Question

Which among the following chemicals is used for control of humidity?

• A. Charcoal
• B. Silica gel
• C. Ammonia gas
• D. Sodium chloride

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Silica gel is commonly used to control humidity due to its high surface area.

Answer 2

Silica gel is widely used as a desiccant to control humidity and moisture levels in various environments. It is a highly porous material with a large surface area, which allows it to effectively adsorb water molecules from the surrounding air. The high surface area provides numerous sites where water molecules can adhere, making silica gel an efficient moisture absorber.

Silica gel is often found in small packets inside product packaging, such as electronics, clothing, and food, to prevent damage caused by excess moisture. Additionally, it is used in laboratories, museums, and storage areas to maintain dry conditions. Despite being labeled as "gel," it is actually a solid, granular material that is non-toxic and can be regenerated by heating to remove absorbed moisture.

The ability of silica gel to control humidity is due to its adsorptive properties rather than absorption, meaning that it holds moisture on its surface rather than chemically combining with it. This makes silica gel an ideal choice for applications where maintaining dry conditions is crucial, without the need for complex machinery or chemicals.