remember that the strong dehydrating nature of sulfuric acid typically promotes the elimination of water, leading to the formation of gases like carbon monoxide (CO).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

When formic acid (HCOOH) is heated with concentrated sulfuric acid (H\(_2\)SO\(_4\)), it undergoes a dehydration reaction leading to the formation of carbon monoxide (CO). The reaction is as follows: \[ \text{HCOOH} \xrightarrow{\text{conc. H}_2\text{SO}_4} \text{CO} + \text{H}_2\text{O} \] This is a classic example of a dehydration reaction, where formic acid loses a molecule of water (H\(_2\)O) and is converted into carbon monoxide (CO) as a result of the strong dehydrating nature of concentrated sulfuric acid.

Option (A) CO: Correct. As explained, the reaction leads to the formation of carbon monoxide (CO).
Option (B) H\(_2\): Incorrect. Hydrogen gas (H\(_2\)) is not produced in this reaction.
Option (C) O\(_2\): Incorrect. Oxygen (O\(_2\)) is not released in this reaction.
Option (D) CO\(_2\): Incorrect. Although carbon dioxide (CO\(_2\)) is a common product in combustion reactions, it is not produced in this case. Instead, carbon monoxide (CO) is formed.

Thus, the correct answer is (A) CO.