Question

The oxides of nitrogen obtained by the reaction of nitric acid with

• A. P$_4$O$_{10}$ and (ii) P$_4$ respectively are:
• B. NO, N$_2$O
• C. N$_2$O$_3$, NO
• D. N$_2$O$_5$, NO$_2$

Hint:

P$_4$O$_{10}$ reacts by dehydration mechanism while P$_4$ reduces nitric acid releasing NO$_2$.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

P$_4$O$_{10}$ is a strong dehydrating agent. It reacts with nitric acid to form dinitrogen pentoxide (N$_2$O$_5$).
Elemental phosphorus (P$_4$) reacts with nitric acid to produce nitrogen dioxide (NO$_2$) and phosphoric acid.