Question

Hydrated sodium aluminum silicate is called:

• A. Calgon
• B. Zeolite
• C. Dead burnt plaster
• D. Kaolinite

Hint:

Zeolites are used for ion exchange in water softening.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Identify the Correct Compound - Zeolite is hydrated sodium aluminum silicate, used in water softening.
- Calgon is sodium hexametaphosphate (not correct).
- Kaolinite is a clay mineral.
- Dead burnt plaster is calcium sulfate.
Thus, the correct answer is Zeolite.

Answer 2

Hydrated sodium aluminum silicate is commonly known as Zeolite.

Explanation:
1. Composition:
Zeolites are microporous, aluminosilicate minerals that contain hydrated sodium, aluminum, silicon, and oxygen.
Their general formula can be represented as:
\[ \text{Na}_2\text{O} \cdot \text{Al}_2\text{O}_3 \cdot x \, \text{SiO}_2 \cdot y \, \text{H}_2\text{O} \]

2. Structure:
Zeolites have a crystalline structure characterized by a three-dimensional framework of SiO₄ and AlO₄ tetrahedra linked through oxygen atoms.
This framework creates channels and cavities filled with water molecules and sodium ions, which can be exchanged with other cations.

3. Properties:
- Zeolites are porous and have high surface area.
- They are capable of ion exchange, adsorption, and catalysis.

4. Uses:
- Zeolites are widely used as molecular sieves, water softeners, catalysts in petroleum refining, and in gas separation.
- Their ability to trap molecules and ions is utilized in detergents and environmental cleanup.

Therefore, hydrated sodium aluminum silicate is called Zeolite.