Question

Which of the following is an example of a solid solution?

• A. Camphor in N$_2$ gas
• B. Oxygen gas in water
• C. Ethanol in water
• D. Amalgam of mercury with sodium

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To identify a solid solution from the given options, we need to understand the concept of solutions in terms of phases:

1. A solution is a homogeneous mixture where the solute is uniformly distributed within the solvent. Solutions can exist in different phases: solid, liquid, or gas.
2. Solid solutions are those where both solute and solvent are in the solid phase. Typically, these solutions involve metals forming alloys, where the atoms of the solute metal are interspersed with the atoms of the solvent metal.

Now, let's evaluate each option:

• Camphor in N$_2$ gas: This is a combination of a solid (camphor) and a gas (N$_2$), forming a gaseous solution, not a solid solution.
• Oxygen gas in water: This is a liquid solution where a gas (oxygen) dissolves in a liquid (water).
• Ethanol in water: This is another example of a liquid solution, with both ethanol and water in the liquid phase.
• Amalgam of mercury with sodium: This is a solid solution. Here, mercury (typically liquid at room temperature) forms a solid phase with sodium, an example of a metal alloy where the solution exists in a solid form.

Thus, the correct example of a solid solution among the options is Amalgam of mercury with sodium.

Answer 2

Amalgam represents a solid solution where mercury dissolves other metals, forming a homogeneous mixture while maintaining a solid phase. This process occurs when mercury, a liquid metal at room temperature, interacts with other metals to form alloys. In this case, mercury can dissolve metals such as silver, gold, or tin, creating an amalgam that remains solid despite the presence of liquid mercury.

The key feature of an amalgam is that it behaves like a solid, even though one of its components (mercury) is liquid. This property is a result of the specific interaction between mercury and the metals it dissolves. These alloys exhibit unique characteristics, such as improved hardness or corrosion resistance, which makes them valuable in various applications, such as dental fillings, gold extraction, and electrical switches.

Because amalgams are typically used in dental work, it is important to understand their composition and properties. Despite their usefulness, precautions must be taken when handling mercury due to its toxicity. Therefore, amalgams must be properly managed to ensure both safety and efficiency in their applications.