Question

Two of the products formed by the reaction of \(X\) with HCl are gases. What is \(X\)? HCl with \(X\) forms gaseous products, two of which are identified.

• A. NaNO\(_2\)
• B. Na\(_2\)S
• C. Ca\(_3\)P\(_2\)
• D. Na\(_2\)SO\(_3\)

Hint:

When reacting metal nitrites with HCl, typically gases such as NO and NO\(_2\) are formed. Remember that these reactions often release nitrogen oxides.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

When sodium nitrite (NaNO\(_2\)) reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl), it produces nitrogen dioxide (NO\(_2\)) and nitrous acid (HNO\(_2\)). Nitrogen dioxide is a gas and the other product, nitrous acid, is unstable and decomposes to form more nitrogen dioxide and water. This reaction can be represented as: \[ 2 \, \text{NaNO}_2 + 2 \, \text{HCl} \rightarrow 2 \, \text{NaCl} + \text{NO}_2 (g) + \text{H}_2\text{O} + \text{NO} (g) \] Therefore, the two gaseous products formed are \( \text{NO}_2 \) and \( \text{NO} \), confirming that \( X \) is NaNO\(_2\).