Question:

The product obtained as a result of a reaction of nitrogen with $CaC_2$ is

Updated On: Apr 20, 2025

${CaCN }$
${CaCN3 }$
${Ca2CN }$
${Ca(CN)2 }$

Hide Solution

Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Reaction of Nitrogen with Calcium Carbide

When nitrogen gas ($ \text{N}_2 $) reacts with calcium carbide ($ \text{CaC}_2 $), the product formed is calcium cyanide ($ \text{CaCN}_2 $) along with carbon. This reaction is commonly known as the formation of calcium cyanide, and it occurs under high temperatures. Let's break down the reaction and the process involved:

Chemical Reaction:

The chemical equation for the reaction is as follows:

$\text{CaC}_2 + \text{N}_2 \rightarrow \text{CaCN}_2 + \text{C}$

Step-by-step Breakdown:

Calcium Carbide ($ \text{CaC}_2 $): Calcium carbide is a chemical compound made up of calcium and carbon. It is typically produced by heating lime (calcium oxide) with coke (carbon) in an electric furnace.
Nitrogen Gas ($ \text{N}_2 $): Nitrogen gas is abundant in the atmosphere and is often used in chemical reactions involving the formation of compounds like cyanides.
Calcium Cyanide ($ \text{CaCN}_2 $): Calcium cyanide is an important chemical used in various industrial applications, such as in gold extraction and chemical synthesis.
Carbon ($ \text{C} $): Carbon is released as a by-product in the form of graphite or other carbon forms during this reaction.

Reaction Process:

In the reaction, the calcium carbide ($ \text{CaC}_2 $) reacts with nitrogen gas ($ \text{N}_2 $) under high temperature conditions to form calcium cyanide ($ \text{CaCN}_2 $) and carbon. The reaction proceeds as follows:

$\text{CaC}_2 + \text{N}_2 \rightarrow \text{CaCN}_2 + \text{C}$

Applications of Calcium Cyanide:

Calcium cyanide has several important industrial uses:

Gold Extraction: It is used in the extraction of gold from its ores, where it reacts with gold to form a soluble complex that can be further processed.
Chemical Manufacturing: Calcium cyanide is used in the production of various chemicals, including fertilizers and insecticides.
Heat Treatment: It is sometimes used in heat treatment processes due to its carbon content and the properties of the compound.

Conclusion:

In summary, when calcium carbide ($ \text{CaC}_2 $) reacts with nitrogen gas ($ \text{N}_2 $), it produces calcium cyanide ($ \text{CaCN}_2 $) and carbon. This reaction plays an important role in industrial chemistry, especially in the production of materials used in gold extraction and chemical synthesis.

Was this answer helpful?

Questions Asked in NEET exam

View More Questions