Question

The chemical agents most suitable for deflocculation process are
(A). Sodium metasilicate
(B). Sodium tripolyphosphate
(C). Sodium decaphosphate
(D). Sodium sesquisilicate
Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. (A) and (D) only
• B. (A), (B) and (D) only
• C. (A), (C) and (D) only
• D. (C) and (D) only

Hint:

Remember that two major classes of inorganic chemicals used as deflocculants (dispersing agents) are polyphosphates (like STPP) and silicates (like sodium metasilicate). They are key ingredients in many detergent and cleaning formulations.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Deflocculation is the process of preventing colloidal particles from coming together to form aggregates (flocs) or breaking up existing flocs. Chemical agents that promote this are called deflocculants or dispersing agents. They are widely used in detergents, ceramics, and water treatment. The main classes of inorganic deflocculants are condensed phosphates and silicates.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze the listed chemical agents:
- (A) Sodium metasilicate and (D) Sodium sesquisilicate are alkali metal silicates, which are well-known and effective deflocculants, particularly in cleaning and detergent formulations.
- (B) Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) and (C) Sodium decaphosphate are polyphosphates. Polyphosphates are extremely effective deflocculants and sequestrants, widely used in various industrial applications, including food processing and detergents.
- All four compounds listed are indeed suitable for the deflocculation process. However, the question asks to choose the most appropriate answer from the given combinations. This suggests that some may be more common or effective than others. Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) is one of the most widely used and powerful deflocculants. Sodium decaphosphate is a less common term for polyphosphates. Given the options, the combination that includes the most representative and commonly used agents from both the silicate and phosphate classes is the most likely correct answer. Option (B) includes the common silicates and the very common STPP.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Sodium metasilicate, sodium tripolyphosphate, and sodium sesquisilicate are all highly suitable and commonly used deflocculating agents. Therefore, the combination in option (B) is a strong choice.