Question

(i) Write the applications of the following inorganic compounds:
(a) Plaster of Paris
(b) Bleaching Powder
(c) Sodium Bicarbonate

Hint:

Plaster of Paris is used for casting and orthopedic applications, bleaching powder for disinfection and bleaching, and sodium bicarbonate for cleaning, baking, and medical use.

Answer 1

1. Plaster of Paris (CaSO}_4\text{. ½ H}_2\text{O):
Plaster of Paris is made by heating gypsum (CaSO₄.2H₂O) to around 150°C. The applications of Plaster of Paris are: \begin{itemize} \item In medicine: Plaster of Paris is used for making orthopedic casts for fractures and bone injuries. \item In art: It is used to create molds and sculptures. \item In construction: It is used for coating walls and ceilings in the form of plastering. \item In fire protection: It is used as a fire-resistant material. \end{itemize} 2. Bleaching Powder (Ca(OCl)_2):
Bleaching powder is a chemical compound with bleaching and disinfecting properties. The applications of Bleaching Powder are: \begin{itemize} \item In bleaching: It is used for bleaching cotton and linen in the textile industry. \item In water treatment: It is used for disinfecting drinking water by killing bacteria and harmful microorganisms. \item In cleaning: It is used to clean and disinfect surfaces in households and industries. \item In the preparation of chlorine: Bleaching powder is used to produce chlorine gas when reacted with dilute hydrochloric acid. \end{itemize} 3. Sodium Bicarbonate (NaHCO₃):
Sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, has many applications: \begin{itemize} \item In baking: It is used as a leavening agent in baking to make dough rise. \item In cleaning: It is used as a mild abrasive cleaner and deodorizer for cleaning surfaces and removing stains. \item In medicine: It is used as an antacid to treat indigestion and heartburn. \item In fire extinguishers: Sodium bicarbonate is used in some types of fire extinguishers to put out fires caused by grease or electrical components. \end{itemize}