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KCPE 2023 Commonly Tested Questions in Science

COMMONLY KCPE TESTED QUESTIONS

SCIENCE

200 PREICTION QUESTIONS

                                              Time: 2 Hours 30 Mins

 

  1. Which blood vessel carries pure blood rich in oxygen from the lungs to the heart?
  2. Which of the following pairs of drugs consists only of illegal drugs in Kenya?
    1. Bhang and mandrax
    2. Tobbaco and tea
    3. Coffee and alcohol
    4. Inhalants and miraa
  3. Which one of the following minerals works 6. hand in hand with platelets in clotting after an injury?
    1. Iron
    2. Calcium
    3. Phosphorus
    4. Vitamin D
  4. Which one of the following stages of HIV/ AIDS infection does one look health with no visible signs but tests positive?
    1. Incubation
    2. Window period
    3. Symptomatic
    4. Full blown AIDS
  5. Which one of the following is not a function of the placenta?
    1. Nourishes the embryo
    2. Produces hormones that maintain pregnancy
    3. Facilitates the transfer of wastes
    4. Lubricates the birth canal during birth
  6. Which one of the following sexually transmitted infections has a painless sore on the genitals as one of the signs?
    1. Syphilis
    2. Gonorrhoea
    3. Chancroid
    4. Genital herpes
  7. Which of the following is the main constituent of a balanced diet obtained by animals when they feed on rice husks?
    1. Carbohydrates
    2. Proteins
    3. Vitamins
    4. Mineral salts
  8. Which one of the following is not an example of rotational grazing?
    1. Strip
    2. Paddocking
    3. Tethering
    4. Zero grazing
  9. Which one of the following is the cheapest material for modelling the solar system?
    1. Clay
    2. Softboard
    3. Plasticine
    4. Pins
  10. The following are some uses of components of air:
    1. manufacturing of electric bulbs
    2. supports burning
  • manufacture of soft drinks
  1. germination of seeds
  2. putting out fire

Which of the uses are for carbondioxide?

  1. A certain lever when in use, can work with load, effort and pivot at different positions as shown in the diagrams below.

Which one of the following levers is described by the diagrams shown above?

  1. Wheelbarrow
  2. Spade
  3. Crow bar
  4. Claw hammer
  1. Which method of separating mixtures can be used to separate wheat flour from husks?
    1. Picking
    2. Filtering
    3. Sieving
    4. Winnowing
  2. In a food chain, which organisms should be the most abundant?
    1. Producers
    2. Tertiary consumers
    3. Primary consumers
    4. Secondary consumers
  3. The transfer of heat through solids and gases respectively is
  4. Which one of the following statements is not true about the solar system
    1. Mars is the fourth planet from the sun.
    2. Jupiter is the largest planet.
    3. We use glue to mount the planets to the orbit
    4. Venus is the brightest planet
  5. Materials which allow some light to pass through them but one cannot see them clearly are called
  6. The largest component of the environment on the surface of earth is 18.Which water bone disease can be controlled covering pit latrine after use?
  7. Which type of soil erosion can be prevented by mulching?
  8. Which one of the following is a natural source of light?
    1. Moon
    2. Torch
    3. Electricity
    4. Firefly
  9. A ruler placed slanting in water appears broken. This is because light
  10. The diagram below represents a set-up that can be used to demonstrate a certain aspect of heat.

After some time, the wax melted due to;

  1. Which one of the following crop pests attacks and destroys crops by drilling holes in stored grains?
    1. White ants
    2. Weevil
    3. Stalk borers
    4. Cutworms
  2. Which one of the following plants stores food in the same part of the plant as sugarcane?
    1. Carrot
    2. sweet potato
    3. Irish potatoes
    4. Cassava
  3. A bean seed stores food in the
  4. The following are characteristics of certain animals:
    1. body covered with scales
    2. lay eggs
    3. cold blooded
    4. breath through lungs

Which one of the following pairs of animal has all the characteristics listed?

  1. Turtle and shark
  2. Lizard and tortoise
  3. Tilapia and frog
  4. Crocodile
  1. Which one of the following is true about friction. Friction can be
    1. Increased by streamlining
    2. reduced by treading
    3. used to make work easier
    4. measured using a spring balance
  2. Which one of the following food stuffs constitutes a balanced diet?
    1. Potatoes, beans, eggs
    2. Chicken, cabbage, beans
    3. Rice, chapati, beans         Peas, ugali, spinach
  3. Repairing leaking taps specifically helps in
  4. Given below are descriptions of a certain stage of HIV infection
  5. lt lasts between 6 weeks to 12 years
  6. If a medical test is done, the presence of HIV are discovered in the sample of blood.
  • The infected person looks normal and healthy Can infect other people

Which stage of HIV is described above?

  1. Which one of the following is not a way of using water sparingly?
    1. Reusing domestic water for irrigation
    2. Use of drip irrigation
    3. Closing taps that are not in use
    4. Repairing leaking pipes
  2. Which one of the following food stuffs contain mainly fats?
    1. Milk
    2. Beans
  3. The following are characteristics of certain types of clouds
    1. white in colour
    2. appear like bundles of cotton
  • dark grey in colour          mountainous in shape

Which pair of features are for cumulus clouds?

  1. Which one of the following is not an effect of livestock diseases?
    1. Blood in the stool.
    2. Reduced yield.
    3. Low quality products.
  2. Which one of the following activities can be used to demonstrate sheet erosion pouring water?
    1. Different positions on a slanting surface
    2. In channels of soil on slanting surface
    3. On a flat surface soil
    4. On a flat surface using a tin with many holes
  3. Which one of the following pairs consists only of materials that are non-magnetic?
    1. Copper and aluminium
    2. Steel and zinc
    3. Silver and steel
    4. Iron and aluminium
  4. Which one of the following activities will make a bottle top that was floating to sink in water?
    1. Increasing the amount of water
    2. Raising the container with water
    3. Changing the water into another container
    4. Crushing the bottle top
  5. Which one of the following ways of improving soil fertility will take the longest time for plants to get nutrients using?
    1. Compost manure B. Compound fertilizer
    2. Farmyard manure D. Green manure
  6. Which type of soil easily drains water?
  7. Which one of the following is not a practice for maintaining simple tools?
    1. Oiling
    2. Using for the right purpose
    3. Sharpening
    4. Storing in a safe place
  8. Newton is a unit for measuring?
  9. Which one of the following consists only of sexually transmitted infections?
    1. Bilharzia and cholera
    2. Anaemia and malaria
    3. Syphilis and typhoid
    4. Gonorrhoea and syphilis
  10. Which one of the following is not a feature of plants that grow in wet areas?
    1. Feathery roots
    2. Floating flowers
    3. Deep roots D. Air sacs
  11. Which one of the following is not a characteristic of carnivores?
    1. Well spaced teeth
    2. Long and sharp canines
    3. Presence of carnassial teeth
    4. Presence of a diastema
  12. Corrugated iron sheets can be damaged when they come into contact with
  13. Which one of the following is a modern method of food preservation?
    1. Salting B. Smoking
    2. Use of honey
    3. Canning
  14. Which one of the following groups consists of only cash crops?
    1. Maize, tea, yams
    2. Coffee, tea, cocoa
    3. Banana, orange, carrot
    4. Coconut, maize, beans
  15. The purpose of using rollers to move a load is to
  16. The following are activities followed when making a simple beam balance but not in the correct order
    1. fix the stand to the base
    2. suspend the arm to find the balancing point
  • make the arm, stand and base
  1. suspend the tins using strings
  2. fix the arm to the stand

Which one of the following is the correct order of activities?

  1. (iii), (ii), (i), (v), (iv)
  2. (iii), (ii), (v), (iv), (i)
  3. (iii), (ii), (i), (iv), (v)
  1. Which one of the following is not a source of electricity?
    1. Dynamol
    2. Dry cells.
    3. Solar panel
    4. Torch
  2. All drugs below are NARCOTICS except
    1. khat B. bhang
    2. cocaine D. heroin
  3. Which one of the blood component below helps to stop bleeding after an injury? A.Red blood cells.
    1. White blood cells.
  4. The diagram below shows a mammalian heart.

Which blood vessel above carries oxygenated blood to the heart?

  1. The male sex cells in a human being are produced in the ___________________
  2. Which pair of small animals below belong to the same group as a spider? A.Tick and tsetse fly.
    1. Mite and crab.
    2. Ants and termites.
    3. Scorpion and mite.
  3. Excessive taking of alcohol causes a disease of the liver called:
  4. The diagram below shows a weather instrument.

Which statement is not correct about the above instrument? A.Its narrow end points where the wind blowing to.

  1. It measures the strength and direction of wind.
  2. It has black and white stripes.
  3. It can be made with pole, wire and a mosquito net.
  1. Which component of environment is found in all other components?
  2. The addictive element in cigarette is called:
  3. Digestion of cooked beans starts in the:
  4. Which statement below is true about immunization of the infants?
    1. DPT protects the child against diptheria polio and tetanus
    2. BCG is given at the age of birth and 9 months
    3. Anti-measles is given through injection
    4. Anti-polio is administered through an injection
  5. Which one of the following is not a social effect of drugs? A.Accidents.
    1. Impaired judgement.
  6. All the following are common communi- cable diseases which one is not?
    1. Tuberculosis
    2. Tetanus
    3. Malaria
    4. Typhoid

 

 

  1. Which one of the following is not an importance of HIV-testing? To A.Decide on marriage.
    1. Change behaviour.
    2. Campaign for HIV/AIDS spread.
    3. Plan for the dependant.
  2. Std 6 pupils did the experiment below to investigate a certain property of light.

The property of light investigated is: 66.The diagram below shows a flower

Which part above represents parts of a stamen?

  1. Which one of the food crops below represents cereals only?
    1. Oats, maize, peas
    2. Groundnuts, grams, peas
    3. Ovacado, sugarcane, maize
    4. Millets, sorghum, barley
  2. Beans seeds can germinate without, ___________________________
  3. Which drug is stimulant when abused in small amount and depresant when abused in large amount?
  4. The following are signs and symptoms of a certain water borne disease

i.fever ii.abdominal pains iii. skin rashes iv.     joint and muscle aches

The above diseases is likely to be:

  1. Which is the 4th and 6th planet in the solar system from the sun?
    1. Earth and Jupiter
    2. Mars and Jupiter
    3. Mars and Saturn
    4. Jupiter and Uranus
  2. Which of the following pair of methods of food preservation makes both modern and traditional methods of food preservation
    1. Drying and freezing
    2. Low temperature and drying
    3. Smoking and drying
    4. Salting and smoking
  3. Which one of the following is not a function of leaves of a green plant?
    1. Breathing
    2. Transpiration
    3. Absorption
    4. Photosynthesis
  4. Which one of the following is not a myth and misconception about HIV/AIDS?
    1. AIDS victims are always thin
    2. Sex with a virgin cares AIDS
    3. AIDS is a curse from God
    4. AIDS has no cure
  5. The type of soil erosion that can be prevented by building porous dams is the
  6. Which property of soil determines the rate of drainage in soil?
  7. Which lever below has the effort between load and fulcrum?
    1. Fishing rod
    2. Wheelbarrow
    3. Claw hammer
    4. Bottle opener
  8. Which one of the following is not a function of all leaves in green plants?
    1. Making food
    2. Losing excess water
    3. Exchange of gases
    4. Food storage
  9. After fertilization in a female the implan- tation takes place in the:
  10. Which stage of HIV infection does the patient test negative but can infect others?
  11. The type of teeth used for tearing off meat also:
    1. have rough tops
    2. are sharp pointed C.have two roots

D.are chisel-shaped

  1. A brightly coloured flower
    1. has feathery stigma
    2. produces light pollen grains C. are small in size
    3. has few heavy pollen grains
  2. A mixture of salt and sand can be separated by
  3. The force that resists motion is measured in
  4. Which one of the following shows correctly the excretory organ and the wastes excreted

Organ wastes

  1. Skin water,urea,carbondioxide
  2. Kidney water, salt,carbondioxide
  3. Lungs carbon dioxide,water,salt
  4. Kidneys water,urea,salt
  1. Which one of the following is not a use of water in the industries? A.Making fountains.
    1. Cleaning coffee berries.
    2. Cooling machines.
  2. Which one of the following is correct about bat, frog and snake?
    1. They have scales
    2. They lay eggs
    3. Have varying body temperature
    4. Breath through lungs.
  3. Boat racing is a use of water in
  4. Which one of the following is not true about the concentrates as animal feeds?
    1. Contains high nutrient contents
    2. Have high moisture content
    3. Supplement other feeds
    4. Are generally bought from shops
  5. The following are uses of heat except
    1. ironing
    2. cooking
    3. keeping pests away
    4. drying
  6. Which one of the following is the BEST method of controlling weeds in a nursery bed
    1. Digging out
    2. Using chemicals
    3. Uprooting
    4. Slashing
  7. Which group of material below does not allow the light to pass thorugh?
    1. Mirror, titnted glass, milk
    2. Air, dirty water, stone
    3. Skylight, oiled paper, frosted glass
    4. Mirror, milk, dirty water.
  8. Which type of weed has very strong smell and can be used as a pesticide?
  9. In a human breathing system when the diaphragm flattens:
  10. Which of ,the followinig physical changes in adolescence tatakes place in boys only?
    1. Increase in weight and height
    2. wet dreams
    3. produce sex cells
    4. hips broadens
  11. Which group of plants below are green non-flowering plants only?
    1. Pine, sugarcane, cactus
    2. Yeast, mould, mushrooms
    3. Cider, algae, ferns
    4. Banana,sugarcane,grass
  12. Wires of the same material and thickness but of different lengths labelled R,T, S and M were fixed on a wooden plunk as shown below.

Which wire produced the highest sound when plucked?

  1. What is the main use of fibre in the diet
  2. When soil is strongly burnt in a tin to produce smoke, it shows that soil
  3. Which two forms of energy requires a medium to be transferred from one point to the other?
  4. Which one of the following is not a necessary condition for seeds to germinate? A.Moisture.
  5. The pests that burrow in the maize plant while it is growing are
  6. Which one of the following is the best method for Lucy to use to control weeds on a very small piece of land with vegetables? A.Using herbicides.
    1. Digging out.
    2. Burning them.
  7. The loudness or softness of sound is its
  8. When light moves from one medium to another, it A.bounces.
    1. is absorbed.
  9. The materials which allow some light to pass through improve privacy.
    1. enable one to see clearly.
    2. are said to be transparent.
    3. are used to make car windscreens.
  10. In order to increase the rate at which a substance dissolves in a solvent, one shouldn’t
  11. Which statement below does not describe cumulus clouds? They A.are dark grey in colour.
    1. are white and cotton like.
    2. form high in the sky.
    3. have a flat base.
  12. Which substance below has a definite mass but no definite shape? A.Flour.
    1. Office glue.
  13. The diagram below shows the composition of air.

The part which makes bulbs glow without blowing is labelled

  1. The vaccines given to a baby at birth prevents them against
  2. Which one of the following is not a reason for preserving food? To avoid wastage of the food.
    1. sell the food when prices are favourable.
    2. consume the food when nutrients are plenty.
    3. keep the food for future use.
  3. Which one of the following human intestinal worms can one get by eating raw meat?
  4. Which one of the following methods of preserving food is modern? A.Smoking.
    1. Using honey.
  5. Which of thee following sets of foodstuffs is suitable for a child suffering from marasmus?
    1. Apples, eggs, oranges, meat.
    2. Beans, kales, mangoes, sweet potatoes.
    3. Rice, bananas, maize, cabbage.
    4. Sausages, potatoes, chicken, cooked bananas.
  6. Which one of the following is not an effect of heat on matter? A.Expansion.
  7. The following are activities that take place during breathing:
  8. Volume of the chest cavity decreases. ii. Ribs move upwards and outwards.
    • Lungs shrink.
  1. The diaphragm muscles relax.

Which of the activities take place during breathing out?

  1. The diagram below shows the approximate percentages of the gases that make up air.

Which one of the following processes does not require the part labelled L? A.Combustion.

  1. Making plant food.
  1. When the arrow head of a windvane points to the south, it shows that wind is the blowing from
  2. Which one of the following levers has the position of the load between the effort and the fulcrum when in use?
    1. Claw hammer.
  3. Which one of the following statements is not correct about liquids?
    1. Some liquids expand when frozen.
    2. Liquids contract when heated.
    3. Liquids expand when heated.
    4. Liquids expand more than solids when heated.
  4. Which one of the following is not a way or reducing the force that opposes motion?
    1. Making treads.
    2. Using rollers.
    3. Using grease and lubricating oil.
  5. Which of the pairs below shows major non-living components of the environment?
    1. Light and sound.
    2. Animals and plants.
    3. Air and water.
    4. Soil and heat.
  6. Which one of the following is not a source of electric current?
    1. Car battery.
    2. Water fall.
    3. Wind turbines. 125.Weeds should be
  7. Which of the following animals are kept mainly for mutton production?
    1. Sheep and pigs.
    2. Goats and sheep.
    3. Cattle and camels.
    4. Goats and camels.
  8. Which one of the following is not a method of rotational grazing?
    1. Zero grazing.
    2. Paddocking
    3. Strip grazing.
  9. The most appropriate method of controlling the type of erosion commonly experienced along the roofs is
  10. Which small animals below is not classified in the same group as spider?
    1. Mite
    2. Scorpion
    3. Tick
    4. Crab
  11. Which one of the following is the function of fibre in the diet? Fibre
    1. helps in digestion of food.
    2. adds more nutrients to the body.
    3. helps in the removal of undigested food.
    4. helps in absorption of digested food.
  12. Which one of the following is not likely to increase the pressure of a liquid in a container?
    1. Increasing the amount of liquid.
    2. Reducing the diameter of the container.
    3. Using a narrow container.
    4. Raising the container.
  13. Which one of the following plants does not manufacture its own food?
  14. The following are the processes of germination of a seed but not in order:
  15. Emergence of the plumule. ii.  Absorption of water and air.
    • Bursting of the testa.
  1. Emergence of the radicle.

Which one of the following is the correct order?

  1. Which one of the following pairs of diseases can be controlled through draining away stagnant water?
    1. Bilharzia and malaria.
    2. Bilharzia and typhoid.
    3. Cholera and typhoid.
    4. Cholera and malaria.
  2. Which one of the following is a way of controlling the spread of HIV/AIDS among the youth?

A.Using condoms.

  1. Sticking to one faithful uninfected partner.
  2. Creating awareness.
  1. In which of the following is the force of friction least needed? A.Closing the door.
    1. Walking downhill.
    2. Writing on the chalkboard.
    3. Stopping a speeding motor cycle.
  2. Which one of the following groups has animals with similar characteristics?
    1. Beetle, scorpion, ant.
    2. Mite, wasp, spider.
    3. Termite, tick, grasshopper
    4. Wasp, ant, housefly
  3. Which one of the following methods of soil conservation can be used effectively to control the type of sail erosion shown below?

A.Mulching

  1. Contour farming
  2. Terracing
  3. over cropping
  1. Which of the following prevents a baby from shock and bumps? A.Umbilical cord.
    1. Amniotic sac.
    2. Amniotic fluid.
  2. Which of the following components is found in all environments?
  3. Which one of the following does not lead to air pollution?
    1. Smoking bhang in public.
    2. Spraying farm chemicals and aerosols.
    3. Vehicle exhaust fumes.
    4. Use of excessive fertilizers.
  4. Which of the following statements is not correct about separation of mixtures?
    1. Picking is used to separate big solid particles.
    2. Winnowing is suitable for separating a mixture of light and heavy solid particles.
    3. Sieving separates a mixture of small and large solid particles.
    4. A mixture of magnetic materials can be separated using a magnet.
  5. Which one of the following is an effect of excessive use of fertilizer as a water pollutant?

A.Excessive growth of water weeds

  1. Water-borne diseases
  2. Suffocation of water animals
  3. Increase of water animals
  1. Which one of the following mammals does not give birth to a live young one? A.Whale.
    1. Nile perch.
  2. Repairing leaking taps specifically helps in

A.re-using water well

B.harvesting rain water

C.using water sparingly

  1. A metallic nail sinks in water while a metallic ship floats on water. This is due to the difference in
  2. Which one of the following is not a source of electricity?
    1. Dynamol
    2. Dry cells.
    3. Solar panel
    4. Torch
  3. Which statement about vertebrates is correct?

A.Fish and amphibians are warm blooded.

B.Mammals and birds give birth to live young ones.

C.Reptiles and birds have internal fertilization.

D.Fish and birds have external fertilization.

 

 

 

  1. Which pair of blood vessels is correctly matched with the nature of blood in it?
   Deoxygenated   Oxygenated
 A.   Aorta  venacava
 B.  Venacava  pulmonary artery
 C.  Pulmonary artery  aorta
 D.  Pulmonary vein  aorta

 

  1. During a science lesson pupils setup the experiment as shown below to investigate factor that affect sinking and flowing.

Both material floated because of their

  1. When breathing in;
  2. An empty metallic ship floats on water because of
  3. The blood vessels that carries blood from the lungs to the heart and from the heart to the body respectively are
  4. In the female reproductive system, a zygote is formed in the
  5. Which one of the following vaccines is administered at birth?
    1. BCG
    2. Anti-measles
    3. DPT
    4. Anti-malaria
  6. Which one of the following animals does not breast feed its young ones?
    1. Whale
    2. Bat
    3. Shark
    4. Seal
  7. The windvane below was made by pupils using materials found in their school.

Which one of the following statements is incorrect about the instrument above? A.It shows the wind direction.

  1. The arrow head should be small than the tail.
  2. It should be place away from buildings.
  3. Its arrowhead points the direction where the wind is blowing to.
  1. Which one of the following livestock parasites attacks the livestock without living on it?
    1. Tick
    2. Tsetse fly
    3. Flea
    4. Mite
  2. Which type of teeth below is incorrectly matched with its function?
    1. Canine – cutting
    2. Incisors – biting
    3. Premolar – chewing
    4. Molar – grinding
  3. What is cross pollination?
  4. Which one of the following explains the function of white blood cells? A.Combine with oxygen.
    1. Fight the disease causing germs.
    2. Carry digested food materials.
    3. Clothing the blood.
  5. Which animals provides mutton and dairy?
  6. Children born to a smoking mother during pregnancy are least likely to be
  7. Which one of the process following takes place immediately after sperms cell and ovum unite?
    1. Fertilization
    2. Ovulation
    3. Implantation Menstruation 165.    The chart below shows the classification of plants.

Which one of the following correctly shows the plant represented by letters M, N, and P?

  M N P
A  Maize  Ferns  Cypress
B Lichen  Algae Mushroom
C  Beans Cactus  Puff balls
D Acacia Cedar Toadstool
  1. Which one of the following shows major non-living components of environment? A.Animals, plants.
    1. Sound, light, heat.
    2. Soil, stones, plants.
    3. Soil, air, water.
  2. The most effective method of controlling the spread of HIVIAIDS among the youth is by
  3. Miraa, tobacco and alcohol have one thing in common which one is it? They are
  4. Which one of the following does not show how plants and animals depend on each other?

A.Animals getting shade B.Birds sheltering on trees.

  1. Animals getting carbon dioxide from green plants.
  1. The diagram below shows an improvised simple liquid thermometer.

Which one of the following would make it measure slight changes in temperature? A.Tightening the cork.

  1. Making the straw and small narrower.
  2. Raising the temperature.
  3. Adding more coloured water.
  1. In a food chain, cabbages can be classified under
  2. When carrying out an experiment on drainage in soil, what does not need to be the same?
  3. The illustration below shows the changes of states in matter.

Liquid Which two processes require an increase in temperature?

  1. Heat from the sun reaches the leaves of the plants through a process called
  2. Below are characteristics of matter,

i.Definite shape. ii.Definite size. iii.Definite mass.

Which one of the above best describe paraffin?

  1. The second and seventh planets in the solar system respectively are:
  2. Wires of the same material and thickness but of different lengths labelled R,T, S and M were fixed on a wooden plunk as shown below.

Which wire produced the highest sound when plucked?

  1. Which one of the following is not a function of leaves of a green plant?

A.Breathing

B.Transpiration

C.Absorption

D.Photosynthesis

  1. Which one of the following is not a cereal crop?
    1. Maize
    2. Oats
    3. Beans
    4. Sorghum
  2. Which crop pest below is not correctly matched with the part of the plant it attacks?

A.Aphids – All kinds of grains

B.Weaver birds – Grains of cereals

C.Stalk borers – Inside of the stems

D.Cut worms – Stem of young plants.

  1. Weeds should be
  2. Which parts of a flower makes the male parts?
  3. Which one of the following weeds has thorns and green fruits which turn yellow when ripe?

A.Oxalis

B.Sódom apple

C.Wondering jew

D.Black jack

  1. Which one of the following is not an effect of livestock diseases? A.Blood in the stool.

B.Reduced yield.

C.Low quality products.

D.Death.

  1. Which small animals below is not classified in the same group as spider?

A.Mite

B.Scorpion

C.Tick

D.Crab

  1. Which one of the following is not a use of water in the industries? A.Making fountains.
  2. Cleaning coffee berries.

C.Cooling machines.

D.Irrigation.

  1. When fertilizer is used excessively to improve the quality of the soil, it may lead to
  2. Sheet erosion can be controlled by
  3. What is the importance of adding manure when preparing compost manure? 190. Which one of the following methods of food preservation dehydrates food?

A.Canning

B.Freezing

C.Use of low temperature

D.Drying.

  1. Which one of the following is the BEST method of controlling weeds in a nursery bed

A.Digging out

B.Using chemicals

C.Uprooting

D.Slashing

  1. During a class experiment, pupils mixed all the liquids below in one glass bottle.
  2. Water F. Milk
    1. Kerosene
    2. Cooking oil

How many layers were formed after mixing?

  1. Which one of the following is the most effective methods of separating a mixture of insoluble solid from liquid?

A.Filtering

B.Winnowing

C.Sieving

D.Decantation

  1. Below is a pie chart that shows different air components in their relative amounts

Which one of the following is NOT function of the part of the air labelled Z on the pie chart?

A.Supporting burning

B.Good for photosynthesis

C.Preserves soft drinks

D.Making fire extinguishers

  1. The soil that holds the least amount of water

A.has the highest capillarity

B.makes the longest ribbons

C.has the largest air spaces

D.is sticky when wet.

  1. The force that opposes movement is measured using
  2. Which one of the following methods of soil conservation can be used effectively to control the type of sail erosion shown below?

A.Mulching

B.Contour farming

C.Terracing

D.Cover cropping

  1. Which one of the following is not a source of electricity?

A.Dynamol

B.Dry cells.

C.Solar panel

D.Torch

  1. During a science lesson pupils setup the experiment as shown below to investigate factor that affect sinking and flowing.

Both material floated because of their 200.  What is convection?

 

 

Computer Studies Notes Form 1-4 {Best}

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DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS HISTORY NOTES

DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS

  1. Identify one way in which a Kenyan citizen can participate in the democratisation process.

(1 mark)

  • Voting
  • Protesting against evil practices of the government
  • Paying taxes to the government
  • Attending and participating in community or civic meetings
  • Debating on issues affecting the state
  • Contesting for civic elections, parliamentary and presidential elections

 

(Any 1 =1 mark)

ANS 7 DIST 1

 

13.Give one characteristic of human rights                                                       (1mk)

  • Are universal
  • Are indivisible one right can not be applied if the other does not exist?
  • Rights have limitation
  • Human rights maybe suspended at times e.g. during war.    1×1 = 1mk

22.(a) State three survival rights of a child

(i) Life

(ii) Good health care

(iii) Name and identity

(iv) Clothing, shelter and food                              3×1=3mks

 

(b) Explain the principles of democracy as found in the bill of rights

(i) Equality before the rule of law

(ii) Participation of citizens in government

(iii) Economic democracy i.e decentralization of economic power

(iv) Provides freedom of movement of an individual

(v) People should have freedom of speech, debate and enquiry

(vi) Democracy must accommodate the wishes, needs and aspiration of a majority of people

(vii) Accord opportunity to participate in state affairs regardless of race, gender or creed

(viii) Accountability to mass media

(ix) Regular free and fair election

(x)  Transparency and accountability ob government side

(xi) There should be separation of power between the executive, judiciary and legislative. Any 6×2 (12marks)

ANS 22 DIST 2

 

20.a.    Three political duties of a Kenya citizen

  • Voting / participating in civic affairs / party politics
  • Building / promoting democracy
  • Offering checks and balance to control excesses of power
  • Participate in public policy development / advocating for favourable policies and legislation

1 x 3 = 3 Marks

  1. Six instances when the rights of a person to own property can be limited in Kenya
  • When satisfying any penalty for breach of civil and criminal law
  • In collection of tax, duty, rate or other levies
  • When property is seen to be dangerous to the health of a person, animal or plant
  • Execution of a court order
  • If property is required temporary for examination, investigator, inquiry, trial. Soil. Conservation or agricultural development
  • Belongs to a deceased person, a person of unsound mind or a minor for its administration to the benefit of the persons entitled to benefit
  • Belong to a person or company adjudged bankrupt
  • Its subject to a trust for purposes of giving effect to the trust
  • Condition of lease, mortgage or contract 2 x 6 = 12 Marks

 

ANS 20 DIST 4

 

  1. – Right to national and international peace

– Right to a clean environment

– Right to permanent sovereignty over natural resources.

ANS 4 DIST 5

 

  1. Identify one class of human rights                                                                         (1mk)

–           Classical human rights / political civil rights

–           Social Humans rights / social / economic

–           Third generation Human rights / solidarity rights                                        1 x 1 = 1mk

  1. a) Identify three aspect of democracy                                                                         (3mks)

–           Political aspect – process of electing leaders and expressing dislikes through them.

  • Social aspect – a means through which people are free to express opinions and associate with others
  • Economic aspect – Promote equal opportunities to all citizens. 3 x 1 = 3mks
  1. b) Outline six electoral malpractices that are a threat to democracy in Kenya (12mks)

–           Harassment of voters by rival groups / intimidation of voters.

  • Partisan election officials
  • Bribery of voters
  • Disruption of polling exercises
  • Uses of witch craft and forced illegal oathing
  • Rigging by election officials
  • Buying of voter cards
  • Double registration by voters
  • Negative propaganda against opponent e.g circulating defamatory, leaflets
  • Instigation of violence / insecurity.             6 x 2 = 12mks

ANS 14, 22 DIST 6

 

  1. State two features of human rights ( Any 2 x 1 = 2 mks
  2. i) Condition of life necessary for development of human / inborn/ God given.
  3. ii) It is enjoyed equally by all members.                                                            ( Any 2 x 1 = 2 mks)

ANS 11 DIST 7

 

  1. Name the legal document in which the rights of a child are contained (1mk)

-United nations convention on the rights of the child

24.a) Under the right to protection of the law, identify the rights that a suspected criminal is entitled to

-A fair hearing within 24hours unless it is weekend or a public holiday

-A fair hearing by an independent and impartial court of law

-A right to be assumed innocent until proven guilty

-Right to legal representation

-Right to have an interpreter to a language one understands

– Criminal proceeding, are conducted in accordance to the law.     (5×1=5mks)

ANS 6, 24a DIST 8

 

 

  1. b) Explain five circumstances which may force the government to limit the rights

            and freedoms of the individual                                                                                  (10mks)

  1. i) One can be denied the right to life if one is convicted to murder in a court of law or caught in the act of robbery with violence.
  2. ii) If suspected to be planning to commit a crime one can be denied their personal liberty/freedom of movement.
  • One can be denied freedom to own property if the government wishes to develop public facilities in the area, but compensation must be made.
  1. Ones freedom of worship can be limited it one uses it to undermine the government or create disunity .
  2. One’s freedom of assembly can be limited if it poses a threat to the state
  3. One’s freedom of speech may be limited if one publishes false accusation about another person or the state or incite people against the government.
  • Ones freedom of movement can be limited if internal security is threatened.
  • If one is not of sound mind one can be taken to a mental hospital by the police for confinement and treatment.
  1. If one has not attained the age of maturity one is considered a minor and his decisions are made on his behalf by adult members of the society.                         5×2 = 10mks

ANS 22b DIST 9

 

 

6.i) The police

  1. ii) The church

iii) Kenya national commission on human rights(KNHCR)

  1. iv) Trade unions
  2. v) Lawyers
  3. vi) Judges

vii) Teachers

viii) Journalists

  1. ix) Women groups .                                                              ( 2 x1 = 2mks)

ANS 6 DIST 11

 

 

8.Give two characteristics of human rights

  1. i) There are universal, they apply equally to all
  2. ii) They are indivisible.

iii) Rights have limitation

  1. iv) Human rights may be suspended at times e.g. freedom of movement may restrict     during war or outbreak of diseases / derogation of human rights.     Any 2×1=2mks

 

ANS 8 DIST 13

 

10.Rights whose personal liberty is limited. (2 mks)

  • To be informed of the reason for the arrest or detention as soon as possible.
  • To be taken to court within 48 hours from the time of arrest or within 14 days if the crime/issue is capital.
  • To be presumed innocent until proven otherwise. 2 x1 = 2 mks

 

11.What ways does education promote unity? (2 mks)

  • Mixing of students from all parts of the country.
  • School curriculum stresses on importance of unity through subjects like history and CRE.
  • Through games and sports where students meet and interact.
  • The students sit for the same examination. (2 x 1 = 2 mk)

 

ANS 10, 11 DIST 15

 

 

  1. (a) five merits of democracy.
  • Since it is founded on the consent of the people the leaders cannot ignore the people.
  • It recognizes equality among all the people irrespective of their colour, gender or religious beliefs. i.e equality before the law.
  • Democracy has a moral and educative values i.e those who want to be elected have to develop their personality.
  • It balances the liberty of the individual with the power of the state. This is because laws are made with the consent of the people who thereby have to abide by them willingly. They don’t feel that their liberty is curtailed unfairly.
  • Democracy promotes patriotism and reduces the chances of a revolution.
  • It promotes peace in the country because it advocates for peaceful co-existence. 1×5 = 5mks

 

(b) Limitations of democracy.

  • It promotes dictatorship by the majority.
  • It encourages class struggle and corruption i.e it is only those who have money and can engage in intensive campaigns who get elected since they can influence voters. Once elected they form the government and formulate laws that protect their interest.
  • A democratic government is often slow and wasteful. Consultations have to be made. Time and public resources are used in the process
  • It is not easy to find an honest, sincere man of good moral character being elected.
  • It may perpetuate incompetence in this case the number is required hence quality of a candidate are not taken into account. In most cases the majority of the voters are usually masses of ignorant people.
  • Although democracy is regarded as the title of the majority, in practice it is the elcted minority who rule. 5×2 = 10mks

 

ANS 22 DIST 16

 

  1. – Indirect/ representative democracy

– Constitutional democracy                                                                                        (1 x 1=1mk)

ANS 5 DIST 17

  1. i) They are universal i.e. excised equally by the whole race
  2. ii) Indivisible i.e. one right can not be applied if the other does not exist
  • Have limitations – one should not interfere with the rights of others
  1. Derogation of human rights – application of human rights can be suspended if circumstances dictate.    (2×1=2mks)
  2. a) i)      Right to good food
  3. ii) Right to shelter and clothing
  • Right to be nurtured
  1. Right to adoption
  2. Right to own a name / nationality
  3. Care of the disabled child
  • Right to medical care
  • Right to own property       (5×1=5mks)

ANS 11, 20a DIST 18

 

12.Mention two disadvantages of representative democracy

  1. Ignores the interest of the minority.
  2. Encourages class struggle and corruption.
  • Long time consultations before decision are made.
  1. Possibility of electricity incompetent leaders

(2 x 1 = 2mrks)

21.b)    Discuss six factors that may lead to limitation of the rights freedom of individuals in Kenya.

            (12mrks)

  1. If one is remanded in custody or imprisoned.
  2. If one is suspected of planning to commit a crime.
  • Ones freedom of worship can be limited if the manner of worship undermines the government or national unity.
  1. Freedom of assembly can be curtailed if it poses a threat to state security.
  2. Freedom of speech can be limited if it is meant to incite people against the government.
  3. A person of unsound mind can be confined to a mental hospital.
  • Children below the age of 18 years are considered minors and decisions concerning their movement are made by adults.

(6 x 2 = 12 marks)

 

ANS 12, 21b DIST 19

 

1          Define a democratic system of Government (1mk)

Is a type of Government where the people opinion and consent is sought on how they are governed e.g. through elections.  – Government of the people for the people and by the people

7          Name the United Nations document containing the rights of a child (1mk)

– UN Convention on the rights of the child

 

20        (a) Name three International bodies, which monitor Human Rights in Kenya

       (3mks)

  • Amnesty International
  • Kenya National Commission on Human rights
  • Transparency International
  • United Nations organization
  • FIDA – Association of women Lawyers

How to write effective KCSE English Paper 3 Essays – Ultimate Guide

Anthology – short stories – ‘ A Silent Song’

How to write effective KCSE English Paper 3 Essays

If you have read and understood the set books, answering questions 2 and 3 in English paper 3 should be easy. After understanding the question, you will need to determine relevant points, characters, or episodes to use in your essay. Take the first ten minutes to analyze the question and make brief notes. A high-scoring KCSE essay should have an introduction, four to five body paragraphs and a conclusion, and should be around 450 words.

KCSE Essay Introduction

According to the 2022 KCSE Report an introduction should show that you understand the question. One way to show that you understand the question is by paraphrasing the question.

First, identify the key words in the question before rewriting it in your own words. It is good practice to mention the book title and author. You can also provide a brief summary of the main points you are going to discuss in your article as in the example below:

Action speaks louder than words. Discuss the truth of this saying using

illustrations from Leonard Kibera’s A Silent Song. (20 marks)

 

The character of an individual tells more than what they actually say. Mbane’s brother, In the story A silent song by Leonard Kibera, Ezekiel, preaches water and takes wine. He is so devoted to God as a preacher, but neglects Mbane, to agonize in the streets for a long time until he almost dies.

Writing KCSE Essay Body Paragraphs

KCSE essays should have four to five body paragraphs. Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence that introduces the point you want to discuss. Provide relevant evidence from the text and explanation after the topic sentence. Names ofcharacters should be accurate to avoid losing points for textual errors.

Your goal should be to argue and illustrate your point. A common mistake that students make in body paragraphs is to narrate events from the text instead of showing how the events support their point. Such paragraphs are described as “thin” by KCSE examiners, and they do not score full points.

Remember you should be arguing and supporting your topic sentence therefore avoid narrating the text. As you conclude the paragraph make sure you have a clincher sentence- a statement that ties your paragraph to the question. So be sure to have about 9 lines of evidence and explanation in each body paragraph to score

full points. You can end your paragraphs with a “clincher”, a sentence that summarizes your paragraph as in the example below:

Concluding a KCSE essay

End your essay with a brief paragraph that summarizes what you discussed in the body. You may start with the phrase “I n conclus io n followed by a summary of the moral lesson from the question. Keep the conclusion short, a maximum of three lines.

 

In conclusion, the true gospel is the action of an individual because it is more practical than mere words. Actions work and satisfy the heart more than proclaiming the word of God.

Other KCSE tips

Remember to use simple language in your essay. Proofread your essay to check for spelling, grammar, and textual errors. We will be posting more sample essays to illustrate the kind of essays that KCSE examiners expect to see.

 

A study guide to a silent song and other stories

A MAN OF AWESOME POWERS (Naguib Mahfouz-Egypt)

Points to guide interpretation

Ô How Tayyib acquires his power.

Ô Use of power by Tayyib:

  • For selfish interests
  • For the good of all
  • To harm others

Ô How power changes Tayyib.

Ô The role of the media

Ô What causes Tayyib to lose his incredible power?

SYNOPSIS

A Man of Awesome Power is an intriguing story about Tayyib al-Mahdi, who lives a comfortable life after retiring from many years of service abroad. His current life is peaceful and uneventful. He spends time watching television, reading newspapers or listening to the radio in the comfort of his apartment that he shares with his wife since his daughters are already married. The story captures how an individual who is empowered when least expected utilizes the power given to him. His illusions of desire for a better country lead to his dream of power acquisition.

One night, Tayyib dreams of a visitation by a man of radiant appearance who speaks to him in a kind tone, informing him that God had willed him the power to order things to be and they would be. Although he dismisses the dream like any other dream, its frequent recurrence makes him give it more thought. Tayyib confirms its reality when he orders his television to switch channels, and it happens. Endowed with the newly acquired power, he sets out to reform his country and the entire planet as he had often wished.

He utilises his power both for good and bad intentions. He starts by hitting back a taxi driver who ignores him by wishing him an accident. He also causes a man who had physically attacked a woman in a bus to suffer stomach cramps. We see him engaging in meritorious deeds such as filing a gaping pothole, locking an electric box and removing a pile of rubbish that he trips on.

The media does not escape his wrath as he causes one radio announcer to suffer massive sneezes after making an announcement that gave false hopes. As the story progresses, Sulayman Bey al-Hamalawi, a political leader who had evaded tax, is ordered by Tayyib to go and pay the tax that he had been avoiding for a long time.

An unfortunate incident occurs when Tayyib is busy planning to effectively utilise

his power for the good of all sectors in the country. He notices a beautiful woman at

 

 

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Elegwah’s Planet Consortium

 

 

 

 

the entrance of the tea garden and uses his ability to satisfy his desires for her. Their intimacy costs him his incredible power. He pays this price for misusing the power that God had freely given him. The story ends with his sad realisation that he no longer has power. His attempts to order the television channels to change do not bear fruits. He experiences a tremendous sadness that will haunt him for the rest of his life.

 

 

CHARACTERS

  1. Tayyib al-Mahdi

Ô He is the main character in the story, and the story revolves around the

awesome power that he miraculously acquires sometime after his retirement.

Ô He does not reveal to his wife that he had been bestowed with such power. His initial intention is to use the ability to change his country and the entire planet like he had always wished.

Ô He is portrayed as religious, ambitious yet emotional and vengeful.

EPISODIC ANALYSIS OF KEY ISSUES

Man of Awesome Power’ is founded on several pillars determined by the various

episodes:

  1. Tayyib’s dream — pg 1-2
  2. Utilising the awesome power -pg 2-4
  3. Losing the awesome power- pg 5 Nide to a silent son and other stories Some key issues arise from the episodes:

Acquisition of power

How Tayyib acquires his power teaches several things:

One can gain power at any stage of life.

Tayyib believed that he had completed his mission in the world. Before acquiring power, he lives a peaceful life as he enjoys the fruits of retirement. The writer notes that ‘He had generous insurance and more than adequate pension’pg 1 which do not prevent him from being given power by God.

Power is God-given.

Tayyib’s power is bestowed on him by God. As seen from his words, “All praise to God, Lord of the Worlds”, and listening to radio channels devoted to the Quran (pg 1), his religious nature is one reason God willed to grant him power. The man who

 

 

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visits him in the dream tells him that starting that moment and as long as God willed, he had been bestowed with the power to order things to be and they would be. (pg l)

Utilisation of Power

Tayyib utilises the power given to him in different incidents:

  • Encounter with the taxi driver (pg 2)
  • In the bus, to deal with the conflict between a man and a woman (pg 3).
  • Performing memorable services along his way to the cafe (pg 3).
  • The radio announcer (pg 3).
  • Tayyib’s wrath on Sulayman Bey al-Hamalawi (pg 3-4).
  • The beautiful woman in the Tea Garden (pg 4).

Good utilisation of power

The episode shows how a person bestowed with power should utilise it. Tayyib’s soliloquy during his encounter with the taxi driver captures the need to use power for the well-being of others and to make things better. ‘Whoever is granted with power like mine, must utilise it only for good.’ (pg 2)

He uses the power to do several good deeds. Some of the outstanding services that Tayyib performs include filling a gaping pothole, locking an electric box that was open and hanging dangerously, removing a pile of trash and draining sewer water that was flooding an alley. Many people in the neighborhood appreciate these services. (p 3).

He also does a good deed of making Sulayman, who has been evading tax, go to

the taxi authorities and pay them millions of pounds he owed them. (pg3).

Misuse of power

Tayyib utilises the power given to him for vengeance- The act of causing the tire burst of the taxi since the driver had ignored him is vengeful. Tayyib ignores the noble voice that reminds him not to use power for wrong purposes and lets his anger get the best of him. (pg 2)

Tayyib causes harm/pain and suffering to the man who had slapped a woman on a public bus. Severe cramps strike the man, following Tayyib’s anger focused on the man’s stomach. (pg3)

He uses power to satisfy his lustful desires when he sees a beautiful woman and

makes her notice him making them surrender to fate. (pg 4)

Role of the Media

 

 

 

 

 

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The media is seen to fail in its role. It dwells more on giving false promises/hope instead of telling what had already been achieved. When Tayyib gets into the café, he listens to a radio announcer expounding on promising developments expected in the future (pg 3). Tayyib’s fury is directed at the announcer, causing him to suffer massive sneezing, forcing him to end the announcement and play a song. The song- ‘Walk Around and See’ is ironically used to satirise the media for highlighting and emphasising what is yet to be seen (prophesies) instead of dwelling on the reality that can be seen.

Immorality

Sexual immorality is seen when Tayyib utilises his power to make the beautiful woman he notices in the Tea Garden fall for his advances. The woman barely notices Tayyib when she gets to the garden, but Tayyib shifts her attention to himself through the power he has. He forgets his faith and his life (Lack of self- control) and surrenders to fate.

Tax evasion is another immorality that is seen in the story. Many leaders use their powerful positions to evade paying their taxes, such as Sulayman Bey al- Hamalawi. When Tayyib notices him, he commands, “Sulayman Bey, go straight to the tax prosecutor’s office to repent and say you are sorry up the millions of pounds you owe.” (pg 3)

Loss of Power

If power is not utilised for ‘good’, it will be lost. Tayyib loses his awesome power when he comes back to his senses and realises that he had made some mistake. Although he had been secretive about his power, his wife Haniya keenly observes that he was not in his usual mood that evening. Tayyib’s deceitful/ dishonest nature is depicted when he easily lies to his wife that he had a cold. Unfortunately, for Tayyib, he loses his power due to his mistakes. ‘The miracle was gone— like a dream.’ (pg 5)

Change

Tayyib confirms that he has been bestowed with power by ordering television channels to change. Changing the television channel from a religious one to a foreign one foreshadows the changes that happen to Tayyib once he acquires power.

He is initially described as ‘A good man; his sins were forgivable he was a lover of virtue.. . ‘(pg 2). However, power ones changes him. He becomes vengeful, lustful, deceitful and inhumane. He forgets his faith and life and lets passion and lust control him, which had never happened since he married Haniya. (pg 4)

 

 

 

 

 

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Power also helps change the risky living condition of the people gaping potholes dangerously hanging an open electric box, Sewer flooding on alleys and piles of rubbish on the way. All these are rectified through Tayyib power (pg 3)

 

 

INCIDENT IN THE PARK: Meja Mwangi

Episodes / sub-episodes

  1. The description of the city park in August afternoon. (p6 – 7).
  2. Two idlers’ dialogue at the – 10).
  3. An ambush by two city constables in the park ending in
  4. The fruit merchant condemned (p 12).

SYNOPSIS

The incident in the park, by Meja Mwangi, is a contemporary episode set in the city park and its environs where most citizens, hustlers and workers, spend most of their time as an Outdoor recreation center. We know it is the popular Uhuru Park inNairobi through its vivid description.

Metaphorically described, the park is seriously affected by the drought in August. There is a dirty lake at its base, and to the west, up the hill, a cathedral, modern fortresses and ministerial Offices overlooking the park below, and across it is the city itself. A highway, Uhuru highway, separates the park from the city, and on it, there is heavy traffic. In the east, parliament and two city clocks are seen.

Therefore, the park provides a relaxing haven (chilling point) and a source of solace for the misplaced, lost or frustrated masses flocking the city daily. This has attracted many people. Including peddlers trying to make ends meet and idlers killing time here. The city hungry office workers also buy cheap snacks during the lunch hour and return to their stations. Others rush down to River Road to buy chips and roast meat as the loiterers watch the Spectre in a jiffy.

Soon, the park is left with a few idlers and peddlers. Under the slightest shade lie men sheltering from the scorching sun. Watchers watch rowers paddling, reacting to the maxim that spectating is the next best thing to participating. A loafer keeps dropping debris to the fish pond despite the warning inscription on a board.

Another man joins him, and a dialogue ensues, and they share a cigarette.

An incident erupts when two city constables demand to see the license of the ice cream man and a fruit seller. The Old man helplessly searches and realizes he doesn’t have it. Worse. He has no identity card, so he offers the five shillings he has, for he fears the judge and going to jail. He begs for forgiveness, offering all the fruits in vain. On seeing they are unimpressed, he flees to find refuge in the

crowded city, and the cops chase him. He is nabbed by a man on the highway and

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eventually falls into a ditch. There, the poor man is condemned unheard of for being

a ‘thief’.

Title of the story

What is the significance of the title Incident in the park?

What is ironic about the two constables’ behavior at the park?How

else do the people spend time at the park?

Thematic concerns

With evidence from the text, discuss the urban problem that leads to the destitution

of the masses.

How does the city’s jobless population escape their wretchedness? Compare and contrast the city workers and the jobless masses.

What are the harsh realities of city life and the illusion of a better, promising life?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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How does the rural-urban influx affect people’s lives?

What does the presence of butts, used matches and stubs at the park tell you?

How does the lack of identity cards and license affect peddlers?

Juxtapose the kind of identification the police demand from the fruit vendor and

one that awaits him at the mortuary.

Referring closely to the fruit-seller show how the mob and the legal system

administer justice.

Why does the merchant resort to flight and fight for his life instead of overcoming

his fright for the justice system?

Who is to blame for the death of the fruit-seller, the constables, the public, or the

vendor himself?

What lessons can be taken from the incident at the city park?

What does the fruit seller’s mention of the ‘tyrant judge’ tell us about the justice

system?

Problems of urbanization

Urban population growth, driven by migration and searching for jobs, has become a

significant issue in cities like Nairobi.

However, the masses end up frustrated due to a skills mismatch in the labor market, dwindling economy and poor governance. But every now and then, a misplaced person rose with a start… (p7).

In a few seconds, the thousand or so strong swarm had been swallowed up by the

yawning concrete jungle… (p7).

Urban poverty is also witnessed as many remain loitering and idling reminding the park loungers just how many hours they had wasted lying idle.’ (p7). ‘A shaggy thin man sat under a shrub…’ (p7). ‘Hairy loafer’ (p8). ‘The idler seated on the bank…’ (p8) torn trouser legs.’ (p8)

‘horny toes. (p9L

There is also evidence of poor hygiene. The park is littered with debris, cigarette ends and butts. (p8, 9). The two gentlemen share puffs on the cigarette. One offers a full cigarette, and smoking in this zone could be a form of escapism from their poverty. (p10).

  • The fruit seller has only ten shillings which he offers to the constables to spare He cannot afford to pay for the license, or even the fine has on another case. (pl 1).

 

 

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  • Conflicts between city authority and street hawkers

When the two constables accost and demand licenses from the ice cream man and

the fruit peddler, they tell the merchant that he will only explain to the judge.

  • The fruit seller already has a case and is trying to sell to afford a (pl 1). The fruit seller pleads with the constables, who say nothing. 7hefruit seller cursed them and their wives and children… (PI 1).
  • Mob justice / Social injustice
  • The fruit seller is lynched unknowingly by the park By the time the constable ran up, the fruit-peddler lay like a broken and twisted ragdoll at the bottom of the ditch. (p12)
  • He cries and pleads for mercy in . had drawn thick red blood over the

sparsely bearded face. Dead’ was his verdict (p12)

  • The word ‘thief’ hovered over the assembled mob universally condemns

him, and it is impossible to tell from which mouth the condemnation is issued. (p12)

  • Ironically the mob had had what was Justice fairly quickly and completely

administered … (PI 2).

CHARACTERS

The fruit seller

  • He is a poor old man who sells fruits at the He has no license or identity

card. (pl l)

  • He is a responsible man as he remembers he has a family which depends on him

when accosted. I have a wife and children and… (PI 1).

  • He is hardworking because he sells fruits (two baskets) to earn his living despite

being unable to afford a license. (PI l)

  • He is afraid and fearful that he will be fined or be castrated by the tyrant (pl

l)

  • Style and language use
  1. What figures of speech does the writer use to describe the park and events in

thepark?

  1. Why is it ironic for the fruit peddler to flee from the constables and lose his life?

A comprehensive and detailed guide to a silent song and other stories

  1. Explore the use of dialogue in Meja Mwangi’s Incident in the

 

 

 

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  1. Urban centers are riddled with frequent conflicts with innocent Citizens. Discuss

the truth of this assertion based on Meja Mwangi’s Incident in the Park. (20 marks).

 

 

 

NINEMA -Vrenika Pather- South Africa

About the Author Vrenika Pather

Vrenika Pather is mainly known for her acting prowess since she started her career as an actress at the age of eighteen. The Indian lady of South African origin has also written a few short stories, one of them being Ninema. Her stories mainly tell the life that many Indian ladies live and their every day’s encounters.

Points to guide interpretation

  1. Tough life of a market vendor:
    • Rising early
    • Poor meals
    • Poor/lack of proper grooming
    • Dealing with different customers
  2. Caste and
  3. Sexual harassment/immorality.
  4. Need to remain principled and

CHARACTERS

a. Ninema

She is one of the market gardeners who serves as the main character in the story.

She is focused, ambitious, organized and strong-willed. Her admirable trait is seen

in how fond the other ladies are of her

A comprehensive and detailed guide to a silent song and other stories and how

many of her customers remain loyal.

  1. Chinran

He is a white man who is a loyal customer of Ninema.

He admires Ninema, but both know that their relationship is prohibited since they are from different castes. While Mr. Chinran is a wealthy lawyer from a Brahmin caste, Ninema is a poor girl from a low caste.

He supports Ninema’s business by buying more than enough herbs from her.

 

 

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  1. Singh

She is a wealthy older woman who is a loyal customer.

She is known for haggling over prices, thus being difficult and troublesome. She

spends time negotiating with Ninema as a way of passing the time.

  1. The strange man

He is the man who accosts Ninema on her way from the market.

He is immoral, vulgar and lascivious.

SYNOPSIS

Vrenika Pather’s story Ninema’, is about the harsh life of market gardeners as represented by Ninema and the other ladies. The story explores the hustles that Ninema goes through on a typical market day, starting from rising at the wee hours of the morning to closure time which is late in the evening. Her home life is simple, suggesting the poor living conditions of such vendors. She has to prepare before going to the Indian market where she makes her sales. She only washes her face and feet with cold water from an outside tap since she cannot afford running hot water. This affects her grooming as she takes a bath once a week. She puts on her Chumpal, symbolising the poor condition and the only source of protection for her feet while on the way to and from the market.

Ninema remains focused and does not let her beauty and attention from both men and women control her. Once in the market, Ninema organises her herbs appetisingly to attract customers.

The market condition is challenging as the weather is not favourable. It is hot, and

Ninema sweats until her Sari clings to her firm skin.

She handles different customers who buy her herbs with wisdom and respect. Her focus in business enables her not to get carried away by Mr. Chinran’s attraction towards her. She does not encourage his infatuation with her but treats him like any other customer. With respect and appreciation.

She firmly handles the troublesome and difficult Mrs. Singh. Many customers who visit her stall are served well and are satisfied as she takes a personal interest in them. Her doctor, Dr. Seedat, visits too, and she takes time talking to him about her mother’s ailment.

Having served her last customer, Ninema closes her stall after taking stock of the unsold herbs and her profit for the day. The rot in society is seen when a strange man sexually assaults Ninema on her way home. He pinches her erect nipple and laughs loudly before extending some invitation for Ninema to follow him. Ninema does not take this abuse lying down. She utilises the only weapon she has — her

 

 

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Chumpal, that protect the soles of her feet and her whole self. She hits the man repeatedly with her sandals as the other women cheer her on. The man is too shocked to react and thus ends up being beaten by Ninema until he whimpers.

Feeling satisfied, Ninema continues with her journey home. She goes back to the poor condition she left in the morning. She safely keeps her sandals under the kitchen table before washing her face and feet with cold water, just like she had done in the morning. She takes a rest that leads her to a dream of a better tomorrow.

The story ends with hopeful/optimistic Ninema, who dreams of having a home for

herself, hot water and a kitchen inside the house.

QUESTIONS

  1. Compare and contrast Ninema and other lady marketers
  2. What is ironic about Singh’s behaviour?
  3. Ninema is a likeable and admirable Do you agree? Give evidence

from the story.

  1. How effectively has Vrenika Pather used description in the story?

EPISODIC ANALYSIS OF KEY ISSUES

  1. Living conditions of Ninema – Pg13 and 16 Il. Ninema’s skill of trade – Pg 14-15 Ill. Journey home – Pg 16

Several issues are addressed in these episodes:

The harsh life of a market gardener

  • As a market gardener, Ninema faces a tough life that calls for her principled,

hardened (iron-willed), focused, firm, hardworking and determined.

  • She has to wake up very early to reap the herbs from her garden – ‘Four o’clock on

Monday morning’. Page 13

  • Sighs of acceptance always accompany her work — she faces many challenges

and is winning. Page 13

Ninema lives a poor life – she cannot afford running hot water. She only washes her

face and feet with cold water from an outside tap Page 13.

  • She has to carry the basket containing the herbs on her head as she walks the long

journey to the Indian market ‘It is a long walk’ Page 14

 

 

 

 

 

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  • She only wears her sandals when going to the The kind of meals she takes points to the poor life she takes a few sips of tea she brought with her Page 14 (breakfast)
  • Some sandwiches that she packed from home are her only meal for lunch Page

Time is limited for her — she only affords a weekly shower on Saturday after

boiling water on the open fire Page

Dealing with different kinds of customers

Mr. Chinran admires her and can almost be said to be in love with her. ‘The ladies teased her, saying he was in love with her. The writer also tells us that Ninema made Mr. Chinran’s day. He is almost always the first customer. Ninema handles

himwisely and does not let this attraction control her. She does not encourage his infatuation but treats him with respect and appreciation like she does all her loyal customers. (pg14)

She also has to handle demanding customers such as Mrs. Singh, who though rich, will always bargain to lower the prices. Ninema shows her masterful skills by firmly and respectively handling her. (pg14)

She serves many affluent customers at lunch hour who steadily flow in to get herbs for their evening meals. She pays personal interest to each as she has an ambition of living a better life just like most of these customers. (pg15)

  • Time limitation allows her to consult with her doctor – Dr Seedat, only when he comes to buy herbs from The two talk about Ninema’s mother’s illness showing that Ninema is equally concerned about her mother.
  • She can entice a new customer by offering an extra bunch of mint for (pg15)

This generosity makes the customer happy, thus promising to always shop with her.

Class discrimination

The Indian society that Ninema hails from has a strong belief in the caste where those from the high caste — Brahmin Caste, are not allowed to inter-marry with those from the lower caste. This is seen in her association with Mr. Chinran. ‘As muchas Ninema dismisses the teasing of the ladies that Mr. Chinran is in love with her, she is also aware that a rich lawyer from a Brahmin caste cannot be interested in someone like her — a poor girl from a low caste (pg14). Mr. Chinran himself knows ittoo, and thus their relation can never go beyond early morning herb buys. He further understands that his mother will soon arrange a marriage for him, most probably to a person from his caste.

Hard work/focus/determination

 

 

 

 

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The writer emphasizes the importance of hard work, focus and determination in an individual’s life. Through the main character Ninema, the benefits of the three traits are depicted.

Ninema’s hard work is seen in how she rises early — four o’clock Monday morning, and goes to her garden to reap herbs. Her hard work in the garden has borne fruits since her crops are described as being healthy (pg13).

Her hardworking nature is also seen in how she ably

Attends to the many wealthy customers who flock to her stall, especially during lunchtime. Even though the stall is busy and Ninema is quite busy, she ably attends to all customers and takes a personal interest (pg15).

Ninema’s hard work does not go unrewarded. She has several loyal customers who visit her stall daily. She has a steady flow of customers and feels she will need to sow more seeds to keep up with the rising demand (pg15).

She does not let anything distract her from her business. She remains focused, whichessentially aids to success in her business. The writer points out Ninema’s beauty that makes heads turn when she walks through vivid description. ‘She is a beautiful woman… her hips sway from side to side as she moves her thin, chiffon sari drapes effortlessly around her perfect body as if kept in place by her high, firm breasts. Long, toned arms and acinched waist cause men to stop and stare’ (pg13).

Despite receiving this attention, Ninema keeps calm and focuses on her business. ‘Ninema does not take the attention she gets to the heart. Her concern is with earning a living’ (Pg14).

Her focus is further seen where while other lady hawkers chat amiably with each

other as they work, Ninema rarely talks back since she has no time to waste (pg14).

Sexual assault/harassment

The writer points out the sexual harassment faced by many women in society. The encounter between Ninema and the stranger on her way home shows how women suffer sexual abuse even in public places. The man approaching Ninema grins lasciviously at her before extending his arm to pinch her erect nipple. As if this is not enough, he extends an invitation to Ninema — “If you liked that follow me.” (Pg16). episode satirizes men who assume women are sex objects to be mishandled.

Ninema’s reaction to the abuse is unexpected. The man is shocked when Ninema follows him and hits him repeatedly with her Chumpal. She gives him ‘a few extra hits on behalf of all the women.’ (Pg 6) This shows that many women have been victims of sexual abuse but end up not fighting back. Ninema thus portrays a

 

 

 

 

 

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courageous personality as she fights for herself and even for the helpless women

who had been or would-be victims of such abuse.

NB

The story “Ninema’ is a story of hope. Ninema has hope that her life will change at some point. As the story ends, Ninema dreams of the home that will be hers someday soon: The house will have hot water too, and the kitchen will be on the inside. She will also have her large garden to grow herbs and some fruits for herself (pg16).

QUESTIONS

  1. To succeed in business, one must have the necessary skills to handle

customers. Using Ninema in Vrenikas Pather’s ‘Ninema’ support this.

  1. “Hard work and determination pays”, Using illustrations from Ninema show

the validity of this statement.

  1. Women traders experience challenges in their Show how Ninema deals

with these challenges.

  1. Ninema is an admirable Support from the story Ninema.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A SILENT SONG Leonard Kibera – Kenya

About the author:

 

 

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Leonard Kibera is a Kenyan novelist and short story writer. Kibera was born in Kabete, Kenya, attended high school at Embu and studied at the University of California and Stanford University. He taught at the University of Zambia and at Kenyatta University, Kenya, from 1976 until his death. His first publication was a book of short stories, Potent Ash (1968), which he wrote with his brother, Samuel Kahiga. The book explores the guilt, betrayal, and failure of the Mau Mau. Several of the stories have been anthologized, especially The Spider’s Web, which points an accusing finger at Kenya’s elite for the state of Kenya since independence. His only novel, Voices in the Dark (1970), uses dark humour to question why most Mau Mau

soldiers who fought for independence were forgotten and left to beg and die along

the roadside. Kibera has also written several articles of literary criticism.

EPISODES

  1. Mbane’s life of misery in the streets as a lame, blind (p17 – 19).
  2. Mbanes’s lonely self versus the bubbly world around (p18 – 19).
  3. Mbane’s (p18).
  4. Mbane’s brother, Ezekiel, rescues (p19 20).

SYNOPSIS

A Silent Song by Leonard Kibera is a story about Mbane, a young, paralyzed, blind city street beggar. He lives in destitution, begging from the passers-by while seething with pain and discomfort. His brother, a wealthy preacher, ‘rescues’ him from the barbaric city unto the ‘light of God’ after neglecting him for a long time.

Mbane painfully reminisces his street life with nostalgia at his brother’s lonely hut. He is not as happy though he is now in a more serene environment. He remembers the bright weather, lovely morning and beautiful sunset as the city dwellers, pedestrians, dull and gay people during the day talk. At night, the good men and women turned drunk, pimps and whore galore have their turn to smile. He begs day and night for a living.

He is nursed by Sarah, his brother’s wife, who administers bitter fluid down his throat. He swallows it painfully, and she assures him of being well. His religious brother, Ezekiel, preaches to him about Christ, the saved ones and sinners. He asks him whether he knows where sinners go when they die and whether he accepts Jesus, and Mbane says he doesn’t know. Before he saves him, Mbane’sstrength wanes, the pain goes, his head jerks down to the bed, and he is gone.

Title of the story

  1. Discuss the relevance of the title of the story, A Silent
  2. Brainstorm about the paradox in the title, A Silent

THEMATIC CONCERNS

 

 

 

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  1. Explore the following themes as brought out in the story, A Silent
    1. Pain and misery of physical handicap
    2. Religious hypocrisy
    3. Prostitution and sexual slavery
    4. Alcoholism and escapism

Pain and misery of Physical handicap

  • In a sense, A Silent Song, an oxymoron, paradoxically echoesthe moments of soul searching and reflections that Mbane has had over the period he stays on the This creates a more vivid picture of his life and a cathartic emotional impact.
  • The miserable life on the street as a crippled, blind beggar seems less painful

than in his brother’s desolate hut, where he is lonely and suffering. (p18).

  • He has been speaking to himself in his thoughts and for a long time on the street except for his mechanical plea of ‘Yes?’ he has no one else to address but (p19).
  • Mbane’s undergoes much pain, agony, and suffering on the streets becauseof his life Being blind and lame has impaired his ability to liveeveryday life. ‘Sharp pangs’, ‘savage fury’, pain tore his stomach’. (PI 7 – 19).
  • He crawled on his knees and elbows… suddenly sharp pangs from his navel .. He was paralyzed. Then the pain disappeared… but he knew it had only recoiled for another attack. (PI 7).
  • He has heard noises, songs, and sounds of different people, but he retires to solitude, and thoughts start going through his mind at the end of the It is like a dream, a song of hope, and he sings his happy song silently to himself, secretly. (p20).
  • Mbane ponders the meaning of light to .. light mean to a blind man…

(p19).

  • At the point of death, as his brother urges him to get saved, with reticence,

he ponders on God’s place and meaning in his life.

  • People despise him on the streets. Good Christian men and women would once again curse and call him able-bodied, only crippled more every day by the idleness of leisurely (p19).
  • He sits there (street back lane) and waits for his journey’s His body

smells of sweat, unwashed except in the rain, which he could but feel. (p20).

  • There is a wide gap between his beliefs and his brother’s. His tortured body

is already separated from his free soul when he dies. (p20).

  • The soul has already communicated in his silent song, smiling, at peace with

his hosts, himself and everyone. (p20).

Religious hypocrisy/Pretentious piety

 

 

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  • Mbane’s brother, Ezekiel, is so devoted to God a preacher but neglects him

for a long time till he realizes Mbane is nearing his death.

  • He picks him up and brings him to his hut, claiming it is rescuing only for Mbane to feel lonelier and more “I rescued you from that barbaric city so that you can see the light of God. (p18).
  • The desolate hut is not a habitable place for It has a flea-ridden floor. (PI

7).

  • He could tell that there was meaning in his brother’s silence of .. (p18).
  • Asked whether he knows a man called Jesus, he says “Yes”, but whether he believes and accepts him, Mbane says, “1 don’t know,” and his brother says Mbane is worse than a This portrays hypocrisy, and Christians would not talk like this.
  • It is ironical and hypocritical for Ezekiel to tell Mbane, “Mbane— I want Christ to save ..” (p20) as though he has already judged him as a sinner and that “Christ” will come down from heaven to do the good to him while his brother watches.
  • There is a pretense in the way good Christian men and women curse and call

him names instead of bringing the

  • Excellent knowledge of Christ to ‘… able-bodied, only crippled more

every day by the idleness of leisurely begging’. (p19).

  • He could only yearn impotently beyond the reach of darkness and

At times, self-pity overcame him. (p18 – 19).

  • The God of the Gospel and religion are comforts beyond the reach of a

wretched cripple. His God is his only hope of

  • Deliverance from pain, destitution and (p18 – 20).

Prostitution and sexual slavery

  • There is evidence of such sexual evils as commercial sex and

(p18).

  • The blind man knows, sees, and recalls City Street with The noises, drum beating and rhythms which Mbane calls the voices of good men and women turned drunk in the refuge of the night brothels, pimps and whores galore. (p18).

Alcoholism and escapism

  • The street, especially the back lane, had taught Mbane a lot

..good men and women turned drunk in the refuge of the night brothels, pimps and

whores galore. (PI 8).

CHARACTERS

  1. Cite evidence from the text on the existence of the following character traits as

portrayed in A Silent Song.

 

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  1. Mbane: observant, patient, skeptical, ..
  2. Ezekiel: selfish, cruel, and ..
  3. Sarah: reserved,
  4. How can you tell that Mbane ‘sees’ and knows a lot in the city street despite

being blind?

STYLE AND LANGUAGE USE

  1. Why is it ironic for Ezekiel to claim to rescue his brother Mbane from the

barbaric city?

  1. Why is Mbane reluctant to accept Christ?

 

 

 

IVORY BANGLES

By Eric Ng’maryo – Tanzania

About the Author- Ng’maryo.

Eric Ng’maryo is a published poet who has written poems such as Escape and The Journey of Us. Although he is a practicing advocate in Tanzania, he is also respected for his creative writings which include the short story ‘Ivory Bangles’

Points to guide interpretation of the story

  • The pebbles message to the old
  • The tradition that demands wife What happens to the old man

when he fails to carry out the ritual beating?

  • Polygamy and its value — The view of the old man regarding
  • The relationship between the old man and his wife
  • The conflict that exists between humans and
  • Effects of failing to heed the advice given to an

THE TITLE

‘IVORY BANGLES’

The title captures the bangles that the wife wears- Twenty-four ivory bangles that were gifted to her by the old man on the day their firstborn and now only son was named.

The Ivory bangles thus are a symbol of love that the wife enjoys from the old man.

 

 

 

 

 

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The title also signifies the human-wildlife conflict that exists. For the old man to carve the bangles for his wife, he had to shoot an elephant with a poisoned arrow to get the ivory he used.

CHARACTERS

  1. The old man

He is the chief’s councilor, a respected elder who is also a woodcarver and a brave

warrior.

He is married to only one wife. This causes some concern since it is unheard of for a chief to be monogamous. It portrays him as an alienated person who fails to follow the ways of his people.

He is expected to beat his wife to avert her death, as the seer’s pebbles dictate but

is hesitant to do so

  1. The wife

She is an attractive woman who the old man much loves.

She treats him with affection making him return the favour by not molesting her

until old age.

Her cunning attempt to evade catastrophe as prophesied by the seer leads to her

death.

SYNOPSIS

‘Ivory bangles’ by Eric Ng’maryo portrays a society rooted in some traditional practices that whoever departs from them ends up suffering some calamity. The story begins with a troubled old man moving towards his house. Although his body moves, his thoughts are disturbed by the seer’s words.

The old man had consulted the seer after noticing traces of blood in the goat’s liver that he had slaughtered. The people believed that such an occurrence was a bad omen, so the old man consulted the tribal seer.

The seer discloses that pebbles demand that he has to give his wife the ritual beating. However, the old man is hesitant to beat his wife, whom he much loves, as is seen from the fact that he had gifted her with twenty-four Ivory bangles that she adorns throughout.

We learn of the old man’s life with his wife in the past through several flashbacks. We learn of his refusal to marry another wife even after he is made the chief’s councilor, and the chief advises him to do so. The chief appreciates her attractiveness in another flashback as she is adorned in twenty-four ivory bangles.

 

 

 

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The old man tells the chief that he carved the ivory bangles for herself using the

ivory he shot from the elephant using a poisoned arrow.

When he gets home, his wife warmly receives him and his attempts to disclose the seer’s message do not succeed until much later in the night. The wife asks him to have his meal first, and after the two enjoy an intimate moment. When he later discloses the pebbles’ message to his wife, she comes up with a scheme on how to cheat the pebbles.

The following day, the old man goes to work while the wife goes to the market, where she hears people talking about a herd of elephants approaching the plains. She strategizes on the things she would do before faking her beating and going back to her brother’s home. On her way home, she hears cries from scouts who warn people to beware of the approaching herd of six elephants led by a giant bull.

After getting home, the wife prepares a meal for her husband and decides to go till a piece of the grove that the husband had said was weedy. Unfortunately, she is killed by the bull elephant that catches her unaware. The people find her in a shallow grave after being crushed by the elephant. Her ivory bangles are also shattered. Her foreshadowed death is a lesson that failing to heed wise advice can lead to a disastrous outcome.

EPISODIC ANALYSIS OF KEY ISSUES

Episodes

  • A visit to the seer and pebbles demand – pg21-22
  • Shared moments between the old man and his wife — pg 22-
  • The naming ceremony of the old man’s son -pg 23
  • The scheme — pg 24
  • A visit to the marketplace -pg 24-25
  • The wife’s death- pg 25

The following are some issues that arise from the episodes:

TRADITIONS

Believe in the seer

The old man visits the seer, considered a priest of the people (Pg. 21).

He goes to the seer because of his superstitious nature. He had to consult the seer since he had noted blood specks on the liver of a goat that he had slaughtered (pg. 21).

Ritual beating/molesting of wife

When the old man visits the seer, the pebbles disclose that the spirits were jealous

of a happy wife, a woman unmolested by the husband until old age (pg. 21). It is not

 

 

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acceptable for a wife to enjoy a comfortable life with her husband in this

community.

The husband is thus expected to molest his wife to ensure that she does not enjoy happiness. Failure to do so would lead to a disastrous outcome as the pebbles foretell the wife’s death.

The pebbles demand that the old man give his wife a thorough beating (ritual beating) and then send her back to her parents (pg. 22). Although the man tries to seek an alternative way to appease the spirits, like offering several goats, the pebbles insist that he must give a wife thorough beating and send her to her parents after the beating.

The tradition of wife-beating/molestation is further seen through the old man’s son. Unlike his father, the son had embraced the culture of wife battering, something that bothers his mother moments before her death. She is weeding the weed- infested grove when she remembers they had weeded the same patch only three weeks before, together with her daughter-in- law Leveri. She reminisces how her son had beaten Leveri to ‘a fingernail’s distance to her grave’ (pg. 25). This shows the violent nature of her son and how traditional he was since he embraced wife- beating.

Naming of children

The naming of children is seen as an essential practice. We learn that the twenty- four ivory bangles that the wife wears were gifted to her when their only son was given a name (pg. 23).

The value of child naming is also seen because the old man’s grandson is named

after him. The writer refers to the young boy as her ‘husband’ (pg. 23).

Polygamy and its effects

The tradition of polygamy and its value comes out during the moments shared by the old man and his wife. After serving him his evening meal, the wife patronises the old man by calling him the son of a chief. The writer explains the position held by the old man — the chief’s councilor (pg. 22). This position makes him a respected man. It, however, raises some debate as people talk much about him

since he is monogamous. This is seen where the writer says, ‘He still was the chief’s councilor, much respected, but also much talked about because he had only one wife.. ‘(Pg.22).

His monogamous status was a concern for the ageing chief, who told him to get another wife (pg.23). This shows that the old man’s society values the tradition of polygamy, and one who does not engage in it is considered a failure.

 

 

 

 

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The old man, however, holds a differing opinion about polygamy. His response to

the chief via a riddle shows his view of polygamy:

A woman went to the riverside Tie woman wanted to fetch water The woman had one water pot

The woman arrived at the water point The woman found another water pot The woman came back with a pot

The woman brought a water pot with potsherds, not water (Pg. 23

The chief’s interpretation of the riddle:

“A wife, a co-wife, witchcraft and death” (Pg.23) explains that the old man considers

having more than one wife as witchcraft

LOVE

The moments shared between the old man and his wife (pg. 22-23) point to their love. The kind of reception the old man receives when he gets home shows how much the wife loves and cares for him. ‘His wife come unstrapped his leather sandals and led him behind the house to the lean-to, bathed him and rubbed him with sharp smelling unguent’ (pg. 22). Her loving care is further seen when she asks him to have his meal first before they can talk about whatthe husband had heard that day (pg. 22).

How the husband addresses the wife also shows that he loves her. Despite her old age, the husband calls her “girl” (pg. 22), a form of endearment. He also appreciates the meal she has cooked for him. “You cook, woman,” he thanked, stretching himself and yawning (pg. 22).

Their love is also seen from the intimacy they share once the wife joins the old man where he lay. The old man tries to talk her about the demands of the seer, but she ignites his pas leading to an intimate moment. ‘He unsprang slowly, when it came, it was like an intricate tattoo on a drum, coming unexpectedly and stopping suddenly, leaving the air quiet and pure.'(Pg. 23).

Tie twenty-four ivory bangles that the old man gifted his wife on the day of naming their son also show how much he loved her. Specifically, the eight bangles she wore on either hand were etched with mnemonic marks for a long love poem (pg. 23).

HUMAN-WILDLIFE CONFLICT

 

 

 

 

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The flashback of the naming ceremony of the old man’s wife ‘As she moved the twenty-four ivory bangles she wore clanked like many castanets’ (pg. 23). Elephants had to be killed to obtain the ivory used to make the bangles.

The truthfulness of this observation is seen when the chief also noted how attractive the old man’s wife looked in the many ivory bangles she wore. The old man proudly explains to the chief that he made the bangles himself from the ivory he got when he shot an elephant using a poisoned arrow (pg. 23).

Towards the end of the story, people in the marketplace talk about the herd of elephants approaching the plains. They fear the destruction that the herd will cause. They hope that those who know how to use poisoned arrows will save the situation (pg. 24).

The ultimate sign of the conflict is the death of the old man’s wife, who a wounded bull elephant kills. In an ironic turn of events, the old man’s wife, whose husband had killed an elephant and used its ivory to make bangles for the wife as a sign of love, ends up killed by a wounded elephant. ‘After bashing her on trees and banana plants, the wounded bull elephant put her on the ground and repeatedly stamped on her. They found her thus in a shallow grave: a mass of flesh and blood and shattered ivory bangles.'(pg. 25). The love is shattered by the same creatures whose ivory was used to make symbols of love.

FAILURE TO HEED ADVICE AND ITS CONSEQUENCES

The seer’s advice to the old man who consulted him is that the pebbles demanded a ritual beating of his wife to avert the death of wife. Old man is hesitant and offers to give some goats, but the pebbles insist on the beating and send her off to her parents after beating. Instead of heeding the seer’s advice, the old man and his wife develop a scheme on how to cheat the pebbles. The wife proposes putting up a show by pretending to have been beaten.

Their failure to follow the demands of the pebbles results in what the seer had foretold-The death of the wife who the wounded bull elephant kills as she is weeding.

Although the wife’s death is closely linked to the seer’s warning, it can also be seen to be due to the wife’s recklessness and failure to heed the warnings of the scouts. The wife heard the scouts warning when they noted the elephants were approaching. ‘As she slowly made her way home, she heard the cries. They came from scouts who were perched on trees, observing elephants and warning people of the beasts’ movement… ‘Beware! People of Mtorobo’s homestead! The five she elephants are now in your banana grove! The bull is on the path coming from the stream’ (pg. 24-25).

 

 

 

 

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The wife chooses to weed at the groove instead of heeding the warning and staying home. NB: The writer has extensively used flashbacks to help us understand the past life of the old man and his wife.

QUESTIONS ON STYLES

  • What is the effectiveness of flashbacks in this story?
  • What is ironic about the following?
    1. The wife being called “girl” by the husband?
    2. How the wife dies?
  • What has the writer achieved by extensive use of dialogue?
  • Using an oral literature device in the story communicates

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE SINS OF THE FATHERS

Charles Mungoshi -s Zimbabwe

About the author:

Charles Mungoshi was born in 1947and raised in a farming family in the Chivhu area of Zimbabwe. After leaving school, he worked with the Forestry Commission before joining Textbook Sales. From 1975 to 1981, he worked at the Literature Bureau as an editor and at Zimbabwe Publishing House for the next five years. In 1985-87 he was Writer in Residence at the University of Zimbabwe, and since then, he has worked as a freelance writer, scriptwriter and editor. Charles Mungoshi has written novels and short stories in both Shona and English and two collections of children’s stories, Stories from a Shona Childhood and One Day Long Ago (Baobab Books, 1989 and 1991); the former won him the Noma Award.

He has also continued to write poetry and has one published collection: The Milkman doesn’t only deliver Milk (Baobab Books, 1998). He has won the Commonwealth Writers Prize (Africa region) twice, in 1988 and 1998, for two collections of short stories: The Setting Sun and The Rolling World (Heinemann, 1987) and Walking Still (Baobab Books, 1997). Two of his novels: Waiting for the

 

 

 

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Rain (Heinemann 1975) and Ndiko kupindana Kwa mazuva (Mambo Press, 1975),

received International PEN awards.

Episodes / sub-episodes

  • lRondo’s family in (p26 – 31).
  • Rondos confusion about his personality and (p28 34).
  • Political tension/rivalry between Rwafa and (p31 – 36).
  • The story of the white (p38).
  • Rwafa’s harangue and (p39 — 41).

SYNOPSIS

The Sins of the Fathers, by Charles Mungoshi, is a post-colonial story set in rural

Zimbabwe. It takes place between Borrowdale and Bulawayo.

Rondo is the antagonistic character whose revenge world opens at the story’s very beginning. Rondo’s father, Rwafa, is an ex- minister but still influential in the political world of Zimbabwe. This is evident from how a fraction of mourners just come to take pictures with him, for such photos would soon ‘open doors for them.

Rondo has a wife, Selina, daughter of Basil Mzamane, who is also into politics as an

M.P. and a businessman. In fact, he’s a political rival of Rondo’s father, Rwafa. Rondo’s two children, both daughters (Yuna and Rhoda), are in an accident as they are driving home from a birthday party with their grandfather, Basil Mzamane, where, Rwafa takes to the podium to condemn his son for marrying from his enemy Basil. This has all along created bad blood between him and his son that this accident makes Rondo believe that his father has a hand in it. In their many stories, a revelation of what his friend, Gaston, alludes to: “Have you ever wondered about the Second Street accidents?”

On their way to the birthday party, the trio – Rondo, Rwafa and Basil Mzamane – meets a group of youths (Chimurenga) chanting political songs. At a point, they meet a white woman whose car has broken down, and they charge to attack before Basil intervenes. Rwafa disappears, and Rondo remains confused about what is actually going on.

Rwafa’s speech leaves people surprised and shocked. They start going one after the other. This is where Rondo decides to send the children back with their grandfather as he remains with Selina. The two children and Basil, their grandfather, finally die in a crash. People are here to mourn. Then with utter suspense,Rondo and Selina come to finish Rwafa, who directs them out of the room, then a soft muffled plop is heard from Rwafa’s room.

Questions for reflection on “Title of the story” and themes

  • Discuss the role and significance of the title The Sins of the

 

 

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  • Which sins do you think the father commits in the story?
  • “Because I’d like you to watch some ‘duck-shooting today’. ” What does this

statement from Rwafa refer to?

  • Make inferences from the following:
    1. “Do you know what your father does?” (p33)
    2. “Rondo had not been used to living his life from deductive or logical thinking but now, the accumulation of events and the history behind them had made him so numb, he was almost a ” (p33).
  • Brainstorm about ‘Second Street accidents’.
  • What is the role of the family unit during bereavement and children’s growth?
  • How are youths used to execute the selfish desires of the political elite?
  • Why are power and prejudice significant in the ex-minister’s life?
  • How does greed for material power affect the human character?

Thematic Concerns

The points of discussion and analysis include:

Identity Crisis

  • Rondo suffers low self-esteem through the way his father treats Rwafa loathes and persistently frustrates his son. His first disappointment is when his father breaks his guitar and throws it into the fire when he is only four. (p30- 31).
  • Rwafa does not approve of or even attend his son’s He purportedly

leaves town on state business for two weeks. (p34).

  • Through flashbacks, Rwafa thrashes his son, Rondo, when he is only eight, for ‘stealing a neighbor’s mangoes’. This memory gives him an uncomfortable feeling and affects his self-esteem. He must have understoodwhat powerlessness meant (p40).
  • This grows into his adulthood when his father refers to him as an effeminate son who wants to demean his family by marrying into an ignominious (p31
  • While Rondo admires and thinks his father is the greatest, his father, Rwafa, writes him off. Rwafa always gives Rondo “a little sad laugh” and labels him “Slob”. (p28, 31, 32).
  • His colleagues laugh at him at work, and Rondo doubts his mother and He feels defenseless and resigns to accept being a fool. “Well, if you see me as a fool, I’ll be one.” (p28).
  • Rondo has developed a stammer that makes him barely answer any of his

father’s questions. (p32).

  • His wife Selina tells him she could do better in his pants, and his friend and

colleague, Gaston, scolds him, “You can’t be a child forever, Rondo”. (p33).

 

 

 

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  • Later, Rondo’s father disparages With contempt, he enquires whether one of Rondo’s more intelligent friends has written for him the piece of paper he hands him. (p41).
  • Both Rondo and Rwafa have psychological problem that needs psychosocial

support. (p26 — 41).

Vengeance

  • The author expresses the theme of vengeance in the story’s beginning through the flash-forward as Rondo comes to his father with a (p26, 41). From the death of his two children and how his father has been treating him, he believes that he has a hand in the deaths, and therefore, he’s here to revenge. (p29, 33, 34, 41).
  • Rwafa causes the accident as a form of revenge against the “traitors” or Furthermore, Rondo is not happy with what his father says about his marrying Basil – his enemy. (p31, 39).
  • In his speech, Rwafa calls his son a ‘traitor’. This is another reason for

revenge. (p38).

Political Bigotry and machinations

  • Politics run the story from the beginning to the end of this story. Basil Mzamane – Rondo’s father-in-law-a businessman and an P. and Rwafa – Rondo’s father, are great political rivals that don’t see eye to eye. There is always tension between the two. (p34)

This is the greatest reason behind the crash that kills Basil and the two children of Rondo to settle political scores. This is what he tells his son that he will thank him for happening now and not later. (p28).

  • Rwafa loves himself so much that he prepared to destroy his son in his endeavor

to have an heir. (p32).

  • The existence of Chimurenga and the Second street accidents are evidence

Of machinations. (p34, 36, 38, 39).

  • Rwafa calls his enemies, looters and cattle thieves personal enemies and swears that… no son of the Rwafa family would ever play second fiddle to anyone’s ..” (p39).

Racism/ colonial hatred

  • On their way to the birthday party, the trio meets a white woman who needs

help. Ihe political youths want to descend on her because she’s white. (p36).

  • On the other hand, the white woman is already armed with a gun to shoot

the blacks. (p36).

 

 

 

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  • Again, from Mzamane’s story about the white who lives in the Manhize mountains, we find out that he sends away the blacks who live there and takes their ancestral land because they are (p38).
  • Having alienated the lands from the blacks, the whites are the source of the hatred and envy that fills the Rwafa clan, and Rwafa has his eyes on the white farm in the Ruwa (p34).
  • Consequently, his youth obey him and have an unashamed raw lust for

blood. (p36).

Parental resentment /child discontentment

  • Rondo has never been close to his father as his memories of his past him make

him cry. (p31, 40).

At four, his father destroys his guitar, and at eight, he thrashes him without finding out what he has done. Rondo always feels more space with his father-in-law and would choose him as his father. (p34).

  • He carries many scars that thinking of his father as none other than a shadow he has to live in becomes Rondo cannot think independently, and this reduces him to an object of laughter and ridicule among his friends. (p28).

Rwafa has no sympathy for his son as he despises him vehemently. He does not

bother to answer when asked a question by his son. (p36).

  • His mother describes her husband as ‘one bombed-out battlefield of scars’ whose deepest scar is that he can’t forgive not only his enemies but This clearly shows a rift in the family. (p30, 31).
  • At the party, Rondo and Selina feel relaxed with their (p39).
  • Rondo could not look at his (p40).

Love and Friendship

  • She takes her head during the mourning night and puts it on her She calls

her a great woman. (p29).

  • Friendship is also evident between the two women, Selina and her mother-in-

law (Rondo’s wife and his mother). (p29,30)

  • Selina, the daughter ofMzamane, stays with Rondo even though Rwafa disapproves of their marriage. He says that his son became a ‘traitor’ by marrying Selina, from Basil Mzamane’s clan – his sworn political (p29, 30)
  • However, Selina sticks with her husband, Rondo, until the end of the She

also has a gun from the mother- in-law. (p41).

 

 

 

 

 

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  • He lets his head rest against her belly, his skull nudging the underside of her She makes him breakfast. She accompanies her husband to serve revenge. This is love. (P41)

Ethnic tension / negative ethnicity

Ô Rwafa believes in maintaining rigid boundaries in establishing social and

political relations. (p34).

Ô In his tirade, he laments that he is hurt by the effeminate spineless sons of the family who marry into families of their enemies, poisoning the pure blood of the Rwafa clan. 9p34 – 39).

Ô There has always been tension between Rwafa and Mzamane, a quarrel, a misunderstanding, but the episode at the party renders it dramatic. Their speeches turn sour. The two old men are crystal clearly, political nemeses. (p34).

Ô Rwafa cannot forgive and forget the effects of the war, once the Ndebele attacked them, and the pain of the scars remained in him more than the relief of healing. (p30 – 32).

Ô These adversaries contrast each other in character and demeanor. The formeris

the villain in his very nature, and the latter is a gentleman.

Ô He belongs to the political elite who must fan clannism and ensure they remain

at the top. (p39, 40).

Ô Primitive accumulation There is evident greed in the arch-nemesis, Rwafa, for he strives to maintain the status quo by acquiring material power through underhand deals. He leaves in the morning and returns in the evenings. (p33).

Ô He is disappointed and bitter when Mzamane rescues the white woman from irate Chimurenga warriors. He disappears and reappears from a bush two minutes after the white woman has driven off. (p34 – 37).

Ô This shows that he plans to have her lynched so he can proceed to acquire the

property. (p36)

Ô Rwafa is preoccupied with the sudden beauty of the land they are driving

through. The land provides a breath- taking view of its immensity. (p36)

Ô Affluence, material power and lavish extravagance are explicit in the family as they flock around him. He gains recognition from his generosity by squandering the accumulated wealth in the form of favours, money, advances. (p31, 32)

Ô Many use his name to get something from legal firms, financial houses, or credit stores at month-ends. (p32). Rwafa desperately needs a grandson from Rondo to whom he can leave all his cars, houses and money. (p31).

Death

Ô The fear of death also hangs/lingers in Selina’s mind. She fears losing Rondo

as well. (p30)

Ô Mysterious deaths rock the family, and according to Gaston, Rondo’s

colleague, we know that a political hand is involved. (p33).

 

 

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Ô He asks Rondo, “Do you know what your father does?” (p33).

Ô Selina’s mother had died, and Mzamane marries again, but to the detriment

of his daughter, she alludes to the invitation to her father. (p34).

Ô Assassinations could be the ex-minister’s trade as he happens to control the

political group dubbed

Ô Chimurenga, which also narrowly spares the life of Mrs.

Ô The old man had rambles (flashback) (p40). smoked out, flushed out, blasted

out.. “

CHARACTERS

Rwafa, Rondo, Selina, Mzamane, Gaston and Mrs Quayle

  1. Mzamane
  • Selina’s father and Rondo’s father-in-law. A peace- maker and crusader of He takes a low profile, although he has the opportunity and ability to show off. This shows he is peaceful and humble.
  • According to Rondo, nothing in his demeanour shows he is a man of opulence as a successful businessman and the P. of a constituency in northern Matebeleland.
  • He is so liberal that even with his differences with Rwafa, he declares he is free

to think as he likes. (p38).

  • His friendly and affable nature makes Rondo feel free around He is a

helpful man as he gives a hand to the white woman whose car is stuck. (p37).

  • He is tolerant, for he rescues her from being lynched by the angry He tells them. Today is cancelled. Go home…. ” he tells Rondo to grow up and see people as individuals. (p37).
  • Being rational makes him an embodiment of the voice of

b.  Rwafa

  • The ostentatious antagonist, so to He is the arch- nemesis of Basil

Mzamane and his son, Rondo. The

  • Villain in the story is a ruthless, intolerant influential former minister who cannot

forgive anybody. (p31, 34, 35, 39, 40).

  • He is contemptuous as he vilifies his son vehemently, affecting his self-esteem.

(p28).

  • The snobbish father is so selfish for none of the words he uses to address Rondo have any respect, and he loves himself so much (selfish) that he is prepared to destroy his (p32).
  • He is proud, assertive and aggressive as he talks of his prowess and declares, “Noson of the Rwafa family would ever play second fiddle to anyone’s lead.” (p39).Rwafa is bitter and vengeful, for his son terribly hurts him for poisoning the pure blood of the Rwafa (p39).

 

 

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  • As they drive to Quayle’s farm, Rwafa remains sullen and sucking as he can’t laugh while having a robust “He is a man who laughs little.” This shows that he is sadistic in nature. (p35).

c. Rondo

  • A calm and modest son of Rwafa and husband to He is loving and

caring for loves his mother, his wife and his father-in-law. (p29 — 32).

  • He is also apologetic for his father’s wrongdoings which he perceives partly

responsible. (p30).

  • He is respectful as he reveres and honours his
  • He is a gentle and friendly chap who has good relations with his colleagues at

work. Helpful for he could be called to help colleagues. (p33).

Questions for reflection on characters

  • Compare and contrast Rwafa and Mzamane as antagonistic characters in the

story, The Sins of the Fathers.

  • How does Rondos mother manage the psychological problems of both her

husband and her son at home?

  • What do you think could have happened if Rwafa had told his only son, “You

are an intelligent son”?

  • Suppose Rwafa had had another son; could his attitude be different?

THE TRULY MARRIED WOMAN

Abioseh Nical- Sierra Leone

The Truly Married Woman by Abioseh Nicol- Sierra Leone Abioseh Nicol was a Sierra Leone writer, poet and diplomat with a specialty in medicine as a physician. He died in the year 1994 having made great contribution to Sierra Leone literature. He was a writer of short stories, poems, academic literature as well as music. His works include Two African Tales (his first published work) and Creative Women (his last published work).

Points to guide interpretation of the story

  • The difference between being together and being
  • Some factors that hinder people from getting
  • What parents want for their children compared to what they
  • Parenting styles and conflicts that can arise from
  • Missionary work — Is it a good thing or a bad thing?
  • Religious Why Ayo takes time to put up a show by reorganising

their house and even borrowing a wedding ring when the missionaries visit.

  • Ajayi’s change regarding
  • How marriage changes (What is the value ofa marriage ceremony?)
  • Traditional practices before marriage, negotiation, giving of gifts to the

 

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TITLE

The truly Married Woman’

What is the meaning of the title?

A woman can live for long with a man (cohabit) and never be considered married — Ayo is not married, yet she has lived with Ajayi for twelve years. There must be a marriage ceremony (Church marriage) to be genuinely married.

A truly married woman changes in behaviour. She seizes to be dutiful and demands more respect. Ayo refuses to prepare her husband’s morning teaafter she is married.

CHARACTERS

a. Ajayi

  • He is a government clerk who has lived with Ayo for over twelve
  • He meant to marry her in church, but he procrastinated until Ayo gave up on

the dream of getting appropriately married.

  • He is cautious about his health and takes various precautions to ensure he

remains healthy.

  • He is too strict and brutal as he beats his elder son Oju too much as a
  1. Ayo
    • She is a woman in her mid-thirties who has lived with her husband Ajayi for

twelve years, yet she is not married to him.

  • She is thus considered a mistress to She loves him and even moves in with him against her parents’ wishes. She has hope of getting married, but the husband’s attack of the spending involved during marriage discourages her.
  • She is seen as a good mistress who is dutiful, loving and kind to Ajayi. Her entrepreneur skills are noted because she does little buying and selling when she has free She is seen to live an ordinary life.
  • She is She attends women’s meetings and also speaks to the

missionaries in English.

  • Ayo is seen to be calculative/ cunning, where she visits the soothsayer before her husband and the sister did to try and fix

 

c. Oju

He is the eldest son of Ajayi and Ayo. He is ten years old and is frequently beaten by his father for wetting his sleeping mat. The beating does not help but instead worsens the situation.

d.  Ayo’s father

 

 

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He is seen as a father who wanted the best for his daughter, Ayo since he had

hoped that she would marry a high school teacher.

He is authoritative as he made Ayo move everything she owned to his house once he learned the planned marriage. He cautiously follows the traditional marriage preparations rites to ensure that his daughter is safe in her new home.

SYNOPSIS

Abioseh Nical’s story, ‘The Truly Married Woman,’ is a contemporary story that merges both traditional aspects of marriage and modern marriage practices. Story emphasises the importance of valid marriage as compared to cohabiting.

Through this emphasis, the writer, however, satirises marriage as it is not only

economically draining but fails to provide happiness that should come with it.

In the beginning, Ajayi and Ayo live together even though Ayo had always wanted to be married properly. While Ayo tries to coarse Ajayi to marry her indeed, Ajayi is hesitant as he feels that marriage involves some wild spending and the ceremony is unnecessarily costly. This view frustrates Ayo until she admits that it wouldnever happen; thus, she stops talking him into it.

Their time together appears relatively amicable as Ayo performs her wifely duties faithfully. They enjoy an everyday family life punctuated with minor conflicts such as the one that arises over Ajayi’s beating of their son Oju. This conflict surprises

Ajayi as Ayo rarely ever disagreed with him. At this point, Ayo’s modernised trait is revealed as she discloses that she has been attending women’s meetings where they learn modern ideas of oversea doctors.

Ajayi spends his day in the office thinking about this revelation which makes him admire Ayo the more. As the closing hours approach, Ajayi receives an unexpected guest — missionaries from World Gospel Crusading Alliance (WGCA).

He remembers that he had contacted them with the hope of getting free bibles, religious pictures and maybe some magazines. However, the missionaries are set on enrolling him as one of them, butthe chief clerk saves him by explaining that it was prohibited for government workers.

He invites the team with the chief to his home, where the wife reorganises the house after learning that guests are on their way. She even borrows a wedding ring from a neighbour. After the missionaries’ visit, Ajayi tells Ayo that he plans to marry her.

Although she is shocked, Ayo welcomes the marriage and thus starts preparing for it. Ironically, she turns down his sexual advances that evening, arguing that it would be incorrect. She moves back to her parental home, where the traditional marriage preparation practices are carried out. Soon, the church wedding ceremony takes p lace. Ayo chooses to dress in a grey dress instead of the traditional white one as Ayaji had wished. The grey dress is symbolic of her impurity since she is already a

 

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mother of three. She also wanted a corset to ensure she did not look too massive. After the church wedding, a European ceremony is also conducted where a wedding cake is cut.

Ajayi notices that Ayo had been transformed after the wedding. He saw her proud head for the first time, and true to his observation, the following day, Ayo does not wake up early to prepare his morning tea like she always did. The story ends with Ayo’s declaration to Ajayi that she was now a genuinely married woman who needed a little more respect and thus would not arise to prepare a cup of tea for the husband.

Plot related Questions

  • Describe early morning activities of Ajayi before he goes to work
  • Compare and contrast Ayo’s behaviour before marriage and after
  • What does Ajayi’s beating of Oju for wetting his sleeping mat reveals about

Ajayi?

  • What preparations does Ayo make as she waits for the guests? What does

this reveal about her?

  • Explain Ayo’s reaction when Ajayi tells her that he plans to marry her?
  • What does Omo’s reaction to Ayo’s disclosure about the planned marriage

reveal about her?

  • Briefly describe the traditional marriage practices that take place before

Ayo’s marriage.

  • What is Ayo’s old aunts’ advice to the newly married?

EPISODIC ANALYSIS OF KEY ISSUES

Episodes

  • Life before marriage — 42-45
  • Preparations for marriage — 46-47

The marriage ceremony — pg. 48

  • Life after marriage — 48

Several issues arise from these episodes:

Cohabiting vs. marriage

Despite living together for twelve years and having three children already, Ayo and Ajayi are not considered married. The writer tells us that ‘Ajayi and Ayo have been together for twelve years. They are not married. Ajayi had meant to marry Ayo, but the right moment never came. (pg.42).

 

 

 

 

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It is no wonder that while explaining to his friends who Ayo is, Ajayi refers to her as

not a wife but a mistress (pg. 43).

Ayo is seen to have hoped that Ajayi would indeed marry her. During their first year of marriage, she kept telling Ajayi about their friends’ weddings, hoping that he would get interested and marry her. She, however, ends up frustrated when instead of showing an interest, he criticises the friends’ spending due to the considerable cost of the ceremony (pg. 43).

The priest emphasises the importance of people getting married through his sermon. The writer observes that the priest would speak out violently against unmarried couples who lived together about two or three times in a year (pg. 43). These sermons would make friends of Ajayi and Ayo look at them sympathetically, leading to Ajayi keeping off from the church for a few weeks.

Despite not being married, Ajayi and Ayo enjoy some peaceful ambience in their marriage. Ayo performs her wifely roles dutifully. She would wake up at five to prepare his breakfast (pg. 48).

Ajayi would wake at six-fifteen and find his cup of tea ready just as he liked it —

‘weak and sugary, without milk’ (pg. 42).

Ironically, after Ayo is married, things seem to change. Instead of continuing with her wifely duty or making them better, Ayo is reluctant to serve her husband as she used it. The morning after the wedding finds Ayo comfortably beside her husband when his alarm goes off. Unlike other previous mornings, there is no tea ready for Ajayi. He is initially alarmed as he thinks she is ill. Still, her shocking reply confirms her deliberately intention not to do it — “Ajayi, my husband…for twelve years I have got up every morning at five to make tea for you and breakfast. Now I am a truly married woman; you must behave towards me with some respect. You are nowmy husband and not a lover. Get up and make yourself a cup of tea” (pg. 48).

This strange turn of events raises concern over whether valid marriage helps

improve the home environment or destroys the home.

Conflict due to parenting styles

Different parents adopt different parenting styles. Some parents are very strict with their children to the extent that they use excessive force to ensure their children behave as they wish. A good example is Ajayi, who beats his eldest son Oju for having wet his sleeping mat (pg.43).

On her part, Ayo feels that this is not right, and in one of the rare occurrences, she

disagrees with Ajayi about it. She tells him, “Ajayi, you beat Oju too much. he has not stopped wetting although you beat him every time he does. In fact, he is doing itmore and more now. Perhaps if you stopped beating him, he would get better.” (pg.43).

Through their disagreement, we learn of Ayo’s modernised and informed traits as she discloses that she has been attending women’s meetings where they are taught modern ideas (pg.44).

 

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These traits are one of the triggers that make Ajayi marry Ayo after realising that

she is a woman to be proud of.

We also see some conflict over what parents want for their children in relation to

what the children want for themselves.

Ayo’s living with Ajayi had not been accepted by her parents — ‘When she first

came to him-against her parents’ wishes. ‘ (pg. 43).

The writer further tells us what Ayo’s father had hoped that she would marry a high school teacher. However, Ayo fell in love with Ajayi, a government clerk, and moved in with him (pg. 43).

Hypocrisy

There is a lot of pretense among people in society to portray a particular image. Ajayi wrote to World Gospel Crusading Alliance, pretending to be interested in some information from them after a friend gave him a magazine that contained an invitation to join the missionary Alliance. However, his true intention was not to work with them, but he hoped to get free items such as bibles and large religious pictures that he would sell, give away, or use as wall pictures (pg.44).

The depth of his hypocrisy is seen when he appears relieved that the chief clerk saved him from a life as a missionary when he told the visitors that the government prohibited his workers from working as missionaries. So appreciative is Ajayi of the chief clerk that he presents a carefully wrapped bottle of beer to the chief clerk as a present for having saved him (pg.45).

He hypocritically extends an invitation of the missionaries to his home. He lies to them that the roads are not suitable to prevent themfrom using a taxi. He intends to give time to his wife to reorganise their home into an appropriate environment to host the missionaries. Ayo also portrays high levels of hypocrisy. She changes the appearance of their home when she receives a message from

Ajayi that he will be bringing white men to their home in half an hour. Ayo took down the calendars with pictures of lightly clothed women and replaced them with family photographs. She also replaced the magazines with religious books and hid the wine glasses under the sofa. In efforts to portray an actual spiritual image, she goes ahead to borrow a wedding ring from her neighbour before putting on her Sunday dress (pg. 45).

The missionaries are impressed by the show that she put up. The writer uses this act to symbolise Ayo’s hypocrisy even in her marriage. Ayo has been pretending to be a dutiful wife for the twelve years before her marriage as she shows her true colours after the wedding. She refuses to prepare morning tea and breakfast forAjayi (pg 48).

Her hypocrisy is further seen when she turns down Ajayi’s advances on the evening he disclosed to her that he intended to marry her. She shyly says ‘No’ (pg. 45) and pushes him away, asking him to wait until after marriage. She argues that it would not be correct. This is ironic since the two have lived together for twelve years, and their intimacy has borne three children.

 

 

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QUESTIONS

  1. What is the importance of tile traditional marriage preparation practices that are

carried out before Ayo’s marriage?

  1. The institution of marriage should be treated with respect as it is of great

Show how Ayo fails to do so after she is truly married.

  1. Marriage is satirised in the story The Truly Married Woman„ Support this

assertion.

 

TALKING MONEY

Stanley Gazemba Kenya

About the author:

Stanley Gazemba was born in 1974 in Vihiga, Kenya. Stanley Gazemba has

published three novels: The Stone Hills of

Maragoli (Kwani, winner of the 2003 Jomo Kenyatta Prize for fiction, published in the U.S. as Forbidden Fruit), Khama (DigitalBackBooks), and Callused Hands (Nsemia). He has also published eight children’s books, of which A Scare in the Village (Oxford Univ. Press) won the 2015 Jomo Kenyatta Prize for children’s fiction. Gazemba’s fiction has appeared in ‘A’ is for Ancestors, a collection of short stories from the Caine Prize (Jacana); Africa39: New Writing From Africa South of the Sahara (Bloomsbury); Ihe Literary Review (Fairleigh Dickinson Univ.); Man of the House and Other New Short Stories from Kenya (CCC Press); Crossing Borders online magazine; among other publications.

As a journalist, Gazemba has written for The New York Times, The East African, Msanii magazine, Sunday Nation, and Saturday Nation. Gazemba was the International Fellow at the Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference in 2007. Gazemba lives in Nairobi, where he is the editor of Ketebul Music.

Episodes

  1. Mukidanyi dismisses his elder (p49 – 50).

A colli rchensive and dctailcd uidc to a silent son and other stories

  1. The arrival of Galo and his lawyer for (p50 52).
  2. The disturbing night of evil (p53 56).

SYNOPSIS

Talking money is a story about Mukidanyi, a furious young man and a cattle trader who ignores his elder brothers’ warning against selling his land. The story is set in the vast rural expanse of Kakamega, Kenya. Mukidanyi’s brothers Ngoseywe and

 

 

 

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Agoya give up on him and leave. Obsessed with money in his mind, he refuses to

heed his wife’s counsel and instead flogs her.

When his clients arrive, he receives them warmly, showing them the fertile land and offers to help where necessary. They then negotiate without a tussle, for they accept his first offer without haggling. He takes the huge amount of money without counting it and signs the papers with his thumbprint, for he had played truant and naughty when his father, Kizungu, tried to take him to school.

Enthusiastic and excited about the money, he cannot sleep until he is attacked by voices at night, which his wife tells him are evil spirits. He almost runs mad as his wife laughs at him. Overwhelmed by nervousness and fear of the demons, he returns all the money to the Galos and flees back to his house.

Questions for reflection on ‘Title’ of the story and themes.

  1. How relevant is the title of the story, Talking moneym
  2. Why do you think the money given to Mukidanyi “talks’ only at night while in his

custody?

  1. Do you think the Galos are responsible for the talking of the money?
  2. Explore and discuss the existence of the following themes in Talking
    1. Ethnocentric beliefs in
    2. Primitive superstition on sources of
    3. Obsession with money and the power of
    4. Importance of consultation on family

THEMATIC CONCERNS

Ethnocentric beliefs in spirits.

The concept of social superstition rooted in people’s culture is linked with belief in good and bad luck as a context-derived concept affects the people of that culture in various aspects.

Although the concept of superstition is common, many of its features and aspects are still unclear. Some questions about these beliefs remain baffling and unanswered. Engulfed with immense doubt, Mukidanyi decides to obey his wife’s words and beliefs about the Galos. (p50).

  • At night, the hour of witches, viganda haunt He hears voices speaking,

and he believes they are not dreaming voices. (p54).

  • Then his wife Ronika scoldingly tells him those are certainly viganda spirits

speaking. (p54).

 

 

 

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Ronika takes advantage of her husband’s extreme fear and makes more fun of him. She reassures him that the Galos’ money is speaking in the briefcase under the bed. (p54).

  • Confident and sure that he is terrified, she shouts and scoffs at him to take the money “Go with your devil money this very minute and find somewhere else to keep it but not in this house, you hear?” (p55).

Obsession with money and the power of guilt

  • The tough speaking and abusive man is now humbled and reduced to a

whispering weakling.

  • Definitely, the warnings are ricocheting in his mind because of his guilt and failure

to consult before beginning the process of selling his land.

  • Scared by the unseen demons, Mukidanyi flees back to the Galos, returning all the

money. (p55, 56).

  • He changes his He is only left with his wife to trust, and his house is the only

refuge at this ‘hour of witches’.

CHARACTERS

  1. Using evidence from the text, describe the character traits of the following

characters.

  1. Mukidanyi
  2. Ronika
  3. Ngoseywe
  4. Galo

Style and Language use

  1. How is sarcasm employed in Stanley Gazemba’s Talking Money?
  2. Examine the use of dialogue and native dialect in Talking

Money.GHOSTS

Chimamanda Adichie – Nigeria

About the Author- Chimamanda Adichie.

Chimamanda Adichie Ngozi is an established Nigerian writer. She has written several novels, short stories and nonfictional works. Her major works include Purple Hibiscus, Americanah,

 

 

 

 

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The Thing Around Your Neck and Half of a Yellow Sun among others. Her story ‘Ghost’ was published in The Thing Around Your Neck a collection of her short stories that was published in 2009.

Points to guide interpretation

Ô Suffering of retirees as they follow up on their pension.

Ô Corruption in government institutions.

Ô The University.

Ô How people deal with ghosts of the past to survive at present.

Ô War and its effects.

Ô Counterfeit, drugs and their effects.

Title

‘Ghosts’

The topic is metaphorically used to represent several things: The terrible memories that most people are living with or haunted by. Most people have memories of horrible previous experiences that disturb them. For instance, Ikenna struggles with the loss of his family and his failure to succeed in the Biafran Civil War. Prof James struggles with the loss of his daughter, the destruction of property, the loss of the University’s glory, and the loss of his wife.

Some people were thought dead but turned up alive such as Ikenna. The truly dead but whose spirits visit their loved ones — Ebere -they offer consolation to the bereaved.

CHARACTERS

  1. Pro James Nwoye

He is a seventy-one-year-old retired professor of Mathematics.

He is the protagonist in the story, and the story is told through his voice. He is the

narrator of the story.

He escaped Nsukka when the civil war broke in 1967 and fled to America.

He loses his daughter Zik in the war but gets another daughter (Nkiru) while still in

America when he was a lecturer at Berkeley.

He is currently following up on his pension, which is not forthcoming due to the

corruption in the University.

He is constantly visited by the ghost of his late wife and has not disclosed this to his

daughter Nkiru.

  1. Ikenna Okoro

 

 

 

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He is a man who was thought to have died in the 1967 Biafran war. During his

university lecturing days in the sociology department, he was a renowned activist.

He escaped the Biafran civil war on a Red Cross plane and went to Sweden, where

he has lived since 1967.

He lost all his family in the war and never remarried.

He returns to Nsukka years later to see how things are.

c. Vincent

He is the former driver of Prof James.

He served Prof. James in the eighties when he was the faculty dean.

He is now retired and is following up on his pension, just like Prof and other

retirees.

He currently works as a cobbler near the university hostels. Although he is younger

than Prof (In his late sixties), he looks much older.

He is seen as a concerned and caring person who always minded about the welfare

of Prof.James’ daughter.

d.  Ebere

She is the dead wife of Prof. James Nwoye, who appears to him as a ghost. During her time, she portrays some generosity as she would give her daughters old clothes to Vincent for his children. (Satire – giving old clothes)

She has been a caring wife who encouraged James to care for his lovely skin.

Her death is said to have been caused by counterfeit drugs.

SYNOPSIS

Like the title suggests, Chimamanda’s story “Ghost” mainly dwells on how people face and deal with past ghosts, thus informing their present and future. Professor James Nwoye currently lives in a corrupt part of Nigeria where the medical field provides people with counterfeit drugs.

When the story opens, the seventy-one-year-old Professor of mathematics is walking the grounds of the University Bursary, where he is following up on his pension, which he does not get.

The many other retirees that he meets are equally frustrated.

They associate the failure to get their retirement benefits to the corruption of the

education minister or the University’s vice- chancellor.

 

 

 

 

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Prof James chats for a while with his former driver Vincent who is to survive the harsh times serving as a cobbler around the university hostel. Vincent inquires about Nkiru (Prof. James’ daughter who lives in America), and James informs him

that she is well. The suffering of the people is highlighted in their appearance and hunger. One of the men gathered under a tree requests Prof to buy them bananas as hunger was killing them. Even as he buys them bananas, Prof ironically observes that what they needed was some moisturiser to soften their skin. After leaving the group, Prof. James meets with Ikenna Okoro; a man thought to be long dead. rlhe encounter shocked Prof as he believed that Ikenna, a former colleague and a renowned activist, had died in the Biafran civil war on July 6 1967. When he initially saw him, he thought of throwing sand at him, which was what people do to ghosts. However, his education and the fact that he was walking on concrete grounds prevent him from doing it. The encounter between the two drives Prof down memory lane. He remembers their days at the University where Ikena rebelled

when asked to put on ties.

He further remembers how Ikenna acted as an activist fighting for non-academic staff to have better conditions. a flashback, Prof recalls their evacuation from Nsukka on July 6, 1967, when the civil war began. On that day, Ikenna, who stubbornly insisted on going back to the University to get his manuscript, was said to have died.

Ikenna discloses that he escaped Biafra that day on a Red Cross plane that took him to Sweden. He painfully explains that he saw no need to return after the war since all his family was killed when Orlu was bombed.

On his part, Prof James went to America with his wife Ebere but came back in 1970 when the civil war ended. However, they were devastated to find everything in their home destroyed, and their piano was missing. They thus returned to America and only returned to Nsukka in 1976. When Ikenna inquires about their daughter Zik, Prof painfully answers in Igbo that the war took her. He, however, tells him that they got another daughter after the war— the two talk about life during and after the war, with each mentioning their worst moments.

Ikenna asks Prof James about his wife Ebere, and James replies that she died three years ago. He tells him that she visits him. Ikenna appears surprised at the disclosure, so James corrects himself and says that Ebere visited America quite often since their daughter works there as a doctor. Knowing that Ikenna is educated just like him, James knows that Ikenna does not believe in ghosts. He, too, never believed in them until his wife visited him three weeks after the burial.

The two talk about the situation ever since the war ended and how things have significantly changed. They point out at the rot in the University — where instead of teaching, people are playing politics and instead of reading and working hard; students are buying grades either with money or their bodies.

 

 

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The corruption in the university offices does not escape them. James reports how one Josephat Udeana, a vice chancellor for six years, ran the University like his father’s chicken coop leading to the disappearance of money and favouritism in promoting workers. James notes that the current vice-chancellor is not any different, thus why he is yet to get his retirement benefits.

He further explains how people are bribing to have their years before retirement added since nobody wants to retire. Ikenna raises the sensitive topic about fake drugs. It triggers painful memories in James since his wife Ebere is thought to have died because of counterfeit drugs. James dismissively says that counterfeit drugs are horrible in efforts to avoid this topic.

He parts ways with Ikenna after telling him how he has been ‘resting’ ever since he retired. He extends an invitation to Ikenna to join him in his home, but Ikenna turns it down.

Once in his home, Prof. James turns on the TV and remembers how a man accused ofimporting fake drugs had justified this act through a TV interviewon NTA. The man had explained that his drugs do not kill people but only fail to cure their illness. He wonders why news about Ikenna being alive never came up, yet there were various other stories of the ‘living ghosts’- people thought to be dead but turned up alive. The tale ends with Prof. James in his study hoping that his daughter Nkiru will call to tell him about their grandson, and if she does not, he will go to bed and await the visit of Ebere.

EPISODIC ANALYSIS OF ISSUES

Episodes

  • Prof James Nwoye’s visit to the University Bursary -pg. 57-59
  • Encounter with Ikenna Okoro- 59-65
  • Talk about the civil war on July 6 1967- 60
  • Talk about fake drugs -pg. 65
  • Prof James back home-pg 66-67

Various issues arise from these episodes:

The retirees suffer frustration due to being denied their retirement benefits. When the story opens, Prof James is at the University Bursary to ask about his pension, which he has been following up for some time.-“l was there to ask about my pension, yet again.” (pg.57) He is, however, frustrated when the clerk tells him the money has not yet come.

Prof is not alone. Several other retirees are clustered under the flame tree, filled with similar frustration. Out of frustration, they curse the vice-chancellor who is said to have stolen the money meant for their pension: “His Children will not have children He will die of diarrhoea.” (pg.58).

 

 

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We also see that these people suffer from poverty. The encounter between Prof and his former driver, Vincent, points to the poor living condition of the people. Vincent has been forced to work as a cobbler to earn a living. He complains about the failure of the students in the hostels to pay him on time for mending their shoes (pg. 58).

The description of Vincent’s current physical appearance also shows that he has lived through tough times. Although he was younger than Prof, he looked older with only a little hair left pg 58.

The plea of one of the men to Prof to buy them bananas shows the suffering that

the people have gone through. The man tells Prof, “Hunger is killing us” (pg.58).

These people cannot afford decent meals for themselves. Ironically, Prof observes

that they need more moisturiser since their faces and arms look like ash (pg. 58).

The civil war also causes the suffering of many. Many people suffer trauma (ghosts

of the past) due to the war. Prof James lost his daughter Zik to the war (pg. 61).

The people’s suffering is further captured when Prof James wonders why he had not heard about Ikenna not having died. He notes that people evaded the topic of war and memories of what they had gone through during the war. “But we hardly talked about the war When we did, it was with an implacable vagueness, as if what mattered were not that we had crouched in muddy bunkers during air raids after which we buried corpses with bits of pink on their charred skin, not that we had eaten cassava peels and watched our children’s bellies swell from malnutrition, but we had survived” pg. 66

Corruption

The explanation why Prof James and other retirees have not received their pension is due to corruption. Ihe men clustered under the flame tree say, “The Education Minister has stolen the pension money… it was the vice-chancellor who had deposited the money in high interest personal accounts.” ( pg.58).

In the University, corruption is further seen where James tells Ikenna about Josephat Udeana, the great dancer, who, once chosen as vice-chancellor, perpetuated corruption at the University’s high office. “Josephat was vice chancellor for six years and ran this University like his father’s chicken Money disappeared, and then we would see new cars coop stamped with the names of foreign foundations that did not exist.” (pg.64)

He also dictated who would be promoted and who would not. The situation did not change after Josephat left since even the current vice-chancellor is also said to follow the corrupt route faithfully.

 

 

 

 

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corruption is also reported in the Personnel Services Department, where lecturers who do not want to retire bribe, someone, to have some years added to them (pg. 64).

Further, corruption is seen among university students. Prof tells Ikenna that instead of reading and working hard to earn fair grades, the universitystudents have bought grades with money or their bodies (pg. 64).

War and its effects

The Biafran Civil war that the story highly relies on has significant negative

implications on the people:

Loss of loved ones

Pro James Nwoye lost his daughter Zik to the war (pg. 61). Ikenna lost the whole of his family to the war, thus the reason he has livedin Sweden ever since. He tells Prof, “My whole family was in Orlu when they bombed it. Nobody left, so there was no reason for me to come back.” (pg. 61)

A great genius – Chris Okigbo, also died in the war Nsukka lost a great mind – a star whose poetry moved everybody. His prowess is compared to that of a colossus; thus, a significant loss for the people page 62.

  • Displacement of people and separation of loved ones When the civil war started on July 6, 1967, the people had to evacuate Nsukka in a hurry Prof James and his wife Ebere moved to America while Ikenna moved to Sweden using Red Cross planes (pg. 61).

Prof James and his daughter live separately due to the war. His American born daughter Nkiru is a doctor in America while James lives in Nsukka. He feels that the war has denied him an opportunity to teach his grandson the Igbo language and the culture (pg. 67).

Destruction/Loss of property

After the civil war ended in 1970, Prof James and Ebere returned to Nsukka from America. They were, however, disappointed to find some of their properties having been destroyed and others missing. “Our books were in a charred pile in the front garden.. the lumps of calcified faeces in the bathtub were strewn with pages of my mathematical annals, used as toilet paper, crusted smears blurring the formulas I

had studied and taught Our piano – Ebere’s piano was gone. our photographs were

ripped, their frames broken.” (pg. 61)

On their way home that day, Prof James and Ebere saw a landscape of ruins, blown-

out roofs and houses riddled with holes, injuries, and physical pain (pg. 62).

 

 

 

 

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The day Prof James and Ebere drove back to Nsukka, Biafran soldiers stopped them and shoved a wounded soldier into their car, and his blood dripped onto the backseat of their vehicle (pg. 62).

Counterfeit/fake drugs

fie selling of expired medicine is the current plague in the country Ikenna tells

James that he has been reading about fake drugs in the papers (pg. 65).

The effect of fake drugs has been felt by James, whose wife Ebere’s death is linked to the counterfeit drug deal. Prof James thinks that Ikenna must have heard of ‘How Ebere had lain in the hospital getting weaker and weaker, how her doctor had been puzzled that she was not recovering after her medication how none of us knew until it was too late that the drugs were useless’ (pg. 65).

In addition, Prof James bitterly remembers how he had watched some broadcast of

an interview on NTA. Through the interview, a man accused of importing fake drugs

– typhoid fever drugs, had defended himself by claiming that his drugs do not kill

people but only fail to cure illness (pg. 66).

Dealing with past ghosts

Prof James is presented as an individual struggling with ghosts from his past. The illusion of his wife’s return like a ghost is one of the mechanisms he adopts to deal with his terrible past. It is an attempt to deal with the absence of Ebere and the devastating effects of war. The freshness of the memories of war is brought out through the many flashbacks used by the writer. One of the flashbacks captures the day the civil war arose (pg. 60). Another shows the return to Prof and Ebere to

Nsukka in 1970 (pg. 61-62). By remembering these events, Prof James shows that the

memories of the war are still deeply etched in his thoughts.

Essay Questions

  • Society today is filled with many evils that cause suffering to Support

this from Chimamanda Adichie’s ‘Ghost’

  • War has devastating effects and thus should be avoided at all cost Using

illustrations from ‘Ghosts’ by Chimamanda Adichie

  • Many individuals struggle with ghosts from their past Show how true this

assertion is based on ‘Ghosts’ by Chimamanda Adichie.

Questions on styles

  1. How effectively has the writer used flashbacks in the story ‘Ghosts,
  2. The dialogue between Prof James and Ikenna carries the critical messages in the

story. Is it true?

 

 

 

 

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  1. The higher learning education sector is satirised in the Show how this is

achieved.

 

 

GOD SEES THE TRUTH, BUT WAITS

Leo Tolstoy Russia

About the author:

Leo Tolstoy was born in 1928 in Tula Province, Russian. A master of realisticfiction and one of the world’s greatest novelists, Tolstoy is best known for his finest novels: and Peace (1865 69) and Anna Karenina (1875 – 77). His shorter works include Ellie Death of Ivan Ilyich, The Living Corpse and The Kingdom of God is within You, in his last three decades, Tolstoy worked as a moral and religious teacher, an embodiment of nature and pure vitality. Though dead now, his soul lives as a living symbol of the search for life’s meaning.

Episodes / sub-episodes

  • Aksionov’s excursion for a Trade Fair at (p68 – 69).
  • Aksionov’s arrest and 26-year (p69 71).
  • The coincidental encounter with the real (p71 – 72).
  • Makar’s (p73 74).

SYNOPSIS

God Sees the Truth but Waits is a parabolic story about Ivan Dmitritch Aksionov, a

meek young merchant with two shops in Vladimir, Russia.

Ivan bids his family and sets out on a Trade Fair in Nizhny despite his wife’s premonition through a dream. Midway through the journey, he meets another merchant, and they put up at the same inn for the night. A rogue thug kills the merchant at night and flees, leaving his blood-stained knife in Aksionov’s bag. Aksionov is arrested on suspicion and is sent to ‘Siberia’ for twenty-six years. On enquiry about his character, Vladimir people say that Ivan is now good after he stopped drinking.

However, even his wife now doubts him! Coincidentally, the rogue murderer, Makar Semyonich, is brought to prison for a minor offence, and Aksionov is severely disturbed by his presence that he feels like killing himself.

Makar commits another offence in prison, and Aksionov finds him, but the man begs him to keep quiet and not betray him, or he will kill him. Aksionov tells him he had killed him long ago, and he will do as God shall direct.

When the Governor implores Aksionov to tell him the truth about the prison

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likes with him as he is in his hands. At night the killer, Makar, confesses and begs

Aksionov to forgive him.

As Makar sobs, Aksionov weeps, for he has no desire to leave the prison. When the

order for his release comes, Aksionov is already dead.

Title of the story

  1. How relevant is the title of the story, God Sees the Truth, but Waits?
  2. Why do you think Aksionov refuses to tell the truth about the prison incident?
  3. Do you think the Governor is to blame for Aksionov’s prolonged imprisonment?

Explain.

  1. What is the impact of Ivan Aksionov’s faith in God on his life?
  2. Why is Ivan reticent to go back home?
  3. Explore and analyze the existence of the following themes in God Sees the

Truth, but Waits.

  1. Mistaken
  2. Crime and Confession
  • Wrongful conviction and
  1. The concept and context of
  2. Justice delayed is justice
  3. Betrayal and Tolerance
  • Coincidence

THEMATIC CONCERNS

Wrongful conviction and imprisonment.

The values of honesty, truth and justice are tested through this story.

  • Aksionov comes out to question the essence of these values if he suffers in the prison caves of Siberia under wrongful conviction and subsequent incarceration for twenty-six (p71).
  • Mistaken identity runs through this Ivan Dmitritch is arrested for spending a

night with an acquaintance a fellow merchant at the inn who leaves before dawn.

  • This is because the merchant is killed during the night by a thug who hides the knife in Ivan’s This is what makes the police officer arrest him on suspicion. (p69, 70).
  • At the story’s beginning, Aksionov is characterized by dynamic character and

setting. He is lost in liquor but later starts a business and owns two shops. (p68).

  • He leaves and loses his home, family and his This story sends the

message that none of these things matters in the long run.

The concept and context of truth.

 

 

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  • Aksionov learns the hard way that when the chips are down, nothing remains

except God at his side, who knows the truth. (p73).

  • Truth depends on It is true that the bloody knife is found in his bags and that he had slept close to a fellow merchant, but then it is not true that he kills him. (p69).
  • By the end of the story, Aksionov has an opportunity to be free and return home, but he no longer desires to leave the prison but only hopes for his last hour to Ivan is a man who seems to be at the wrong place at the wrong time. He is unlucky, mentally strong, and religious. He is unfortunate because he is sentenced to prison for 26 years for a murder that he did not commit.

He is also mentally strong because he can endure many tragic events, such as

losing his home and business.

Faith and devotion

Finally, he displays a strong religious devotion by growing closer to God during

difficult times.

  • However, at the story’s end, he only seems to care about his faith and being close

to God.

  • Ivan relies on God as he is the only constant in his At the end of the story, he

has no desire to return home. His only wish is to be with God.

At the story’s beginning, Ivan and his wife don’t have the best relationship as he leaves for Nizhny Fair even after his wife asks him to stay. Later, she doubts his innocence after he is convicted of murder.

  • Faith keeps Ivan going after losing everything, being charged with murder and sent to prison in He could have completely given up, but he instead leans on his faith in God.

CHARACTERS

  1. Describe the character traits of the following characters.
  2. Aksionov
  3. Makar
  4. The Governor
  5. Focusing on their prominent character traits, compare and contrast the

protagonist, Ivan Aksionov, and the Makar.

  1. Citing evidence from the text, describe the character traits of the following

characters.

 

 

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  1. The Governor
  2. Aksionov’s wife

Style and Language use

  1. How is symbolism employed in Leo Tolstoy’s God Sees the Truth, but Waits?
  2. Examine the use of irony and paradox God Sees the Truth, but
  3. What does Siberia represent in this story?

Essay question

  1. The average human attribute is evile Discuss this assertion using illustrations

fromLeo Tolstoy’s God Sees the Truth, but Waits, (20 marks),

THE NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

Rern’y Ngamije Rwanda And Namibia

About the Author Rem’y Ngarnije.

Reni’y Ngamije is a writer and a photographer who is of Namibian origin but was born in Rwanda. He founded an organization that supports literary works and is also a chief editor of the first Namibian literary magazine- ‘Doek’. His story Neighbourhood Watch’ is a contemporary story that was recently published in the Johannesburg Review of Books. Streetlife — Crime and violence in the streets

The secret struggles/suffering

Harsh living conditions. Inequalities / Class difference — The rich vs poor

Desperation — suffered by those living in the streets.

Waste disposal — what is the ideal way to dispose of waste?

TITLE

‘The Neighbourhood watch’

The title is a phrase used to refer to an organised group that engages in crime and vandalism prevention in a particular neighbourhood. While deviating from the ideal image of a neighbourhood watch that aims at reducing crime, Rem’y Ngamije ironically creates a haphazard group of five homeless people who scavenge and roam around different neighbourhoods/suburbs in Windhoek. The crew engages in minor criminal activities instead of working to curb crime in the neighbourhoods.

CHARACTERS

 

 

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  1. Elias

He is the oldest member of the Neighbourhood watch group and thus their leader.

He mainly helps get food for the group by working with Lazarus and Omagana.

Elias has had a tough past as he experienced the South African insurgency; thus is

strong and had suffered some loneliness in his first years in the streets.

Memories of the war still haunt him, as often in his slumber.

  1. Lazarus

He is Elias’s Lieutenant.

He is the eyes of the group and the source of protection, as his presence in any fight

is believed to change the bookies’ odds drastically.

He is an ex-convict though he does not like disclosing this information.

c. Omagano

She is the only female member of the group.

She works as a member of the food crew (Elias, Lazarus, omagana) that goes out

looking for food for the group.

  1. Silas

He is a member of the group who likes risks.

He steals from people.

Although Elias constantly warns him, he does not stop the stealing habit.

e. Martin

He is the newest and youngest member of the group.

He mainly works with Silas to look for essentials such as discarded blankets,

mattresses, useable shoes, broken crates, trolleys and toothpaste tubes.

He faithfully follows Silas around, trying to learn a few tricks from him.

f.  Old Mrs Bezuidenhout

She is an old generous and kind lady who lives in the wealthy neighbourhood of

Eros.

She is considered as one of the pillars of the Neighbourhood Watch as she gives different gifts such as canned food, old clothes or blankets, old books and rosaries that they use to pray at night.

SYNOPSIS

 

 

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Set in the suburbs of Windhoek, Namibia, ‘The Neighbourhood Watch’ is a modern story of a street group made up of Elias Lazarus, Silas, Omagano and Martin. The story explores the daily life of this group, their struggles, crimes and desperation to survive in the harsh conditions that street life presents.

The story opens in the morning, where Elias wakes up the family members to prepare for the day’s activity. The harsh living conditions in the streets are evident from the lack of breakfast and the single can of water that the group shares to clean their faces. Their “home” – below the bridge- which the author sarcastically calls precious real estate is their territory that is marked and safely guarded.

The group sets out early to the CBD, where the food crew (Elias, Lazarus and Omagano) go looking for food while the valuable crew (Silas and Martin) look for other essentials. They reunite later, and the food crew produces half a loaf of brown bread, some salt mashed potatoes, soft grapes and some water which the group shares for lunch. The valuable crew has brought a stack of newspapers, plastic piping and two battered, floppy poor boy caps, which Elias and Lazarus pick.

Elias orders the group to rest as they would be heading to Auasblick that night. Ausiblick is one of the nice suburbs as the bins there provide some bounty harvest as the people there still know how to throw things away. This is unlike Olympia and Suiderhof, which are already crowded.

The writer compares these neighbourhoods to old neighbourhoods that the crew used to scavenge. Through a flashback, the past life ofElias and Lazarus is brought out. In their earlier days, the two were not choosy on areas to frequent. They visited the poor neighbourhoods such as Katutura, Hakahana, Goreangab, Wanaheda and Okuryangava on Tuesdays and Fridays. While scavenging these neighbourhoods, the two found a baby, thus deciding to prepare a timetable and stop going to poor people’s places.

Another flashback takes us to the way the crew used to visit Khomasdal on Wednesdays. On one Friday’s visit to Khomasdal, Amos, a former crew member with Elias and Lazarus, gets killed. He fails to control his tongue and guts after getting drunk thus is stubbed by someone he insults.

Elias and Lazarus escape the scene of death just like everybody else for fear of being questioned and harassed by police. However, they are caught and are badly beaten and injured before they are set free. They thus decide never to return to Khomasdal.

The crew spends their Friday and Saturday at the Headquarters. They consider it safe since those are the days that police patrols drive around looking for mischief. Silas, however, chooses to roam around, thus leaving the other four crew members talking about people who idle around waiting to get some specific jobs that are rarely forthcoming. Martin talks of the hope of getting a job for these people in the

 

 

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future. This raises the debate that leads to the crew’s slogan that there is only today

and that every day is today.

Sunday is the best day for the crew since they visit the affluent suburbs such as Avis, Klein, Windhoek and Eros. These suburbs are associated with the rich and are close to the crew’s home — Headquarters. One of the good things about Eros is the generous old Mrs Bezuidenhout who waits for the crew and gives them gifts such as canned food, books and old clothes.

The story comes to an end with the crew worried of the day that Mrs Bezuidenhout will no longer be around to give those gifts, yet they will still want to take and have something to help them survive the harsh street life.

EPISODIC ANALYSIS OF ISSUES

Episodes

  1. At the headquarters- pg 75-78
  2. The past; poor suburbs -pg 78-80
  3. Death of Amos-pg. 80-81
  4. The wealthy suburbs — 82-83

Various issues arise from these episodes:

Street life And Its Challenges

Living in the streets is shown to have several challenges:

Crime and violence

The neighbourhood watch must safely hide their valuable items at the headquarters to prevent theft. hidden stash is considered safe since they are a feared group— they have a fierce reputation (pg. 76).

Lazarus is considered the Lieutenant of the group and one of its pillars due to his violence (pg. 83) shows that life in the streets involves some violent acts. Violence is seen to be a necessary survival skill in the street.

The death of Amos after knife stabs also shows the level of violence faced in the

streets ‘The knife flashed quickly In, out, in, out and then slashed across…… Amos

fell.’ (pg. 80-81).

Silas, one of the crew members, engages in some crime. He is said to have had a habit of discovering things that have had previous owners. ‘Silas steals’ ( pg. 77). If he gets caught while stealing, he might be beaten or arrested.

Secret struggles

 

 

 

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The Neighbourhood Watch has to struggle to ensure that the valuables are safely hidden to prevent theft. After splashing water on their faces, the empty can is stashed away with other valuables in a hook under the concrete abutment of the bridge (pg. 75-76).

They also have to protect their territory — The bridge underside precious real estate. To achieve this, the abbreviations NW are sprayed onto the bridge’s columns which communicate that it is marked territory (pg. 76).

The group must struggle to camouflage and appear like any ordinary person while roaming the streets to evade police. They have to look presentable, thus why Omagano struggles to straighten her kinky hair using her fingers. They also have to wear their best clothes. One of their greatest challenges is how to disguise their foul smell. The writer notes, “But smelling bad is something they try to avoid as much as possible since a smelly man is despised everywhere.” (Pg. 76).

Struggle to get food

The crew relies on waste food and leftovers to survive. It is said that ‘Elias knows most city hotel’s kitchen staff who leave the group some decaying produce or some leftovers when they feel kind from the previous night’ (pg 76).

The struggle to get food forces them to use dubious means such as having Omagano satisfy the sexual needs of guards who deny them access to bins that might contain high yields (pg. 77).

The lunch that the group shares show that getting enough food for a meal is a real struggle for them ‘The food crew shares the lunch: Half a loaf of brown bread, some salty mashed potatoes, soft grapes and some water’ (pg.78).

The group heavily relies on Mrs Bezuidenhout’s generosity as she gives them

canned food such as beans and peas, fruits and other valuable items (pg. 83).

Struggle with poor health conditions

Elias has a racking cough that worsens each day. It is so severe that, ‘Sometimes there is blood in the gunk from his chest, but he waves everyone’s concerns away’ (pg. 76).

Inequalities/Class Difference

By splitting the city of Windhoek geographically into different neighbourhoods, Ngamije is able to use place as a marker of inequalities and class differences that exist among the people.

The content of rubbish bins in the different neighbourhoods shows the differences between the rich and the poor. The first suburb to be visited by the crew is Auasblick. It is described as a nice place since the people there still know how to

 

 

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throw away things The Neighbourhood Watch is assured Of scoring good things such as ‘broken toasters, blenders, kettles water bottles, Teflon pots or pans scrubbed raw screen television cardboard boxes, and maybe some food’ (pg.78) This shows that the people who live here are well up and live comfortable lives.

The suburbs of the poor such as Katutura, Hakahana, Goreangab, Wanaheda and

Okuryangava, are also described.

Using the flashback of the crew’s Tuesday and ‘Thursday visits to these poor suburbs, Ngaminje brings out the living conditions of the poor based on the content of their bins. One day, Elias and Lazarus found a baby wrapped in some newspapers thrown into a big bin. Ihis encounter made them smart and move away from poor people. They decided that on Tuesday and Thursday nights, they would stop going to poor people’s places because poor people had nothing left to throw away but themselves (pg. 80)

Khomasdal is closely related to the poor people’s suburbs. It is, however, a drinking den. The neighbourhood watch never enters Khomasdal since it is crowded with other starving, roving cliques (pg. 80). It is also in the same neighbourhood where Amos was killed.

These lowly suburbs are contrasted to the suburbs ofthe wealthy such as Avis, Klein, Windhoek and Eros. Avis has complex apartments that bring a fresh crop of bins to the interlocked pavements. lhough made up of rich people,

Klein Windhoek portrays some meanness as they only put up their bins at the crack of dawn to dissuade the dustbin divers from perambulating through their streets (pg. 83). Eros is the best suburb for The Neighbourhood Watch due to the presence of Mrs Bezuidenhout, who waits for the crew and gives them some gifts. This shows the wealthy nature of the old lady, the people living in this neighbourhood, and Mrs Bezuidenhout’s generosity.

Desperation

Life in the streets is filled with moments of desperation. When Elias and Lazarus met, they would desperately flick through every bin they could find in every suburb they could reach. As the writer tells us, they had no room to be choosy as the writer tells us, ‘They were indiscriminate and desperate and always hungry.’ (pg.78)

Elias shares these experiences with the other crew members and tells them, “When we started when you have to we weren’t picky. We had to survive survive, you don’t get to choose what you have to do.” (pg.79).

We further see that the crew’s desperation to get food and survive makes them use any possible means. Omagano is a precious survival tool for the group in such desperate times. This especially happens where the bins in some areas are fenced off and guarded by guards who threaten to beat the crew if they trespass. The

 

 

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guards have to be bribed to let the crew scavenge in these bins. When the crew has

money, Elias pays the guards.

However, when the crew has no money and needs to get food, Omagano is their only way out. She goes behind a dumpster with a guard and does what needs to be done (pg. 77).

Waste disposal

Ngamije shows the actual situation around waste disposal in many urban neighbourhoods. The Neighbourhood Watch crew solely depends on the disposed waste for their survival. By describing the kind of waste found in different neighbourhoods, the writer communicates the need to ensure that waste is appropriately disposed off. The crew’s appreciation of high-end suburbs such as Eros, Windhoek, and Eros emphasises the need to recycle and separate different waste products. These suburbs have people who recycle. Different bins containing different wastes are also seen- ‘The paper cardboard, plastic bottles, tins, cans and aluminum foil are sorted in separate plastic bags. Some people even wash the trash before they throw it away. Everything else that is of no use goes in the big green bins’ (pg. 82).

This serves as an advantage to the crew as it saves time and prevents disappointment. The writer subtly advocates for waste separation and recycling to ensure proper waste management. Other lowly suburbs such as Katutura, Hakakana, Goreangab, Wanaheda and Okuryangava display poor waste disposal where all sorts of waste are put in the same bin. The writer communicates the inappropriateness of this waste disposal approach through the grave voice adopted by Elias as he shares their past experiences with the crew.

“Usually in a bin you have to be ready to find shit Old food, used condoms, women

things with blood on them, broken things.” (pg.79)

This waste disposal method is not just disgusting, but it makes proper waste management difficult and ultimately impossible. Similar waste disposal methods are seen in Ausblick, where everything — including electronic gadgets such as broken toasters, blenders and kettles- is disposed of together with water bottles, cardboard boxes, and even food wastes.

Questions

  1. Proper waste disposal makes it easy for waste to be appropriately Using illustrations from Rem’y Ngamije’s “The Neighbourhood Watch” show howthis message is communicated.
  2. Street life is not for the faint-hearted Show the truthfulness of this statement

based on the story “The Neighbourhoodd Watch.”

 

 

 

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  1. In every society, some inequalities exist that affect people’s way of Using illustrations from Rem’y Ngamije’s “The Neighbourhood Watch” support this assertion.

 

 

 

DECEMBER

Filemon Liyambo – Namibia

About the author:

Filemon Liyambo is a Namibian writer and former newspaper columnist for the Namibian Sun Newspaper. He has also contributed social commentary articles for the New Era Newspaper. A qualified geologist, he is now an educator. His work was included in Erotic Africa, an anthology of short stories published by Brittle Paper in December 2018. He is currently working on a novel.

Episodes / sub-episodes

  1. September’s arrival from the K. (p84 — 86).
  2. December’s psychiatric (p86 – 88).
  3. Ezekiel Shikongo’s dreams and (p85 – 90).

SYNOPSIS

December is a story about a girl named December, unconventionally, by her father,

Silas Shikongo. The story is set in a town in Namibia.

December has a younger brother named September. According to their grandfather, Ezekiel, there are traces of idiotism in September, his grandson, for he takes after his youngest brother, Josef.

December nurses September when he is young, but there is a mishap in which she injures the boy accidentally with hoe, and the boy bleeds. Flhe old man then forbids her to eat chicken, saying that is how things are. September suspects that his grandfather is hiding something because he cannot explain the reason clearly.

However, the two siblings are academic geniuses.

Suddenly, just before joining a Teachers Training College, December develops a psychiatric condition and her grandfather, Ezekiel, insists that she is bewitched and there are dark forces behind it. He takes her to the hospital and dumps her there.

September, who now studies in the U.K., visits his sister at the hospital, but the nurse intercepts him for being late. However, Tshuuveni, a supervisor, and a familiar face appears and begins talking with him. This light chat makes the nurse calm, and

 

 

 

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the guards are sent away to allow him some time. The nurse softens when she

learns that September is December’s brother who studies abroad.

September finds his sister in a horrible condition, but they have a warm moment, and he hands her the gifts: a jersey, a pen and a book full of puzzles, a t-shirt, and yummy chips from KFC.

Meanwhile, Tatekulu, their grandfather Ezekiel, has dreamed of a pond where leopards drink and Josef is seated on the edge, eating. A search party is sent, and Josef is found at the exact place in Ezekiel’s dream.

The next day, September buries his grandfather, with his secret, next to his father in

the village graveyard.

Questions for reflection on ‘Title’ of the story and themes

  • How relevant is the title of the story, December?
  • Does the Naming convention of Silas Shikongo affect his children?
  • Why do you think Ezekiel refuses to tell why he forbids his granddaughter to

eat chicken?

  • Do you think Josef gets lost?
  • What does the Union jack symbolize in the story, December?
  • Explore and analyze the following themes in
    1. Mental illness and child neglect
    2. Superstitious beliefs and taboos
  • Healthy living, eating
  1. Hope/optimism

Thematic concerns

+ Consequences of superstition on mental illness

o December, the story’s title, is also the central character’s name. The name is given to her by her father against his own father’s wishes, who calls it idiotism. Conventional or not, this naming creates confusion and distortion of facts simultaneously. (p85- 86).

  • The story itself is mixed with a patched-up plot which renders the storyline The plot is not linear. Like in most Namibian, there was indifference towards those who didn’t reside there. Sticking out was a serious crime: (p84

– 90).

  • When Ezekiel Shikongo faces death and illness, anxiety, fear, and despair creep in, engendering adherence to delusions that have no logical or scientific explanation and lead to superstitious behaviours caused by a false notion of the (p84 – 90).
  • It is rooted in human ignorance and significantly affects people’s culture and

health, prevents them from beginning restoration, and harms individuals

 

 

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and society. The mundane illogical beliefs derived from ignorance cannot be proven objectively and scientifically. Ezekiel forbids December to eat chicken due to the mishap. (p85 89).

  • The extended family of Ezekiel grapples with hereditary ill patients (Josef and December), and the old man blames their mental illness on superstitious thoughts such as “evil eye” or “dark “
  • This pandemonium is created by Silas, December’s father, to show his

divergent opinion and disbelief in his father’s taboos. (p85).

  • Their disagreement, therefore, gets complicated when December is born in September and September in Then when September returns from abroad, his grandfather dies in October. (p86).
  • Ezekiel refers to the naming as ‘idiotism’, and indeed his younger brother Josef exhibits traces of the problem when he starts to lose track of time in his teens; days of the week are a blur to The fact that September is absent-minded at times complicates the matter more. (p84 – 86).
  • Ezekiel’s superstitious belief could be premised on an archaic generational

and cultural illusion that other forces cause problems. (p86).

  • Josef eventually loses He is lost for a month. In his dreams, Ezekiel tells where exactly to find him but does not say what he is eating until he exits the life stage. Ezekiel’s death signifies the end of the old traditions and the beginning of civilization. (p89).
  • When September breaks the news to his grandfather that he will study abroad two and a half years earlier, Ezekiel is September had cried. “My sister…” (p88).
  • The old man reassured “I will take care of her.” “She’s been at the

hospital for six months. (p88).

  • Superstition makes him believe that mental illness is caused by other forces not normal or conventional in nature. He takes her to a traditional healer, and she comes back looking skeletal as if the healer had tried starving out the voices in her (p88).
  • Ezekiel represents intensely superstitious African people who turn to indigenous treatments such as charms and witchdoctors to treat their Modern technologies have not been able to reduce their superstitious tendencies. (p88)
  • “There is no brother listed in her file,” the nurse “Only a grandfather.”

This is child neglect. (p88).

  • Superstitious thinking becomes harmful when it enters the health domain, affects people’s well-being, and becomes part of the family’s health The values that society believes affect the quality of life and treatment choice during illness. Ezekiel’s beliefs affect all family members. (p84 – 90).

Hope/optimism

 

 

 

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  • Their life of hope begins when September arrives at the hospital from the K. December, who is at the hospital probably being discharged to start her life free of her grandfather’s superstitious interference. (p87).

Remember when September comes from Europe, he brings December a T-shirt with

an imprint of the Union Jack, representing modernity or a form of enlightenment.

But still, this is confusion on ideologies: between

colonialism and civilization.

  • The T-shirt is precisely the same as the one December had ripped up all those years before to stem September’s This implies that her ordinary life is restored by her brother’s hope and concern for her well-being. (p89).
  • The two reminisce their puberty days when September got himself a puppy named Kali to keep off boys who pursued December when she was Tshuuveni enquires whether September is bringing home an oshitenya from overseas, but he says he still hasn’t found the right girl. (p87).

Professional medical practice should be relied on to guarantee the quality of life,

control and treatment of diseases, and complications is not a secret to anyone.

The medical fraternity should fight these superstitious thoughts to lower their adverse consequences. will bring hope. Hope is also symbolized when it rains after Ezekiel Shikongo’s burial. Then Josef is also found. (p89, 90).

CHARACTERS

  1. Citing evidence from the text, describe the character traits

of the following characters.

  1. December
  2. September
  3. Ezekiel Shikongo
  4. Silas Shikongo

Style and Language use

  1. What does the coming of September from Europe and the dying of

Ezekiel inOctober symbolize?

  1. How is sarcasm employed in Filemon Liyambo’s December?
  2. Examine the use of irony and paradox

 

 

BOYI

 

 

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Gloria Mwaninga- Kenya

Gloria Mwaninga is a fictional writer from Kenya. Her story

‘Boyi’ captures the occurrences of the 2005 land war in Mt. Elgon.

points to guide interpretation

  1. Land war and its effects:
  2. Demand for land protection fee
  3. Recruitment of young men into the militia
  4. Murder/ killing of people- consider how the militia kills
  5. people while the government forces the killing of militia
  6. People are forced to flee their homes/ Displacement of people

g)    Betrayal

  1. The pain and suffering that the people face due to war and the rise of the

militia.

  1. Traditions

Title

The title of the story- ‘Boyi’ is borrowed from the main character’s name, who is the brother to the narrator. Boyi is recruited into a militia group and ends up dead when the Armed Forces troops come to flash out members of the militia.

CHARACTERS

a. Boyi

He is the brother of the narrator- A fifteen-year-old boy recruited into a militia group when his parents are unable to pay the land protection fee and the betray fee that the leader of the militia demands.

He grows and rises in rank to become the right-hand man of Matwa Kei, the militia’s

leader.

He is presented as a jovial, sociable, and outgoing person who always engaged in

games and played tricks with his sister.

He is reportedly killed by Armed Forces troops sent by the government to flash out

the militia to end the war.

  1. The Narrator

Boyi’s sister, through whom the story is told, is keen and observant as she can note the things that happen in her family and even outside the family and report them in the story. She had a close relationship with Boyi thus isgreatly affected by his recruitment to the militia and devastated once she learns of his death.

 

 

 

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She senses Boyi’s death when the huge Nandi flame tree at the front of their house

falls.

c. Baba

He is the father to Boyi and the narrator. He aided the government representative, who gave land to strangers by giving him a panga and makonge ropes, thus being considered a traitor by the militia.

He hands over his fifteen-year-old son- Boyi, to the militia group leader when he is

unable to raise the 40,000 fees demanded from him.

  1. Mama

she is the mother to Boyi and the narrator, and the wife to Baba. She is deeply

affected when Boni is handed over to the militia by Baba.

she remains hopeful that Boyi will escape the militia and come back home.

  1. Matwa Kei

He is the leader of the militia group. He is presented as a ruthless, vengeful and brutal person who demands that Baba should pay 10,000 land protection tax and 30,000 betrayal tax failure to which the militia would show Baba smoke without fire.

  1. Chesober

He is Baba’s friend who taught at Chepkurkur Primary School.

He delivers news that the militia had a long list of people who had aided the

government exercise to divide the people’s land to strangers.

  1. Chesaina

He is an old friend of Baba who works as a watchman in a grain depot, far away in Chwele market. He brings news to Baba,s family that Boyi was now a marked man since he was Matwa Kei’s, right-hand man.

h. Simoni

He delivers a copy of the Nation newspaper, which contains news about Boyi’s

death.

SYNOPSIS

Gloria Mwaninga’s story, ‘Boyi’, is a contemporary story about forming a militia group to revolt against land allocation to strangers. The story heavily alludes to the Mt. Elgon land war in Kenya that began in 2005. The Sabaot Land Defence Force militia group was formed to protect the land of the Sabaots from being invaded by strangers. Still, the militia ended up causing harm and suffering to its people. real

 

 

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group was led by Wycliffe Matakwei hence the name of the militia leader in the

story- Matwa Kei.

Told in the first-person narration voice, the story ‘Boyi’ openswith the narrator remembering how their Baba pushed Boyi to the Matwa Kei when the militia leader came to demand 40,000 land protection tax and betrayal tax which he could not raise.

Matwa Kei is the leader of a militia group formed to protect the people’s land when the government decides to divide the peoples’ land and give some of it to strangers. Baba, the writer’s father, is considered a traitor by the militia since he lends the government’s surveyor apanga and makonge ropes.

News breaks out that the militia has begun attacking governmentrepresentatives.

The narrator’s family lives in fear of this attack to the extent that they block the sitting

-room door with sacks of maise and beans. The narrator and Boyi laugh aboutit as they feel that the militia would not harm them. However, the narrator recalls how the militia came to their home and demanded money. Baba offers to give them everything he owns; his savings, a hunting gun, Sony transistor radio and even promises to sell his bull to save his family. However, the militia group declines, forcing Baba to hand over his son, Boyi, to the militia.

After Boyi is taken away, Mama starts behaving like a mad person. She, however, lives in the hope that Boyi would return by escaping from the militia. The narrator recalls how at first, neighbours would visit them often to console them, but later they stopped coming.

Later, Saulo visits the family to inform them the government had launched “Operation okoa Maisha” and had dispatched a troop of two hundred armed forces men to flash out the militia. next day, Baba and his cousin Kimutai dig a shallow grave at the back of the house to burry a banana stem wrapped in a green cotton sheet believing that his son is dead. Mama refuses to participate in escorting Boyi’s spirit away.

Seasons passed as the brutality of the militia rose. They would cut up people and throw the bloodied bodies in the rivers, pit latrines, and public wells. They would forcibly recruit boys as young as ten years and even started taking girls to go and cook for them. Cases of rape also increased. As a result, people lived in fear making many of them run away to Bungoma and Uganda.

After the army troops arrive, Chesaina, an old friend of delivers news that Boyi had become a marked man since he was Matwa Kei’s, right-hand man. news further devastates Mama and the narrator, who spends the night in Boyi’s bed.

 

 

 

 

 

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The following day, Simon visits the narrator’s house. He delivers the Nation Newspaper, which bore the news “Ragtag militia leader killed by the Army forces” It now dawns on the narrator that her brother is no more.

She rushes to the parents’ bedroom and hands over the newspaper to Baba to read. Upon reading the news, Baba crumples to the floor while Mama’s laughter is heard piercing the morning dawn. Surprisingly, even after Simoni’s description of how Boyi was thrown out of an aircraft by Sah-gent, Mama does not weep but speaks Boyi’s name softly as she sits on his bed while Boyi’s sister lets tear roll down her face. As the story ends, the narrator explains how she sensed Boyi’s death when the Nandi flame tree at the front of their house fell.

Styles and Plot related questions

  1. How has the narrator used flashbacks in the story?
  2. Briefly describe Mama’s behaviour after:
  3. Boyi is handed over to Matwa Kei
  4. Baba and his cousin Kimutai dig a grave to bury a banana stem
  5. Chesaina’s news that Boyi was a marked man
  6. News about Boyi’s
  7. What is the implication of the dream used in the story?
  8. The narrator gives a detailed description of what happens when the long rains

fall (pg 94). Explain how symbolic the description is.

  1. Explain the use of irony in the EPISODIC ANALYSIS OF ISSUES Episodes
  2. The demand of the Militia- pg 91-92
  3. Life after Boyi left- pg 92-93

Ill. Operation Okoa Maisha pg 93-96

  1. Boyi’s death pg 96- 97 Thematic Concerns Traditions

Belief in Djinnis- The community in the story believes in the presence of powerful

evil spirits known as Djinni. This is seen when Mama talks to the visitors who

 

 

 

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frequent their home once Boyi is taken away. She tells them, ‘How Boyi saved her

marriage by confirming that Djinnis did not tie up her womb.’ Pg 93.

The people also practice the ritual of burying a banana stem to send death away where a person disappears and their bodies are not found. The narrator reports how Baba and his cousin Kimutai dug a shallow grave and buried a banana stem wrapped in a green cotton sheet. The father muttered, “Death, take this body. ..

Take it, and do not bother my home with your visits again.” Pg. 93 This ritual is performed after Saulo’s story that the government has launched Operation Okoa Maisha, where armed Forces troops are sent to flush out militia members. It shows the fear of the people that the operation will lead to more deaths.

The people are also seen to hold on to some superstitions. The falling of the huge Nandi flame signifies something significant was bound to happen. The narrator sees this as a bad omen while the mother thinks it means the end of evils for her family ‘I knew it was a bad omen even though Mama came out of her room jubilantly declared that the evil which was to come to our house had been struck down and swallowed by the Nandi flame, pg 96.

Land War And Its Effect

The story is rooted in a revolt resulting from the government dividing land and giving it to strangers. Ihe revolt leads to forming a militia group to counter-attack the governments’ decision and fight those who collaborate with the government.

The militia has various effects:

They demanded the land protection tax. They had chopped off the heads of the

families if one did not give them money (pg.92).

The recruitment of young men to the militia. Boyi is recruited by force to the militia because Baba has given him out since he cannot afford to pay the money demanded: “Hold on to the boy until I find you forty thousand land protection tax, and then I will have him back” (pg. 91).

So many other young men had been recruited into the militia. Mama says, “Had his ears not caught stones of neighbour’s son recruited by the militia?” (pg.92). The militia goes from house to house, forcefully recruiting boys as young as ten years page 95.

People living in fear- The villages of Kopsiro, Savomet, Chepkyuk all live in fear ..a

thick yellow fog of fear over them.” (pg. 95)

People fail to work

Farmers did not clear their shambas for the second planting of the maize crop because the militia stole young crops from the fields and goats from their pens (pg. 95).

 

 

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The narrator’s friend, Chemutai, said that the narrator’s breast grew too fast

because she had spent too much time outside……. instead of working chap chap

like a normal musaa tree girl (pg.95)

Murder/brutal killings

The militia cut up people and threw their bloodied bodies in rivers, pits, latrines,

and public wells (pg. 92). The people say that they even cut off their necks.

The narrator overhears Baba being told that those recruited have to go back home and kill a close relative so that their hearts are strong to kill others (pg. 95) Boyi is killed for being part of the militia (pg. 96-97).

Displacement of people from their land and homes

“People flee from their homes since there is a mass exodus to Bungoma and

Uganda’ page 95

Lack of schooling

The narrator says nobody went to school anymore because of the war. She spends

her days under the Nandi flame tree with half-closed eyes (pg. 95)

Suffering

The writer points out clearly how society goes through suffering as a result of the

war:

Mama experiences emotional suffering when Baba gives out Boyi to the militia to be recruited since the family could not afford the forty thousand land protection fee. The writer says that madness had entered

Mama’s eyes the day baba pushed Boyi to Mativa Kei. She tore off her kitenge and started shouting at Baba, telling him that he was sick in the head if he thought Boyi would return (pg. 91).

Mama did not eat her food and starved in the days that followed, muttering to herself. Her ugali would remain untouched until a gusty brown film formed. The narrator had to throw it away to the chicken coop. She also continued engaging herself in monologues (pg. 94).

The narrator also experiences pain and suffering. She felt queasy once Baba informed them that the militia would have killed them for not giving out the forty thousand land protection tax. The narrator felt as if someone had pulled her insides out through her nostrils.’ (pg. 92).

When they were informed of Boyi’s death, she cried bitterly. She let the tears roll

down her face and soak her blue silk blouse and purple boob top (pg. 97)

 

 

 

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Baba suffers when forced to hand over his son Boyi to the militia. He experiences agony when Mama questions him since he knew very well if he didn’t, he risked his family being killed by the militia. ‘He sat there and held his rage firmly with his hands. He pulled his lips to a narrow thread like a line drawn on his dark face by a ruler.’ (pg. 92)

When they are informed that Boyi is a marked man, Baba goes through some emotional torture. For the first time, the narrator saw her father crying “That day I saw Baba’s tears…” (pg. 96)

The community undergoes suffering because of the war as some of the people are brutally murdered the militia cut the people and threw their bloodied bodies in rivers, pit latrines and public wells’ (pg. 96).

Some of the militia are said to kill close relatives so that their hearts are strong to kill others. The militia forgets its initial objective of protecting the land.Instead, “Now they even cut off our necks” (pg. 95)

The militia also rapes their blood relatives who give birth to babies (pg.

Betrayal

The writer points out how some people betray others in society. Baba betrays his community by assisting the government representative with a panga and makonge ropes when the government divides the people’s land and gives it to some strangers (pg. 92).

The militia betrays the community it was meant to fight for by meting out evil on the people whose land they are fighting. The narrator overhears their neighbour Koros telling her father

“They forgot that they were to protect our land from being given to those lazy

strangers. Now they even cut off our necks” (pg. 95)

The government betrays its people by dividing their land and giving it to strangers

leading to the formation of the militia.

Questions

  1. War leads to Using illustrations from the story show the validity of

thisstatement.

  1. How effectively is Imagery used in the story?
  2. Describe the role of Baba inthe Story;

 

CHEQUE MATE

 

 

 

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Kevin Baldeosingh – Trinidad

About the author:

Kevin Baldeosingh was born in1963 in the Caribbean Island of Trinidad. He is a newspaper columnist, author, and Humanist involved in many controversial social issues. He has worked with the Trinidad Express, Newsday and the Trinidad Guardian. He worked for 25 years in the field of journalism.

Episodes /sub-episodes

  1. At the bank, with the
  2. Back to her
  3. At the company office, with

SYNOPSIS

Cheque Mate is a story about Sukiya (Ms Chansing), a poor damsel from Penal, the Caribbean island of Trinidad, and her boss, Randall A Credo, of the Amerindian tribe. She is on the platinum credit cards queue and intends to deposit thirty million dollars (five million U.S. dollars), but there is a mistake that throws her into panic and dilemma.

Sukiya is an executive corporate secretary recently promoted, and her salary raised tenfold. Fifty thousand dollars go into her savings account each month-end, but the money does not show her actual income. She avoids the bank manager, for she has accumulated more and more, and her deposits are pretty frequent and high. Mr Randall makes these five million cheque payments for fear of cleaning by offshore accounts hacker’s syndicate. The teller advises her to open a U.S. savings account and return the following day.

As she drives her posh car back to her apartment, she is Obsessed with the five million dollars but pleased and relieved that she has successfully handled an awkward situation. She has to check her private records before seeing her boss, Randall. She weighs all possibilities of legal investigations, discovery and embarrassment but finally convinces and assures herself there is no cause for worry. She romanticizes what she could do with such vast sums of money, especially her residential abode.

Randall has her as a corporate secretary who draws up contracts, studies conveyances and writes legal opinions. However, her critical role, for which she is handsomely paid, is to create loopholes in such documents, including the sale of the methanol company to the Chinese government. Randall is also a major campaign contributor. Thriving in such an environment, the poor girl suddenly turned prosperous, is delighted that she has accumulated a lot.

 

 

 

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After confirming that the sums and dates on the cheques are correct, she goes to see Randall for an explanation. Then the truth about the trick unfolds: the money is a fee for keeping her mouth shut on the Chinese methanol deal which Sukiya undervalues the shares by 50 percent. At a time when technology can be used to conceal fraudulent secrets in cryptographical codes, it now dawns on Randall that it can also be used to reveal them. It is a fraud Sukiya has to deal with herself or together with her cheque mate, Randall, thanks to her cyberspace technology skills.

Title of the story

  1. How relevant is the title of the story, Cheque Mate
  2. Who are the cheque mates in the story?
  3. Why are cheques preferred as their payment modes?
  4. How do the cheque mates exploit contracts’ complexity and detailed nature to

commit fraud?

  1. Explore and analyze the existence of the following themes:
    1. Corruption / Fraud/ bribery
    2. Deceit and Betrayal
    3. Loyalty cheques Thematic Concerns Corruption / Fraud/ bribery

The banks and government will surely unravel and nab the cartel’s underhand deals

in cryptocurrency camouflaged in the cheque deposits and contracts. (p108).

The first eyebrows are raised when the bank teller repeats the question, “Ms Chansing,? Do you want the ‘thirty million dollars’ deposited in your savings account or would you prefer to open a U.S. dollar account?” (p98).

The official deductible salary standard for top executives does not show in her

actual income through platinum credit cards.

Sukiya has accumulated over ten thousand dollars, an amount she deposits five times every month. (p99). She avoids encounters with bank managers for a bank manager might wonder how a fifty-thousand-a-month salary becomes seven million dollars in savings within six years. He would know enough to make some educated guesses. (p99).

The bank teller reminds Ms Chansing that the cheque is for five million dollars, U.S.

equivalent to 30,242,000 Trinidad and Tobago dollars. (p99).

 

 

 

 

 

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She is responsible for moving vast sums through various channels when the oil and gas boom starts and money flows into the company. Sukiya will need to provide the source of funds, of course. (p101).

Randall had watched too many movies where unrealistically cunning criminals cleaned out businessmen’s offshore accounts by hacking into them. (p100).

Ironically, when Sukiya, a lawyer, is hired as a corporate secretary to detect and close financial loopholes in documents, she gets paid the largest cheques for creating such loopholes. (p103).

The five million cheques she gets she assumes is her fee for having drawn up for the sale of the methanol plant by Randall. It could be a surprise bonus. But now, according to Randall, it is her fee for keeping her mouth shut during that deal. (p101

— 107).

Then the truth about the trick unfolds: the money is a fee for keeping her mouth shut on the Chinese methanol deal which Sukiya undervalues the shares by 50 percent. (p107, 109).

  • It is a deal that the Chinese considered protocol even with the (p103).
  • It is clear that the frauds committed, both inadvertent and deliberate, are

rewarding, but eventually, the perpetrators will have to pay dearly.

She is almost at the point of betraying herself, insinuating in her mind her readiness to offer herself unto Randall, for he is a man. Sukiya wants every advantage if the meeting turns into a negotiation. (p105).

Deceit and betrayal

Eventually, Ms comes to terms with the reality that all this time she has worked for the company under Mr Randall A Credo was a disguised syndicate for which she will face the force of the law.

When investigations are done, she will have to defend herself as to how she has accumulated all this wealth over a very short period since she started working as a poor young girl from Penal. Now she swims in opulence, affluence and prosperously apparently does not need money as millions of dollars accumulate in a desk drawer. (p104 – 105).

When she examines the cheques, the sums and dates are all right, signed by

Randall and countersigned by herself. (p105).

She could put various clauses into contracts to achieve certain ends or prevent the

other party from attaining certain ends. (p106).

However, she has been duped and used as a conduit for Randall’s fraudulent deals.

Ihrough the valuation report, Sukiya signs the document without reading it properly

 

 

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or because Randall tells her to do so. Further, Randall himself forges his signature using Sukiya’s pen. This form of deceit and betrayal sharply undercuts her. (p107 — 108).

Margaret, Randall’s executive assistant, is paid more than most managers in the company’s subsidiaries. She knows more about Randall’s dealings than anyone else in the company, including Sukiya. (p106).

Loyalty cheques

It seems everything throughout the story is conducted in terms of cheques. Asked

about the cheques’ amounts, the figure runs automatically through her head. (p101).

Sukiya has to fly from Trinidad to Grand Cayman to deposit cheques to her account every two months. (p 104). She keeps both her Us and T. T. cheques in the same drawer, which is how the mix-up occurs. (p105).

CHARACTERS

Citing evidence from the text, describe the character traits of the following

characters.

  1. Sukiya
  2. Randall

STYLE AND LANGUAGE USE

  1. How is sarcasm employed in Cheque Mate?
  2. How symbolic is the title, and how does the duo execute their corrupt syndicate?
  3. How is dialogue used to achieve revelation of the rotten ills of the cheque mates?
  4. Why should corruption be made unattractive to perpetrators?

Sample answered essay Questions

Question 1:

Ninema is an admirable character. Support this from Vrenika Pather’s ‘Ninema’

20marks.

Ninema is an outstanding character who is liked by many of the people she

associates with. We see many good traits that she portrays in the story “Ninema”.

To start with, Ninema is presented as a principled person. She does not let the behaviours and traits of others change what she believes in. Her business manner is unique only to her, and she does not change it to fit or be like others. Although she was one of the traders, something about her was different.

 

 

 

 

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She ran her business with an iron fist which made some people like her while others disliked her, -Tie people’s reactions do not affect her as she remains herself. ‘The ladies in the stalls admire _her mainly because they had gotten compromised at work and home.

In addition, Ninema is admirable since she is organised. She plans her work early

enough, making it easy to run her business.

She wakes up early in the morning to reap the herbs that she takes to the market for the day. She organises her herbs in an appetising way, which draws many customers to here She does not chat with other ladies aimlessly, which would waste her time. She plans to ensure the stall is organised before she takes her breakfast.

Once her stall is ready and only when ready, she takes sips ofthe tea she had brought. Her meals are packed early in the morning, which points to this organised personality. She packs tea and some sandwiches that she takes for lunch.

Nlnemaås also admirable since she is skilful wise, She handles different customers masterfully, thus making her earn their loyalty. She can handle Mr Chinran, infatuated with her, by treating him with respect and appreciation instead of encouraging his infatuation. She also handles Mrs Singh firmly but respectively, thus winning her even though Mrs Singh is difficult and troublesome. Ninema’s ability to entice a new customer by offering an extra bunch of mint for free shows that she is skilful in business, thus making her admirable as a trader.

Lastly, Ninema is seen to be courageous, making her admirable. When a man sexually harasses her, she does not let him go scot- free. She follows the man who pinches her erect nipple and hits him with the only weapon at hand — her Chumpal, which makes the man too astounded to react. The other women hawker jeer and cheer as Ninema repeatedly hits the man. She even gives him extra hits on behalf of all the women, thus depicting her as the fighter of her rights and those for others.

By following the man and hitting him with her sandal, Ninema shows her courage.

From the story, Ninema is genuinely seen to be admirable due to her courageous,

skilful, organised and moral nature.

Question 2

When one is given power, he/she should use it onlyforgood but more often than not people use it for wrongpurposes. Support this statement basing your argument from Naguib Mahfouz’s ‘A Man of Awesome Power’

Many people who are in powerful positions or who have been gifted with some sort of power tend to abuse it. Instead of utilizing it for improvement of the society at large, they use it for their own selfish interests or to punish those that have wronged them. same scenario is seen in ‘A Man of Awesome Power through a number of illustrations.

 

 

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We see Tayyib al- Mahdi utilizing the power given to him for revenge. This is not a good a way of power utilization as it causes harm to others. Tayyib realizes that he has power to order things to be and he sets out to utilize the power to change’ his country. However, the first episode where he utilizes this power shows that he is utilizing it to hit back at a person who offends him. The driver of the taxi that he hails suffers his wrath for refusing to stop. When Tayyib is on his way to the heart of the town, he hails a taxi but the driver simply waves a hand at him in haughty

refuses. Tayyib’s irritation makes him stare at the rear wheels of the taxi and the

two explode suddenly.

He ignores the voice that reminds him that he should only use his power for good and lets his anger control him. This act of revenge was deliberate since as Tayyib bypasses the driver he feels that he has taught the man a lesson. By utilizing his power to hit back at the taxi driver, Tayyib shows that people with power use it for wrong purposes.

We further see wrong utilization of power where Tayyib causes the man in the bus to suffer stomach pains. Although the man had physically attacked a woman, causing him to suffer stomach cramps not justified. Tayyib encounters a confrontation between the man and a woman in a public bus and the man ends up slapping the woman. Just like the incident with the taxi driver, Tayyib lets his anger control him where he focused it on the man’s stomach and immediately the man suffers severe cramps that cause him to moan and scream in pain. The pain is so intense that an ambulance had to be called to fetch him•

Allowing his anger to control him and causing pain to the man who had slapped a woman is a vengeful act which is wrong thus showing how people with power use it for wrong purposes.

Beside, Tayyib uses the power bestowed on him to interfere with the radio presentation by causing the presenter to start sneezing. While seated in the café, he hears a radio announcer expounding on the developments that were to be expected in the future. Tayyib feels that the announcer shouldreport on what has been achieved yet instead of giving false hopes to the people. Tayyib thus decides to cause some sneezing to attack the announcer since it was the only way to stop him.

Soon after, the announcer develops massive sneezes that prevent him from carrying on with the presentation. Tayyib feels happy and victorious after the unexpected conclusion of the announcement. Although his desire is to purify the broadcasting sector, the approach of causing massive sneezing to the presenter is harmful and thus wrong.

Lastly, Tayyib is seen to use the power given to him to satisfy his sexual passion and

desires. Tayyib utilizes the power to make a woman that he is attracted to notice

 

 

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him. While he is seated at the tea garden planning how to effectively use his power, Tayyib notices a beautiful woman approaching the entrance of the garden. The woman does not notice him at first and Tayyib thinks of how through his powers he can cause her to be head -over-heels with him. He then sends her a hidden message and she responds to him. He sees nothing wrong with satisfying his desires as a way of repairing himself. He closes his note book and they surrender to fate, This is an immoral act since Tayyib is married to Haniya whom he had remained faithful to throughout their marriage.

People gifted with power should strive to use it only for good purposes and not to

cause pain and suffering to others or for immoral deeds like Tayyib did.

Question 3

Some cultural practices do not add value hence should be done away with. Show the truthfulness of this assertion basing on Eric Ng’maryo’s ‘Ivory Bangles’. (20 marks)

Culture keeps people together and governs their way of life thus is important. However, there are some traditions that are of no benefit and in some cases such traditions cause harm to people who continue to embrace them as is the case in Ivory Bangles]

For this reason, such traditions should be discarded. Polygamy is one such cultural practice that has continued to be embraced yet it has no value. We realize that the community in the story holds in high esteem this practice. As such, a man who does not ascribe to it is seen to be a topic of discussion:

This comes out clear where the old man who is a respected Chief’s councilor is talked about because he had only one wife. According to the story, it was unheard- of for someone as powerful as the old man- a small chief, to have only one wife,

However, this value is seen to have no value since the old man is happy in his marriage and he really loves his wife to the extent that he gifted her twenty-four ivory bangle Besides, the riddle used by old man when responding to the Chief’s demand that he marries another wife shows that polygamy causes harm. The riddle’s interpretation A wife, a co-wife, witchcraft and death points to the harmful effects of the practice. As such, polygamy

should be abolished as it causes harm and adds no value. Another cultural value that has no value is believe in the seer and the act of seeking his guidance. The old man goes to seek the advice of the seer after noticing some blood specks in the live at he goat that he slaughtered, He does this since his people, believed in him as their tribal seer and their priest. We also see how valued he is when the old man’s wife dismisses his demands. The old man harshly rebukes her telling her that the

seer is the mouthpiece of their departed fathers, we however {see that this belief

 

 

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does not add value since some of the advices given are bound to cause harm. The advice given to the old man by the seer supports this as the seer tells him ‘That the pebbles demand that he beats his wife and send her back to her father’s home.

According to the seer, the pebbles are jealous of a happy wife- a woman unmolested by her husband. This shows that this believe in the seer is of no benefit but rather causes harm.

The superstitious belief that having blood specks in a goat’s liver is a sign of something bad about to happen does not add any value, Tris is not based on any proven basis but is just a traditional belief. The old man goes to consult the seer since he had noted some blood specks in the liver of the goat he had slaughtered. The belief is so strong that the man does not agree with the wife’s dismissal of the seer’s demands. According to the wife, the seer was hitting back at her for turning down his marriage proposal. This argument that had been used previously does not appear believable at this time as the old man reminds the wife that the seer did not put blood specks on the goat’s liver.

Wife battering is another cultural practice that the people hold in esteem yet it causes more Karm than good. When the old man consults the Seer about the blood specks in the liver of the goat he had slaughtered, ‘the seer’s pebble disclose that a wife was going to die since the spirits were jealous of a happy wife, a woman unmolested by her husband until old age. This (Shows the value attached to wife molestation. To avert the death, the old man is asked togive his wife the ‘ritual beating before sending her back to her parent’s home. Although the old man offers to give a number of goats to avert the catastrophes, the pebbles keep demanding for the ritual beating forcing the old man and the wife to come up with a plan of tricking the pebbles. The harmful effect of the ritual beating is seen through Leveri, the wife to the old man’s son. The wife remembers how her daughter-in-law had been beaten to a fingernail’s distance to her grave by the son. This shows that the ritual beating can almost cause death hence the reason it should be discarded.

Although culture is a glue that holds people together, some of the outdated

practices should be gotten rid of as the cause more harm than good.

Question 4

War causes a lot of harm and thus should be avoided at any cost. Validate this statement basing your illustrations from Chimamanda Adichie’s ‘Ghosts’ (20 Marks)

Whenever parties engage in some form of fighting, there are grave implications that follow as is seen in Ghosts’ where the civil war that happened in July 6, 1967 cause suffering and pain to the people.

To start with, war is seen to cause displacement of several people. Many people are

forced to run away from their country and their homes when the civil war broke.

 

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Prof. James and Ikenna’s meeting takes James down the memory lane where he recounts how they were forced to evacuate Nsukka in a hurry in July 6, 1967 when the war began. Through their conversation, we learn that Ikenna has lived in Sweden ever since the war began and has only come back to Nsukka recently. He discloses that he was flown out on Red Cross planes just like many other children had been airlifted to Gabon. Prof. James did not escape the displacement since he and his wife, Ebere had to move to America when the war broke out. Many people are seen to have been forced to leave their motherland as a result of the civil war.

secondly, we see that war leads to loss of lives. Several people had their lives cut short due to the civil war that broke out. The return of Ikenna comes as a surprise to Prof, James since Ikenna was thought to have died in the war. It is no wonder that Prof initially thought of throwing a handful of sand at him just like his people did to ensure that it was not a ghost. Actual loss of life is seen through Ikenna’s family.

While explaining to prof the reason why he never returned to Nsukka after the war, Ikenna tells him that his whole family was killed when Orlu was bombed during the war thus he had nobody to come back to. It is not just Ikenna who lost loved ones but Prof too. His first daughter Zik died in the war. He tells Ikenna that the war took Zik. It is no wonder they named their second daughter Nkiruka which means: what is ahead is better.

Thirdly, war is seen to cause massive destruction and loss of properties. When Prof James and his wife first returned to Nsukka when the war ended in 1970, they notice major destructions that had occurred. Prof recounts how they found their house and items destroyed. His books were lying in front of the gate, his Mathematical Annals torn and used as tissue paper, the bath tab used as toilet and their photos ripped and their frames broken. The massive destruction of their house was too much that they had to be assigned a different house in a different street to avoid seeing their old house. In the process of their house being destroyed, they lose their Piano that belonged to Ebere. Prof also remembers the landscape of drove back to Nsukka after the war. The massive destruction a recounted by Prof shows how destructive war is.

Lastly, war causes psychological and physical suffering o live with nightmares the victims. Those who experience war and sad memories of it. Prof James is seen to have lived with the memories of the war. He easily remembers every detail of the war as he recounts it to Ikenna. Ikenna has suffered psychologically as is seen from the fact that he lost all his family in Orlu hence the reason he does not return to Nsukka.

His psychological suffering is further seen from the fact that he never remarries after the war took his wife. Further evidence o psychological pain is seen where Prof observes how his people avoided the topic of war and if they engaged in it, it was with some vagueness. The naming of their second daughter Nkiruka- what is ahead

 

 

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is better, also shows the pain that Prof and Ebere: were trying to avoid. The people also suffer physical pain. Prof.James remembers how a wounded soldier was shoved in their car on the day they returned to Nsukka«

War causes loss oflives, displacement ofpeoplej and destruction of properties among other effects. People should thus strive to live in harmony and avoid it at all costs.

Question 5

Lack of courtesy between the police and civilians leads to lethal conflicts. Justify the validity of this statement using illustrations from Meja Mwangi’s Incident in the park. (20 marks).

Across the world, over centuries, the behaviour of some of the police officers has caused dire repercussions. Sometimes this happens due to excessive use of force or simply wrongful application law and policies, but majoriy this occurs as a result of impolite

Incident in the Park shows how city dwellers, hawkers and loafers find themselves in conflicts with the police over flimsy and petty reasons often ending unpleasantly. When the two constables accost the fruit peddler, he gets startled and confused.

They demand for his licence and identity card which he obviously doesn’t have. Then he offers five shillings which doesn’t seem good enough as one constable shrugs. This means that at times if the offer were attractive, they would have accepted it and left him.

The police refuse to listen to the fruit merchant and harshly shove him along the street to the city telling him he will explain to the judge. This complicates matters even more because the fruit- seller fears the judge more. It throws him into more panic as he has a case that is coming up the following week and the judge is a “tyrant”. He explains further that he is selling this time so that he can afford of me but all his entreaties fall on deaf ears. They remain unimpressed saying nothing until he breaks away and flees into the crowded city.

The situation escalates when the constables chase the fleeing man shouting for help from the passers-by. They actually betroth him unto the mob. A city man intercepts him and another man lunges for him as shouts increase. Tossed here and there as a suspect, the desperate fruit peddler stumbles and falls into a ditch. No one seems to care to find out what really is happening before taking action. No one listens as he pleads for mercy. 7his is where he meets his ‘verdict’ which is death. According to the crowd, ‘justice’ is administered. The mob universally condemn him without plausible evidence.

By the time the police arrive at the scene, it is too late. Their action is irreversible

and fatal. Flie mob has already killed him for being a “thief”. They who are supposed

 

 

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to ensure public safety an security have aided the killing o/a hardworking hawker

by their silly mistake. This should not have happened if they had treated

the man Politely. An innocent life is so unnecessarily lost. This makes the public lose confidence in the police. after investigations the truth will come out and it will be hard to trust the police.

In a nutshell, wanton conflicts and deaths of innocent citizen could be averted if the

police handled matters with courtesy and sobriety.

Question 6

A Silent Song Leonard Kibera.

Action speaks louder than words. Discuss the truth of this saying using

illustrations from Leonard Kibera’s A Silent Song. (20 marks)

The character of an individual tells more than what they actually say. Mbane’s brother, Ezekiel, preaches water and takes wine. He is so devoted to God as a preacher, but neglects Mbane, to agonize in the streets for a long time until he almost dies.

When he brings Mbane to his hut claiming to rescue him from the barbaric city in order that he can see the light of God, the blind beggar starts to feel more lonely and miserable in the desolate environment. lhe desolate hut is not a habitable place for him as it has a flea-ridden floor. One wonders why he cannot live with his own brother in his own house! This action tells that the preacher does not love his brother.

It ironical for Ezekiel to keep preaching to his blind brother about Christ and salvation instead of first saving him from the harsh street beggary. Ezekiel seems to have already judged him as a sinner and that “Christ” will come down from heaven to do the good to him. Mbane dies miserably without much help from his brother.

This is least expected from a man of God who should Have preached to his brother

through actions of care and concern.

Ezekiel portrays religious hypocrisy since Christians would not throw insults and abuses to God’s people when they don’t agree with them on some issue, or when they do not show that they believe in Jesus Christ. When Mbane shows no interest in Christ, his brother tells him he is worse than a Judas. EIT1is lack of patience for a Christian, especially a preacher, is not morally acceptable.

Another action that tells of the preacher’s action is the meaning in his silence later as Mbane nears his death. Christians, good men and women on a Christmas morning, also display pretence in the way they curse and call him names instead of bringing the good knowledge of Christ to him. They claim, in his hearing, that he is an able-bodied person, only crippled more daily by the idleness of leisurely

 

 

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begging. He could only yearn impotently beyond the reach of darkness and lameness. At times, self-pity overcomes him. To him, the God ofthe Gospel and religion are comforts beyond his reach as a cripple. His God is his only hope of deliverance from pain, destitution and despair. The people’s actions discourage him about Christianity which they profess but not practice.

In conclusion, the true gospel is the action of an individual because it is more practical than mere words. Actions work and satisfy the heart more than proclaiming the word ofGod.

Question 7

Incident in the Park Meja Mwangi.

  1. Lack of courtesy between the police and civilians leads to lethal conflicts. Justify the validity of this statement using illustrations from Meja Mwangi’s Incident in the Park. (20 marks).

Across the world, over centuries, the behaviour of some of the police officers has caused dire repercussions. Sometimes this happens due to excessive use of force or simply wrongful application of the

law and policies, but majorly this occurs as a result of impolitel interactions

between the two parties.

Incident in the Park shows how city dwellers, hawkers and loafers find themselves in conflicts with the police over flimsy and petty reasons often ending unpleasantly. When the two constables accost the fruit peddler, he gets startled and confused.

They demand for his licence and identity card which he obviously doesn’t have. Then he offers five shillings which doesn’t seem good enough as one constable shrugs. This means that at times if the offer were attractive, they would have accepted it and left him.

The police refuse to listen to the fruit merchant and harshly shove him along the street to the city telling him he will explain to the judge. This complicates matters even more because the fruit- seller fears the judge more, It throws him into more panic as he has a case that is coming up the following week and the judge is a “tyrant”. He explains further that he is selling this time so that he can afford a fine but all his entreaties fall on deaf ears They remain unimpressed saying nothing until he breaks away and flees into the crowded city.

The situation escalates when the constables chase the fleeing man shouting for help from the passers-by. They actually betroth him unto the mob. A city man intercepts him and anotherman lunges for him as shouts increase. Tossed here and there as a suspect, the desperate fruit peddler stumbles and falls into a ditch, No one seems to care to find out what really is happening before taking action. No one listens as he pleads for mercy, This is where he meets his Verdict’ which is death. According to the crowd, ‘justice’ is administered. The mob universally condemn him without

plausible evidence.

By the time the police arrive at the scene, it is too late. Their action is irreversible and fatal. The mob has already killed him for being a “thief”. They who are supposed to ensure public safety and security have aided the killing of a hardworking hawker by their silly mistake. This should not have happened if they had treated the man politely. An innocent life is so unnecessarily lost. This makes the public lose confidence in the police. after investigations the truth will come out and it will be hard to trust the police.

In a nutshell, wanton conflicts and deaths of innocent citizens could be averted if

the police handled matters with courtesy and sobriety.

Question 8

A Silent Song Leonard Kibera.

  1. Action speaks louder than words. Discuss the truth of this saying using

illustrations from Leonard Kibera’s A Silent Song. (20 marks)

The character of an individual tells more than what they actually say. Mbane’s brother, Ezekiel, preaches water and takes wine. He is so devoted to God as a preacher, but neglects Mbane, to agonize in the streets for a long time until he almost dies. When he brings Mbane to his hut claiming to rescue him from the barbaric city in order that he can see the light of God, the blind beggar starts to feel more lonely and miserable in the desolate environment. The desolate hut is not a habitable place for him as it has a flea-ridden floor. One wonders why he cannot live with his own brother in his own house! This action tells that the preacher does not love his brother.

It ironical for Ezekiel to keep preaching to his blind brother abou Christ and salvation instead of first saving him from the harsh street beggary. Ezekiel seems to have already judged him as a sinner and that “Christ” will come down from heaven to do th good to him. Mbane dies miserably without much help from his

brother. This is least expected from a man of God who should have preached to his

brother through actions of care and concern.

Ezekiel portrays religious hypocrisy since Christians would not throw insults and abuses to God’s people when they don’t agree with them on some issue, or when they do not show that they believe in Jesus Christ. When Mbane shows no interest in Christ, his brother tells him he is worse than a Judas. This lack of patience for a Christian, especially a preacher, is not morally acceptable.

Another action that tells of the preacher’s action is the meaning in his silence later

as Mbane nears his death. Christians, good men and women on a Christmas

 

morning also display pretence in the way they curse and call him names instead of bringing the good knowledge of Christ to him. They claim, in his hearing, that he is an able-bodied person, only crippled more daily by the idleness of leisurely begging. He could only yearn impotently beyond the reach of darkness and lameness. At times self-pity overcomes him. To him, the God of the Gospel and religion are comforts beyond his reach as a cripple. His God is his only hope of deliverance from pain, destitution and despair. lie people’s actions discourage him about Christianity which they profess but not practice.

In conclusion, the true gospel is the action of an individual because it is more practical than mere words. Actions work and satisfy the heart more than proclaiming the word of God.

 

Form 2 Maths Exams and Marking Schemes Free

MATHEMATICS

TERM 3

 

NAME: …………………………………………………ADM NO……………….

CLASS………………..DATE…………………

FORM TWO

MATHEMATICS

TIME: 2 ½ HOURS

Instructions

  1. Write your name, adm no. class and date in the spaces provided above.
  2. The paper consists of two sections: section I and section II.
  3. Answer all the questions in section I and any five in section II
  4. Section I has sixteen questions and section II has eight questions
  5. All answers and working must be written on the question paper in the spaces provided below each question.
  6. Show all the steps in your calculations, giving your answers at each stage in

the spaces below each question

  1. KNEC Mathematical table and silent non-programmable calculators

may be used.

 


FOR EXAMINER’S USE ONLY

 

SECTION I

 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Total
                                 

 

SECTION II

GRAND TOTAL

 

 

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Total
                 

 

 

This paper consists of 14 printed pages

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 1 (50 MARKS)

Answer any FIVE questions in this section in the spaces provided

1.Evaluate:           +                                                                 (3mks)

of (  +)

 

 

 

 

2.Express as a fraction.                                                                                              (2mks )

0.

 

 

 

 

3.Simplify                                                                                                                   (3mks)

 

 

 

 

  1. Fifteen tractors each working eight hours a day take eight days to plough a piece of land. How long would it take 24 tractors each working 10 hours a day to plough the same piece of land 3mks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. The shaded region below shows the area swept out on a flat windscreen by a wiper. Calculate the area of the shaded region. (4mks)

 

 

 

4cm

 

 

16cm                120o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.The mass of two bags of beans and three bags of salt is 410kg. If the mass of three bags of beans and two bags of salt is 390kg, find the mass of each bag.                              (3mks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.The interior angle of a regular polygon is twice the exterior angle.

  1. Find the number of sides of the polygon. (3mks)

 

 

 

 

  1. What is the name of the polygon?       (1mks)

 

 

  1. The angle of elevation of a church tower from a point A, 50 metres away from the foot of the church is 24o. Find the distance between A and B if the angle of elevation of the tower from B is 20o. (4mks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.The figure below is a cross section of a swimming pool 8m wide. Calculate the capacity of the pool in litres.                                                                                                    (3mks)

 

 

30m

 

1m

3m

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Three litres of water (density 1g/cm³) is added to twelve litres of alcohol (density 0.8/cm³).What is the density of the mixture? (3mks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. The volume of two similar solid spheres are 4752cm³ and 1408cm³. If the surface area of the small sphere is 352cm², find the surface area of the larger sphere.             (3mks)

 

 

 

 

  1. Solve for x in the equation = 32 (3mks)

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Momanyi spent one eight of his February Salary on farming, half on school fees and two thirds of the remainder on food. Calculate his February salary and the amount he spend on school fees if he spent sh. 3200 on food. (3marks)

 

 

 

 

  1. Form three inequalities that satisfy the unshaded region R. (3marks)

 

  1. A Kenyan tourist in US borrowed 10,000 US dollars to pay for his son’s examination.

He is expected to pay either in Kenyan shillings or through an account in the United Kingdom in

sterling pounds.  If he decided to pay through United Kingdom, how much would he save given

that

1 US dollar                 = 82.4 Kenyan shillings

1 Sterling pound         = 1.4 US dollar

1 Sterling pound         = 105 Kenyan shillings                                  (3mks)

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Solve for X in the equation. (3mks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION II (50MKS)

Answer any FIVE questions in this section in the spaces provided

  1. The figure below shows a glass in form of a frustrum of a cone whose top and bottom diameter of 7cm and 3.5cm respectively. Its depth is 10cm. Taking ,

Calculate;

  1. a) Its total surface area. (5 marks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

b). Its capacity in litres.                                                                                             (5 marks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

18.Two friends Jane and Tom live 40km apart. One day Jane left her house at 9.00am and cycled towards Tom’s house at an average speed of 15km/hr. Tom left at 10.30am on the same day and cycled towards Jane’s house at an average speed of 25km/hr.

  1. Determine;
  2. The distance from Jane’s house, where the two friends met. (4 marks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. The time they met. (2 marks)

 

 

 

 

  • How far Jane was from Tom’s house when they met? (2 marks)

 

 

 

  1. The two friends took 10 minutes at the meeting point and they cycled to Tom’s house at an average speed of 12km/hr. Find the time they arrived at Tom’s house. (2 marks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Town Q is 180km on bearing of 050o from town P. Another town R is on a bearing 110o from P and also on compass bearing S 30oE from Q. Town S is South of P and also West of R.

Using scale 1 cm rep. 20 km;

  1. Draw the scale diagram to show the positions of the four towns. (6 marks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Use your scale diagram in (a) above to find;
  2. The distance of R from P. (1 mark)

 

 

  1. The bearing of Q from S. (1 mark)

 

 

  • The distance of Q from S. (1 mark)

 

 

  1. How far P is North of S. (1 mark)

 

  1. The mark of 100 candidates for mathematics examination were distributed as follows.
marks No of candidates(f) Mid-point(x) fx c.f
30-34

35-39

40-44

45-49

50-54

55-59

60-64

 

5

24

26

24

13

6

2

 

     

 

(a)Calculate

(i) The mean mark                                                                                          (2mks)

 

 

 

 

 

(ii) The median                                                                                               (3mks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(b) On the grid provided, draw a histogram.                                                             (3mks)

 

(c) On the same graph, draw a frequency polygon.                                       (1mk)

 

(d) Find the modal mark.                                                                                                       (1mk)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. The figure below shows two circles of radii 10.5 and 8.4cm and with centres A and B respectively. The common chord PQ is 9cm.

(a)       Calculate angle PAQ.                                                                                     (2 mks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(b)       Calculate angle PBQ.                                                                         (2 mks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(c)       Calculate the area of the shaded part.                                                (6 mks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Three business partners; Kamau, Tatwa and Makau contributed Ksh. 100,000, Ksh. 80,000 and Ksh. 50,000 respectively to start a business. After one year, the business realized a profit which they shared in the ratio of their contributions.
    • If Makau’s share of profit was Kshs. 20,000, how much was the total amount of profit?

(3mks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • At the beginning of the second year, Makau boosted his shares by Ksh. 10,000. If the business profit increased by 20% at the end of the second year, calculate:-
    • Kamau’s share of the profit.   (4mks)

 

 

 

 

 

  • The difference between Kamau’s and Tatwa’s share of profit.   (3mks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. (a) Show by shading the unwanted region, the region which satisfies the following inequalities (8mks)

 

Y > -3

4y ≤5x + 20

2y < – 5 x + 10

4y≤ -3x – 12

 

 

(b) Calculate the area of this region in a square units                                               (2mks)

 

 

 

 

  1. Triangle ABC has the vertices A (3, 1), B (2, 2) and C (3, 4).

(a)  On the grid provided draw triangle ABC and its image A1B1C1 under a rotation of negative quarter turn about the point (0,0)                                                                   (3 marks)

 

(b)   (i)  Draw triangle A11B11C11  the image of  A1B1C1 under a reflection in the line y = -x     (2 marks)

(ii)  Describe fully the transformation that maps A11B11C11 onto   ABC            (2 marks)

 

(c)    (i)  On the same axes draw triangle A111B111C111  the image of   A11B11C11 under a translation given by translation Vector

(iii)  State the co ordinates of  A111B111C111                         (2 marks)

 ______________________________________________________________________________________

MATHEMATICS FORM 2

MARKING SCHEME

1Evaluate:  +         +                                                                                 (2mks)

of (  + )

 

:  +      +

of (  + )

 

+

=

 

=25+  = 25

 

 

  1. Let r= 0.1515

100r=15.1515

99r=15.0000

R=  =

  1. Simplify (2mks)

a(y-x)= a(y-x) = a = -a

b(y-x)   – b(y-x) –b    b

  1. T D                 H

15               8                  8

24                                   10

15/24          x        8/10×8= 4 days

 

 

 

 

5.

 

 

A1 = 0/360  r2

=120/360×3.142×202=418.933cm2

4cm                                                                  = 2.68.117cm2

 

Area of shaded region.=418.933-268.17

16cm            120o                                                     =150.816cm2

 

 

 

  1. 2b+3s=410

3b+2s=390

4b+6s=820

9b+6b=1170

5b+0=350

5b=350

5     5

2×70+35=410

140+35=410

3s=410-140

3s=270

3      3

S=90

Beans=70bags

Salt=90bag

7a). Let the exterior angle be x

X+2x=180

3x=180

X=60o

no  of sides

360/60=6

 

  1. b) Hexagon

 

  1. Tan 24o= h/50

50 tan 24o = H

Tan 20o = H/(50 +x)

(50+x) tan 20=H

18.1999+0.364x=22.26

0.3640c=22.26-18.199

0.364x=4.061

X=4.061

0.364

=11.16m

 

  1. Volume of water=Ah

A=1/2(1×3) x 30= 60m2

V=60m2 x 8m=480m3

1m3=1000L

480m3=?

480m3 x 1000L

1m3

= 480,000L

 

  1. Total vol = 15 litres = 15000cm³

Tota; mass = 3000g + (12000 ´ 0.8)g

= 3000g + 9600g = 12600g                                                        M1

Density   =                                                                    M1

= 0.84g/cm³                                                                           A1

 

  1. VSF = 3.375

LSF =                                                                                                                M1

ASF = (1.5)²

Area of larger cylinder

= 352 x 2.25= 792cm²                                                                                                                                  A1

  1. X 1- X = 32

 

( X 1- X =

 

 

 

 

13.

1.

February salary

School fees

 

 

M1

 

 

 

 

A1

 

 

B1

 

 

14.

2. B1

B1

B1

 

 

 

 

  1. 10,000 ´ 82.4 = 824000 M1

10,000                                                                          M1

824000 – 750000 =

Sh.74000                                                                                                         A1

 

  1. L.C.M=12 24x-16-12x+6=12-10x

24x-12x+10x=12-6+16

22x=22

X=1

 

 

SECTION II

 

17
x = 9.85
9.85
3.5
10
1.75
3.5
1.75
ℓ = 9.85

L = 19.69

a)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

T.S.A =  + ( RL – rL)

= (r2 + RL – rL)

=  (1.752 + 3.52 x 19.69 – 1.75 x 9.85)

=  x 54.18

= 171.1cm2

 

b) Vol = R2H – r2h

H = 20

h = 10

(R2H – r2h)

(3.52 x 20 – 1.752 x 10)

(245 – 30.625)

x 214.375

cm3

 

 

 

 

 

 

B1

 

 

 

M1

M1

M1

A1

 

 

B1

 

 

M1

M1

 

M1

A1

 

 

 

 

18a) i)      10.30

9.00

1.30

Jane travelled =  x 15 = 22.5

Distance before Tom starts journey

Relative speed = 15 + 25 = 40km/hr

T.T.T.M =

= 0.4375 hrs

15 x 0.4375 = 6.5625km

22.5 + 6.5625

= 29.0625km

 

ii)    They met after 0.4375 hrs

= 0.4375 x 60

= 26 minutes

10.30

+   26

10.56am

iii)  Jane had travelled 29.0625km

= 40.00 – 29.0625

= 10.9375km

 

b)    = 0.91146 hrs

0.91146 hrs = 55 minutes

Add rest time = 10 minutes

= 65 = 1 hr 5 minutes

10.56

+1.05

12.01 pm

 

 

 

M1

 

 

M1

 

B1

 

A1

 

 

 

M1

 

 

M1

 

B1

B1

 

 

 

 

M1

 

 

A1

 
    10  

 

 

 

19 a)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

b)

i)      Distance R from P

= 13.4cm ± 0.1

But 1 cm rep 20km = 13.4 x 20 = 268km

 

ii)    Bearing of Q from S

034o ± 001o

 

iii)  Distance of Q from S

12.4cm ± 0.1

But 1cm rep 20km = 12.4 x 20 = 248km

iv)   How far P is north of S

= 4.5cm

But 1cm rep 20km = 4.5 x 20 = 90km

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

B1

 

 

B1

 

 

 

B1

 

 

B1

     
     

 

 

 

 

 

21 a)

< PAQ = <PAM + <QAM

< PAM = sinθ1 =

Sin -1 (0.4286) = 25.380

< QAM = <PAM = 25.38

→<LAP = 25.38×2= 50.76

 

b)  <PBQ = < PBM + <QBM

< PBM = sin∝1 =

Sin-1 (0.5357) = 32.390

< PBM = <QBM = 32.390

<PBQ = 32.390x 2 = 64.78

 

 

 

c)i)

 

area of segment = area of a section – area of D

Taking (i)

=

= 48.84 – 42.69 = 6.15cm2

Taking (ii)

=

= 39.89 – 31.92 = 7.97cm2

= (6.15 + 7.97) cm2 = 14.12cm2

 

 

 

 

 

M1

 

A1

 

 

 

 

M1

 

A1

 

 

 

 

 

M1

 

 

B1

 

M1M1

 

B1

 

A1

 
       

 

22.a) Kamau              Tatwa           Makau

100,000             80,000         50,000

10           :          8         :        5

5     = 20,000

23

1 = ?

20,000 x 23

5

= 92,000

 

(a)    (i)  New Ratio

5 : 4 : 3

120 x 92,000

100

New profit = 110,400

 

Kamau’s share = 5 x 110,400

12

= 46,000

 

(ii)  Tatwa’s share = 4 x 110,400

12

= 36,800

Difference = 46,000 – 36,800

= 9,200

 

 

 

B1

 

M1

 

 

A1

 

 

 

B1

 

B1

 

 

M1

 

A1

 

M1

 

M1

 

A1

 
  10  

 

 

FORM 2 CHEMISTRY NOTES- UPDATED PDF

A.ATOMIC STRUCTURE

The atom is the smallest particle of an element that take part in a chemical reaction. The atom is made up of three subatomic particles:

          (i)Protons

          (ii)Electrons

          (iii)Neutrons

 

(i)Protons

1.The proton is positively charged

2.Is found in the centre of an atom called nucleus

3.It has a relative  mass 1

4.The number of protons in a atom of an element is its Atomic number

 

 (ii)Electrons

1.The Electrons is negatively charged

2.Is found in fixed regions surrounding the centre of an atom called energy levels/orbitals.

3.It has a relative  mass 1/1840

4.The number of protons and electrons  in a atom of an element is always equal

 

(iii)Neutrons

1.The Neutron is neither positively or negatively charged thus neutral.

2.Like protons it is found in the centre of an atom called nucleus

3.It has a relative  mass 1

4.The number of protons and neutrons in a atom of an element is its Mass number

 

Diagram showing the relative positions of protons ,electrons and neutrons in an atom of an element

 

 

 

Diagram showing the relative positions of protons, electrons and neutrons in an atom of Carbon

 

 

 

The table below show atomic structure of the 1st twenty elements.

 


Element
Symbol Protons Electrons Neutrons Atomic
number
Mass number

 

Hydrogen H 1 1 0 1 1
Helium He 2 2 2 2 4
Lithium Li 3 3 4 3 7
Beryllium Be 4 4 5 4 9
Boron B 5 5 6 5 11
Carbon C 6 6 6 6 12
Nitrogen N 7 7 7 7 14
Oxygen O 8 8 8 8 16
Fluorine F 9 9 10 9 19
Neon Ne 10 10 10 10 20
Sodium Na 11 11 12 11 23
Magnesium Mg 12 12 12 12 24
Aluminium Al 13 13 14 13 27
Silicon Si 14 14 14 14 28
Phosphorus P 15 15 16 15 31
Sulphur S 16 16 16 16 32
Chlorine Cl 17 17 18 17 35
Argon Ar 18 18 22 18 40
Potassium K 19 19 20 19 39
Calcium Ca 20 20 20 20 40

Most atoms of elements exist as isotopes.

Isotopes are atoms of the same element, having the same number of protons/atomic number but different number of neutrons/mass number.

By convention, isotopes are written with the mass number as superscript and the atomic number as subscript to the left of the chemical symbol of the element. i.e.

mass number

atomic  number                   m n  X            symbol of element

 

Below is the conventional method of writing the 1st twenty elements showing the mass numbers and atomic numbers;

 

11H                        42He             73Li              94Be             115B                 126C

 

147N                         168O          199F              2010Ne                    2311Na                       2412Mg

 

2713Al                     2814Si            3115P             3216S             3517Cl               4018Ar

 

3919K                      4020C

 

The table below shows some common natural isotopes of some elements

 

Element Isotopes Protons Electrons Neutrons Atomic

number

Mass

number

Hydrogen 11H

21H(deuterium)

31H(Tritium)

1

1

1

1

1

1

0

2

3

1

1

1

 

1

2

3

Chlorine 3517Cl

3717Cl

17

17

17

17

18

20

17

17

35

37

Potassium 3919K

4019K

4119K

19

19

19

19

19

19

20

21

22

19

19

19

39

40

41

Oxygen 168O

188O

8

8

8

8

8

10

8

8

16

18

Uranium 23592U

23892U

 

92

92

92

92

143

146

92

92

235

238

Neon 2210Ne

2010Ne

2110Ne

10

10

10

10

10

10

12

10

11

10

10

10

22

20

21

The mass of an average atom is very small (10-22 g).Masses of atoms are therefore expressed in relation to a chosen element.

The atom recommended is 12C isotope whose mass is arbitrarily assigned as 12.000 atomic mass units(a.m.u) .

All other atoms are compared to the mass of 12C isotope to give the relative at The relative atomic mass(RAM) is therefore defined as “the mass of average atom of an element  compared to  1/12  an atom of 12C isotope whose mass is arbitrarily fixed as 12.000 atomic mass units(a.m.u) ” i.e;

 

RAM   =      mass of  atom of an element

1/12  of one atom of 12C isotope

 

Accurate relative atomic masses (RAM) are got from the mass spectrometer. Mass spectrometer determines the isotopes of the element and their relative abundance/availability.

Using the relative abundances/availability of the isotopes, the relative atomic mass (RAM) can be determined /calculated as in the below examples.

  1. Chlorine occurs as 75% 3517Cl and 25% 3717Cl isotopes. Calculate the relative atomic mass of Chlorine.

 

Working

100 atoms of chlorine contains 75 atoms of 3517Cl isotopes

100 atoms of chlorine contains 75 atoms of 3717Cl isotopes

Therefore;

RAM  of chlorine = ( 75/100 x 35)   +  25/100  x 37 =  35.5

Note that:

Relative atomic mass has no units

More atoms of chlorine exist as 3517Cl(75%) than as 3717Cl(25%)     therefore RAM is nearer to the more abundant isotope.

 

  1. Calculate the relative atomic mass of potassium given that it exist as;

93.1%  3919K ,  0.01%  4019K  ,  6.89%  4119K ,

 

Working

100 atoms of potassium contains 93.1 atoms of 3919K isotopes

100 atoms of potassium contains 0.01 atoms of 4019K isotopes

100 atoms of potassium contains 6.89 atoms of 4119K isotopes

Therefore;

RAM  of potassium = (93.1/100 x39) + (0.01/100 x 40) +(6.89 /100 x 39)

=

Note that:

Relative atomic mass has no units

More atoms of potassium exist as 3919K (93.1%) therefore RAM is nearer to the more abundant 3919K  isotope.

 

  1. Calculate the relative atomic mass of Neon given that it exist as;

90.92%  2010Ne ,  0.26%  2110Ne  ,  8.82%  2210Ne,

 

Working

100 atoms of Neon contains 90.92 atoms of 2010Ne  isotopes

100 atoms of Neon contains 0.26 atoms of 2110Ne  isotopes

100 atoms of Neon contains 8.82 atoms of 2210 Ne  isotopes          Therefore;

RAM  of  Neon = (90.92/100 x20) + (0.26/100 x 21) +(8.82 /100 x 22)

=

Note that:

Relative atomic mass has no units

More atoms of Neon exist as 2010Ne (90.92%) therefore RAM is nearer to the more abundant 2010Ne  isotope.

 

  1. Calculate the relative atomic mass of Argon given that it exist as;

90.92%  2010Ne ,  0.26%  2110Ne  ,  8.82%  2210Ne,

NB

The relative atomic mass is a measure of the masses of atoms. The higher the relative atomic mass, the heavier the atom.

 

Electrons are found in energy levels/orbital.

An energy level is a fixed region around/surrounding the nucleus of an atom occupied by electrons of the same (potential) energy.

By convention energy levels are named 1,2,3… outwards  from the region nearest to nucleus.

 

Each energy level is occupied by a fixed number of electrons:

The 1st energy level is occupied by a maximum of two electrons

The 2nd  energy level is occupied by a maximum of eight electrons

The  3rd  energy level is occupied by a maximum of eight electrons( or   eighteen electrons if available)

The  4th   energy level is occupied by a maximum of eight electrons( or eighteen or thirty two electrons if available)

 

This arrangement of electrons in an atom is called electron configuration / structure.

By convention the electron configuration / structure of an atom of an element can be shown in form of a diagram using either cross(x) or dot() to

 

Practice examples  drawing electronic configurations

 

a)11H has – in nucleus1proton and 0 neutrons

– 1 electron in the 1st energy levels thus:

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons(represented by cross(x)

 

Electronic structure of Hydrogen is thus: 1:

                   

  1. b) 42He has – in nucleus 2 proton and 2 neutrons – 2 electron in the 1st energy levels thus:

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by cross(x)

 

 

Electronic structure of Helium is thus: 2:

 

  1. c) 73Li has – in nucleus 3 proton and 4 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

1 electron in the 2nd  energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by cross(x)

 

 

Electronic structure of  Lithium is thus: 2:1

 

  1. d) 94Be has – in nucleus 4 proton and 5 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

2 electron in the 2nd  energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by cross(x)

 

Electronic structure of  Beryllium is thus: 2:2

 

  1. e) 115B has – in nucleus 5 proton and 6 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

3 electron in the 2nd  energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by cross(x)

 

 

Electronic structure of  Boron is thus: 2:3

 

  1. f)   126C  has      – in nucleus 6 proton and 6 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

4 electron in the 2nd  energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by cross(x)

 

 

Electronic structure of  Carbon is thus: 2:4

 

  1. g) 147N has – in nucleus 7 proton and 7 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

5 electron in the 2nd  energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by cross(x)

 

 

Electronic structure of  Nitrogen is thus: 2:5

 

  1. h) 168O has – in nucleus 8 proton and 8 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

6 electron in the 2nd  energy levels thus

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by cross(x)

 

 

Electronic structure of  Oxygen is thus: 2:6

 

 

  1. i) 199F has – in nucleus 9 proton and 10 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

7 electron in the 2nd  energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by cross(x)

 

 

 

Electronic structure of  Fluorine is thus: 2:7

  1. i) 2010Ne has – in nucleus 10 proton and 10 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

8 electron in the 2nd  energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by cross(x)

 

 

Electronic structure of  Neon is thus: 2:8

 

  1. j) 2311Na has – in nucleus 11 proton and 12 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

8 electron in the 2nd  energy levels

1 electron in the 3rd   energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by dot(.)

 

 

Electronic structure of  Sodium is thus: 2:8:1

 

  1. k) 2412Mg has – in nucleus 12 proton and 12 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

8 electron in the 2nd  energy levels

2 electron in the 3rd   energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by dot(.)

 

 

Electronic structure of  Magnesium is thus: 2:8:2

  1. l) 2713Al has – in nucleus 13 proton and 14 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

8 electron in the 2nd  energy levels

3 electron in the 3rd   energy levels thus

 

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by dot(.)

 

 

Electronic structure of  Aluminium is thus: 2:8:3

 

  1. m) 2814Si has – in nucleus 14 proton and 14 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

8 electron in the 2nd  energy levels

4 electron in the 3rd   energy levels thus

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by dot(.)

Electronic structure of  Silicon is thus: 2:8:4

 

  1. n) 3115P has – in nucleus 14 proton and 15 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

8 electron in the 2nd  energy levels

5 electron in the 3rd   energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by dot(.)

Electronic structure of  Phosphorus is thus: 2:8:5

 

  1. o) 3216S has – in nucleus 16 proton and 16 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

8 electron in the 2nd  energy levels

6 electron in the 3rd   energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by dot(.)

Electronic structure of  Sulphur is thus: 2:8:6

 

  1. p) 3517Cl has – in nucleus 18 proton and 17 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

8 electron in the 2nd  energy levels

7 electron in the 3rd   energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by dot(.)

Electronic structure of  Chlorine is thus: 2:8:7

 

  1. p) 4018Ar has – in nucleus 22 proton and 18 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

8 electron in the 2nd  energy levels

8 electron in the 3rd   energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by dot(.)

Electronic structure of  Argon is thus: 2:8:8

 

  1. q) 3919K has – in nucleus 20 proton and 19 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

8 electron in the 2nd  energy levels

8 electron in the 3rd   energy levels

1 electron in the 4th   energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by dot(.)

Electronic structure of  Potassium is thus: 2:8:8:1

 

  1. r) 4020Ca has – in nucleus 20 proton and 20 neutrons

2 electron in the 1st energy levels

8 electron in the 2nd  energy levels

8 electron in the 3rd   energy levels

2 electron in the 4th   energy levels thus

 

 

Nucleus

Energy levels

Electrons (represented by dot(.)

Electronic structure of  Calcium is thus: 2:8:8:2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

B.PERIODIC TABLE

 

There are over 100 elements so far discovered. Scientists have tried to group them together in a periodic table.

A periodic table is a horizontal and vertical arrangement of elements according to their atomic numbers.

This table was successfully arranged in 1913 by the British scientist Henry Moseley from the previous work of the Russian Scientist Dmitri Mendeleev.

The horizontal arrangement forms period. Atoms in the same period have the same the same number of energy levels in their electronic structure. i.e.

The number of energy levels in the electronic configuration of an element determine the period to which the element is in the periodic table.

e.g.

Which period of the periodic table are the following isotopes/elements/atoms?

  1. 126C

 

Electron structure 2:4 => 2 energy levels used thus Period 2

  1. 2311Na

 

Electron structure 2:8:1 => 3 energy levels used thus Period 3

  1. 3919K

 

Electron structure 2:8:8:1 => 4 energy levels used thus Period 4

  1. 11H

Electron structure 1: => 1 energy level used thus Period 1

 

The vertical arrangement of elements  forms a group. Atoms in the same have the same the same group have the same number of outer energy level electrons as  per their electronic structure. i.e.

The number of electrons in the outer energy level  an element determine the group to which the element is ,in the periodic table.

 

  1. 126C

Electron structure 2:4 => 4 electrons in outer energy level thus Group IV

  1. 2311C

Electron structure 2:8:1 => 1 electron in outer energy level thus Group I

 

  1. 3919K

 

Electron structure 2:8:8:1=>1 electron in outer energy level thus Group I

 

  1. 11H

Electron structure 1: => 1 electron in outer energy level thus Group I

 

By convention;

 (i)Periods are named using English numerals 1,2,3,4,…

(ii)Groups are named using Roman numerals I,II,III,IV,…

 

There are eighteen groups in a standard periodic table.

There are seven periods in a standard periodic table.

 

THE STANDARD PERIODIC TABLE OF ELEMENTS

 

 

When an atom has maximum number of electrons in its outer energy level, it is said to be stable.

When an atom has no maximum number of electrons in its outer energy level, it is said to be unstable.

 All stable atoms are in group 8/18 of the periodic table. All other elements are unstable.

All unstable atoms/isotopes try to be stable through chemical reactions. A chemical reaction involves gaining or losing outer electrons (electron transfer) .When electron transfer take place, an ion is formed.

 

An ion is formed when an unstable atom gain or donate electrons in its outer energy level inorder to be stable. Whether an atom gain or donate electrons depend on the relative energy required to donate or gain extra electrons i.e.

Examples

  1. 199 F has electronic structure/configuration 2:7.

It can donate the seven outer electrons to have stable electronic structure/configuration 2:.

It can gain one extra electron to have stable electronic structure/configuration 2:8. Gaining requires less energy, and thus  Fluorine reacts by gaining one extra electrons.

  1. 2313 Al has electronic structure/configuration 2:8:3

It can donate the three outer electrons to have stable electronic structure/configuration 2:8.

It can gain five extra electrons to have stable electronic structure/configuration 2:8:8. Donating requires less energy, and thus  Aluminium reacts by donating its three outer electrons.

 

Elements with less than four electrons in the outer energy level donates /lose the outer electrons to be stable and form a positively charged ion called cation.

A cation therefore has more protons(positive charge) than electrons(negative charge)

 Generally metals usually form cation

Elements with more than four electrons in the outer energy level gain /acquire extra  electrons in the outer energy level to be stable and form a negatively charged ion called anion.

An anion therefore has less protons(positive charge) than electrons(negative charge)

Generally non metals usually form anion. Except  Hydrogen

The charge carried by an ion is equal to the number of electrons gained/acquired or donated/lost.

 

Examples of ion formation

 

1.11H

H                    ->              H+                +                   e

(atom)     (monovalent cation)       (electrons donated/lost)

Electronic configuration 1:                  (No electrons remains)

 

 

  1. 2713 Al

Al                ->                 Al3+              +                  3e

(atom)                              (trivalent cation)  (3 electrons donated/lost)

Electron    2:8:3                                   2:8

structure   (unstable)                          (stable)

 

  1. 2311 Na

Na                ->                 Na+              +                  e

(atom)                              (cation)           ( 1 electrons donated/lost)

Electron    2:8:1                                   2:8

structure   (unstable)                          (stable)

 

  1. 2412Mg

Mg               ->                 Mg2+            +                  2e

(atom)                              (cation)           ( 2 electrons donated/lost)

Electron    2:8:1                                   2:8

structure   (unstable)                          (stable)

 

  1. 168O

O       +                 2e                     ->                  O2-

(atom)             ( 2 electrons gained/acquired)      (anion)

Electron    2:6                                                                         2:8

structure   (unstable)                                                           (stable)

 

  1. 147N

N       +                 3e                     ->                  N3-

(atom)             ( 3 electrons gained/acquired)      (anion)

Electron    2:5                                                                         2:8

structure   (unstable)                                                           (stable)

 

  1. 3115P

P        +                 3e                     ->                  P3-

(atom)             ( 3 electrons gained/acquired)      (anion)

Electron    2:5                                                                         2:8

structure   (unstable)                                                           (stable)

 

  1. 199F

F        +                 e                     ->                    F

(atom)             ( 1 electrons gained/acquired)      (anion)

Electron    2:7                                                                         2:8

structure   (unstable)                                                           (stable)

 

  1. 3517Cl

Cl       +                 e                     ->                    Cl

(atom)             ( 1 electrons gained/acquired)      (anion)

Electron    2:8:7                                                                      2:8:8

structure   (unstable)                                                           (stable)

 

  1. 3919 K

K                 ->                 K+                +                  e

(atom)                              (cation)           ( 1 electrons donated/lost)

Electron    2:8:8:1                                2:8:8

structure   (unstable)                          (stable)

 

When an element donate/loses its outer electrons ,the process is called oxidation. When an element acquires/gains extra electrons in  its outer energy level,the process is called reduction.The  charge carried by an atom, cation  or anion is its oxidation state.

 

Table showing the oxidation states of some isotopes

Element Symbol of element / isotopes Charge of ion Oxidation state
Hydrogen 11H

21H(deuterium)

31H(Tritium)

H+

H+

H+

+1

+1

+1

Chlorine 3517Cl

3717Cl

 

 

Cl

Cl

-1

-1

Potassium 3919K

4019K

4119K

 

K+

K+

K+

+1

+1

+1

Oxygen 168O

188O

 

O2-

O2-

-2

-2

Magnesium 2412Mg Mg2+ +2
sodium 2311Na Na+ +1
Copper Cu Cu+

Cu2+

+1

+2

Iron   Fe2+

Fe3+

+2

+3

Lead   Pb2+

Pb4+

+2

+4

Manganese   Mn2+

Mn7+

+2

+7

Chromium   Cr3+

Cr6+

+3

+6

Sulphur   S4+

S6+

+4

+6

Carbon   C2+

C4+

+2

+4

 

Note :

Some elements can exist in  more than one oxidation state.They are said to have variable oxidation state.

Roman capital numeral is used to indicate the oxidation state of an element with a variable oxidation state in a compound.

 

Examples:

  • Copper (I) means Cu+ as in Copper(I)oxide
  • Copper (II) means Cu2+ as in Copper(II)oxide
  • Iron (II) means Fe2+ as in Iron(II)sulphide

(iv)    Iron (III) means Fe3+ as in Iron(III)chloride

  • Sulphur(VI)mean S6+ as in Iron(III)sulphate(VI)
  • Sulphur(VI)mean S6+ as in sulphur(VI)oxide
  • Sulphur(IV)mean S4+ as in sulphur(IV)oxide
  • Sulphur(IV)mean S4+ as in sodium sulphate(IV)

(ix)    Carbon(IV)mean C4+ as in carbon(IV)oxide

(x)     Carbon(IV)mean C4+ as in Lead(II)carbonate(IV)

(xi)    Carbon(II)mean C2+ as in carbon(II)oxide

(xii)   Manganese(IV)mean Mn4+ as in Manganese(IV)oxide

 

A compound is a combination of two or more elements in fixed proportions. The   ratio of the atoms making a compound is called the chemical formulae. Elements combine together to form a compound depending on their combining power.

The combining power of atoms in an element is called Valency.Valency of an element is equal to the number of:

(i)hydrogen atoms that an atom of element can combine with or displace.

(ii)electrons gained /acquired in outer energy level by non metals to be   stable/attain  duplet/octet.

(iii)electrons donated/lost by outer energy level of metals to be stable/attain octet/duplet.

(iv)charges carried by ions/cations/ions

Group of atoms that react as a unit during chemical reactions are called radicals.Elements with variable oxidation state also have more than one valency.

 

Table showing the valency of common radicals.

 

Radical name Chemical formulae Combining power / Valency
Ammonium NH4 + 1
Hydroxide OH 1
Nitrate(V) NO3 1
Hydrogen carbonate HCO3 1
Hydrogen sulphate(VI) HSO4 1
Hydrogen sulphate(IV) HSO3 1
Manganate(VII) MnO4 1
Chromate(VI) CrO42- 2
Dichromate(VI) Cr2O72- 2
Sulphate(VI) SO42- 2
Sulphate(IV) SO32- 2
Carbonate(IV) CO32- 2
Phosphate(V) PO42- 3

 

Table showing the valency of some common metal and non metals

 

Element/metal Valency Element/non metal Valency

 

Hydrogen 1 Florine 1
Lithium 1 Chlorine 1
Beryllium 2 Bromine 1
Boron 3 Iodine 1
Sodium 1 Carbon 4
Magnesium 2 Nitrogen 3
Aluminium 3 Oxygen 2
Potassium 1 Phosphorus 3
Calcium 2    
Zinc 2    
Barium 2    
Mercury 2    
Iron 2 and 3    
Copper 1 and 2    
Manganese 2 and 4    
Lead 2 and 4    

 

From the valency of elements , the chemical formular of a compound can be derived using the following procedure:

(i)Identify the elements and radicals making the compound

(ii)Write  the symbol/formular  of the elements making the compound     starting with the metallic element

(iii)Assign the valency of each element /radical as superscript.

(iv)Interchange/exchange the valencies of each element as subscript.

(v)Divide by the smallest/lowest valency to derive the smallest whole  number ratios

Ignore a valency of 1.

This is the chemical formula.

 

Practice examples

Write the chemical formula of

 (a)Aluminium oxide

 

Elements making compound Aluminium Oxygen
Symbol of elements/radicals in compound Al O
Assign valencies as superscript Al3 O2
Exchange/Interchange the valencies as subscript Al2 O3
Divide by smallest valency to get whole number

 

Chemical formula of Aluminium oxide is thus: Al2 O3

This means:2atoms of Aluminium combine with 3 atoms of Oxygen

 

(b)Sodium oxide

 

Elements making compound Sodium Oxygen
Symbol of elements/radicals in compound Na O
Assign valencies as superscript Na1 O2
Exchange/Interchange the valencies as subscript Na2 O1
Divide by smallest valency to get whole number

 

Chemical formula of Sodium oxide is thus: Na2 O

This means:2atoms of Sodium combine with 1 atom of Oxygen

 

(c)Calcium oxide

 

Elements making compound Calcium Oxygen
Symbol of elements/radicals in compound Ca O
Assign valencies as superscript Ca2 O2
Exchange/Interchange the valencies as subscript Ca2 O2
Divide by two to get smallest whole number ratio Ca1 O1

 

Chemical formula of Calcium oxide is thus: CaO

This means:1 atom of calcium combine with 1 atom of Oxygen.

 

(d)Lead(IV)oxide

 

Elements making compound Lead Oxygen
Symbol of elements/radicals in compound Pb O
Assign valencies as superscript Pb4 O2
Exchange/Interchange the valencies as subscript Pb2 O4
Divide by two to get smallest whole number ratio Pb1 O2

 

Chemical formula of Lead(IV) oxide is thus: PbO2

This means:1 atom of lead combine with 2 atoms of Oxygen.

 

(e)Lead(II)oxide

 

Elements making compound Lead Oxygen
Symbol of elements/radicals in compound Pb O
Assign valencies as superscript Pb2 O2
Exchange/Interchange the valencies as subscript Pb2 O2
Divide by two to get smallest whole number ratio Pb1 O1

 

Chemical formula of Lead(II) oxide is thus: PbO

This means:1 atom of lead combine with 1 atom of Oxygen.

 

(e)Iron(III)oxide

 

Elements making compound Iron Oxygen
Symbol of elements/radicals in compound Fe O
Assign valencies as superscript Fe3 O2
Exchange/Interchange the valencies as subscript Fe2 O3
Divide by two to get smallest whole number ratio

 

Chemical formula of Iron(III) oxide is thus: Fe2O3

This means:2 atom of lead combine with 3 atom of Oxygen.

 

(f)Iron(II)sulphate(VI)

 

Elements making compound Iron sulphate(VI)
Symbol of elements/radicals in compound Fe SO4
Assign valencies as superscript Fe2 SO4 2
Exchange/Interchange the valencies as subscript Fe2 SO4  2
Divide by two to get smallest whole number ratio Fe1 SO4  1

 

Chemical formula of Iron(II) sulphate(VI) is thus: FeSO4

This means:1 atom of Iron combine with 1 sulphate(VI) radical.

 

(g)Copper(II)sulphate(VI)

 

Elements making compound Copper sulphate(VI)
Symbol of elements/radicals in compound Cu SO4
Assign valencies as superscript Cu2 SO4 2
Exchange/Interchange the valencies as subscript Cu2 SO4  2
Divide by two to get smallest whole number ratio Cu1 SO4  1

 

Chemical formula of Cu(II)sulphate(VI) is thus: CuSO4

This means:1 atom of Copper combine with 1 sulphate(VI) radical.

 

(h)Aluminium sulphate(VI)

 

Elements making compound Aluminium sulphate(VI)
Symbol of elements/radicals in compound Al SO4
Assign valencies as superscript Al3 SO4 2
Exchange/Interchange the valencies as subscript Al2 SO4  3
Divide by two to get smallest whole number ratio

 

Chemical formula of Aluminium sulphate(VI) is thus: Al2(SO4)3

This means:2 atom of Aluminium combine with 3 sulphate(VI) radical.

 

(i)Aluminium nitrate(V)

 

Elements making compound Aluminium nitrate(V)
Symbol of elements/radicals in compound Al NO3
Assign valencies as superscript Al3 NO3 1
Exchange/Interchange the valencies as subscript Al1 NO3  3
Divide by two to get smallest whole number ratio

 

Chemical formula of Aluminium sulphate(VI) is thus: Al (NO3)3

This means:1 atom of Aluminium combine with 3 nitrate(V) radical.

 

(j)Potassium  manganate(VII)

 

Elements making compound Potassium manganate(VII)
Symbol of elements/radicals in compound K MnO4
Assign valencies as superscript K 1 MnO4 1
Exchange/Interchange the valencies as subscript K1 MnO4 1
Divide by two to get smallest whole number ratio

 

Chemical formula of Potassium manganate(VII) is thus: KMnO4

This means:1 atom of Potassium combine with 4 manganate(VII) radical.

 

(k)Sodium  dichromate(VI)

 

Elements making compound Sodium dichromate(VI)
Symbol of elements/radicals in compound Na Cr2O7
Assign valencies as superscript Na 1 Cr2O7 2
Exchange/Interchange the valencies as subscript Na2 Cr2O7 1
Divide by two to get smallest whole number ratio

 

Chemical formula of Sodium dichromate(VI) is thus: Na2 Cr2O7

This means:2 atom of Sodium combine with 1 dichromate(VI) radical.

 

(l)Calcium  hydrogen carbonate

 

Elements making compound Calcium Hydrogen carbonate
Symbol of elements/radicals in compound Ca CO3
Assign valencies as superscript Ca 2 HCO3 1
Exchange/Interchange the valencies as subscript Ca1 HCO3  2
Divide by two to get smallest whole number ratio

 

Chemical formula of Calcium hydrogen carbonate is thus: Ca(HCO3)2

This means:1 atom of Calcium  combine with 2 hydrogen carbonate radical.

 

(l)Magnesium  hydrogen sulphate(VI)

 

Elements making compound Magnesium Hydrogen sulphate(VI)
Symbol of elements/radicals in compound Mg HSO4
Assign valencies as superscript Mg 2 HSO4 1
Exchange/Interchange the valencies as subscript Mg1 HSO4  2
Divide by two to get smallest whole number ratio

 

Chemical formula of Magnesium hydrogen sulphate(VI) is thus: Mg(HSO4)2

This means:1 atom of Magnesium  combine with 2 hydrogen sulphate(VI) radical.

 

Compounds are formed from chemical reactions. A chemical reaction is formed when atoms of the reactants break free to bond again and form products. A chemical reaction is a statement showing the movement of reactants to form products. The following procedure is used in writing a chemical  equations:

  1. Write the word equation
  2. Write the correct chemical formula for each of the reactants and products
  3. Check if the number of atoms of each element on the reactant side is equal to the number of atoms of each element on the product side.
  4. Multiply the chemical formula containing the unbalanced atoms with the lowest common multiple if the number of atoms on one side is not equal. This is called balancing.

 Do not change the chemical formula of the products/reactants.

  1. Assign in brackets, the physical state/state symbols of the reactants and products after each chemical formula as:

(i) (s) for solids

(ii) (l) for liquids

(iii) (g) for gas

(iv) (aq) for aqueous/dissolved in water to make a solution.

 

Practice examples

Write a balanced chemical equation for the following

  • Hydrogen gas is prepared from reacting Zinc granules with dilute hydrochloric acid.

Procedure

 

  1. Write the word equation

Zinc + Hydrochloric acid -> Zinc chloride + hydrogen gas

 

  1. Write the correct chemical formula for each of the reactants and products

Zn      +        HCl             ->       ZnCl2           +        H2

 

  1. Check if the number of atoms of each element on the reactant side is equal to the number of atoms of each element on the product side.

      Number of atoms of Zn on the reactant side is equal to product side

     One atom of H in HCl on the reactant side is not equal to two atoms in H2 on product side.

One atom of Cl in HCl on the reactant side is not equal to two atoms in ZnCl2 on product side.

 

  1. Multiply the chemical formula containing the unbalanced atoms with the lowest common multiple if the number of atoms on one side is not equal.

    Multiply  HCl by “2” to get “2” Hydrogen and “2” Chlorine on product and reactant side.

Zn      +        2 HCl          ->       ZnCl2           +        H2

  1. Assign in brackets, the physical state/state symbols .

Zn(s)          +        2 HCl(aq)              ->       ZnCl2 (aq)   +        H2(g)

 

  • Oxygen gas is prepared from decomposition of Hydrogen peroxide solution to water

Procedure

 

  1. Write the word equation

Hydrogen peroxide -> Water + oxygen gas

 

  1. Write the correct chemical formula for each of the reactants and products

H2O2           ->       H2O             +        O2

 

  1. Check if the number of atoms of each element on the reactant side is equal to the number of atoms of each element on the product side.

      Number of atoms of H on the reactant side is equal to product side

     Two atom of O in H2O2 on the reactant side is not equal to  three atoms (one in H2O and two in O2) on product side.

 

  1. Multiply the chemical formula containing the unbalanced atoms with the lowest common multiple if the number of atoms on one side is not equal.

    Multiply  H2O2 by “2” to get “4” Hydrogen and “4” Oxygen on reactants

    Multiply  H2O  by “2” to get “4” Hydrogen and “2” Oxygen on product side

   When the “2” Oxygen in O2 and the“2” in H2O are added on product side they are equal to the“4” Oxygen on reactants side.  

2H2O2                   ->       2H2O           +        O2

 

  1. Assign in brackets, the physical state/state symbols .

2H2O2(aq)             ->       2H2O(l)                 +        O2(g)

 

  • Chlorine gas is prepared from Potassium manganate(VII) reacting with hydrochloric acid to form potassium chloride solution, manganese(II) chloride solution,water and chlorine gas.

 

Procedure

  1. Write the word equation

Potassium manganate(VII) + Hydrochloric acid ->

potassium chloride + manganese(II) chloride + chlorine +water

 

  1. Write the correct chemical formula for each of the reactants and products

KMnO4 + HCl      -> KCl  + MnCl2   +H2O + Cl2

 

  1. Check if the number of atoms of each element on the reactant side is equal to the number of atoms of each element on the product side.

      Number of atoms of K and Mn on the reactant side is equal to product side

     Two atom of H in H2O on the product side is not equal to one atom on reactant side.

Four atom of O in KMnO4 is not equal to one in H2

One atom of Cl in HCl on reactant side is not equal to three (one in H2O and two in Cl2)

 

  1. Multiply the chemical formula containing the unbalanced atoms with the lowest common multiple if the number of atoms on one side is not equal.

    Multiply  HCl by “16” to get “16” Hydrogen and “16” Chlorine on reactants

    Multiply  KMnO4  by “2” to get “2” Potassium and “2” manganese, “2 x4 =8” Oxygen on reactant side.

Balance the product side to get:

  

2 KMnO4 +16 HCl         -> 2 KCl  + 2 MnCl2       +8 H2O        + 5 Cl2

 

  1. Assign in brackets, the physical state/state symbols .

2KMnO4(s) +16 HCl(aq)-> 2 KCl (aq) + 2MnCl2(aq)+8 H2O(l)+5 Cl2(g)

 

(d)Carbon(IV)oxide  gas is prepared from Calcium carbonate reacting with hydrochloric acid to form calcium chloride solution, water and carbon(IV)oxide gas.

 

Procedure

  1. Write the word equation

Calcium carbonate + Hydrochloric acid ->

calcium chloride solution+ water +carbon(IV)oxide

  1. Write the correct chemical formula for each of the reactants and products

CaCO3 + HCl       -> CaCl2      +H2O + CO2

 

  1. Check if the number of atoms of each element on the reactant side is equal to the number of atoms of each element on the product side.

    

  1. Multiply the chemical formula containing the unbalanced atoms with the lowest common multiple if the number of atoms on one side is not equal.

   

  1. Assign in brackets, the physical state/state symbols .

CaCO3(s)   +    2 HCl(aq)  ->   CaCl2(aq)  +  H2O(l)  +   CO2(g)

 

(d)Sodium hydroxide solution neutralizes hydrochloric acid to form salt and water.

NaOH(aq)   +     HCl(aq)  ->   NaCl (aq)  +  H2O(l)

 

(e)Sodium reacts with water to form sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.

2Na(s)   +     2H2O(l)  ->   2NaOH(aq)  +  H2(g)

 

          (f)Calcium reacts withwater to form calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas

Ca(s)   +     2H2O(l)  ->   Ca(OH)2(aq)  +  H2(g)

 

          (g)Copper(II)Oxide solid reacts with dilute hydrochloric acid to form copper(II)chloride and water.

CuO(s)   +     2HCl(aq)  ->   CuCl2(aq)  +  H2O(l)

 

(h)Hydrogen sulphide reacts with Oxygen to form sulphur(IV)Oxide and water.

                    2H2S(g) + 3O2(g)   ->  2SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

 

(i)Magnesium reacts with steam to form Magnesium Oxide and Hydrogen gas.

Mg(s)   +     2H2O(g)  ->   MgO(s)  +  H2(g)

 

(j)Ethane(C2H6) gas burns in air to form Carbon(IV)Oxide and water.

2C2H6(g)  +  7O2(g)  ->  4CO2(g)  +  6H2O(l)

 

(k)Ethene(C2H4) gas burns in air to form Carbon(IV)Oxide and water.

C2H4(g)  +  3O2(g)  ->  2CO2(g)  +  2H2O(l)

 

(l)Ethyne(C2H2) gas burns in air to form Carbon(IV)Oxide and water.

2C2H2(g)  +  5O2(g)  ->  4CO2(g)  +  2H2O(l)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C.PERIODICITY OF CHEMICAL FAMILES/DOWN THE GROUP.

 

The number of valence electrons and the number of occupied energy levels in an atom of an element determine the position of an element in the periodic table.i.e

The number of occupied energy levels determine the Period and the valence electrons determine the Group.

Elements in the same group have similar physical and chemical properties. The trends in physical and chemical properties of elements in the same group vary down the group. Elements in the same group thus constitute a chemical family.

 

  • Group I elements: Alkali metals

 

Group I elements are called Alkali metals except Hydrogen which is a non metal. The alkali metals include:

 

Element Symbol Atomic number Electron structure Oxidation state Valency
Lithium Li 3 2:1 Li+ 1
Sodium Na 11 2:8:1 Na+ 1
Potassium K 19 2:8:8:1 K+ 1
Rubidium Rb 37 2:8:18:8:1 Rb+ 1
Caesium Cs 55 2:8:18:18:8:1 Cs+ 1
Francium Fr 87 2:8:18:32:18:8:1 Fr+ 1

 

All alkali metals atom has one electron in the outer energy level. They therefore are monovalent. They donate /lose the outer electron to have oxidation state M+

The number of energy levels increases down the group from Lithium   to Francium. The more the number of energy levels the bigger/larger the atomic size. e.g.

The atomic size of Potassium is bigger/larger than that of sodium because Potassium has more/4 energy levels than sodium (3 energy levels).

 

Atomic and ionic radius

The distance between the centre of the nucleus of an atom and the outermost energy level occupied by electron/s is called atomic radius. Atomic radius is measured in nanometers(n).The higher /bigger the atomic radius the bigger /larger the atomic size.

 

The distance between the centre of the nucleus of an ion and the outermost energy level occupied by electron/s is called ionic radius. Ionic radius is also measured in nanometers(n).The higher /bigger the ionic radius the bigger /larger the size of the ion.

Atomic radius and ionic radius depend on the number of energy levels occupied by electrons. The more the number of energy levels the bigger/larger the atomic /ionic radius. e.g.

The atomic radius of Francium is bigger/larger than that of sodium because Francium has more/7 energy levels than sodium (3 energy levels).

Atomic radius and ionic radius of alkali metals increase down the group as the number of energy levels increases.

 

The atomic radius of alkali metals is bigger than the ionic radius. This is because alkali metals react by losing/donating the outer electron and hence lose the outer energy level.

 

Table showing the atomic and ionic radius of some alkali metals

 

Element Symbol Atomic number Atomic radius(nM) Ionic radius(nM)
Lithium Li 3 0.133 0.060
Sodium Na 11 0.157 0.095
Potassium K 19 0.203 0.133

 

The atomic radius of sodium is  0.157nM .The ionic radius of Na+ is 0.095nM. This is because sodium reacts by donating/losing the outer electrons and hence the outer energy level. The remaining electrons/energy levels experience more effective / greater nuclear attraction/pull towards the nucleus reducing the atomic radius.

 

Electropositivity

The ease of donating/losing electrons is called electropositivity. All alkali metals are electropositive. Electropositivity  increase as atomic radius increase. This is because the effective nuclear attraction on outer electrons decreases with increase in atomic radius. The outer electrons experience less nuclear attraction and can be lost/ donated easily/with ease. Francium is the most electropositive element in the periodic table because it has the highest/biggest atomic radius.

 

Ionization energy

The minimum amount of energy required to remove an electron from an atom of element in its gaseous state is called  1st ionization energy. The SI unit of ionization energy is kilojoules per mole/kJmole-1 .Ionization energy depend on atomic radius. The higher the atomic radius, the less effective the nuclear attraction on outer electrons/energy level and thus the lower the ionization energy. For alkali metals the 1st ionization energy decrease down the group as the atomic radius increase and the effective nuclear attraction on outer energy level electrons decrease.

e.g. The 1st ionization energy of sodium is 496 kJmole-1  while that of potassium is 419 kJmole-1 .This is because atomic radius increase and thus effective nuclear attraction on outer energy level electrons decrease down the group from sodium to Potassium. It requires therefore less energy to donate/lose outer electrons in Potassium than in sodium.

 

Physical properties

Soft/Easy to cut: Alkali metals are soft and easy to cut with a knife. The softness and ease of cutting increase down the group from Lithium to Francium. This is because an increase in atomic radius, decreases the strength of metallic bond and the packing of the metallic structure

Appearance: Alkali metals have a shiny grey metallic luster when freshly cut. The surface rapidly/quickly tarnishes on exposure to air. This is because the metal surface rapidly/quickly reacts with elements of air/oxygen.

Melting and boiling points: Alkali metals have a relatively low melting/boiling point than common metals like Iron. This is because alkali metals use only one delocalized electron to form a weak metallic bond/structure.

Electrical/thermal conductivity: Alkali metals are good thermal and electrical conductors. Metals conduct using the outer mobile delocalized electrons. The delocalized electrons move randomly within the metallic structure.

 

          Summary of some physical properties of the 1st three alkali metals

 

Alkali metal Appearance Ease of cutting Melting point

(oC)

Boiling point

(oC)

Conductivity 1st  ionization energy
Lithium Silvery white Not easy 180 1330 Good 520
Sodium Shiny grey Easy 98 890 Good 496

 

Potassium Shiny grey Very easy 64 774 Good 419

 

Chemical properties

(i)Reaction with air/oxygen

On exposure to air, alkali metals reacts with the elements in the air.

Example

On exposure to air, Sodium first reacts with Oxygen to form sodium oxide.

4Na(s)         +        O2(g)           ->       2Na2O(s)

The sodium oxide formed further reacts with water/moisture in the air to form sodium hydroxide solution.

            Na2O(s)      +       H2O(l)         ->      2NaOH(aq)

Sodium hydroxide solution reacts with carbon(IV)oxide in the air to form sodium carbonate.

2NaOH(aq)   +      CO2(g)        ->   Na2CO3(g)    +   H2O(l)

 

(ii)Burning in air/oxygen

Lithium burns in air with a crimson/deep red flame to form Lithium oxide

4Li (s)          +        O2(g)           ->       2Li2O(s)

Sodium burns in air with a yellow flame to form sodium oxide

4Na (s)        +        O2(g)           ->       2Na2O(s)

Sodium burns in oxygen with a yellow flame to form sodium peroxide

2Na (s)        +        O2(g)           ->       Na2O2 (s)

Potassium burns in air with a lilac/purple flame to form potassium oxide

4K (s)          +        O2(g)           ->       2K2O (s)

 

(iii) Reaction with water:

 

Experiment

Measure 500 cm3 of water into a beaker.

Put three drops of phenolphthalein indicator.

Put about 0.5g of Lithium metal into the beaker.

Determine the pH of final product

Repeat the experiment using about 0.1 g of Sodium and Potassium.

Caution: Keep a distance

 

Observations

Alkali metal Observations Comparative speed/rate of the reaction
Lithium -Metal floats in water

-rapid effervescence/fizzing/bubbling

-colourless gas produced (that extinguishes burning splint with explosion /“pop” sound)

-resulting solution turn phenolphthalein indicator pink

-pH of solution = 12/13/14

 

Moderately vigorous
Sodium -Metal floats in water

-very rapid effervescence /fizzing /bubbling

-colourless gas produced (that extinguishes burning splint with explosion /“pop” sound)

-resulting solution turn phenolphthalein indicator pink

-pH of solution = 12/13/14

Very vigorous
Potassium -Metal floats in water

-explosive effervescence /fizzing /bubbling

-colourless gas produced (that extinguishes burning splint with explosion /“pop” sound)

-resulting solution turn phenolphthalein indicator pink

-pH of solution = 12/13/14

 

Explosive/burst into flames

 

Explanation

Alkali metals are less dense than water. They therefore float in water.They react with water to form a strongly alkaline solution of their hydroxides and producing hydrogen gas. The rate of this reaction increase down the group. i.e. Potassium is more reactive than sodium .Sodium is more reactive than Lithium.

The reactivity increases as electropositivity increases of the alkali increases. This is because as the atomic radius increases , the ease of donating/losing outer electron  increase during chemical reactions.

 

Chemical equations

2Li(s)           +        2H2O(l)       ->       2LiOH(aq)   +        H2(g)

2Na(s)         +        2H2O(l)       ->       2NaOH(aq)  +        H2(g)

2K(s)           +        2H2O(l)       ->       2KOH(aq)   +        H2(g)

2Rb(s)         +        2H2O(l)       ->       2RbOH(aq)  +        H2(g)

2Cs(s)          +        2H2O(l)       ->       2CsOH(aq)  +        H2(g)

2Fr(s)          +        2H2O(l)       ->       2FrOH(aq)   +        H2(g)

Reactivity increase down the group

 

(iv) Reaction with chlorine:

 

Experiment

Cut about 0.5g of sodium into a deflagrating spoon with a lid cover. Introduce it on a Bunsen flame until it catches fire. Quickly and carefully lower it into a gas jar containing dry chlorine to cover the gas jar.

Repeat with about 0.5g of Lithium.

Caution: This experiment should be done in fume chamber because chlorine is poisonous /toxic.

 

Observation

Sodium metal continues to burn with a yellow flame forming white solid/fumes.

Lithium metal continues to burn with a crimson flame forming white solid / fumes.

Alkali metal react with chlorine gas to form the corresponding metal chlorides. The reactivity increase as electropositivity increase down the group from Lithium to Francium.The ease of donating/losing the outer electrons increase as the atomic radius increase and the outer electron is less attracted to the nucleus.

 

Chemical equations

2Li(s)           +        Cl2(g)           ->       2LiCl(s)

2Na(s)         +        Cl2(g)           ->       2NaCl(s)

2K(s)           +        Cl2(g)           ->       2KCl(s)

2Rb(s)         +        Cl2(g)           ->       2RbCl(s)

2Cs(s)          +        Cl2(g)           ->       2CsCl(s)

2Fr(s)          +        Cl2(g)           ->       2FrCl(s)                                                                                       Reactivity increase down the group

 

The table below shows some compounds of the 1st three alkali metals

 

  Lithium sodium Potassium
Hydroxide LiOH NaOH KOH
Oxide Li2O Na2O K2O
Sulphide Li2S Na2S K2S
Chloride LiCl NaCl KCl
Carbonate Li2CO3 Na2CO3 K2CO3
Nitrate(V) LiNO3 NaNO3 KNO3
Nitrate(III) NaNO2 KNO2
Sulphate(VI) Li2SO4 Na2SO4 K2SO4
Sulphate(IV) Na2SO3 K2SO3
Hydrogen carbonate NaHCO3 KHCO3
Hydrogen sulphate(VI) NaHSO4 KHSO4
Hydrogen sulphate(IV) NaHSO3 KHSO3
Phosphate Na3PO4 K3PO4
Manganate(VI) NaMnO4 KMnO4
Dichromate(VI) Na2Cr2O7 K2Cr2O7
Chromate(VI) Na2CrO4 K2CrO4

 

Some uses of alkali metals include:

(i)Sodium is used in making sodium cyanide for extracting gold from gold ore.

(ii)Sodium chloride is used in seasoning food.

(iii)Molten mixture of sodium and potassium is used as coolant in nuclear reactors.

(iv)Sodium is used in making sodium hydroxide used in making soapy and soapless detergents.

(v)Sodium is used as a reducing agent for the extraction of titanium from Titanium(IV)chloride.

(vi)Lithium is used in making special high strength glasses

(vii)Lithium compounds are used to make dry cells in mobile phones and computer laptops.

 

Group II elements: Alkaline earth metals

 

Group II elements are called Alkaline earth metals . The alkaline earth metals include:

 

Element Symbol Atomic number Electron structure Oxidation state Valency
Beryllium Be 4 2:2 Be2+ 2
Magnesium Mg 12 2:8:2 Mg2+ 2
Calcium Ca 20 2:8:8:2 Ca2+ 2
Strontium Sr 38 2:8:18:8:2 Sr2+ 2
Barium Ba 56 2:8:18:18:8:2 Ba2+ 2
Radium Ra 88 2:8:18:32:18:8:2 Ra2+ 2

 

All alkaline earth metal atoms have two electrons in the outer energy level. They therefore are divalent. They donate /lose the two outer electrons to have oxidation state M2+

The number of energy levels increases down the group from Beryllium   to Radium. The more the number of energy levels the bigger/larger the atomic size. e.g.

The atomic size/radius of Calcium is bigger/larger than that of Magnesium because Calcium has more/4 energy levels than Magnesium (3 energy levels).

 

Atomic radius and ionic radius of alkaline earth metals increase down the group as the number of energy levels increases.

 

The atomic radius of alkaline earth metals is bigger than the ionic radius. This is because they react by losing/donating the two outer electrons and hence lose the outer energy level.

 

Table showing the atomic and ionic radius of the 1st three alkaline earth metals

 

Element Symbol Atomic number Atomic radius(nM) Ionic radius(nM)
Beryllium Be 4 0.089 0.031
Magnesium Mg 12 0.136 0.065
Calcium Ca 20 0.174 0.099

The atomic radius of Magnesium is  0.136nM .The ionic radius of Mg2+ is 0.065nM. This is because Magnesium reacts by donating/losing the two outer electrons and hence the outer energy level. The remaining electrons/energy levels experience more effective / greater nuclear attraction/pull towards the nucleus reducing the atomic radius.

 

Electropositivity

All alkaline earth metals are also electropositive like alkali metals. The electropositivity increase with increase in atomic radius/size. Calcium is more electropositive than Magnesium. This is because the effective nuclear attraction on outer electrons decreases with increase in atomic radius. The two outer electrons in calcium experience less nuclear attraction and can be lost/ donated easily/with ease because of  the higher/bigger atomic radius.

 

Ionization energy

For alkaline earth metals the 1st ionization energy decrease down the group as the atomic radius increase and the effective nuclear attraction on outer energy level electrons decrease.

e.g. The 1st ionization energy of Magnesium  is 900 kJmole-1  while that of Calcium is 590 kJmole-1 .This is because atomic radius increase and thus effective nuclear attraction on outer energy level electrons decrease down the group from magnesium to calcium.

It requires therefore less energy to donate/lose outer electron in calcium than in magnesium.

 

The minimum amount of energy required to remove a second electron from an ion of an element in its gaseous state is called the 2nd ionization energy.

The 2nd ionization energy is always higher /bigger than  the 1st  ionization energy.

This because once an electron is donated /lost form an atom, the overall effective nuclear attraction on the remaining electrons/energy level increase. Removing a second electron from the ion require therefore more energy than the first electron.

The atomic radius of alkali metals is higher/bigger than that of alkaline earth metals.This is because across/along the period from left to right there is an increase in nuclear charge from additional number of protons and still additional number of electrons entering the same energy level. Increase in nuclear charge increases the effective nuclear attraction on the outer energy level which pulls it closer to the nucleus. e.g.

Atomic radius of Sodium (0.157nM) is higher than that of Magnesium (0.137nM). This is because Magnesium has more effective nuclear attraction on the outer energy level than Sodium hence pulls outer energy level more nearer to its nucleus.

Physical properties

 

Soft/Easy to cut: Alkaline earth metals are not soft and easy to cut with a knife like alkali metals. This is because of the decrease in atomic radius of corresponding alkaline earth metal, increases the strength of metallic bond and the packing of the metallic structure. Alkaline earth metals are

(i)ductile(able to form wire/thin long rods)

(ii)malleable(able to be hammered into sheet/long thin plates)

(iii)have high tensile strength(able to be coiled without breaking/ not brittle/withstand stress)

 

Appearance: Alkali earth metals have a shiny grey metallic luster when their surface is freshly polished /scrubbed. The surface slowly tarnishes on exposure to air. This is because the metal surface slowly undergoes oxidation to form an oxide. This oxide layer should be removed before using the alkaline earth metals.

 

Melting and boiling points: Alkaline earth metals have a relatively high melting/ boiling point than alkali metals. This is because alkali metals use only one delocalized electron to form a weaker metallic bond/structure. Alkaline earth metals use two delocalized electrons to form a stronger metallic bond /structure.

The melting and boiling points decrease down the group as the atomic radius/size increase reducing the strength of metallic bond and packing of the metallic structure. e.g.

 

Beryllium has a melting point of 1280oC. Magnesium has a melting point of 650oC.Beryllium has a smaller atomic radius/size than magnesium .The strength of metallic bond and packing of the metallic structure is thus stronger in beryllium.

 

Electrical/thermal conductivity: Alkaline earth metals are good thermal and electrical conductors. The two delocalized valence electrons move randomly within the metallic structure.

Electrical conductivity increase down the group as the atomic radius/size increase making the delocalized outer electrons less attracted to nucleus. Alkaline earth metals are better thermal and electrical conductors than alkali metals because they have more/two outer delocalized electrons.e.g.

Magnesium is a better conductor than sodium because it has more/two delocalized electrons than sodium. The more delocalized electrons the better the electrical conductor.

Calcium is a better conductor than magnesium.

Calcium has bigger/larger atomic radius than magnesium because the delocalized electrons are less attracted to the nucleus of calcium and thus more free /mobile and thus better the electrical conductor

Summary of some physical properties of the 1st three alkaline earth metals

 

Alkaline earth metal Appearance Ease of cutting Melting point

(oC)

Boiling point

(oC)

Conduct- ivity 1st  ionization energy 2nd ionization energy
Beryllium Shiny grey Not

easy

1280 3450 Good 900 1800
Magnesium Shiny grey Not Easy 650 1110 Good 736

 

1450
calcium Shiny grey Not

easy

850 1140 Good 590 970

 

Chemical properties

(i)Reaction with air/oxygen

On exposure to air, the surface of alkaline earth  metals is slowly oxidized to its oxide on prolonged exposure to air.

Example

On exposure to air, the surface of magnesium ribbon is oxidized to form a thin film of Magnesium oxide

.         2Mg(s)         +        O2(g)           ->       2MgO(s)

 

(ii)Burning in air/oxygen

Experiment

Hold a about 2cm length of Magnesium ribbon on a Bunsen flame. Stop heating when it catches fire/start burning.

Caution: Do not look directly at the flame

Put the products of burning into 100cm3 beaker. Add about 5cm3 of distilled water. Swirl. Test the mixture using litmus papers.
Repeat with Calcium

Observations

-Magnesium burns with a bright blindening flame

-White solid /ash produced

-Solid dissolves in water to form a colourless solution

-Blue litmus paper remain blue

-Red litmus paper turns blue

-colourless gas with pungent smell of urine

Explanation

Magnesium burns in air with  a bright blindening flame to form a mixture of Magnesium oxide and Magnesium nitride.

2Mg (s)        +        O2(g)           ->       2MgO(s)

3Mg (s)        +        N2 (g)           ->       Mg3N2 (s)

Magnesium oxide dissolves in water to form magnesium hydroxide.

MgO(s)        +        H2O (l)        ->       Mg(OH)2(aq)

Magnesium nitride dissolves in water to form magnesium hydroxide and produce ammonia gas.

Mg3N2 (s)    +        6H2O(l)       ->       3Mg(OH)2(aq) + 2NH3 (g)

 

Magnesium hydroxide and ammonia are weakly alkaline with pH 8/9/10/11 and turns red litmus paper blue.

 

Calcium burns in air with faint orange/red flame to form a mixture of both Calcium oxide and calcium nitride.

2Ca (s)         +        O2(g)           ->       2CaO(s)

3Ca (s)         +        N2 (g)           ->       Ca3N2 (s)

 

Calcium oxide dissolves in water to form calcium hydroxide.

CaO(s)         +        H2O(l)         ->       Ca(OH)2(aq)

Calcium nitride dissolves in water to form calcium hydroxide and produce ammonia gas.

Ca3N2 (s)     +        6H2O(l)       ->       3Ca(OH)2(aq) + 2NH3 (g)

Calcium hydroxide is also weakly alkaline solution with pH 8/9/10/11 and turns red litmus paper blue.

 

(iii)Reaction with water

 

Experiment

Measure 50 cm3 of distilled water into a beaker.

Scrub/polish with sand paper 1cm length of Magnesium ribbon

Place it in the water. Test the product-mixture with blue and red litmus papers.

Repeat with Calcium metal.

 

Observations

-Surface of magnesium covered by bubbles of colourless gas.

-Colourless solution formed.

-Effervescence/bubbles/fizzing takes place in Calcium.

-Red litmus paper turns blue.

-Blue litmus paper remains blue.

 

Explanations

Magnesium slowly reacts with cold water to form Magnesium hydroxide and bubbles of Hydrogen gas that stick on the surface of the ribbon.

 

Mg(s)  +  2H2O (l)     ->   Mg(OH)2(aq)   +    H2 (g)

Calcium moderately reacts with cold water to form Calcium hydroxide and produce a steady stream of Hydrogen gas.

 

Ca(s)  +  2H2O (l)      ->   Ca(OH)2(aq)   +    H2 (g)

 

(iv)Reaction with water vapour/steam

Experiment

Put some cotton wool soaked in water/wet sand in a long boiling tube.

Coil a well polished magnesium ribbon into the boiling tube.

Ensure the coil touches the side of the boiling tube. Heat the cotton wool/sand slightly then strongly heat the Magnesium ribbon .

Set up of apparatus

 

Observations

-Magnesium glows red hot then burns with a blindening flame.

-Magnesium continues to glow/burning even without more heating.

-White solid/residue.

-colourless gas collected over water.

Explanation

On heating wet sand, steam is generated which drives out the air that would otherwise react with /oxidize the ribbon.

Magnesium burns in steam/water vapour generating enough heat that ensures the reaction goes to completion even without further heating. White Magnesium oxide is formed and hydrogen gas is evolved.

To prevent suck back, the delivery tube should be removed from the water before heating is stopped at the end of the experiment.

Mg(s)  +  H2O (l)       ->   MgO(s)   +    H2 (g)

 

(v)Reaction with chlorine gas.

 

Experiment

Lower slowly  a burning magnesium ribbon/shavings into a gas jar containing Chlorine gas. Repeat with a hot piece of calcium metal.

Observation

-Magnesium continues to burn in chlorine with a bright blindening flame.

-Calcium continues to burn for a short time.

-White solid formed .

-Pale green colour of chlorine fades.

Explanation

Magnesium continues to burn in chlorine gas forming white magnesium oxide solid.

Mg(s)  +  Cl2 (g)        ->     MgCl2 (s)

Calcium burns slightly in chlorine gas to form white calcium oxide solid. Calcium oxide formed coat unreacted Calcium stopping further reaction

Ca(s)  +  Cl2 (g)         ->     CaCl2 (s)

 

(v)Reaction with dilute acids.

Experiment

Place about 4.0cm3 of 0.1M dilute sulphuric(VI)acid into a test tube. Add about 1.0cm length of magnesium ribbon into the test tube. Cover the mouth of the test tube using a thumb. Release the gas and test the gas using a burning splint.

Repeat with about 4.0cm3 of 0.1M dilute hydrochloric/nitric(V) acid.

Repeat with 0.1g of Calcium in a beaker with all the above acid

Caution: Keep distance when using calcium

 

Observation

-Effervescence/fizzing/bubbles with dilute sulphuric(VI) and nitric(V) acids

-Little Effervescence/fizzing/bubbles with calcium and dilute sulphuric(VI) acid.

-Colourless gas produced that extinguishes a burning splint with an explosion/ “pop” sound.

-No gas is produced with Nitric(V)acid.

-Colourless solution is formed.

 

Explanation

Dilute acids react with alkaline earth metals to form a salt and produce hydrogen gas.

Nitric(V)acid is a strong oxidizing agent. It quickly oxidizes the hydrogen produced to water.

Calcium is very reactive with dilute acids and thus a very small piece of very dilute acid should be used.

Chemical equations

Mg(s)  +  H2SO4 (aq)           ->   MgSO4(aq)   +    H2 (g)

Mg(s)  +  2HNO3 (aq)         ->   Mg(NO3)2(aq)   +    H2 (g)

Mg(s) +  2HCl (aq)             ->   MgCl2(aq)         +    H2 (g)

 

Ca(s)   +  H2SO4 (aq)           ->   CaSO4(s)           +    H2 (g)

(insoluble CaSO4(s) coat/cover Ca(s))

Ca(s)   +  2HNO3 (aq)         ->   Ca(NO3)2(aq)    +    H2 (g)

Ca(s)  +  2HCl (aq)             ->   CaCl2(aq)          +    H2 (g)

 

Ba(s)   +  H2SO4 (aq)           ->   BaSO4(s)           +    H2 (g)

(insoluble BaSO4(s) coat/cover Ba(s))

Ba(s)   +  2HNO3 (aq)         ->   Ba(NO3)2(aq)    +    H2 (g)

Ba(s)  +  2HCl (aq)             ->   BaCl2(aq)          +    H2 (g)

 

The table below shows some compounds of some alkaline earth metals

 

  Beryllium Magnesium Calcium Barium
Hydroxide Be(OH)2 Mg(OH)2 Ca(OH)2 Ba(OH)2
Oxide BeO MgO CaO BaO
Sulphide MgS CaS BaS
Chloride BeCl2 MgCl2 CaCl2 BaCl2
Carbonate BeCO3 MgCO3 CaCO3 BaCO3
Nitrate(V) Be(NO3)2 Mg(NO3)2 Ca(NO3)2 Ba(NO3)2
Sulphate(VI) BeSO4 MgSO4 CaSO4 BaSO4
Sulphate(IV) CaSO3 BaSO3
Hydrogen carbonate Mg(HCO3)2 Ca(HCO3)2
Hydrogen sulphate(VI) Mg(HSO4)2 Ca(HSO4)2

 

Some uses of alkaline earth metals include:

(i)Magnesium hydroxide is a non-toxic/poisonous mild base used as an anti acid medicine to relieve stomach acidity.

(ii)Making duralumin. Duralumin is an alloy of Magnesium and aluminium used for making aeroplane bodies because it is light.

(iii) Making plaster of Paris-Calcium sulphate(VI) is used in hospitals to set a fractures bone.

(iii)Making cement-Calcium carbonate is mixed with clay and sand then heated to form cement for construction/building.

(iv)Raise soil pH-Quicklime/calcium oxide is added to acidic soils to neutralize and raise the soil pH in agricultural farms.

(v)As nitrogenous fertilizer-Calcium nitrate(V) is used as an agricultural fertilizer because plants require calcium for proper growth.

(vi)In the blast furnace-Limestone is added to the blast furnace to produce more  reducing agent and remove slag in the blast furnace for extraction of Iron.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(c)Group VII elements: Halogens

 

Group VII elements are called Halogens. They are all non metals. They include:

 

Element Symbol Atomic number Electronicc configuration Charge of ion Valency State at Room Temperature
Fluorine

Chlorine

Bromine

Iodine

Astatine

F

Cl

Br

I

At

9

17

35

53

85

2:7

2:8:7

2:8:18:7

2:8:18:18:7

2:8:18:32:18:7

F

Cl

Br

I

At

1

1

1

1

1

Pale yellow gas

Pale green gas

Red liquid

Grey Solid

Radioactive

 

All halogen atoms have seven electrons in the outer energy level. They acquire/gain one electron in the outer energy level to be stable. They therefore are therefore monovalent .They exist in oxidation state X

The number of energy levels increases down the group from Fluorine   to Astatine. The more the number of energy levels the bigger/larger the atomic size. e.g.

The atomic size/radius of Chlorine is bigger/larger than that of Fluorine because Chlorine has more/3 energy levels than Fluorine (2 energy levels).

 

Atomic radius and ionic radius of Halogens increase down the group as the number of energy levels increases.

 

The atomic radius of Halogens is smaller than the ionic radius. This is because they react by gaining/acquiring extra one electron in the outer energy level. The effective nuclear attraction on the more/extra electrons decreases. The incoming extra electron is also repelled causing the outer energy level to expand to reduce the repulsion and accommodate more electrons.

 

Table showing the atomic and ionic radius of four Halogens

 

Element Symbol Atomic number Atomic radius(nM) Ionic radius(nM)
Fluorine F 9 0.064 0.136
Chlorine Cl 17 0.099 0.181
Bromine Br 35 0.114 0.195
Iodine I 53 0.133 0.216

 

The atomic radius of Chlorine is  0.099nM .The ionic radius of Cl is 0.181nM. This is because Chlorine atom/molecule reacts by gaining/acquiring extra one electrons. The more/extra electrons/energy level experience less effective nuclear attraction /pull towards the nucleus .The outer enegy level expand/increase to reduce the repulsion of the existing and incoming gained /acquired electrons.

Electronegativity

The ease of gaining/acquiring extra electrons is called electronegativity. All halogens are electronegative. Electronegativity decreases as atomic radius increase. This is because the effective nuclear attraction on outer electrons decreases with increase in atomic radius.

The outer electrons experience less nuclear attraction and thus ease of gaining/acquiring extra electrons decrease.

It is measured using Pauling’s scale.

Where Fluorine with Pauling scale 4.0 is the most electronegative element  and thus the highest tendency to acquire/gain extra electron.

 

Table showing the electronegativity of the halogens.

 

Halogen F Cl Br I At
Electronegativity (Pauling scale) 4.0 3.0 2.8 2.5 2.2

 

The electronegativity of the halogens decrease down the group from fluorine to Astatine. This is because atomic radius increases down the group and thus decrease electron – attracting power down the group from fluorine to astatine.

Fluorine is the most electronegative element in the periodic table because it has the small atomic radius.

 

Electron affinity

The minimum amount of energy required to gain/acquire an extra electron by  an atom of element in its gaseous state is called  1st electron affinity. The SI unit of electron affinity is kilojoules per mole/kJmole-1 . Electron affinity depend on atomic radius. The higher the atomic radius, the less effective the nuclear attraction on outer energy level electrons and thus the lower the electron affinity. For halogens the 1st electron affinity decrease down the group as the atomic radius increase and the effective nuclear attraction on outer energy level electrons decrease. Due to its small size/atomic radius Fluorine shows exceptionally low electron affinity. This is because a lot of energy is required to overcome the high repulsion of the existing and incoming electrons.

 

Table showing the election affinity of halogens for the process

X   +    e      ->       X

Halogen F Cl Br I
Electron affinity kJmole-1 -333 -364 -342 -295

 

 

 

The higher the electron affinity the more stable theion.i.e

Cl is a more stable ion than Brbecause it has a more negative / exothermic electron affinity than Br

Electron affinity  is different from:

(i) Ionization energy.

Ionization energy is the energy required to lose/donate an electron in an atom of an element in its gaseous state while electron affinity is the energy required to gain/acquire extra electron by an atom of an element in its gaseous state.

      (ii) Electronegativity.

-Electron affinity is the energy required to gain an electron in an atom of an element in gaseous state. It involves the process:

X(g)   +       e        ->       X(g)

Electronegativity is the ease/tendency of gaining/ acquiring electrons by an element during chemical reactions.

It does not involve use of energy but theoretical arbitrary Pauling’ scale of measurements.

 

Physical properties

 

State at room temperature

Fluorine and Chlorine are gases, Bromine is a liquid and Iodine is a solid. Astatine is radioactive .

All halogens exist as diatomic molecules bonded by strong covalent bond. Each molecule is joined to the other by weak intermolecular forces/ Van-der-waals forces.

Melting/Boiling point

The strength of intermolecular/Van-der-waals forces of attraction increase with increase in molecular size/atomic radius.

Iodine has therefore the largest atomic radius and thus strongest intermolecular forces to make it a solid.

Iodine sublimes when heated to form (caution: highly toxic/poisonous) purple vapour.

This is because Iodine molecules are held together by weak van-der-waals/intermolecular  forces which require little heat energy to break.

Electrical conductivity

All Halogens are  poor conductors of electricity because they have no free delocalized electrons.

Solubility in polar and non-polar solvents

All halogens are soluble in water(polar solvent).

When  a boiling tube containing either chlorine gas or bromine vapour is separately inverted in a beaker containing distilled water and tetrachloromethane (non-polar solvent), the level of solution in boiling tube rises in both water and tetrachloromethane.

This is because halogen are soluble in both polar and non-polar solvents. Solubility of halogens in water/polar solvents decrease down the group. Solubility of halogens in non-polar solvent increase down the group.

The level of water in chlorine is higher than in bromine and the level of tetrachloromethane in chlorine is lower than in bromine.

Caution: Tetrachloromethane , Bromine vapour and Chlorine gas are all highly toxic/poisonous.

 

Table showing the physical properties of Halogens

 

Halogen Formula of molecule Electrical conductivity Solubility

in water

Melting point(oC) Boiling point(oC)
Fluorine F2 Poor Insoluble/soluble in tetrachloromethane -238 -188
Chlorine Cl2 Poor Insoluble/soluble in tetrachloromethane -101 -35
Bromine Br2 Poor Insoluble/soluble in tetrachloromethane 7 59
Iodine I2 Poor Insoluble/soluble in tetrachloromethane 114 sublimes

 

Chemical properties

 

(i)Displacement

 

Experiment

Place separately in test tubes about 5cm3 of sodium chloride, Sodium bromide and Sodium iodide solutions.

Add 5 drops of chlorine water to each  test tube:

Repeat with 5 drops of bromine water instead of chlorine water

Observation

Using Chlorine water

-Yellow colour of chlorine water fades in all test tubes   except with sodium chloride.

-Coloured Solution formed.

Using Bromine water

Yellow colour of bromine water fades in  test tubes containing sodium iodide.

-Coloured Solution formed.

Explanation

The halogens displace each other from their solution. The more electronegative displace the less electronegative from their solution.

  Chlorine is more electronegative than bromine and iodine.

On adding chlorine water, bromine and Iodine are displaced from their solutions by chlorine.

Bromine is more electronegative than iodide but less 6than chlorine.

On adding Bromine water, iodine is displaced from its solution but not chlorine.

 Table showing the displacement of the halogens

(V) means there is displacement (x ) means there is no displacement

                                Halogen ion in

solution

Halogen

F Cl Br I
F2 X      
Cl2 X X    
Br2 X X X  
I2 X X X X

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chemical /ionic equations

With Fluorine

F2(g) +        2NaCl(aq)   ->       2NaF(aq)     +        Cl2(aq)

F2(g) +        2Cl(aq)       ->       2F(aq)         +        Cl2(aq)

 

F2(g) +        2NaBr(aq)   ->       2NaF(aq)     +        Br2(aq)

F2(g) +        2Br(aq)       ->       2F(aq)         +        Br2(aq)

 

F2(g) +        2NaI(aq)     ->       2NaF(aq)     +        I2(aq)

F2(g) +        2I(aq)          ->       2F(aq)         +        I2(aq)

 

With chlorine

Cl2(g)           +        2NaCl(aq)   ->       2NaCl(aq)    +        Br2(aq)

Cl2(g)           +        2Br(aq)       ->       2Cl(aq)       +        Br2(aq)

 

Cl2(g)           +        2NaI(aq)     ->       2NaCl(aq)    +        I2(aq)

Cl2(g)           +        2I(aq)          ->       2Cl(aq)       +        I2(aq)

 

With Bromine

Br2(g)          +        2NaI(aq)     ->       2NaBr(aq)   +        I2(aq)

Br2(g)          +        2I(aq)          ->       2Br(aq)       +        I2(aq)

 

 

 Uses of halogens

  • Florine – manufacture of P.T.F.E (Poly tetra fluoroethene) synthetic fiber.
  • Reduce tooth decay when added in small amounts/quantities in tooth paste.

NB –large small quantities of fluorine /fluoride ions in water cause browning of teeth/flourosis.

  • Hydrogen fluoride is used to engrave words /pictures in glass.

 

  • Bromine – Silver bromide is used to make light sensitive photographic paper/films.

 

  • Iodide – Iodine dissolved in alcohol is used as medicine to kill bacteria in skin cuts. It is called tincture of iodine.

 

The table below to show some compounds of halogens.

 

 

                      Element

Halogen

H Na Mg Al Si C P
F HF NaF MgH2 AlF3 SiF4 CF4 PF3
Cl HCl NaCl MgCl AlCl3 SiCl3 CCl4 PCl3
Br HBr NaBr MgBr2 AlBr3 SiBr4 CBr4 PBr3
I Hl Nal Mgl2 All3 SiI4 Cl2 PBr3

 

 

  • Below is the table showing the bond energy of four halogens.

Bond                           Bond energy k J mole-1

Cl-Cl                                     242

Br-Br                                    193

I-I                                       151

 

  1. What do you understand by the term “bond energy”

Bond energy is the energy required to break/ form one mole of chemical bond

 

  1. Explain the trend in bond Energy of the halogens above:

Decrease down the group from chlorine to Iodine

-Atomic radius increase down the group decreasing the energy required to break the covalent bonds between the larger atom with reduced effective nuclear @ charge an outer energy level that take part in bonding.

 

(c)Group VIII elements: Noble gases

 

Group VIII elements are called Noble gases. They are all non metals. Noble gases occupy about 1.0% of the atmosphere as colourless gaseous mixture. Argon is the most abundant with 0.9%.

They exists as monatomic molecules with very weak van-der-waals /intermolecular forces holding the molecules.

They include:

Element Symbol Atomic number Electron structure State at room temperature
Helium He 2 2: Colourless gas
Neon Ne 10 2:8 Colourless gas
Argon Ar 18 2:8:8 Colourless gas
Krypton Kr 36 2:8:18:8 Colourless gas
Xenon Xe 54 2:8:18:18:8 Colourless gas
Radon Rn 86 2:8:18:32:18:8 Radioctive

All noble gas atoms have a stable duplet(two electrons in the 1st energy level) or octet(eight electrons in other outer energy level)in the outer energy level. They therefore do not acquire/gain extra electron in the outer energy level or donate/lose. They therefore are therefore zerovalent .

The number of energy levels increases down the group from Helium   to Randon. The more the number of energy levels the bigger/larger the atomic size/radius. e.g.

The atomic size/radius of Argon is bigger/larger than that of Neon because Argon has more/3 energy levels than Neon (2 energy levels).

 

Atomic radius noble gases increase down the group as the number of energy levels increases.

The effective nuclear attraction on the outer electrons thus decrease down the group.

 

The noble gases are generally unreactive  because the  outer energy level has the stable octet/duplet. The stable octet/duplet in noble gas atoms lead to a comparatively very high 1st ionization energy. This is because losing /donating an electron from the stable atom require a lot of energy to lose/donate and make it unstable.

As atomic radius increase down the group and the 1st ionization energy decrease, very electronegative elements like Oxygen and Fluorine are able to react and bond with lower members of the noble gases.e.g

Xenon reacts with Fluorine to form a covalent compound XeF6.This is because the outer electrons/energy level if Xenon is far from the nucleus and thus experience less effective nuclear attraction.

 

Noble gases have low melting and boiling  points. This is because they exist as monatomic molecules joined by very weak intermolecular/van-der-waals forces that require very little energy to weaken and form liquid and break to form a gas.

The intermolecular/van-der-waals forces increase down the group as the atomic radius/size increase from Helium to Radon. The melting and boiling points thus increase also down the group.

Noble gases are insoluble in water and are poor conductors of electricity.

 

Element Formula of molecule Electrical conductivity Solubility

in water

Atomic radius(nM) 1st ionization energy Melting point(0C) Boiling

point(0C)

Helium He Poor Insoluble 0.128 2372 -270 -269
Neon Ne Poor Insoluble 0.160 2080 -249 -246
Argon Ar Poor Insoluble 0.192 1520 -189 -186
Krypton Kr Poor Insoluble 0.197 1350 -157 -152
Xenon Xe Poor Insoluble 0.217 1170 -112 -108
Radon Rn Poor Insoluble 0.221 1134 -104 -93

 

Uses of noble gases  

Argon is used in light bulbs to provide an inert environment to prevent oxidation of the bulb filament

Argon is used in arch welding as an insulator.

Neon is used in street  and advertisement light

Helium is mixed with Oxygen during deep sea diving and mountaineering.

Helium is used in weather balloon for meteorological research instead of Hydrogen because it is unreactive/inert.Hydrogen when impure can ignite with an explosion.

Helium is used in making thermometers for measuring very low temperatures.

 

  1. PERIODICITY OF ACROSS THE PERIOD.

(See Chemical bonding and Structure)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     

 

UPGRADE

CHEMISTRY

                

FORM 2

                 

Periodicity of CHEMICAL FAMILIES

                

 

                

 

 

 

 

 

Comprehensive tutorial notes

 

 MUTHOMI S.G

www.kcselibrary.info

0720096206

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   PERIODICITY OF CHEMICAL FAMILES

         (Patterns down the group)

 

The number of valence electrons and the number of occupied energy levels in an atom of an element determine the position of an element in the periodic table. i.e

The number of occupied energy levels determine the Period and the valence electrons determine the Group.

Elements in the same group have similar physical and chemical properties. The trends in physical and chemical properties of elements in the same group vary down the group. Elements in the same group thus constitute a chemical family.

 

  • Group I elements: Alkali metals

 

Group I elements are called Alkali metals except Hydrogen which is a non metal. The alkali metals include:

 

Element Symbol Atomic number Electron structure Oxidation state Valency
Lithium Li 3 2:1 Li+ 1
Sodium Na 11 2:8:1 Na+ 1
Potassium K 19 2:8:8:1 K+ 1
Rubidium Rb 37 2:8:18:8:1 Rb+ 1
Caesium Cs 55 2:8:18:18:8:1 Cs+ 1
Francium Fr 87 2:8:18:32:18:8:1 Fr+ 1

 

All alkali metals atom has one electron in the outer energy level. They therefore are monovalent. They donate /lose the outer electron to have oxidation state M+

The number of energy levels increases down the group from Lithium   to Francium. The more the number of energy levels the bigger/larger the atomic size. e.g.

The atomic size of Potassium is bigger/larger than that of sodium because Potassium has more/4 energy levels than sodium (3 energy levels).

 

Atomic and ionic radius

The distance between the centre of the nucleus of an atom and the outermost energy level occupied by electron/s is called atomic radius. Atomic radius is measured in nanometers(n).The higher /bigger the atomic radius the bigger /larger the atomic size.

 

The distance between the centre of the nucleus of an ion and the outermost energy level occupied by electron/s is called ionic radius. Ionic radius is also measured in nanometers(n).The higher /bigger the ionic radius the bigger /larger the size of the ion.

Atomic radius and ionic radius depend on the number of energy levels occupied by electrons. The more the number of energy levels the bigger/larger the atomic /ionic radius. e.g.

The atomic radius of Francium is bigger/larger than that of sodium because Francium has more/7 energy levels than sodium (3 energy levels).

Atomic radius and ionic radius of alkali metals increase down the group as the number of energy levels increases.

 

The atomic radius of alkali metals is bigger than the ionic radius. This is because alkali metals react by losing/donating the outer electron and hence lose the outer energy level.

 

Table showing the atomic and ionic radius of some alkali metals

 

Element Symbol Atomic number Atomic radius(nM) Ionic radius(nM)
Lithium Li 3 0.133 0.060
Sodium Na 11 0.157 0.095
Potassium K 19 0.203 0.133

 

The atomic radius of sodium is  0.157nM .The ionic radius of Na+ is 0.095nM. This is because sodium reacts by donating/losing the outer electrons and hence the outer energy level. The remaining electrons/energy levels experience more effective / greater nuclear attraction/pull towards the nucleus reducing the atomic radius.

 

Electropositivity

The ease of donating/losing electrons is called electropositivity. All alkali metals are electropositive. Electropositivity  increase as atomic radius increase. This is because the effective nuclear attraction on outer electrons decreases with increase in atomic radius. The outer electrons experience less nuclear attraction and can be lost/ donated easily/with ease. Francium is the most electropositive element in the periodic table because it has the highest/biggest atomic radius.

 

Ionization energy

The minimum amount of energy required to remove an electron from an atom of element in its gaseous state is called  1st ionization energy. The SI unit of ionization energy is kilojoules per mole/kJmole-1 .Ionization energy depend on atomic radius. The higher the atomic radius, the less effective the nuclear attraction on outer electrons/energy level and thus the lower the ionization energy. For alkali metals the 1st ionization energy decrease down the group as the atomic radius increase and the effective nuclear attraction on outer energy level electrons decrease.

e.g. The 1st ionization energy of sodium is 496 kJmole-1  while that of potassium is 419 kJmole-1 .This is because atomic radius increase and thus effective nuclear attraction on outer energy level electrons decrease down the group from sodium to Potassium. It requires therefore less energy to donate/lose outer electrons in Potassium than in sodium.

 

Physical properties

Soft/Easy to cut: Alkali metals are soft and easy to cut with a knife. The softness and ease of cutting increase down the group from Lithium to Francium. This is because an increase in atomic radius, decreases the strength of metallic bond and the packing of the metallic structure

Appearance: Alkali metals have a shiny grey metallic luster when freshly cut. The surface rapidly/quickly tarnishes on exposure to air. This is because the metal surface rapidly/quickly reacts with elements of air/oxygen.

Melting and boiling points: Alkali metals have a relatively low melting/boiling point than common metals like Iron. This is because alkali metals use only one delocalized electron to form a weak metallic bond/structure.

Electrical/thermal conductivity: Alkali metals are good thermal and electrical conductors. Metals conduct using the outer mobile delocalized electrons. The delocalized electrons move randomly within the metallic structure.

 

          Summary of some physical properties of the 1st three alkali metals

 

Alkali metal Appearance Ease of cutting Melting point

(oC)

Boiling point

(oC)

Conductivity 1st  ionization energy
Lithium Silvery white Not easy 180 1330 Good 520
Sodium Shiny grey Easy 98 890 Good 496

 

Potassium Shiny grey Very easy 64 774 Good 419

 

Chemical properties

(i)Reaction with air/oxygen

On exposure to air, alkali metals reacts with the elements in the air.

Example

On exposure to air, Sodium first reacts with Oxygen to form sodium oxide.

4Na(s)         +        O2(g)           ->       2Na2O(s)

The sodium oxide formed further reacts with water/moisture in the air to form sodium hydroxide solution.

            Na2O(s)      +       H2O(l)         ->      2NaOH(aq)

Sodium hydroxide solution reacts with carbon(IV)oxide in the air to form sodium carbonate.

2NaOH(aq)   +      CO2(g)        ->   Na2CO3(g)    +   H2O(l)

 

(ii)Burning in air/oxygen

Lithium burns in air with a crimson/deep red flame to form Lithium oxide

4Li (s)          +        O2(g)           ->       2Li2O(s)

Sodium burns in air with a yellow flame to form sodium oxide

4Na (s)        +        O2(g)           ->       2Na2O(s)

Sodium burns in oxygen with a yellow flame to form sodium peroxide

2Na (s)        +        O2(g)           ->       Na2O2 (s)

Potassium burns in air with a lilac/purple flame to form potassium oxide

4K (s)          +        O2(g)           ->       2K2O (s)

 

(iii) Reaction with water:

 

Experiment

Measure 500 cm3 of water into a beaker.

Put three drops of phenolphthalein indicator.

Put about 0.5g of Lithium metal into the beaker.

Determine the pH of final product

Repeat the experiment using about 0.1 g of Sodium and Potassium.

Caution: Keep a distance

 

Observations

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alkali metal Observations Comparative speed/rate of the reaction
Lithium -Metal floats in water

-rapid effervescence/fizzing/bubbling

-colourless gas produced (that extinguishes burning splint with explosion /“pop” sound)

-resulting solution turn phenolphthalein indicator pink

-pH of solution = 12/13/14

 

Moderately vigorous
Sodium -Metal floats in water

-very rapid effervescence /fizzing /bubbling

-colourless gas produced (that extinguishes burning splint with explosion /“pop” sound)

-resulting solution turn phenolphthalein indicator pink

-pH of solution = 12/13/14

Very vigorous
Potassium -Metal floats in water

-explosive effervescence /fizzing /bubbling

-colourless gas produced (that extinguishes burning splint with explosion /“pop” sound)

-resulting solution turn phenolphthalein indicator pink

-pH of solution = 12/13/14

 

Explosive/burst into flames

 

Explanation

Alkali metals are less dense than water. They therefore float in water.They react with water to form a strongly alkaline solution of their hydroxides and producing hydrogen gas. The rate of this reaction increase down the group. i.e. Potassium is more reactive than sodium .Sodium is more reactive than Lithium.

The reactivity increases as electropositivity increases of the alkali increases. This is because as the atomic radius increases , the ease of donating/losing outer electron  increase during chemical reactions.

 

Chemical equations

2Li(s)           +        2H2O(l)       ->       2LiOH(aq)   +        H2(g)

2Na(s)         +        2H2O(l)       ->       2NaOH(aq)  +        H2(g)

2K(s)           +        2H2O(l)       ->       2KOH(aq)   +        H2(g)

2Rb(s)         +        2H2O(l)       ->       2RbOH(aq)  +        H2(g)

2Cs(s)          +        2H2O(l)       ->       2CsOH(aq)  +        H2(g)

2Fr(s)          +        2H2O(l)       ->       2FrOH(aq)   +        H2(g)

Reactivity increase down the group

 

(iv) Reaction with chlorine:

 

Experiment

Cut about 0.5g of sodium into a deflagrating spoon with a lid cover. Introduce it on a Bunsen flame until it catches fire. Quickly and carefully lower it into a gas jar containing dry chlorine to cover the gas jar.

Repeat with about 0.5g of Lithium.

Caution: This experiment should be done in fume chamber because chlorine is poisonous /toxic.

 

Observation

Sodium metal continues to burn with a yellow flame forming white solid/fumes.

Lithium metal continues to burn with a crimson flame forming white solid / fumes.

Alkali metal react with chlorine gas to form the corresponding metal chlorides. The reactivity increase as electropositivity increase down the group from Lithium to Francium.The ease of donating/losing the outer electrons increase as the atomic radius increase and the outer electron is less attracted to the nucleus.

 

Chemical equations

2Li(s)           +        Cl2(g)           ->       2LiCl(s)

2Na(s)         +        Cl2(g)           ->       2NaCl(s)

2K(s)           +        Cl2(g)           ->       2KCl(s)

2Rb(s)         +        Cl2(g)           ->       2RbCl(s)

2Cs(s)          +        Cl2(g)           ->       2CsCl(s)

2Fr(s)          +        Cl2(g)           ->       2FrCl(s)                                                                                       Reactivity increase down the group

 

 

 

 

The table below shows some compounds of the 1st three alkali metals

 

  Lithium sodium Potassium
Hydroxide LiOH NaOH KOH
Oxide Li2O Na2O K2O
Sulphide Li2S Na2S K2S
Chloride LiCl NaCl KCl
Carbonate Li2CO3 Na2CO3 K2CO3
Nitrate(V) LiNO3 NaNO3 KNO3
Nitrate(III) NaNO2 KNO2
Sulphate(VI) Li2SO4 Na2SO4 K2SO4
Sulphate(IV) Na2SO3 K2SO3
Hydrogen carbonate NaHCO3 KHCO3
Hydrogen sulphate(VI) NaHSO4 KHSO4
Hydrogen sulphate(IV) NaHSO3 KHSO3
Phosphate Na3PO4 K3PO4
Manganate(VI) NaMnO4 KMnO4
Dichromate(VI) Na2Cr2O7 K2Cr2O7
Chromate(VI) Na2CrO4 K2CrO4

 

Some uses of alkali metals include:

(i)Sodium is used in making sodium cyanide for extracting gold from gold ore.

(ii)Sodium chloride is used in seasoning food.

(iii)Molten mixture of sodium and potassium is used as coolant in nuclear reactors.

(iv)Sodium is used in making sodium hydroxide used in making soapy and soapless detergents.

(v)Sodium is used as a reducing agent for the extraction of titanium from Titanium(IV)chloride.

(vi)Lithium is used in making special high strength glasses

(vii)Lithium compounds are used to make dry cells in mobile phones and computer laptops.

 

Group II elements: Alkaline earth metals

 

Group II elements are called Alkaline earth metals . The alkaline earth metals include:

 

 

 

 

 

Element Symbol Atomic number Electron structure Oxidation state Valency
Beryllium Be 4 2:2 Be2+ 2
Magnesium Mg 12 2:8:2 Mg2+ 2
Calcium Ca 20 2:8:8:2 Ca2+ 2
Strontium Sr 38 2:8:18:8:2 Sr2+ 2
Barium Ba 56 2:8:18:18:8:2 Ba2+ 2
Radium Ra 88 2:8:18:32:18:8:2 Ra2+ 2

 

All alkaline earth metal atoms have two electrons in the outer energy level. They therefore are divalent. They donate /lose the two outer electrons to have oxidation state M2+

The number of energy levels increases down the group from Beryllium   to Radium. The more the number of energy levels the bigger/larger the atomic size. e.g.

The atomic size/radius of Calcium is bigger/larger than that of Magnesium because Calcium has more/4 energy levels than Magnesium (3 energy levels).

 

Atomic radius and ionic radius of alkaline earth metals increase down the group as the number of energy levels increases.

 

The atomic radius of alkaline earth metals is bigger than the ionic radius. This is because they react by losing/donating the two outer electrons and hence lose the outer energy level.

 

Table showing the atomic and ionic radius of the 1st three alkaline earth metals

 

Element Symbol Atomic number Atomic radius(nM) Ionic radius(nM)
Beryllium Be 4 0.089 0.031
Magnesium Mg 12 0.136 0.065
Calcium Ca 20 0.174 0.099

The atomic radius of Magnesium is  0.136nM .The ionic radius of Mg2+ is 0.065nM. This is because Magnesium reacts by donating/losing the two outer electrons and hence the outer energy level. The remaining electrons/energy levels experience more effective / greater nuclear attraction/pull towards the nucleus reducing the atomic radius.

 

 

Electropositivity

All alkaline earth metals are also electropositive like alkali metals. The electropositivity increase with increase in atomic radius/size. Calcium is more electropositive than Magnesium. This is because the effective nuclear attraction on outer electrons decreases with increase in atomic radius. The two outer electrons in calcium experience less nuclear attraction and can be lost/ donated easily/with ease because of  the higher/bigger atomic radius.

 

Ionization energy

For alkaline earth metals the 1st ionization energy decrease down the group as the atomic radius increase and the effective nuclear attraction on outer energy level electrons decrease.

e.g. The 1st ionization energy of Magnesium  is 900 kJmole-1  while that of Calcium is 590 kJmole-1 .This is because atomic radius increase and thus effective nuclear attraction on outer energy level electrons decrease down the group from magnesium to calcium.

It requires therefore less energy to donate/lose outer electron in calcium than in magnesium.

 

The minimum amount of energy required to remove a second electron from an ion of an element in its gaseous state is called the 2nd ionization energy.

The 2nd ionization energy is always higher /bigger than  the 1st  ionization energy.

This because once an electron is donated /lost form an atom, the overall effective nuclear attraction on the remaining electrons/energy level increase. Removing a second electron from the ion require therefore more energy than the first electron.

The atomic radius of alkali metals is higher/bigger than that of alkaline earth metals.This is because across/along the period from left to right there is an increase in nuclear charge from additional number of protons and still additional number of electrons entering the same energy level. Increase in nuclear charge increases the effective nuclear attraction on the outer energy level which pulls it closer to the nucleus. e.g.

Atomic radius of Sodium (0.157nM) is higher than that of Magnesium (0.137nM). This is because Magnesium has more effective nuclear attraction on the outer energy level than Sodium hence pulls outer energy level more nearer to its nucleus.

Physical properties

 

Soft/Easy to cut: Alkaline earth metals are not soft and easy to cut with a knife like alkali metals. This is because of the decrease in atomic radius of corresponding alkaline earth metal, increases the strength of metallic bond and the packing of the metallic structure. Alkaline earth metals are

(i)ductile(able to form wire/thin long rods)

(ii)malleable(able to be hammered into sheet/long thin plates)

(iii)have high tensile strength(able to be coiled without breaking/ not brittle/withstand stress)

 

Appearance: Alkali earth metals have a shiny grey metallic luster when their surface is freshly polished /scrubbed. The surface slowly tarnishes on exposure to air. This is because the metal surface slowly undergoes oxidation to form an oxide. This oxide layer should be removed before using the alkaline earth metals.

 

Melting and boiling points: Alkaline earth metals have a relatively high melting/ boiling point than alkali metals. This is because alkali metals use only one delocalized electron to form a weaker metallic bond/structure. Alkaline earth metals use two delocalized electrons to form a stronger metallic bond /structure.

The melting and boiling points decrease down the group as the atomic radius/size increase reducing the strength of metallic bond and packing of the metallic structure. e.g.

 

Beryllium has a melting point of 1280oC. Magnesium has a melting point of 650oC.Beryllium has a smaller atomic radius/size than magnesium .The strength of metallic bond and packing of the metallic structure is thus stronger in beryllium.

 

Electrical/thermal conductivity: Alkaline earth metals are good thermal and electrical conductors. The two delocalized valence electrons move randomly within the metallic structure.

Electrical conductivity increase down the group as the atomic radius/size increase making the delocalized outer electrons less attracted to nucleus. Alkaline earth metals are better thermal and electrical conductors than alkali metals because they have more/two outer delocalized electrons.e.g.

Magnesium is a better conductor than sodium because it has more/two delocalized electrons than sodium. The more delocalized electrons the better the electrical conductor.

Calcium is a better conductor than magnesium.

Calcium has bigger/larger atomic radius than magnesium because the delocalized electrons are less attracted to the nucleus of calcium and thus more free /mobile and thus better the electrical conductor

Summary of some physical properties of the 1st three alkaline earth metals

 

Alkaline earth metal Appearance Ease of cutting Melting point

(oC)

Boiling point

(oC)

Conduct- ivity 1st  ionization energy 2nd ionization energy
Beryllium Shiny grey Not

easy

1280 3450 Good 900 1800
Magnesium Shiny grey Not Easy 650 1110 Good 736

 

1450
calcium Shiny grey Not

easy

850 1140 Good 590 970

 

Chemical properties

(i)Reaction with air/oxygen

On exposure to air, the surface of alkaline earth  metals is slowly oxidized to its oxide on prolonged exposure to air.

Example

On exposure to air, the surface of magnesium ribbon is oxidized to form a thin film of Magnesium oxide

.         2Mg(s)         +        O2(g)           ->       2MgO(s)

 

(ii)Burning in air/oxygen

Experiment

Hold a about 2cm length of Magnesium ribbon on a Bunsen flame. Stop heating when it catches fire/start burning.

Caution: Do not look directly at the flame

Put the products of burning into 100cm3 beaker. Add about 5cm3 of distilled water. Swirl. Test the mixture using litmus papers.
Repeat with Calcium

Observations

-Magnesium burns with a bright blindening flame

-White solid /ash produced

-Solid dissolves in water to form a colourless solution

-Blue litmus paper remain blue

-Red litmus paper turns blue

-colourless gas with pungent smell of urine

Explanation

Magnesium burns in air with  a bright blindening flame to form a mixture of Magnesium oxide and Magnesium nitride.

2Mg (s)        +        O2(g)           ->       2MgO(s)

3Mg (s)        +        N2 (g)           ->       Mg3N2 (s)

Magnesium oxide dissolves in water to form magnesium hydroxide.

MgO(s)        +        H2O (l)        ->       Mg(OH)2(aq)

Magnesium nitride dissolves in water to form magnesium hydroxide and produce ammonia gas.

Mg3N2 (s)    +        6H2O(l)       ->       3Mg(OH)2(aq) + 2NH3 (g)

 

Magnesium hydroxide and ammonia are weakly alkaline with pH 8/9/10/11 and turns red litmus paper blue.

 

Calcium burns in air with faint orange/red flame to form a mixture of both Calcium oxide and calcium nitride.

2Ca (s)         +        O2(g)           ->       2CaO(s)

3Ca (s)         +        N2 (g)           ->       Ca3N2 (s)

 

Calcium oxide dissolves in water to form calcium hydroxide.

CaO(s)         +        H2O(l)         ->       Ca(OH)2(aq)

Calcium nitride dissolves in water to form calcium hydroxide and produce ammonia gas.

Ca3N2 (s)     +        6H2O(l)       ->       3Ca(OH)2(aq) + 2NH3 (g)

Calcium hydroxide is also weakly alkaline solution with pH 8/9/10/11 and turns red litmus paper blue.

 

(iii)Reaction with water

 

Experiment

Measure 50 cm3 of distilled water into a beaker.

Scrub/polish with sand paper 1cm length of Magnesium ribbon

Place it in the water. Test the product-mixture with blue and red litmus papers.

Repeat with Calcium metal.

 

Observations

-Surface of magnesium covered by bubbles of colourless gas.

-Colourless solution formed.

-Effervescence/bubbles/fizzing takes place in Calcium.

-Red litmus paper turns blue.

-Blue litmus paper remains blue.

 

Explanations

Magnesium slowly reacts with cold water to form Magnesium hydroxide and bubbles of Hydrogen gas that stick on the surface of the ribbon.

 

Mg(s)  +  2H2O (l)     ->   Mg(OH)2(aq)   +    H2 (g)

Calcium moderately reacts with cold water to form Calcium hydroxide and produce a steady stream of Hydrogen gas.

 

Ca(s)  +  2H2O (l)      ->   Ca(OH)2(aq)   +    H2 (g)

 

(iv)Reaction with water vapour/steam

Experiment

Put some cotton wool soaked in water/wet sand in a long boiling tube.

Coil a well polished magnesium ribbon into the boiling tube.

Ensure the coil touches the side of the boiling tube. Heat the cotton wool/sand slightly then strongly heat the Magnesium ribbon .

Set up of apparatus

 

 

Observations

-Magnesium glows red hot then burns with a blindening flame.

-Magnesium continues to glow/burning even without more heating.

-White solid/residue.

-colourless gas collected over water.

Explanation

On heating wet sand, steam is generated which drives out the air that would otherwise react with /oxidize the ribbon.

Magnesium burns in steam/water vapour generating enough heat that ensures the reaction goes to completion even without further heating. White Magnesium oxide is formed and hydrogen gas is evolved.

To prevent suck back, the delivery tube should be removed from the water before heating is stopped at the end of the experiment.

Mg(s)  +  H2O (l)       ->   MgO(s)   +    H2 (g)

 

(v)Reaction with chlorine gas.

 

Experiment

Lower slowly  a burning magnesium ribbon/shavings into a gas jar containing Chlorine gas. Repeat with a hot piece of calcium metal.

Observation

-Magnesium continues to burn in chlorine with a bright blindening flame.

-Calcium continues to burn for a short time.

-White solid formed .

-Pale green colour of chlorine fades.

Explanation

Magnesium continues to burn in chlorine gas forming white magnesium oxide solid.

Mg(s)  +  Cl2 (g)        ->     MgCl2 (s)

Calcium burns slightly in chlorine gas to form white calcium oxide solid. Calcium oxide formed coat unreacted Calcium stopping further reaction

Ca(s)  +  Cl2 (g)         ->     CaCl2 (s)

 

(v)Reaction with dilute acids.

Experiment

Place about 4.0cm3 of 0.1M dilute sulphuric(VI)acid into a test tube. Add about 1.0cm length of magnesium ribbon into the test tube. Cover the mouth of the test tube using a thumb. Release the gas and test the gas using a burning splint.

Repeat with about 4.0cm3 of 0.1M dilute hydrochloric/nitric(V) acid.

Repeat with 0.1g of Calcium in a beaker with all the above acid

Caution: Keep distance when using calcium

 

Observation

-Effervescence/fizzing/bubbles with dilute sulphuric(VI) and nitric(V) acids

-Little Effervescence/fizzing/bubbles with calcium and dilute sulphuric(VI) acid.

-Colourless gas produced that extinguishes a burning splint with an explosion/ “pop” sound.

-No gas is produced with Nitric(V)acid.

-Colourless solution is formed.

 

Explanation

Dilute acids react with alkaline earth metals to form a salt and produce hydrogen gas.

Nitric(V)acid is a strong oxidizing agent. It quickly oxidizes the hydrogen produced to water.

Calcium is very reactive with dilute acids and thus a very small piece of very dilute acid should be used.

Chemical equations

Mg(s)  +  H2SO4 (aq)           ->   MgSO4(aq)   +    H2 (g)

Mg(s)  +  2HNO3 (aq)         ->   Mg(NO3)2(aq)   +    H2 (g)

Mg(s) +  2HCl (aq)             ->   MgCl2(aq)         +    H2 (g)

 

Ca(s)   +  H2SO4 (aq)           ->   CaSO4(s)           +    H2 (g)

(insoluble CaSO4(s) coat/cover Ca(s))

Ca(s)   +  2HNO3 (aq)         ->   Ca(NO3)2(aq)    +    H2 (g)

Ca(s)  +  2HCl (aq)             ->   CaCl2(aq)          +    H2 (g)

 

Ba(s)   +  H2SO4 (aq)           ->   BaSO4(s)           +    H2 (g)

(insoluble BaSO4(s) coat/cover Ba(s))

Ba(s)   +  2HNO3 (aq)         ->   Ba(NO3)2(aq)    +    H2 (g)

Ba(s)  +  2HCl (aq)             ->   BaCl2(aq)          +    H2 (g)

 

The table below shows some compounds of some alkaline earth metals

 

  Beryllium Magnesium Calcium Barium
Hydroxide Be(OH)2 Mg(OH)2 Ca(OH)2 Ba(OH)2
Oxide BeO MgO CaO BaO
Sulphide MgS CaS BaS
Chloride BeCl2 MgCl2 CaCl2 BaCl2
Carbonate BeCO3 MgCO3 CaCO3 BaCO3
Nitrate(V) Be(NO3)2 Mg(NO3)2 Ca(NO3)2 Ba(NO3)2
Sulphate(VI) BeSO4 MgSO4 CaSO4 BaSO4
Sulphate(IV) CaSO3 BaSO3
Hydrogen carbonate Mg(HCO3)2 Ca(HCO3)2
Hydrogen sulphate(VI) Mg(HSO4)2 Ca(HSO4)2

 

Some uses of alkaline earth metals include:

(i)Magnesium hydroxide is a non-toxic/poisonous mild base used as an anti acid medicine to relieve stomach acidity.

(ii)Making duralumin. Duralumin is an alloy of Magnesium and aluminium used for making aeroplane bodies because it is light.

(iii) Making plaster of Paris-Calcium sulphate(VI) is used in hospitals to set a fractures bone.

(iii)Making cement-Calcium carbonate is mixed with clay and sand then heated to form cement for construction/building.

(iv)Raise soil pH-Quicklime/calcium oxide is added to acidic soils to neutralize and raise the soil pH in agricultural farms.

(v)As nitrogenous fertilizer-Calcium nitrate(V) is used as an agricultural fertilizer because plants require calcium for proper growth.

(vi)In the blast furnace-Limestone is added to the blast furnace to produce more  reducing agent and remove slag in the blast furnace for extraction of Iron.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(c)Group VII elements: Halogens

 

Group VII elements are called Halogens. They are all non metals. They include:

 

Element Symbol Atomic number Electronicc configuration Charge of ion Valency State at Room Temperature
Fluorine

Chlorine

Bromine

Iodine

Astatine

F

Cl

Br

I

At

9

17

35

53

85

2:7

2:8:7

2:8:18:7

2:8:18:18:7

2:8:18:32:18:7

F

Cl

Br

I

At

1

1

1

1

1

Pale yellow gas

Pale green gas

Red liquid

Grey Solid

Radioactive

 

All halogen atoms have seven electrons in the outer energy level. They acquire/gain one electron in the outer energy level to be stable. They therefore are therefore monovalent .They exist in oxidation state X

The number of energy levels increases down the group from Fluorine   to Astatine. The more the number of energy levels the bigger/larger the atomic size. e.g.

The atomic size/radius of Chlorine is bigger/larger than that of Fluorine because Chlorine has more/3 energy levels than Fluorine (2 energy levels).

 

Atomic radius and ionic radius of Halogens increase down the group as the number of energy levels increases.

 

The atomic radius of Halogens is smaller than the ionic radius. This is because they react by gaining/acquiring extra one electron in the outer energy level. The effective nuclear attraction on the more/extra electrons decreases. The incoming extra electron is also repelled causing the outer energy level to expand to reduce the repulsion and accommodate more electrons.

 

Table showing the atomic and ionic radius of four Halogens

 

Element Symbol Atomic number Atomic radius(nM) Ionic radius(nM)
Fluorine F 9 0.064 0.136
Chlorine Cl 17 0.099 0.181
Bromine Br 35 0.114 0.195
Iodine I 53 0.133 0.216

 

The atomic radius of Chlorine is  0.099nM .The ionic radius of Cl is 0.181nM. This is because Chlorine atom/molecule reacts by gaining/acquiring extra one electrons. The more/extra electrons/energy level experience less effective nuclear attraction /pull towards the nucleus .The outer enegy level expand/increase to reduce the repulsion of the existing and incoming gained /acquired electrons.

Electronegativity

The ease of gaining/acquiring extra electrons is called electronegativity. All halogens are electronegative. Electronegativity decreases as atomic radius increase. This is because the effective nuclear attraction on outer electrons decreases with increase in atomic radius.

The outer electrons experience less nuclear attraction and thus ease of gaining/acquiring extra electrons decrease.

It is measured using Pauling’s scale.

Where Fluorine with Pauling scale 4.0 is the most electronegative element  and thus the highest tendency to acquire/gain extra electron.

 

Table showing the electronegativity of the halogens.

 

Halogen F Cl Br I At
Electronegativity (Pauling scale) 4.0 3.0 2.8 2.5 2.2

 

The electronegativity of the halogens decrease down the group from fluorine to Astatine. This is because atomic radius increases down the group and thus decrease electron – attracting power down the group from fluorine to astatine.

Fluorine is the most electronegative element in the periodic table because it has the small atomic radius.

 

Electron affinity

The minimum amount of energy required to gain/acquire an extra electron by  an atom of element in its gaseous state is called  1st electron affinity. The SI unit of electron affinity is kilojoules per mole/kJmole-1 . Electron affinity depend on atomic radius. The higher the atomic radius, the less effective the nuclear attraction on outer energy level electrons and thus the lower the electron affinity. For halogens the 1st electron affinity decrease down the group as the atomic radius increase and the effective nuclear attraction on outer energy level electrons decrease. Due to its small size/atomic radius Fluorine shows exceptionally low electron affinity. This is because a lot of energy is required to overcome the high repulsion of the existing and incoming electrons.

 

Table showing the election affinity of halogens for the process

X   +    e      ->       X

Halogen F Cl Br I
Electron affinity kJmole-1 -333 -364 -342 -295

 

 

 

The higher the electron affinity the more stable theion.i.e

Cl is a more stable ion than Brbecause it has a more negative / exothermic electron affinity than Br

Electron affinity  is different from:

(i) Ionization energy.

Ionization energy is the energy required to lose/donate an electron in an atom of an element in its gaseous state while electron affinity is the energy required to gain/acquire extra electron by an atom of an element in its gaseous state.

      (ii) Electronegativity.

-Electron affinity is the energy required to gain an electron in an atom of an element in gaseous state. It involves the process:

X(g)   +       e        ->       X(g)

Electronegativity is the ease/tendency of gaining/ acquiring electrons by an element during chemical reactions.

It does not involve use of energy but theoretical arbitrary Pauling’ scale of measurements.

 

Physical properties

 

State at room temperature

Fluorine and Chlorine are gases, Bromine is a liquid and Iodine is a solid. Astatine is radioactive .

All halogens exist as diatomic molecules bonded by strong covalent bond. Each molecule is joined to the other by weak intermolecular forces/ Van-der-waals forces.

Melting/Boiling point

The strength of intermolecular/Van-der-waals forces of attraction increase with increase in molecular size/atomic radius.

Iodine has therefore the largest atomic radius and thus strongest intermolecular forces to make it a solid.

Iodine sublimes when heated to form (caution: highly toxic/poisonous) purple vapour.

This is because Iodine molecules are held together by weak van-der-waals/intermolecular  forces which require little heat energy to break.

Electrical conductivity

All Halogens are  poor conductors of electricity because they have no free delocalized electrons.

Solubility in polar and non-polar solvents

All halogens are soluble in water(polar solvent).

When  a boiling tube containing either chlorine gas or bromine vapour is separately inverted in a beaker containing distilled water and tetrachloromethane (non-polar solvent), the level of solution in boiling tube rises in both water and tetrachloromethane.

This is because halogen are soluble in both polar and non-polar solvents. Solubility of halogens in water/polar solvents decrease down the group. Solubility of halogens in non-polar solvent increase down the group.

The level of water in chlorine is higher than in bromine and the level of tetrachloromethane in chlorine is lower than in bromine.

Caution: Tetrachloromethane , Bromine vapour and Chlorine gas are all highly toxic/poisonous.

 

 

 

 

Table showing the physical properties of Halogens

 

Halogen Formula of molecule Electrical conductivity Solubility

in water

Melting point(oC) Boiling point(oC)
Fluorine F2 Poor Insoluble/soluble in tetrachloromethane -238 -188
Chlorine Cl2 Poor Insoluble/soluble in tetrachloromethane -101 -35
Bromine Br2 Poor Insoluble/soluble in tetrachloromethane 7 59
Iodine I2 Poor Insoluble/soluble in tetrachloromethane 114 sublimes

 

Chemical properties

 

(i)Displacement

 

Experiment

Place separately in test tubes about 5cm3 of sodium chloride, Sodium bromide and Sodium iodide solutions.

Add 5 drops of chlorine water to each  test tube:

Repeat with 5 drops of bromine water instead of chlorine water

Observation

Using Chlorine water

-Yellow colour of chlorine water fades in all test tubes   except with sodium chloride.

-Coloured Solution formed.

Using Bromine water

Yellow colour of bromine water fades in  test tubes containing sodium iodide.

-Coloured Solution formed.

Explanation

The halogens displace each other from their solution. The more electronegative displace the less electronegative from their solution.

  Chlorine is more electronegative than bromine and iodine.

On adding chlorine water, bromine and Iodine are displaced from their solutions by chlorine.

Bromine is more electronegative than iodide but less 6than chlorine.

On adding Bromine water, iodine is displaced from its solution but not chlorine.

 Table showing the displacement of the halogens

(V) means there is displacement (x ) means there is no displacement

                                Halogen ion in

solution

Halogen

F Cl Br I
F2 X      
Cl2 X X    
Br2 X X X  
I2 X X X X

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chemical /ionic equations

With Fluorine

F2(g) +        2NaCl(aq)   ->       2NaF(aq)     +        Cl2(aq)

F2(g) +        2Cl(aq)       ->       2F(aq)         +        Cl2(aq)

 

F2(g) +        2NaBr(aq)   ->       2NaF(aq)     +        Br2(aq)

F2(g) +        2Br(aq)       ->       2F(aq)         +        Br2(aq)

 

F2(g) +        2NaI(aq)     ->       2NaF(aq)     +        I2(aq)

F2(g) +        2I(aq)          ->       2F(aq)         +        I2(aq)

 

With chlorine

Cl2(g)           +        2NaCl(aq)   ->       2NaCl(aq)    +        Br2(aq)

Cl2(g)           +        2Br(aq)       ->       2Cl(aq)       +        Br2(aq)

 

Cl2(g)           +        2NaI(aq)     ->       2NaCl(aq)    +        I2(aq)

Cl2(g)           +        2I(aq)          ->       2Cl(aq)       +        I2(aq)

 

With Bromine

Br2(g)          +        2NaI(aq)     ->       2NaBr(aq)   +        I2(aq)

Br2(g)          +        2I(aq)          ->       2Br(aq)       +        I2(aq)

 

 

 

 

 

 Uses of halogens

  • Florine – manufacture of P.T.F.E (Poly tetra fluoroethene) synthetic fiber.
  • Reduce tooth decay when added in small amounts/quantities in tooth paste.

NB –large small quantities of fluorine /fluoride ions in water cause browning of teeth/flourosis.

  • Hydrogen fluoride is used to engrave words /pictures in glass.

 

  • Bromine – Silver bromide is used to make light sensitive photographic paper/films.

 

  • Iodide – Iodine dissolved in alcohol is used as medicine to kill bacteria in skin cuts. It is called tincture of iodine.

 

The table below to show some compounds of halogens.

 

 

                      Element

Halogen

H Na Mg Al Si C P
F HF NaF MgF2 AlF3 SiF4 CF4 PF3
Cl HCl NaCl MgCl2 AlCl3 SiCl 4 CCl4 PCl3
Br HBr NaBr MgBr2 AlBr3 SiBr4 CBr4 PBr3
I Hl Nal Mgl2 All3 SiI4 C l 4 PBr3

 

 

  • Below is the table showing the bond energy of four halogens.

Bond                           Bond energy k J mole-1

Cl-Cl                                     242

Br-Br                                    193

I-I                                       151

 

  • What do you understand by the term “bond energy”

Bond energy is the energy required to break/ form one mole of chemical bond

 

  1. Explain the trend in bond Energy of the halogens above:

Decrease down the group from chlorine to Iodine

-Atomic radius increase down the group decreasing the energy required to break the covalent bonds between the larger atom with reduced effective nuclear @ charge an outer energy level that take part in bonding.

 

(c)Group VIII elements: Noble gases

 

Group VIII elements are called Noble gases. They are all non metals. Noble gases occupy about 1.0% of the atmosphere as colourless gaseous mixture. Argon is the most abundant with 0.9%.

They exists as monatomic molecules with very weak van-der-waals /intermolecular forces holding the molecules.

They include:

Element Symbol Atomic number Electron structure State at room temperature
Helium He 2 2: Colourless gas
Neon Ne 10 2:8 Colourless gas
Argon Ar 18 2:8:8 Colourless gas
Krypton Kr 36 2:8:18:8 Colourless gas
Xenon Xe 54 2:8:18:18:8 Colourless gas
Radon Rn 86 2:8:18:32:18:8 Radioctive

All noble gas atoms have a stable duplet(two electrons in the 1st energy level) or octet(eight electrons in other outer energy level)in the outer energy level. They therefore do not acquire/gain extra electron in the outer energy level or donate/lose. They therefore are therefore zerovalent .

The number of energy levels increases down the group from Helium   to Randon. The more the number of energy levels the bigger/larger the atomic size/radius. e.g.

The atomic size/radius of Argon is bigger/larger than that of Neon because Argon has more/3 energy levels than Neon (2 energy levels).

 

Atomic radius noble gases increase down the group as the number of energy levels increases.

The effective nuclear attraction on the outer electrons thus decrease down the group.

 

The noble gases are generally unreactive  because the  outer energy level has the stable octet/duplet. The stable octet/duplet in noble gas atoms lead to a comparatively very high 1st ionization energy. This is because losing /donating an electron from the stable atom require a lot of energy to lose/donate and make it unstable.

As atomic radius increase down the group and the 1st ionization energy decrease, very electronegative elements like Oxygen and Fluorine are able to react and bond with lower members of the noble gases.e.g

Xenon reacts with Fluorine to form a covalent compound XeF6.This is because the outer electrons/energy level if Xenon is far from the nucleus and thus experience less effective nuclear attraction.

 

Noble gases have low melting and boiling  points. This is because they exist as monatomic molecules joined by very weak intermolecular/van-der-waals forces that require very little energy to weaken and form liquid and break to form a gas.

The intermolecular/van-der-waals forces increase down the group as the atomic radius/size increase from Helium to Radon. The melting and boiling points thus increase also down the group.

Noble gases are insoluble in water and are poor conductors of electricity.

 

Element Formula of molecule Electrical conductivity Solubility

in water

Atomic radius(nM) 1st ionization energy Melting point(0C) Boiling

point(0C)

Helium He Poor Insoluble 0.128 2372 -270 -269
Neon Ne Poor Insoluble 0.160 2080 -249 -246
Argon Ar Poor Insoluble 0.192 1520 -189 -186
Krypton Kr Poor Insoluble 0.197 1350 -157 -152
Xenon Xe Poor Insoluble 0.217 1170 -112 -108
Radon Rn Poor Insoluble 0.221 1134 -104 -93

 

Uses of noble gases 

Argon is used in light bulbs to provide an inert environment to prevent oxidation of the bulb filament

Argon is used in arch welding as an insulator.

Neon is used in street  and advertisement light

Helium is mixed with Oxygen during deep sea diving and mountaineering.

Helium is used in weather balloon for meteorological research instead of Hydrogen because it is unreactive/inert. Hydrogen when impure can ignite with an explosion.

Helium is used in making thermometers for measuring very low temperatures.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     

 

UPGRADE

CHEMISTRY

                 

FORM 2

                 

STRUCTURE & BONDING

                

 

                 

 

 

 

 

 

Comprehensive tutorial notes

 

MUTHOMI S.G

www.kcselibrary.info

0720096206

 

ssssss

 

 

 

 

 

CHEMICAL BONDING AND STRUCTURE

 

  1. CHEMICAL BONDING

A chemical bond is formed when atoms of the same or different elements share, gain, donate or delocalize their outer energy level electrons to combine during chemical reactions inorder to be stable.

Atoms have equal number of negatively charged electrons in the energy levels and positively charged protons in the nucleus.

Atoms are chemically stable if they have filled outer energy level. An energy level is full if it has duplet (2) or octet (8) state in outer energy level.

Noble gases have duplet /octet. All other atoms try to be like noble gases through chemical reactions and forming molecules.

Only electrons in the outer energy level take part in formation of a chemical bond. There are three main types of chemical bonds formed by atoms:

(i) covalent bond

(ii) ionic/electrovalent bond

(iii) metallic bond

 

(i)COVALENT BOND

A covalent bond is formed when atoms of the same or different element share some or all the outer energy level electrons to combine during chemical reactions inorder to attain duplet or octet.

A shared pair of electrons is attracted by the nucleus (protons) of the two atoms sharing.

Covalent bonds are mainly formed by non-metals to form molecules. A molecule is a group of atoms of the same or different elements held together by a covalent bond. The number of atoms making a molecule is called atomicity. Noble gases are monatomic because they are stable and thus do not bond with each other or other atoms. Most other gases are diatomic

The more the number of electrons shared, the stronger the covalent bond.

A pair of electrons that do not take part in the formation of a covalent bond is called a lone pair of electrons.

Mathematically, the number of electrons to be shared by an atom is equal to the number of electrons remaining for the atom to be stable/attain duplet/octet /have maximum electrons in outer energy level.

 

The following diagrams illustrate the formation of covalent bonds:

a)hydrogen molecule is made up of two hydrogen atoms in the outer energy level each requiring one electron to have a stable duplet.

To show the formation of covalent bonding in the molecule then the following data/information is required;

Symbol of atom/element taking part in bonding                H                           H

Number of protons/electrons                                             1                            1

Electron configuration/structure                                         1:                           1:

Number of electron in outer energy level                           1                            1

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            1                            1

Number of electrons not shared(lone pairs)                       0                            0

Diagram method 1

 

 

                                                                                                          

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

  ●x

H      H

 

Note:

After bonding the following intramolecular forces exist:

(i)the attraction of the shared electrons by both nucleus /protons of the atoms

(ii) the repulsion of the nucleus of one atom on the other.

(iii)balance of the attraction and repulsion is maintained inside/intramolecular/within  the molecule as follows;

 

E1

 

 

P1                                                       P1

 

 

 

E1

 

(iv)Protons(P1) from nucleus of atom 1 repel protons (P2)  from nucleus of atom 2.

(v)Electron (E1) in the energy levels of atom 1 repel electron (E2) in the energy levels of atom 2.

(vi) Protons(P1) from nucleus of atom 1 attract electron (E2) in the energy levels of atom 2.

(vii) protons (P2)  from nucleus of atom 2 attract electron (E2) in the energy levels of atom 2.

 

  1. b) Fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine molecules are made up also of two atoms sharing the outer energy level electrons to have a stable octet.

To show the formation of covalent bonding in the molecule then the following data/information is required;

(i) fluorine

Symbol of atom/element taking part in bonding                F                            F

Number of protons/electrons                                             9                            9

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:7                         2:7

Number of electron in outer energy level                           7                            7

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            1                            1

Number of outer electrons not shared( 3-lone pairs)          6                            6

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii) chlorine

Symbol of atom/element taking part in bonding                Cl                           Cl

Number of protons/electrons                                             17                          17

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:8:7                      2:8:7

Number of electron in outer energy level                           7                            7

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            1                            1

Number of outer electrons not shared( 3-lone pairs)          6                            6

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(iii) Bromine

Symbol of atom/element taking part in bonding                Br                          Br

Number of protons/electrons                                             35                          35

Electron configuration/structure                               2:8:18:7                     2:8:18:7

Number of electron in outer energy level                           7                            7

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            1                            1

Number of outer electrons not shared( 3-lone pairs)          6                            6

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

(iv) Iodine

Symbol of atom/element taking part in bonding                I                             I

Number of protons/electrons                                             53                          53

Electron configuration/structure                               2:8:18:18:7         2:8:18:18:7

Number of electron in outer energy level                           7                            7

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            1                            1

Number of outer electrons not shared( 3-lone pairs)          6                            6

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

  1. c) Oxygen molecule is made up of two atoms sharing each two outer energy level electrons to have a stable octet as shown below;

Symbol of atom/element taking part in bonding                O                           O

Number of protons/electrons                                             8                            8

Electron configuration/structure                                        2:6                          2:6

Number of electron in outer energy level                           6                            6

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            2                            2

Number of outer electrons not shared( 2-lone pairs)          4                            4

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. d) Nitrogen and phosphorus molecule is made up of two atoms sharing each three outer energy level electrons to have a stable octet as shown below;

(i) Nitrogen

Symbol of atom/element taking part in bonding                N                           N

Number of protons/electrons                                             7                            7

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:5                         2:5

Number of electron in outer energy level                           5                            5

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            3                            3

Number of outer electrons not shared ( 3-lone pairs)         2                            2

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

(ii) Phosphorus

Symbol of atom/element taking part in bonding                P                            P

Number of protons/electrons                                             15                          15

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:8:5                      2:8:5

Number of electron in outer energy level                           5                            5

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            3                            3

Number of outer electrons not shared ( 3-lone pairs)         2                            2

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. e) Water molecule is made up of hydrogen and oxygen. Hydrogen requires to share one electron with oxygen to be stable/attain duplet. Oxygen requires to share two electrons to be stable/attain octet. Two hydrogen atoms share with one oxygen atom for both to be stable as shown below;

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding             O                           H

Number of protons/electrons                                             8                            1

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:6                          1

Number of electron in outer energy level                           6                            1

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            2                            1

Number of electrons not shared( 2-Oxygen lone pairs)     4                            0

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

  1. f) Ammonia molecule is made up of Hydrogen and Nitrogen. Hydrogen requires to share one electron with Nitrogen to be stable/attain duplet. Nitrogen requires to share three electrons to be stable/attain octet. Three hydrogen atoms share with one nitrogen atom for both to be stable as shown below;

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding             N                           H

Number of protons/electrons                                              7                           1

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:5                          1:

Number of electron in outer energy level                           5                            1

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            3                              1

Number of electrons not shared( 1-Nitrogen lone pairs)    2                              0

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

g)Carbon(IV) oxide molecule is made up of carbon and oxygen. Carbon requires to share four electrons with oxygen to be stable/attain octet. Oxygen requires to share two electrons to be stable/attain octet. Two oxygen atoms share with one carbon atom for both to be stable as shown below;

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding             O                           C

Number of protons/electrons                                             8                            6

Electron configuration/structure                               2:6                         2:4

Number of electron in outer energy level                           6                            4

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            2                            4

2-lone pairs from each Oxygen atom)                               2                            0

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. h) Methane molecule is made up of hydrogen and carbon. Hydrogen requires sharing one electron with carbon to be stable/attain duplet. Carbon requires sharing four electrons to be stable/attain octet. Four hydrogen atoms share with one carbon atom for both to be stable as shown below;

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding             C                            H

Number of protons/electrons                                             6                            1

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:4                           1

Number of electron in outer energy level                           4                            1

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            4                            1

Number of electrons not shared ( No lone pairs)                0                           0

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. i) Tetrachloromethane molecule is made up of chlorine and carbon. Chlorine requires sharing one electron with carbon to be stable/attain octet. Carbon requires sharing four electrons to be stable/attain octet. Four chlorine atoms share with one carbon atom for both to be stable as shown below;

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding             C                            Cl

Number of protons/electrons                                             6                            17

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:4                       2:8:7

Number of electron in outer energy level                           4                            7

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            4                            1

3-lone pairs from each Chlorine atom(24 electrons)                    0                            6

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. j) Ethane molecule is made up of six hydrogen and two carbon atoms. Hydrogen requires to share one electron with carbon to be stable/attain duplet. Carbon requires to share four electrons to be stable/attain octet. Three hydrogen atoms share with one carbon atom while another three hydrogen atoms share with a different carbon atom. The two carbon atoms bond by sharing a pair of the remaining electrons as shown below;

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding             C                            H

Number of protons/electrons                                             6                            1

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:4                          1

Number of electron in outer energy level                           4                            1

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            4                            1

Number of electrons not shared( No lone pairs)                 0                           0

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

  1. k) Ethene molecule is made up of four hydrogen and two carbon atoms. Hydrogen requires to share one electron with carbon to be stable/attain duplet. Carbon requires to share four electrons to be stable/attain octet. Two hydrogen atoms share with one carbon atom while another two hydrogen atoms share with a different carbon atom. The two carbon atoms bond by sharing two pairs of the remaining electrons as shown below;

 

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding             C                            H

Number of protons/electrons                                             6                            1

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:4                          1

Number of electron in outer energy level                           4                            1

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            4                            1

Number of electrons not shared( No lone pairs)                 0                           0

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

  1. l) Ethyne molecule is made up of two hydrogen and two carbon atoms. Hydrogen requires to share one electron with carbon to be stable/attain duplet. Carbon requires to share four electrons to be stable/attain octet. One hydrogen atoms share with one carbon atom while another hydrogen atoms share with a different carbon atom. The two carbon atoms bond by sharing three pairs of the remaining electrons as shown below;

 

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding             C                            H

Number of protons/electrons                                             6                            1

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:4                          1

Number of electron in outer energy level                           4                            1

Number of electrons remaining to be stable/shared            4                            1

Number of electrons not shared( No lone pairs)                 0                           0

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. j) Ethanol molecule is made up of six hydrogen one Oxygen

atom two carbon atoms.

Five Hydrogen atoms share their  one electron each with carbon to be stable/attain duplet. One Hydrogen atoms share one electron with Oxygen for both  to attain duplet/octet

Each Carbon uses  four electrons  to share with “O”and “H”attain octet/duplet.

NB: Oxygen has two lone pairs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

j)Ethanoic molecule is made up of four hydrogen two Oxygen atom two carbon atoms.

 Three Hydrogen atoms share their  one electron each with carbon to be stable/attain duplet. One Hydrogen atoms share one electron with Oxygen for both  to attain duplet/octet

 Each Carbon uses  four electrons  to share with “O”and “H”attain octet/duplet.

NB: Each Oxygen atom has two lone pairs

 

 

 

By convention (as a rule), a

(i) single covalent bond made up of two shared( a pair) electrons is represented by a dash(—)

(ii) double covalent bond made up of four shared( two pairs) electrons is represented by a double dash(==)

(iii) triple covalent bond made up of six shared( three pairs) electrons is represented by a triple dash(==)

The representation below show the molecules covered in (a) to (k) above:

 

  1. Hydrogen molecule(H2)                               H–H

 

  1. Fluorine molecule(F2)                    F–F

 

  1. Chlorine molecule(Cl2) Cl–Cl

 

  1. Bromine molecule(Br2) Br–Br

 

  1. Iodine molecule(I2) I–I

 

  1. Oxygen molecule(O2) O=O

 

  1. Nitrogen molecule(N2) N=N

 

  1. Phosphorus molecule(P2)                    P=P

 

  1. Water molecule (H2O) H–O–H

 

 

      j   Ammonia molecule(NH3)                               H–N–H

H

 

k)Carbon(IV) oxide molecule(CO2)                  O==C==O

 

H

l)Methane molecule(CH4)                                    H–C–H

H

 

Cl

m)Tetrachloromethane molecule(CCl4                 Cl–C–Cl

Cl

 

H   H

n)Ethane molecule(C2H6)                                    H–C—C–H

H     H

 

p)Ethene molecule(C2H4)                                      H-C==C-H

H    H

 

q)Ethyne molecule(C2H6)                                     H-C—C-H

 

 

 

 

 

Dative /coordinate bond

A dative/coordinate bond is a covalent bond formed when a lone pair of electrons is donated then shared to an electron-deficient species/ion/atom.

During dative/coordinate bonding, all the shared pair of electrons are donated by one of the combining/bonding species/ ion/atom.

Like covalent bonding, coordinate /dative bond is mainly formed by non-metals.

 

Illustration of coordinate /dative bond                                    

a)Ammonium ion(NH4+)

The ammonium ion is made up of ammonia (NH3) molecule and hydrogen (H+) ion. (H+) ion has no electrons. NH3 is made up of covalent bonding from Nitrogen and Hydrogen. One lone pair of electrons is present in Nitrogen atom after the bonding. This lone pair is donated and shared with an electron-deficient H+ ion

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

b)Phosphine ion (PH4+)

The Phosphine ion is made up of phosphine(NH3) molecule and hydrogen (H+) ion. (H+) ion has no electrons. PH3 is made up of covalent bonding from Phosphorus and Hydrogen. One lone pair of electrons is present in Phosphorus atom. After the bonding this lone pair is donated and shared with the electron-deficient H+ ion

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. c) Hydroxonium (H3O+) ion

The hydroxonium ion is made up of water (H2O) molecule and hydrogen (H+) ion. (H+) ion has no electrons. The H2O molecule is made up of covalent bonding from Oxygen and Hydrogen. One lone pair of electrons out of the two present in Oxygen atom after the bonding is donated and shared with the electron-deficient H+ ion

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. d) Carbon (II) oxide (CO)

Carbon (II) oxide is made up of carbon and Oxygen atoms sharing each two outer electron and not sharing each two electrons. Oxygen with an extra lone pair of electrons donates and share with the carbon atom for both to be stable.

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. e) Aluminium (III) chloride (AlCl3/Al2Cl6)

Aluminium (III) chloride is made up of aluminium and chlorine. One aluminium atom shares its outer electrons with three separate chlorine atoms. All chlorine atoms attain stable octet but aluminium does not. Another molecule of aluminium chloride shares its chlorine lone pair of electrons with the aluminium atom for both to be stable. This type of bond exists only in vapour phase after aluminium chloride sublimes.

Diagram method 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diagram method 2

 

 

 

 

 

A dative/coordinate bond is by convention represented by an arrow (→) heading from the donor of the shared pair of electrons.

Below is the representation of molecules in the above examples;

a)Ammonium ion.

H

H− N→H

H

b)Phosphine ion                                     H

H− P→H

H

 

c)Hydroxonium ion

H− O→H

H

 

d)Carbon(II) oxide                              O→C

 

 

  1. d) Aluminium(III)chloride Cl     Cl            Cl

 

Al        Al

 

Cl                    Cl           Cl

 

 

(ii)IONIC/ELECTROVALENT BOND

An ionic/electrovalent bond is extreme of a covalent bond.

During ionic/electrovalent bonding there is complete transfer of valence electrons to one electronegative atom from an electropositive atom.

All metals are electropositive and easily/readily donate/lose their valence electrons.

All non-metals are electronegative and easily/readily gain/acquire extra electrons.

Ionic/electrovalent bonding therefore mainly involves transfer of electrons from metal/metallic radical to non-metallic radical.

When an electropositive atom donates /loses the valence electrons, it forms a positively charged cation to attain stable octet/duplet.

When an electronegative atom gains /acquires extra valence electrons, it forms a negatively charged anion to attain stable octet/duplet.

The electrostatic attraction force between the stable positively charged cation and the stable negatively charged anion with opposite charges constitute the ionic bond.

Like in covalent/dative/coordinate bonding, only the outer energy level electrons take part in the formation of ionic/electrovalent bond

Like in covalent/dative/coordinate bonding, the more electrons taking part / involved  in the formation of ionic/electrovalent bond, the stronger the ionic /electrovalent bond.

 

 

Illustration of ionic /electrovalent bond

a)Sodium chloride(NaCl)

Sodium chloride(NaCl) is formed when a sodium atom donate its outer valence electrons to chlorine atom for both to attain stable octet:

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding             Na                          Cl

Number of protons/electrons                                             11                          17

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:8:1                       2:8:7

Number of electron in outer energy level                           11                          7

Number of electrons donated and gained to be stable        1                            1

New electron configuration/structure                                 2:8:                       2:8:

Symbol of cation/anion after bonding                               Na+                        Cl

 

Diagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

b)Magnesium chloride(MgCl2)

Magnesium chloride (MgCl2) is formed when a magnesium atom donate its two outer valence electrons to chlorine atoms. Two chlorine atoms are required to gain each one electron. All the ions (cations and anions) attain stable octet:

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding             Mg                         Cl

Number of protons/electrons                                             11                          17

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:8:2                       2:8:7

Number of electron in outer energy level                           2                            7

Number of electrons donated and gained to be stable        2                            1

New electron configuration/structure                                 2:8:                         2:8:

Symbol of cation/anion after bonding                                Mg2+                      Cl

Diagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

c)Lithium oxide(Li2O)

Lithium oxide(Li2O)is formed when a Lithium atom donate its  outer valence electrons to Oxygen atom. Two Lithium atoms are required to donate/lose each one electron and attain stable duplet. Oxygen atom acquires the two electrons and attain stable octet:

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding             Li                           O

Number of protons/electrons                                             3                            8

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:1                          2:6

Number of electron in outer energy level                           1                            6

Number of electrons donated and gained to be stable        1                            2

New electron configuration/structure                                 2:                            2:8:

Symbol of cation/anion after bonding                               Li+                         O2-

Diagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

d)Aluminium(III) oxide(Al2O3)

Aluminium(III) oxide(Al2O3)is formed when a Aluminium atom donate its three outer valence electrons to Oxygen atom. Two Aluminium atoms are required to donate/lose each three electron and attain stable octet. Three Oxygen atoms gain/ acquire the six electrons and attain stable octet:

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding             Al                          O

Number of protons/electrons                                             13                          8

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:8:3                       2:6

Number of electron in outer energy level                           3                            6

Number of electrons donated and gained to be stable        3                            2

New electron configuration/structure                                 2:8:                         2:8:

Symbol of cation/anion after bonding                               Al3+                        O2-

Diagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

e)Calcium oxide(CaO)

Calcium oxide(CaO)is formed when a Calcium atom donate its two outer valence electrons to Oxygen atom. Both attain stable octet:

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding             Ca                          O

Number of protons/electrons                                             20                          8

Electron configuration/structure                                         2:8:8:2                    2:6

Number of electron in outer energy level                           2                            6

Number of electrons donated and gained to be stable        2                            2

New electron configuration/structure                                 2:8:8:                     2:8:

Symbol of cation/anion after bonding                               Ca2+                       O2-

Diagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some compounds can be formed from ionic/electrovalent, covalent and dative/coordinate bonding within their atoms/molecules:

 

a)Formation of ammonium chloride:

Ammonium chloride is formed from the reaction of ammonia gas and hydrogen chloride gas. Both ammonia and hydrogen chloride gas are formed from covalent bonding. During the reaction of ammonia and hydrogen chloride gas to form Ammonium chloride;

-ammonia forms a dative/coordinate bond with electron deficient H+ ion from Hydrogen chloride to form ammonium ion(NH4+)ion.

-the chloride ion Cl–  and ammonium ion(NH4+)ion bond through ionic /      electrovalent bond from the electrostatic attraction between the opposite/unlike charges.

Diagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. b) Dissolution/dissolving of hydrogen chloride:

Hydrogen chloride is formed when hydrogen and chlorine atoms form a covalent bond. Water is formed when hydrogen and Oxygen atoms also form a covalent bond. When hydrogen chloride gas is dissolved in water;

-water molecules  forms a dative/coordinate bond with electron deficient H+ ion from Hydrogen chloride to form hydroxonium ion(H3O+)ion.

-the chloride ion Cl–  and hydroxonium ion(H3O+)ion bond through ionic /      electrovalent bond from the electrostatic attraction between the opposite/unlike charges.

Diagram

 

 

 

 

 

.

 

c)Dissolution/dissolving of ammonia gas:

Ammmonia gas is formed when hydrogen and Nitrogen atoms form a covalent bond. Water is formed when hydrogen and Oxygen atoms also form a covalent bond. When Ammonia gas is dissolved in water;

-ammonia forms a dative/coordinate bond with electron deficient H+ ion from a water molecule to form ammonium ion(NH4+)ion.

-the hydroxide ion OH–  and ammonium ion(NH4+)ion bond through ionic /      electrovalent bond from the electrostatic attraction between the opposite/unlike charges.

 

Diagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(iii)METALLIC BOND

A metallic bond is formed when metallic atoms delocalize their outer electrons inorder to be stable.

Metals delocalize their outer electrons to form positively charged cation .

The electrostatic attraction force between the metallic cation and the negatively charged electrons constitute the metallic bond.

The more delocalized electrons the stonger the metallic bond.

Illustration of ionic /electrovalent bond

  1. a) Sodium (Na) is made of one valence electron. The electron is donated to form Na+ The electron is delocalized /free within many sodium ions.

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding   Na              Na             Na

Number of protons/electrons                                   11              11             11

Electron configuration/structure                             2:8:1         2:8:1          2:8:1

Number of electron in outer energy level                 1                  1              1

Number of electrons delocalized/free within            1                  1              1

New electron configuration/structure                       2:8:              2:8:           2:8:

Symbol of cation after metallic bonding                  Na+              Na+           Na+

Diagram

 

(three)Metallic cations attract

(three) free/delocalized electrons

 

 

 

 

  1. b) Aluminium (Al) is made of three valence electron. The three electrons are donated to form Al3+ The electrons are delocalized /free within many aluminium ions.

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding   Al              Al             Al

Number of protons/electrons                                   13              13             13

Electron configuration/structure                               2:8:3         2:8:3          2:8:3

Number of electron in outer energy level                 3                  3              3

Number of electrons delocalized/free within            3                  3              3

New electron configuration/structure                       2:8:              2:8:           2:8:

Symbol of cation  after metallic bonding                 Al3+              Al3+           Al3+

Diagram

 

(three)Metallic cations attract

                                                                       (nine) free/delocalized electrons

 

 

 

 

 

c)Calcium (Ca) is made of two valence electron.The two electrons are  donated to form Ca2+ ion.The electrons are delocalized /free within many Calcium  ions.

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding   Ca              Ca             Ca

Number of protons/electrons                                   20              20             20

Electron configuration/structure                               2:8:8:2      2:8:8:2   2:8:8:2

Number of electron in outer energy level               2                  2              2

Number of electrons delocalized/free within            2                  2              2

New electron configuration/structure                       2:8:8:           2:8:8:           2:8:8:

Symbol of cation  after metallic bonding                 Ca2+             Ca2+          Ca2+

Diagram

 

(three)Metallic cations attract

(six) free/delocalized electrons

 

 

  1. d) Magnesium (Mg) is made of two valence electron. The two electrons are donated to form Mg2+The electrons are delocalized /free within many Magnesium ions.

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding             Mg                     Mg

Number of protons/electrons                                             12                      12

Electron configuration/structure                                          2:8:2                            2:8:2

Number of electron in outer energy level                           2                         2

Number of electrons delocalized/free within                      2                         2

New electron configuration/structure                                 2:8:                     2:8:

Symbol of cation  after metallic bonding                           Mg2+                             Mg2+

Diagram

 

(two)Metallic cations attract

(four) free/delocalized electrons

 

 

 

e)Lithium (Li) is made of one valence electron.The  electron is donated to form Li+ ion.The electron is delocalized /free within many Lithium ions.ie;

Symbol of atoms/elements taking part in bonding   Li       Li       Li      Li

Number of protons/electrons                                  3        3        3        3

Electron configuration/structure                               2:1     2:1     2:1      2:1

Number of electron in outer energy level                1        1        1        1

Number of electrons delocalized/free within  1        1        1        1

New electron configuration/structure                       2:1:    2:1:   2:1:    2:1:

Symbol of cation  after metallic bonding                 Li+        Li+    Li+        Li+

Diagram

 

(four)Metallic cations attract

                                                                       (four) free/delocalized electrons

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

B.CHEMICAL  STRUCTURE

 

Chemical structure is the pattern/arrangement of atoms after they have bonded. There are two main types of chemical structures:

(i)simple molecular structure

     (ii) giant structures

 

(i)Simple molecular structure

Simple molecular structure is the pattern formed after atoms of non-metals have covalently bonded to form simple molecules.

Molecules are made of atoms joined together by weak intermolecular forces called Van-der-waals forces.The Van-der-waals forces hold the molecules together while the covalent bonds hold the atoms in the molecule.

 

                 Illustration of simple molecular structure

 

a)Hydrogen molecule(H2)

Hydrogen gas is made up of strong covalent bonds/intramolecular forces between each hydrogen atom making the molecule. Each molecule is joined to another by weak Van-der-waals forces/ intermolecular forces.

 

Illustration of simple molecular structure

 

a)Hydrogen molecule(H2)

Hydrogen gas is made up of strong covalent bonds/intramolecular forces between each hydrogen atom making the molecule. Each molecule is joined to another by weak Van-der-waals forces/ intermolecular forces

b)Oxygen molecule(O2)

Oxygen gas is made up of strong covalent bonds/intramolecular forces between each Oxygen atom making the molecule. Each molecule is joined to another by weak Van-der-waals forces/ intermolecular forces.

 

Strong intramolecular forces/covalent bond

 

O=O:::: O=O:::: O=O:::: O=O

: :    : :    : :   : :     : :    : :                      weak intermolecular

O=O:::: O=O:::: O=O:::: O=O              forces/van-der-waals forces

 

c)Iodine molecule(I2)

Iodine solid crystals are made up of strong covalent bonds/intramolecular forces between each iodine atom making the molecule.Each molecule is joined to another by weak Van-der-waals forces/ intermolecular forces.

Strong intramolecular forces/covalent bond

 

I— I:::: I — I:::: I — I:::: I — I

: :    : :    : :   : :     : :    : :    : :               weak intermolecular

I — I:::: I — I:::: I — I:::: I — I          forces/van-der-waals forces

 

d)Carbon(IV) oxide molecule(CO2)

Carbon(IV) oxide gas molecule is made up of strong covalent bonds/intramolecular forces between each Carbon and oxygen atoms making the molecule. Each molecule is joined to another by weak Van-der-waals forces/ intermolecular forces.

 

Strong intramolecular forces/covalent bond

 

O=C=O:::: O=C=O:::: O=C=O

: :               : :               : :                weak intermolecular

O=C=O:::: O=C=O:::: O=C=O             forces/van-der-waals forces

 

The following are the main characteristic properties of simple molecular structured compounds:

 

a)State

Most simple molecular substances are gases, liquid or liquids or solid that sublimes or has low boiling/melting points at room temperature (25oC) and pressure (atmospheric pressure).

Examples of simple molecular substances include:

-all gases eg Hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, carbon (IV) oxide,

          –Petroleum fractions eg Petrol, paraffin, diesel, wax,

-Solid non-metals eg Sulphur, Iodine

-Water

 

  1. b) Low melting/boiling points

Melting is the process of weakening the intermolecular/ van-der-waal forces/ of attraction between the molecules that holding the substance/compound.

Note;

(i)Melting and boiling does not involve weakening/breaking the strong intramolecular force/covalent bonds holding the atoms in the molecule.

 

(ii) Melting and boiling points increase with increase in atomic radius/size of the atoms making the molecule as the intermolecular  forces / van-der-waal forces of attraction between the molecules increase. e.g.

Iodine has a higher melting/boiling point than chlorine because it has a higher /bigger atomic radius/size than chlorine, making the molecule to have stronger intermolecular force/ van-der-waal forces of attraction between the molecules than chlorine. Iodine is hence a solid and chlorine is a gas.

 

(c)Insoluble in water/soluble in organic solvents

Polar substances dissolve in polar solvents. Water is a polar solvent .Molecular substances do not thus dissolve in water because they are non-polar. They dissolve in non-polar solvents like methylbenzene, benzene, tetrachloromethane or propanone.

 

d)Poor conductors of heat and electricity

Substances with free mobile ions or free mobile/delocalized electrons conduct electricity. Molecular substances are poor conductors of heat/electricity because their molecules have no free mobile ions/electrons. This makes them very good insulators.

 

Hydrogen bonds

 

A hydrogen bond is an intermolecular force of attraction in which a very electronegative atom attracts hydrogen atom of another molecule.

The most electronegative elements are Fluorine, Oxygen and Nitrogen .Molecular compounds made up of these elements usually have hydrogen bonds.

Hydrogen bonds are stronger than van-der-waals forces but weaker than covalent bonds. Molecular compounds with hydrogen bonds thus have higher melting/boiling points than those with van-der-waals forces.

 

Illustration of Hydrogen bonding

 

a)Water molecule

During formation of covalent bond, the oxygen atom attract/pull the shared electrons more to itself than Hydrogen creating partial negative charges(δ)in Oxygen and partial positive charges(δ+)in Hydrogen.

Two molecules attract each other at the partial charges through Hydrogen bonding.

 

 

 

 

The hydrogen bonding in water makes it;

(i)a liquid with higher boiling and melting point than simple molecular substances with higher molecular mass. e.g. Hydrogen sulphide as in the table below;

 

Influence of H-bond in water (H2O) in comparison to H2S

 

Substance Water/ H2O Hydrogen sulphide/ H2S
Relative molecular mass          18              34
Melting point(oC)           0             -85
Boiling point(oC)          100             -60

 

(ii)have higher volume in solid (ice) than liquid (water) and thus ice is less dense than water. Ice therefore floats  above liquid water.

b)Ethanol molecule

 

Like in water, the oxygen atom attracts/pulls the shared electrons in the covalent bond more to itself than Hydrogen.

This creates a partial negative charge (δ-) on oxygen and partial positive charge(δ+) on hydrogen.

Two ethanol molecules attract each other at the partial charges through Hydrogen bonding forming a dimmer.

A dimmer is a molecule formed when two molecules join together as below:

 

 

 

Hydrogen bonds              covalent bonds

 

 

R1                O δ-…………………….…H δ+                  O δ-

 

 

H δ+                                               R2

 

R1 and R2 are extensions of the molecule.

For ethanol it is made up of CH3CH2 – to make the structure:

 

Hydrogen bonds             covalent bonds

 

 

CH3CH2               O δ-………………………….…H δ+             O δ-

 

 

H δ+                                                CH2CH3

 

 

b)Ethanoic acid molecule

Like in water and ethanol above, the oxygen atom attracts/pulls the shared electrons in the covalent bond in ethanoic acid more to itself than Hydrogen.

This creates a partial negative charge (δ-)on oxygen and partial positive charge(δ+) on hydrogen.

Two ethanoic acid molecules attract each other at the partial charges through Hydrogen-bonding forming a dimer.

Hydrogen bonds            covalent bonds

 

R1         C              O δ-………………………….…H δ+            O δ-

 

O δ-              H δ+………………..….O δ-                  C            R2

 

 

 

 

R1 and 2 are extensions of the molecule.

For ethanoic acid the extension is made up of CH3 –  to make the structure;

 

Hydrogen bonds             covalent bonds

 

CH3                C               O δ-…………………………………….…H δ+            O δ-

 

 

O δ-              H δ+…………………..……..………O δ-                          C            CH3

 

 

Ethanoic acid like ethanol exists as a dimer.

Ethanoic acid has a higher melting/boiling point than ethanol .This is because ethanoic acid has two/more hydrogen bond than ethanol.

 

  1. d) Proteins and sugars in living things also have multiple/complex hydrogen bonds in their structures.

(ii) Giant structure

 

This is the pattern formed after substances /atoms /ions bond to form a long chain network.

Giant structures therefore extend in all directions to form a pattern that continues repeating itself.

There are three main giant structures.

  1. a) giant covalent/atomic structure                     b)giant ionic structure

c)giant metallic structure

  1. a) giant covalent/atomic structure

 

Giant covalent/atomic structure is the pattern formed after atoms have covalently bonded to form long chain pattern consisting of indefinite number of atoms covalently bonded together.

The strong covalent bonds hold all the atoms together to form a very well packed structure. Examples of substances with giant covalent/atomic structure include:

(i) carbon-diamond

(ii) carbon-graphite

(iii)silicon

(iv) silicon(IV) oxide/sand

Carbon-graphite and carbon-diamond are allotropes of carbon.

Allotropy is the existence of an element in more than one stable physical form at the same temperature and pressure.

Allotropes are atoms of the same element existing in more than one stable physical form at the same temperature and pressure.

Other elements that exhibit/show allotropy include;

-Sulphur as monoclinic sulphur and rhombic sulphur

-Phosphorus as white phosphorus and red phosphorus

 

The structure of carbon-diamond

Carbon has four valence electrons. The four valence electrons are used to form covalent bonds.

During the formation of diamond, one carbon atom covalently bond with four other carbon atoms.

C                                          C

x                                               x.

x  C   x    —–>      C  .x C x.   C    ——>        C         C         C

x                                               x.

C                                          C

After the bonding, the atoms rearrange to form a regular tetrahedral in which one carbon is in the centre while four are at the apex/corners.

 

 

C

 

 

 

C

 

 

C                                      C

 

 

C

 

This pattern repeats itself to form a long chain number of atoms covalently bonded together indefinitely. The pattern is therefore called giant tetrahedral structure. It extends in all directions where one atom of carbon is always a centre of four others at the apex/corner of a regular tetrahedral.

C

 

 

C

 

C                  C

C                          C

 

C

C

 

 

 

The giant tetrahedral structure of carbon-diamond is very well/closely packed and joined/bonded together by strong covalent bond.

This makes carbon-diamond to have the following properties:

 

  1. a) High melting/boiling point.

The giant tetrahedral structure is very well packed and joined together by strong covalent bonds.

This requires a lot of energy/heat to weaken for the element to melt and break for the element to boil.

 

 

  1. b) High density.

Carbon diamond is the hardest known natural substance.

This is because the giant tetrahedral structure is a very well packed pattern/structure and joined together by strong covalent bonds.

This makes Carbon diamond be used to make drill for drilling boreholes/oil wells.

The giant tetrahedral structure of carbon diamond is a very closely packed pattern /structure such that heat transfer by conduction is possible. This makes carbon diamond a good thermal conductor.

 

  1. c) Poor conductor of electricity.

Carbon-diamond has no free/delocalized electrons within its structure and thus do not conduct electricity.

 

  1. d) Insoluble in water.

Carbon-diamond is insoluble in water because it is non-polar and do not bond with water molecules.

 

  1. e) Is abrasive/Rough.

The edges of the closely well packed pattern/structure of Carbon-diamond make its surface rough/abrasive and thus able to smoothen /cut metals and glass.

 

  1. f) Have characteristic luster.

Carbon-diamond has a high optical dispersion and thus able to disperse light to different colours .This makes Carbon-diamond one of the most popular gemstone for making jewellery.

 

The structure of carbon-graphite

 

During the formation of graphite, one carbon atom covalently bond with three other carbon atoms leaving one free/delocalized electron.

 

C                                C

x                                               x.

x  C   x    —–>      C  .x C x    ——>     C       C x  free/delocalized electron

x                                               x.

C                                C

 

After the bonding, the atoms rearrange and join together to form a regular hexagon in which six carbon atoms are at the apex/corners.

The regular hexagon is joined to another in layers on the same surface by van-der-waals forces.

Each layer extends to form a plane in all directions.

The fourth valence electron that does not form covalent bonding is free/mobile /delocalized within the layers.

This structure/pattern is called giant hexagonal planar structure.

 

The giant hexagonal planar structure of carbon-graphite is closely packed and joined/bonded together by strong covalent bonds. This makes carbon-graphite to have the following properties:

 

  1. a) High melting/boiling point.

The giant hexagonal planar structure of carbon-graphite is well packed and joined together by strong covalent bonds.

This requires a lot of energy/heat to weaken for the element to melt and break for the element to boil.

 

  1. b) Good conductor of electricity.

Carbon-graphite has free/delocalized 4th valence electrons within its structure and thus conducts electricity.

 

  1. c) Insoluble in water.

Carbon-graphite is insoluble in water because it is non-polar and do not bond with water molecules.

  1. d) Soft.

Layers of giant hexagonal planar structure of carbon graphite are held together by van-der-waals forces.

The van-der-waals forces easily break when pressed and reform back on releasing/reducing pressure/force thus making graphite soft.

 

  1. e) Smooth and slippery.

When pressed at an angle the van-der-waals forces easily break and slide over each other making graphite soft and slippery.

It is thus used as a dry lubricant instead of oil.

 

f)Some uses of carbon-graphite.

  1. As a dry lubricant– carbon graphite is smooth and slippery and thus better lubricant than oil.Oil heat up when reducing friction.
  2. Making Lead-pencils- When pressed at an angle on paper the van-der-waals forces easily break and slide smoothly over contrasting background producing its characteristic black background.
  3. As moderator in nuclear reactors to reduce the rate of decay/disintegration of radioactive nuclides/atoms/isotopes.
  4. As electrode in dry/wet cells/battery- carbon graphite is inert and good conductor of electricity. Current is thus able to move from one electrode/terminal to the other in dry and wet cells/batteries. Carbon graphite is also very cheap.

 

 

  1. b) giant ionic structure

 

Giant ionic structure is the pattern formed after ions have bonded through ionic/electrovalent bonding to form a long chain consisting of indefinite number of ions.

The strong ionic/electrovalent bond holds all the cations and anions together to form a very well packed structure.

Substances with giant ionic structure are mainly crystals of salts e.g. sodium chloride, Magnesium chloride, Sodium iodide, Potassium chloride, copper (II) sulphate(VI).

 

The structure of sodium chloride

 

Sodium chloride is made up of sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl)ions.

Sodium (Na+) ion is formed when a sodium atom donate /loose/donate an electron. Chloride (Cl) ion is formed when a chlorine atom gain /acquire an extra electron from sodium atom.

Many Na+ and Cl ions then rearrange such that one Na+ ion is surrounded by six Clions and one Clion is surrounded by six Na+ ions.

The pattern formed is a giant cubic structure where Cl ion is sand witched between Na+ ions and the same to Na+ ions.

This pattern forms a crystal.

A crystal is a solid form of a substance in which particles are arranged in a definite pattern regularly repeated in three dimensions.

 

The structure of sodium chloride

The giant cubic structure/crystal of sodium chloride is as below;

 

 

The giant cubic structure/crystal of sodium chloride is very well packed and joined by strong ionic/electrovalent bonds. This makes sodium chloride and many ionic compounds to have the following properties:

 

  1. a) Have high melting /boiling points.

The giant cubic lattice structure of sodium chloride is very closely packed into a crystal that requires a lot of energy/heat to weaken and melt/boil. This applies to all crystalline ionic compounds.

  1. b) Are good conductors of electricity in molten and aqueous state but poor conductor of electricity in solid.

Ionic compounds have fused ions in solid crystalline state.

On heating and dissolving in water, the crystal is broken into free mobile ions (Na+ and Cl ions).

The free mobile ions are responsible for conducting electricity in ionic compounds in molten and aqueous states.

 

c)Soluble in water

Ionic compounds are polar and dissolve in polar water molecules.

On dissolving, the crystal breaks to free the fused ions which are then surrounded by water molecules.

 

 

  1. b) giant metallic structure

 

This is the pattern formed after metallic atoms have bonded through metallic bond.

The pattern formed is one where the metallic cations rearrange to form a cubic structure.

The cubic structure is bound together by the free delocalized electrons that move freely within.

The more delocalized electrons, the stronger the metallic bond.

 

The structure of sodium and aluminium.

 

Sodium has one valence electrons.

Aluminium has three valence electrons.

After delocalizing the valence electrons ,the metal cations (Na+ and Al3+) rearrange to the apex /corners of a regular cube that extend in all directions.

The delocalized electrons remain free and mobile as shown below:

 

 

The giant cubic structure makes metals to have the following properties:

 

  1. a) Have high melting/boiling point

The giant cubic structure is very well packed and joined/bonded together by the free delocalized electrons.

The more delocalized electrons the higher the melting/boiling point.

The larger/bigger the metallic cation ,the weaker the packing of the cations and thus the lower the melting/boiling point. e.g.

 

(i) Sodium and potassium have both one valence delocalized electron.

Atomic radius of potassium is larger/bigger than that of sodium and hence less well packed in its metallic structure.

Sodium has therefore a higher melting/boiling point than potassium.

 

(ii) Sodium has one delocalized electron.

Aluminium has three delocalized electrons.

Atomic radius of sodium is larger/bigger than that of aluminium and hence less well packed in its metallic structure.

Aluminium has therefore a higher melting/boiling point than sodium because of the smaller well packed metallic (Al3+)ions and bonded/joined by more/three delocalized electrons.

 

The table below shows the comparative melting/boiling points of some metals:

Metal Electronic structure Atomic radius(nM) Melting point(oC) Boiling point(oC)
Sodium 2:8:1 0.155 98 890
Potassium 2:8:8:1 0.203 64 774
Magnesium 2:8:2 0.136 651 1110
Aluminium 2:8:3 0.125 1083 2382

 

  1. b) Good electrical and thermal conductor/electricity.

All metals are good conductors of heat and electricity including Mercury which is a liquid.

The mobile delocalized electrons are free within the giant metallic structure to move from one end to the other transmitting heat/electric current.

The more delocalized electrons the better the thermal/electrical conductivity.

High temperatures/heating lowers the thermal/electrical conductivity of metals because the delocalized electrons vibrate and move randomly hindering transfer of heat

 

From the table above:

Compare the electrical conductivity of;

(i)Magnesium and sodium

Magnesium is a better conductor than sodium.

Magnesium has more/two delocalized electrons than sodium. The more delocalized electrons the better the electrical conductor.

(ii)Potassium and sodium

Potassium is a better conductor than sodium.

Potassium has bigger/larger atomic radius than sodium. The delocalized electrons are less attracted to the nucleus of the atom and thus more free /mobile and thus better the electrical conductor.

 

  1. c) Insoluble in water

All metals are insoluble in water because they are non polar and thus do not bond with water.

Metals higher in the reactivity/electrochemical series like; Potassium, sodium, Lithium and Calcium reacts with cold water producing hydrogen gas and forming an alkaline solution of their hydroxides.ie

2K(s)        +        2H2O(l)       ->       2KOH(aq)   +        H2(g)

2Na(s)      +        2H2O(l)       ->       2NaOH(aq)  +        H2(g)

2Li(s)        +        2H2O(l)       ->       2LiOH(aq)   +        H2(g)

Ca(s)         +        2H2O(l)       ->       Ca(OH)2(aq)+        H2(g)

 

Heavy metal like Magnesium, Aluminium, Iron, Zinc and Lead react with steam/water vapour to produce hydrogen gas and form the corresponding oxide.

 

Mg(s)           +        H2O(g)        ->       MgO(s)        +        H2(g)

Fe(s)            +        H2O(g)        ->       FeO(s)         +        H2(g)

Zn(s)            +        H2O(g)        ->       ZnO(s)         +        H2(g)

Pb(s)            +        H2O(g)        ->       PbO(s)         +        H2(g)

2Al(s)                    +        3H2O(g)      ->       Al2O3(s)       +        3H2(g)

 

Metals lower in the reactivity/electrochemical series than hydrogen like; copper, Mercury, Gold Silver and Platinum do not react with water/vapour.

 

  1. d) Shiny metallic-lustre

All metals have a shiny grey metallic luster except copper which is brown.

When exposed to sunlight, the delocalized electrons gain energy, they vibrate on the metal surface scattering light to appear shiny.

With time, most metals corrode and are covered by a layer of the metal oxide.

The delocalized electrons are unable to gain and scatter light and the metal surface tarnishes/become dull.

 

  1. e) Ductile and malleable

All metals are malleable (can be made into thin sheet) and ductile (can be made into wire.

When beaten/hit/pressed lengthwise the metallic cations extend and is bound /bonded by the free/mobile electrons to form a sheet.

When beaten/hit/pressed lengthwise and bredthwise the metallic cations extend and is bound /bonded by the free/mobile electrons to form a wire/thin strip.

 

  1. f) Have high tensile strength

Metals are not brittle. The free delocalized electrons bind the metal together when it is bent /coiled at any angle.

The meta thus withstand stress/coiling

 

  1. g) Form alloys

An alloy is a uniform mixture of two or more metals.

Some metals have spaces between their metallic cations which can be occupied by another metal cation with smaller atomic radius.

Common alloys include:

Brass(Zinc and Copper alloy)

Bronze(Copper and Tin alloy)

German silver

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Summary of Bonding and structure

 

  Simple molecular structure Giant covalent /atomic structure Giant ionic structure Giant metallic structure
(i)Examples

 

I2,S8,HCl,O2,CH4 Graphite,diamond

Si,SiO2

NaCl, KCl, CaO,CuSO4 Na,Fe,Cr,Hg,K
Constituent particles making structure molecules Atoms

(of non-metals)

Ions

(cation and anions)

Atoms

(of metals)

Type of substance Non-metal element/non-metal molecule/non-metal compound(electronegative elements) Group IV non-metals and some of their oxides Metal-non metal compounds(compounds of electropositive and electronegative compounds) Metallic compounds

Metallic elements (with low electonegativity and high electropositivity)

 

Bonding in solid state

-Strong covalent bonds hold atoms together within separate molecules (intramolecular forces)

-Weak van-der-waals forces hold separate molecules together (intermolecular forces)

Atoms are linked through the whole structure by very strong covalent bonds. Electrostatic attraction of cations and anions link the whole structure through strong ionic bond. EEElectrostatic

Electrostatic attraction of outer mobile electrons for positive nuclei binds atoms together though metallic bond

Properties

(i) Volatility

-Highly volatile with low melting/boiling point

-Low latent heat of fusion/vaporization

-Non volatile with very high melting/boiling points

-Low latent heat of fusion / vaporization

-Non volatile with very high melting/boiling points

-Low latent heat of fusion / vaporization

 

-Non volatile with very high melting/boiling points

-Low latent heat of fusion / vaporization

 

(ii) State at room temperature /pressure Usually gases,volatile liquids or solids that sublimes solids solids  

 

Solids except Mercury(liquid)

(iii) Hardness Soft and brittle(low tensile strength) Hard and brittle(low tensile strength) Hard and brittle(low tensile strength) Hard, malleable, ductile and have high  tensile strength
(iv) Thermal /electrical conductivity Poor thermal and electrical conductor when solid ,liquid or aqueous solutions but some dissolve and react to form electrolytes e.g.

Hydrogen chloride and ammonia gases.

Poor thermal and electrical conductor when solid ,liquid or aqueous solutions but

-Carbon-graphite is a good electrical conductor while

-Carbon-diamond is a good thermal conductor.

Poor thermal and electrical conductor when solid. Good thermal and electrical conductor in liquid/molten and aqueous states when the ions are not fused

 

Good thermal and electrical conductor in solid and liquid/molten  states  due to the free mobile /delocalized electrons

 

(v) Solubility Insoluble in polar solvents e.g. Water

Soluble in non-polar solvents e.g. tetrachloromethane, benzene, methylbenzene

Insoluble in all solvents Soluble in polar solvents e.g. Water

Insoluble in non-polar solvents e.g. tetrachloromethane, benzene, methylbenzene

Insoluble in polar/non-polar colvents.

-Some react with polar solvents

-Some metal dissolve in other metals to form alloys e.g. Brass is formed when Zinc dissolve in copper.

 

 

 

 

 

  1. PERIODICITY OF BONDING AND STRUCTURE

The periodic table does not classify elements as metals and non-metals. The table arranges

them in terms of atomic numbers.

However, based on structure and bonding of the elements in the periodic table;

(i)-the top right hand corner of about twenty elements are non-metals

(ii)-left of each non-metal is an element which shows characteristics of both metal and non-metal.

These elements are called semi-metals/metalloids. They include Boron, silicon, Germanium, Arsenic, and Terullium

(iii)-all other elements in the periodic table are metal.

(iv)-Hydrogen is a non-metal with metallic characteristic/property of donating/losing outer electron to form cation/H+ ion.

(v) –bromine is the only known natural liquid non-metal element at room temperature and pressure.

(vi) –mercury is only known natural liquid metal element at room temperature and pressure.

(vii) Carbon-graphite is a semi metals/metalloids. Carbon-diamond is a pure non-metal yet both are allotropes of carbon (same element)

 

  1. a) Sketch of the periodic table showing metals ,metalloid and non-metals

Metals                              Metalloids              Non-metals

 H   He
Li Be   B C N O F Ne
Na Mg   Al Si P S Cl Ar
K Ca  Transition metals Ga Ge As Se Br Kr
Rb Sr   In Sn Sb Te I Xe
Cs Ba   Tl Pb Bi Po At Rn
Fr Ra              

 

 

 

b)Periodicity in the physical properties of elements across period 2 and 3

 

Study table I and II below:

 

Table I(period 2)

Property

 

Li Be B C N O F Ne

 

Melting point(oC) 180 1280 2030 3700

(graphite)

3550

(diamond)

-210 -219 -220 -250
Boiling point(oC) 1330 2480 3930 Graphite sublimes

4830

(diamond)

-200 -180 -190 -245
Density at room temperature (gcm-3) 0.50 1.85 2.55 2.25

(graphite)

3.53

(diamond)

0.81 0.14 0.11 0.021
Type of element Metal Metal Metal Metalloid Non-metal Non-metal Non-metal Non-metal

 

Chemical structure Giant metallic Giant metallic Giant atomic/

covalent

Giant atomic/

covalent

Simple molecula

or molecule/ N2

 

Simple molecula

or molecules

/O2

Simple molecula

or molecule/F2

Simple molecula

or molecule/Ne

State at room temperature Solid Solid Solid Solid gas gas gas gas
Electron structure 2:1 2:2 2:3 2:4 2:5 2:6 2:7 2:8

 

 

Valency 1 2 3 4 3 2 1

 

 

Formular of ion Li+ Be2+ B3+ N3- O2- F

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table II (period 3)

Property Na Mg Al Si P(white) S(Rhombic) Cl Ar

 

Melting point(oC) 98 650 660 1410

 

44 114 -101 -189

 

Boiling point(oC) 890 1120 2450 2680 280 445 -34 -186
Density at room temperature (gcm-3) 0.97 1.74 2.70 2.33

(graphite)

3.53

(diamond)

1.82 2.07 0.157 0.011
Type of element Metal Metal Metal Metalloid Non-metal Non-metal Non-metal Non-metal

 

Chemical structure Giant metallic Giant metallic Giant

metallic

Giant atomic/

covalent

Simple molecula

or molecule/ P4

 

Simple molecula

or molecules

/S8

Simple molecula

or molecule/Cl2

Simple molecula

or molecule/Ar

State at room temperature Solid Solid Solid Solid Solid Solid gas gas
Electron structure 2:8:1 2:8:2 2:8:3 2:8:4 2:8:5 2:8:6 2:8:7 2:8:8

 

 

Valency 1 2 3 4 3 2 1

 

 

Formular of ion Na+ Mg2+ Al3+ P3- S2- Cl

 

 

 

From table I and II above:

 

  1. Explain the trend in atomic radius along /across a period in the periodic table

Observation

Atomic radius of elements in the same period decrease successively across/along a period from left to right.

Explanation

Across/along the period from left to right there is an increase in nuclear charge from additional number of protons and still additional number of electrons entering the same energy level.

Increase in nuclear charge increases the effective nuclear attraction on the outer energy level pulling it closer to the nucleus successively across the period .e.g.

 

(i)From the table 1and 2 above, atomic radius of Sodium (0.157nM) is higher than that of Magnesium(0.137nM). This is because Magnesium has more effective nuclear attraction on the outer energy level than Sodium hence pulls outer energy level more nearer to its nucleus than sodium.

 

(ii)The rate of decrease in the atomic radius become smaller as the atom become heavier e.g. Atomic radius of Magnesium from sodium falls by(0.157nM- 0.137nM) =0.02

Atomic radius of Chlorine from sulphur falls by(0.104nM- 0.099nM) =0.005

This is because gaining/adding one more proton to 11 already present cause greater proportional change in nuclear attraction power  to magnesium than  gaining/adding one more proton to 16 already present in sulphur to chlorine.

 

(iii)Period 3 elements have more energy levels than Period 2 elements. They have therefore bigger/larger atomic radius/size than corresponding period 2 elements in the same group.

 

2.Explain the trend in ionic radius along/across a period in the periodic table

Observation

Ionic radius of elements in the same period decrease successively across/along a period from left to right for the first three elements then increase drastically then slowly successively decrease.

 

Explanation

Across/along the period from left to right elements change form electron donors/losers (reducing agents) to electron acceptors (oxidizing agents).

(i)An atom form stable ion by either gaining/acquiring/ accepting extra electron or donating/losing outer electrons.

 

(ii)Metals form stable ions by donating/losing all the outer energy level electrons and thus also the outer energy level .i.e.

-Sodium ion has one less energy level than sodium atom. The ion is formed by sodium atom donating/losing (all) the outer energy level electron and thus also the outer energy level making the ion to have smaller ionic radius than atom.

 

(iii)Ionic radius therefore decrease across/along the period from Lithium to Boron in period 2 and from Sodium to Aluminium in period 3.This is because the number of electrons donated/lost causes increased effective nuclear attraction on remaining electrons /energy levels.

 

(iv)Non-metals form stable ion by gaining/acquiring/accepting extra electron in the outer energy level. The extra electron/s increases the repulsion among electrons and reduces the effective nuclear attraction on outer energy level. The outer energy level therefore expand/enlarge/increase in order to accommodate the extra repelled electrons .The more electrons gained/accepted/acquired the more repulsion and the more expansion to accommodate them and hence bigger/larger atomic radius. e.g.

          –Nitrogen ion has three electrons more than Nitrogen atom. The outer energy level expand/enlarge/increase to accommodate the extra repelled electrons. Nitrogen atom thus has smaller atomic radius than the ionic radius of nitrogen ion.

 

(v) Ionic radius decrease from group IV onwards from left to right. This because the number of electrons gained to form ion decrease across/along the period from left to right. e.g. Nitrogen ion has bigger/larger  ionic radius than Oxygen.

 

3.Explain the trend in melting and boiling point of elements in a period in the periodic table.

Observation

The melting and boiling point of elements rise up to the elements in Group IV(Carbon/Silicon) along/across the period then continuously falls.

Explanation

Melting/boiling points depend on the packing of the structure making the element and the strength of the bond holding the atoms/molecules together.

Across/along the period (2 and 3) the structure changes from giant metallic, giant atomic/covalent to simple molecular.

(i)For metals, the number of delocalized electrons increases across/along the period and hence stronger metallic bond/structure thus requiring a lot of heat/energy to weaken.

The strength of a metallic bond also depends on the atomic radius/size. The melting /boiling point decrease as the atomic radius/size of metals increase due to decreased packing of larger atoms. e.g.

-The melting /boiling point of Lithium is lower than that of Beryllium because Beryllium has two/more delocalized electrons and hence stronger metallic structure/bond.

– The melting /boiling point of Lithium is higher than that of Sodium because the atomic radius/size Lithium is smaller and hence better packed  and hence forms stronger metallic structure/bond.

 

(ii)Carbon-graphite/carbon-diamond in period 2 and Silicon in period 3 form very well packed giant atomic/covalent structures held together by strong covalent bonds. These elements have therefore very high melting/boiling points.

Both Carbon-graphite/ carbon-diamond have smaller atomic radius/size than Silicon in period 3 and thus higher melting/boiling points due to better/closer packing of smaller atoms in their well packed giant atomic/covalent structures.

 

(ii)Non-metals from group V along/across the period form simple molecules joined by weak intermolecular /van-der-waals force. The weak intermolecular /van-der-waals force require little energy/heat to weaken leading to low melting/boiling points. The strength of the intermolecular /van-der-waals forces decrease with decrease in atomic radius/ size lowering the melting/boiling points along/across the period (and raising the melting/boiling points down the group).e.g.

-The melting /boiling point of Nitrogen is higher than that of Oxygen. This is because the atomic radius/ size of Nitrogen is higher than that of Oxygen and hence stronger intermolecular /van-der-waals forces between Nitrogen molecules.

-The melting /boiling point of Chlorine is higher than that of Fluorine. This is because the atomic radius/ size of Chlorine is higher than that of Fluorine and hence stronger intermolecular /van-der-waals forces between Chlorine molecules.

 

(iii)Rhombic sulphur exists as a puckered ring of S8atoms which are well packed. Before melting the ring break and join to very long chains that entangle each other causing the unusually high melting/boiling point of Rhombic sulphur.

 

(iv)Both sulphur and phosphorus exists as allotropes.

Sulphur exists as Rhombic-sulphur and monoclinic-sulphur. Rhombic-sulphur is the stable form of sulphur at room temperature and pressure.

Phosphorus exists as white-phosphorus and red-phosphorus.

White-phosphorus is the stable form of Phosphorus at room temperature and pressure.

 

  1. State and explain the trend in density of elements in a period in the periodic table.

Observation: Density increase upto the elements in group IV then falls across/along the period successively

Explanation:

Density is the mass per unit volume occupied by matter/particles/atoms/molecules of element.

 

(i)For metals ,the stronger metallic bond and the more delocalized electrons ensure a very well packed giant metallic structure that occupy less volume and thus higher density.

The more the number of delocalized electrons along/across the period, the higher the density. e.g.

(i)Aluminium has a higher density than sodium. This is because aluminium has more /three delocalized electrons than /one sodium thus forms a very well packed giant metallic structure that occupy less volume per given mass/density.

 

(ii)Carbon-graphite ,carbon-diamond and silicon in group IV form a well packed giant atomic/covalent structure that is continuously joined by strong covalent bonds hence occupy less volume per given mass/density.

Carbon-graphite form a less well packed giant hexagonal planar structure joined by Van-der-waals forces. Its density (2.25gcm-3) is therefore less than that of Carbon-diamond(3.53gcm-3) and silicon(2.33gcm-3).Both diamond and silicon have giant tetrahedral structure that is better packed. Carbon-diamond has smaller atomic radius/size than silicon. Its density is thus higher because of better packing and subsequently higher density. Carbon-diamond is the hardest known natural substance by having the highest density.

 

(iii)For non-metals, the strength of the intermolecular /van-der-waals forces decreases with decrease in atomic radius/size along/across the period. This decreases the mass occupied by given volume of atoms in a molecule from group VI onwards. e.g.

Phosphorus has a higher atomic radius/size than chlorine and Argon and thus stronger intermolecular/van-der-waals forces that ensure a given mass of phosphorus occupy less volume than chlorine and neon.

 

5.State and explain the trend in thermal/electrical conductivity of elements in a period in the periodic table.

Observation:

Increase along/across the period from group I, II, and III then decrease in Group IV to drastically decrease in group V to VIII (O).

Explanation

(i)Metals have free delocalized electrons that are responsible for thermal/electrical conductivity.Thermal/electrical conductivity increase  with increase in number of delocalized electrons. The thermal conductivity decrease with increase in temperature/heating.    

e.g.

Aluminium with three delocalized electrons from each atom in its metallic structure has the highest electrical /thermal conductivity in period 3.

 

(ii)Carbon-graphite has also free 4th valency electrons that are delocalized within its layers of giant hexagonal planar structure. They are responsible for the electrical conductivity of graphite.

 

(iii)Silicon and carbon diamond do not conduct electricity but conducts heat. With each atom too close to each other in their very well packed giant tetrahedral structure, heat transfer /radiate between the atoms. The thermal conductivity increase with increase in temperature/heating.

                                                                   

(iv)All other non-metals are poor /non-conductor of heat and electricity. They are made of molecules with no free /mobile delocalized electrons in their structure.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Periodicity of the oxides of elements along/across period 3

 

The table below summarizes some properties of the oxides of elements in period 3 of the periodic table.

 

Formular of oxide/

Property

Na2O MgO Al2O3 SiO2 P2O5

P4O6

SO2

SO3

Cl2O7

Cl2O

Melting

 

point(oC)

1193 3075 2045 1728

 

563 -76 -60

 

Boiling

 

point(oC)

1278 3601 2980 2231 301 -10 -9
Bond type Ionic Ionic Ionic Covalent Covalent Covalent Covalent

 

Chemical structure Giant ionic structure Giant ionic structure Giant ionic structure Giant atomic/

covalent

Simple molecula

or molecule

 

Simple molecula

or molecules

Simple molecula

or molecule

State at room

temperature

Solid Solid Solid Solid Solid gas Gas

(Cl2O7 is a liquid)

Nature of

Oxide

Basic/

alkaline

Basic/

alkaline

Amphotellic oxide 2:8:4 2:8:5 2:8:6 2:8:7
Reaction with water

 

 

React to form NaOH /alkaline solution React to form MgOH)2 /weakly alkaline solution Don’t react with water. Don’t react with water. React to form H2PO4

/weakly acidic solution

-SO2 react to form H2SO3 . H2SO3 is quickly oxidized to H2SO4

-SO2 react to form H2SO4/ strongly

acidic

-Cl2O7 reacts to form HClO4

/weakly acidic solution

Reaction with dilute acids Reacts to form salt and water Reacts to form salt and water Reacts to form salt and water No reaction No reaction No reaction No reaction

 

  1. All the oxides of elements in period 3 except those of sulphur and chlorine are solids at room temperature and pressure.
  2. Across/along the period, bonding of the oxides changes from ionic in sodium oxide magnesium oxide and aluminium oxide (show both ionic and covalent properties) to covalent in the rest of the oxides.

 

  1. Across/along the period, the structure of the oxides changes from giant ionic structure in sodium oxide, magnesium oxide and aluminium oxide to giant atomic/covalent structure in silicon (IV) oxide. The rest of the oxides form simple molecules/molecular structure.

 

  1. Sodium oxide and magnesium oxide are basic /alkaline in nature. Aluminium oxide is amphotellic in nature (shows both acidic and basic characteristics). The rest of the oxides are acidic in nature.

 

  1. Ionic compounds/oxides have very high melting/boiling points because of the strong electrostatic attraction joining the giant ionic crystal lattice.

The melting/boiling points increase from sodium oxide to aluminium oxide as the number of electrons involved in bonding increase, increasing the strength of the ionic bond/structure.

 

  1. Silicon (IV) oxide is made of a well packed giant atomic/covalent structure joined by strong covalent bonds.

This results in a solid with very high melting/boiling point.

 

7.Phosphorus (V) oxide, sulphur(IV) oxide/ sulphur (VI) oxide and dichloride heptoxide exist as simple molecules/molecular structure joined by weak van-der-waals/intermolecular forces.

This results in them existing as low melting /boiling point solids/gases.

 

  1. Ionic oxide conducts electricity in molten and aqueous states but not in solid.

In solid state the ions are fused/fixed but on heating to molten state and when dissolved in water, the ions are free / mobile.

Sodium oxide, magnesium oxide and aluminium oxide are therefore good conductors in molten and aqueous states.

 

  1. Covalent bonded oxides do not conduct electricity in solid, molten or in aqueous states.

This is because they do not have free / mobile ion. Phosphorus (V) oxide, sulphur(IV) oxide/ sulphur (VI) oxide and dichloride heptoxide are thus non-conductors/insulators.

 

  1. Silicon (IV) oxide is a poor/weak conductor of heat in solid state. This is because it has very closely packed structure for heat to radiate conduct along its structure.

 

  1. Electopositivity decrease across the period while electronegativity increase across the period. The oxides thus become less ionic and more covalent along/across the period.

12.The steady change from giant ionic structure to giant atomic/ covalent structure then simple molecular structure lead to profound differences in the reaction of the oxides with water,acids and alkalis/bases:

 

(i) Reaction with water

  1. a) Ionic oxides react with water to form alkaline solutions e.g.;

I.Sodium oxide reacts/dissolves in water forming an alkaline solution of sodium hydroxide.

Chemical equation:        Na2O(s)   +   H2O (l)     ->    2NaOH(aq)

 

  1. Magnesium oxide slightly/ slowly reacts/dissolves in water forming an alkaline solution of magnesium hydroxide

Chemical equation:        MgO(s)   +   2H2O (l)     ->    Mg(OH) 2 (aq)

 

III. Aluminium oxide does reacts/dissolves in water.

  1. b) Non-metallic oxides are acidic. They react with water to form weakly acidic solutions:
  2. Phosphorus (V) oxide readily reacts/dissolves in water forming a weak acidic solution of phosphoric (V) acid.

Chemical equation:        P4O10 (s)   +   6H2O (l)     ->    4H3PO4 (aq)

Chemical equation:        P2O5 (s)   +   3H2O (l)     ->    2H3PO4 (aq)

 

  1. Sulphur (IV) oxide readily reacts/dissolves in water forming a weak acidic solution of sulphuric (IV) acid.

Chemical equation:        SO2 (g)   +   H2O (l)     ->    H2SO3 (aq)

Sulphur (VI) oxide quickly fumes in water to form concentrated  sulphuric (VI) acid which is a strong acid.

Chemical equation:        SO3 (g)   +   H2O (l)     ->    H2SO4 (aq)

 

III. Dichlorine oxide reacts with water to form weak acidic solution of chloric(I) acid/hypochlorous acid.

Chemical equation:        Cl2O (g)   +   H2O (l)     ->   2HClO (aq)

 

  1. Dichlorine heptoxide reacts with water to form weak acidic solution of chloric(VII) acid.

Chemical equation:        Cl2O7 (l)   +   H2O (l)     ->   2HClO4 (aq)

 

  1. c) Silicon (IV) oxide does not react with water.

It reacts with hot concentrated alkalis forming silicate (IV) salts. e.g.

Silicon (IV) oxide react with hot concentrated sodium hydroxide to form sodium silicate (IV) salt.

Chemical equation:        SiO2 (s)   +   2NaOH (aq)     ->    Na2SiO3 (aq) +   H2O (l)

 

(ii) Reaction with dilute acids

  1. a) Ionic oxides react with dilute acids to form salt and water only. This is a neutralization e.g.

Chemical equation:        Na2O(s)   +   H2SO4 (aq)     ->    Na2SO4 (aq)  + H2O(l)

Chemical equation:        MgO(s)   +   2HNO3(aq)     ->    Mg (NO3) 2 (aq) + H2O(l)

Chemical equation:        Al2O3 (s) +   6HCl(aq)        ->    2AlCl3 (aq)  +  3H2O(l)

 

Aluminium oxide is amphotellic and reacts with hot concentrated strong alkalis sodium/potassium hydroxides to form complex sodium aluminate(III) and potassium aluminate(III) salt.

Chemical equation:  Al2O3 (s)   +  2NaOH(aq) +  3H2O(l)    ->   2 NaAl(OH)4 (aq)

Chemical equation:  Al2O3 (s)   +  2KOH(aq) +  3H2O(l)    ->   2 KAl(OH)4 (aq)

 

  1. b) Acidic oxides do not react with dilute acids.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

c)Periodicity of the Chlorides of elements along/across period 3

 

The table below summarizes some properties of the chlorides of elements in period 3 of the periodic table.

Formular of chloride/

Property

NaCl MgCl2 AlCl3 SiCl4 PCl5

PCl3

SCl2

S2Cl2

Cl2
Melting

 

point(oC)

801 714 Sublimes at

180 oC

-70

 

PCl5

Sublimes at

-94 oC

-78 -101

 

Boiling

 

point(oC)

1465 1418 423(as Al2Cl6

vapour

57 74(as P2Cl6

Vapour

164 (as PCl5)

 

decomposes

at 59 oC

-34
Bond type Ionic Ionic Ionic/

Covalent/

dative

Covalent Covalent Covalent Covalent

 

Chemical structure Giant ionic structure Giant ionic structure Molecular/

dimerizes

Simple molecula

or molecule

Simple molecula

or molecule

 

Simple molecula

or molecules

Simple molecula

or molecule

State at room

temperature

Solid Solid Solid liquid Liquid

PCl5

is solid

liquid Gas
Nature of

Chloride

Neutral Neutral Strongly acidic Strongly acidic Strongly acidic Strongly acidic Strongly acidic
 

pH of solution

7.0 7.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0
Reaction with water

 

 

Dissolve Dissolve -Hydrolysed

by water

-Acidic hydrogen chloride fumes produced

-Hydrolysed

by water

-Acidic hydrogen chloride fumes produced

Hydrolysed

by water

-Acidic hydrogen chloride fumes produced

Hydrolysed

by water

-Acidic hydrogen chloride fumes produced

Forms HCl and HClO
Electrical conductivity in molten/aqueous state good good poor nil nil nil nil

 

  1. Sodium Chloride, Magnesium chloride and aluminium chloride are solids at room temperature and pressure.

Silicon(IV) chloride, phosphorus(III)chloride and disulphur dichloride are liquids. Phosphorus(V)chloride is  a solid. Both chlorine and sulphur chloride are gases.

 

  1. Across/along the period bonding changes from ionic in Sodium Chloride and Magnesium chloride to covalent in the rest of the chlorides.

 

  1. Anhydrous aluminium chloride is also a molecular compound .Each aluminium atom is covalently bonded to three chlorine atoms.

In vapour/gaseous phase/state two molecules dimerizes to Al2O6 molecule through coordinate/dative bonding.

 

  1. Across/along the period the structure changes from giant ionic in Sodium Chloride and Magnesium chloride to simple molecules/molecular structure in the rest of the chlorides.

 

  1. Ionic chlorides have very high melting /boiling points because of the strong ionic bond/electrostatic attraction between the ions in their crystal lattice.The rest of the chlorides have low melting /boiling points because of the weak van-der-waal /intermolecular forces.

 

  1. Sodium Chloride and Magnesium chloride in molten and aqueous state have free/mobile ions and thus good electrical conductors. Aluminium chloride is a poor conductor. The rest of the chlorides do not conduct because they have no free/mobile ions.

 

  1. Ionic chloride form neutral solutions with pH =7. These chlorides ionize/dissociate completely into free cations and anions.i.e;

Sodium Chloride and Magnesium chloride have pH=7 because they are fully/completely ionized/dissociated into free ions.

Chemical equation          NaCl  (s)      ->       Na+(aq)        +        Cl(aq)              

Chemical equation          MgCl2  (s)    ->       Mg2+(aq)      +        2Cl(aq)

 

8 Across/along the period from aluminium chloride, hydrolysis of the chloride takes place when reacting/dissolved in water.

Hydrolysis is the reaction of a compound when dissolved in water.

 

a)Aluminium chloride is hydrolyzed by water to form aluminium hydroxide and fumes of hydrogen chloride gas. Hydrogen chloride gas dissolves in water to acidic hydrochloric acid. Hydrochloric acid is a strong acid with low pH and thus the mixture is strongly acidic.

Chemical equation          AlCl3  (s)   +  3H2O(l)->    Al(OH)3(s)    +          3HCl(g)

 

b)Silicon(IV) chloride is hydrolyzed by water to form silicon(IV)oxide and fumes of hydrogen chloride gas. Hydrogen chloride gas dissolves in water to acidic hydrochloric acid. Hydrochloric acid is a strong acid with low pH and thus the mixture is strongly acidic.

Chemical equation          SiCl4  (l)   +  2H2O(l)->    SiO2(s)    + 4HCl(g)

This reaction is highly exothermic producing /evolving a lot of heat that cause a rise in the temperature of the mixture.

 

  1. c) Both phosphoric (V) chloride and phosphoric (III) chloride are hydrolyzed by water to form phosphoric (V) acid and phosphoric (III) acid Fumes of hydrogen chloride gas are produced. Hydrogen chloride gas dissolves in water to acidic hydrochloric acid. Hydrochloric acid is a strong acid with low pH and thus the mixture is strongly acidic.

Chemical equation          PCl5  (s)   +  4H2O(l)->    H3PO4(aq)    +          5HCl(g)

Chemical equation          PCl3  (s)   +  3H2O(l)->    H3PO4(aq)    +          3HCl(g)

 

This reaction is also highly exothermic producing /evolving a lot of heat that cause a rise in the temperature of the mixture.

 

  1. d) Disulphur dichloride similarly hydrolyzes in water to form yellow deposits of sulphur and produce a mixture of sulphur (IV) oxide and hydrogen chloride Hydrogen chloride gas dissolves in water to acidic hydrochloric acid. Hydrochloric acid is a strong acid with low pH and thus the mixture is strongly acidic.

Chemical equation          2S2Cl2  (l)   +  2H2O(l)->  3S(s)  + SO2(g)  +          4HCl(g)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. COMPREHENSIVE REVISION QUESTIONS

 

1.The grid below represents periodic table.  Study it and answer the questions that follow.  The letters do not represent the actual symbols of the elements.

 

    A
B       G   H E C
  J I L        
D N           M  

(a) (I) Indicate on the grid the position of an element represented by letter N whose electronic configuration of a divalent cation is 2:8:8 . ( 1 mark )

 

(II) Name the bond formed between D and H react. Explain your answer.(2 marks )

Ionic/electrovalent

D is electropositive thus donates two electrons to electronegative H

(III) Write an equation for the reaction between B and water.      ( 1 mark )

Chemical equation                  2B  (s)   +  2H2O(l) ->    2BOH(aq)    +  H2 (g)

(IV) How do the atomic radii of I and L compare.  Explain.                                      ( 2 marks )

 

 

 

(V) In terms of structure and bonding explain why the oxide of G has lower melting point than oxide of L.                                           ( 2 marks )

 

 

(b) Study the information given below and answer the question that follow.

 

Formula of compound N NaCl MgCl 2 Al2Cl6 SiCl4 PCl3 SCl2
B.P(0C) 1470 1420 Sublimes 60 75 60
M.P(0C) 800 710 At 8000C -70 90 -80

( I)Why is the formula of aluminium chloride given as Al2Cl6 and not AlCl3 ?                                                                                                                         ( 1 mark )

 

(II) Give two chlorides that are liquid at room temperature.  Give a reason for the answer.                                                                                               (2 marks )

 

 

(III) Give a reason why Al2Cl6 has a lower melting point than MgCl2 although both Al and Mg are metals.                                                                                  (1 mark )

 

 

(IV) Which of the chlorides would remain in liquid state for the highest temperature range explain why ?                                                               (2 mark )

 

 

(Kakamega)

  1. a) Study the information given below and answer the questions that follow.

 

Element Atomic radius (nm) Ionic radius (nm) Formula of oxide Melting point of oxide (‘C)
P

Q

R

S

T

0.364

0.830

0.592

0.381

0.762

0.421

0.711

0.485

0.446

0.676

A2O

BO2

E2O3

G2O5

JO

-119

837

1466

242

1054

(i) Which elements are non-metals? Give a reason.                             (2mks)

 

(ii) Explain why the melting point of the oxide of R is higher than that of the oxide of S.                                                                                             (2mks)

 

(iii) Give two elements that would react vigorously with each other. Explain your answer.                                                                                           (2mks)

 

 

  1. b) Study the information in the table below and answer the questions that follow (The letters do not represent the actual symbols of the elements)

 

 

  Ionization Energy_kJ/Mole
Element Electronic configuration   1st ionization energy 2nd ionization energy
A  2.2 900  1800
B 2.8.2 736 1450
C 2.8.8.2 590 1150

(i) What chemical family do the elements A, B and C belong?                        (1mk)

 

(ii) What is meant by the term ionization energy?                                            (1mk)

 

iii) The 2nd  ionization energy is higher that the 1st ionization energy of each. Explain

(1mk)

(iv)When a piece of element C is placed in cold water, it sinks to the bottom and an effervescence of a colourless gas that burns explosively is produced. Use a simple diagram to illustrate how this gas can be collected during this experiment.                                                                                                                         (3mks)

 

  1. The grid below represents part of the periodic table. The letters do not represent the actual symbols.

 

    A
B     X G   Z E V
  J I L   T    
D N           M  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. a) Select the most reactive non-metal.     (1mk)

 

  1. b) Write the formula of the compound consisting of

I.D and Z only.                                                                                                 (2mk)

 

 

  1. X and Z

 

  1. c) Select an element that can form an ion of change +2                (1mk)

 

  1. d) Which element has the least ionization energy? Explain    (2mks)
  2. e) Suggest with reasons a likely pH value of an aqueous solution of the chlorine of:(3mks)

T.

 

B

 

X

 

  1. f) To which chemical family do the following elements belong? (2mk)

J

V

 

  1. g) An element K has relative atomic mass of 40.2.It has two isotopes of masses 39 and 42. Calculate the relative abundance of each isotope. (3mks)

4.The grid below shows part of the periodic table study it and answer the questions that follow. The letters do not represent the true symbols.

               
                 
                 
            A    
  B   C   D   E  
F G              
              H  
                 

 

\(a) Which element forms ions with charge of 2-. Explain                     (2mks)

 

(b) What is the nature of the oxide formed by C.                                  (1mk)

 

(c) How does the reactivity of H compare with that of E. Explain?        (2mks)

 

(d)Write down a balanced equation between B and Chlorine.               (1mk)

 

(e) Explain how the atomic radii of F and G compare.                          (1mk)

 

(f) If the oxides of F and D are separately dissolved in water, state and explain the effects of their aqueous solutions on litmus.                                               (3mks)

 

  1. (a) The grid below show part of the periodic table.(The letter do not represent the actual symbols).Use it to answer the questions that follow.

 

T   Q
        S   R K  
A J   Y   U   L  
W             M B
  C           N  
P                
                 

(i)Select the most reactive non-metal.                                                            (1mk)

 

(ii)Select an element that forms a divalent cation.                                          (1mk)

 

(iii)Element Z has atomic number 14.Show its position in the grid.               (1mk)

 

(iv)How do the atomic radii of U and J compare?                                         (2mks)

 

(v)How do electrical conductivity of A and Y compare?                                (2mks)

 

(vi)How does the boiling point of elements K, L and M vary? Explain        (2mks

(b) The table below gives information on four elements by letters K, L, M and N. Study it and answer the  questions that follow. The letters do not represent the actual symbols of the elements.

 

Element Electron arrangement Atomic radius Ionic radius
K 2:8:2 0.136 0.065
L 2:8:7 0.099 0.181
M 2:8:8:1 0.203 0.133
N 2:8:8:2 0.174 0.099

 

(a) Which two elements have similar properties? Explain.                (2mks)

 

(b) Which element is a non-metal? Explain.                                      (1mk)

(c) Which one of the elements is the strongest reducing agent.      (1mk)

  1. The grid given below represents part of the periodic table study it and answer the questions that follow. (The letters do not represent the actual symbols of the elements.)

 

    A
         B        
  C D     E    
  F              
                 

 

(i) What name is given to the group of elements to which C and F belong?        (1mk)

 

(ii) Which letter represents the element that is the least reactive?           (1mk)

(iii) What type of bond is formed when B and E react? Explain                  (2mks)

(iv)Write formula of the compound formed where elements D and oxygen gas react.   (1mk)

 

 

(v) On the grid indicate the a tick (√) the position of element G which is in the third period of the periodic table and forms G3- ions.                                                           (1mk)

 

(b) Study the information in the table below and answer the questions that follow. (The letter do not represents the actual symbols of the substance).

 

Substance Melting point oC Boiling point oC Solubility in water Density at room. Temp/g/cm3
H -117 78.5 Very soluble 0.8
J -78 -33 Very soluble 0.77x 1-3
K -23 77 Insoluble 1.6
L – 219 -183 Slightly

Soluable

1.33 x 10-3

 

I.(i) Which substance would dissolve in water and could be separated from the solution by fractional distillation.                                                                (1mk)

 

(ii) Which substances is a liquid at room temperature and when mixed with water two layers would be formed?                                                                                       (1mk)

 

  1. Which letter represents a substance that is a gas at room temperature and which can be collected ;

(i) Over water?                                                                                                (1mk)

 

(ii) By downward displacement of air? Density of air at room temperature = 1.29 x 10-3 g/C

 

(1mk)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     

 

UPGRADE

CHEMISTRY

                

FORM 2

                 

Introduction to SALTS

 

 

 

      

 

                 Comprehensive tutorial notes

 

MUTHOMI S.G

www.kcselibrary.info

0720096206

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTRODUCTION TO SALTS

 

1.(a) A salt is an ionic compound formed when the cation from a base combine with the anion derived from an acid.

A salt is therefore formed when the hydrogen ions in an acid are replaced wholly/fully or partially/partly ,directly or indirectly by a metal or ammonium radical.

 

(b) The number of ionizable/replaceable hydrogen in an acid is called basicity of an acid.

Some acids are therefore:

(i)monobasic acids generally denoted HX e.g.

HCl, HNO3,HCOOH,CH3COOH.

 

(ii)dibasic acids ; generally denoted H2X e.g.

H2SO4, H2SO3, H2CO3,HOOCOOH.

 

(iii)tribasic acids ; generally denoted H3X e.g.

H3PO4.

 

(c) Some salts are normal salts while other are acid salts.

(i)A normal salt is formed when all the ionizable /replaceable hydrogen in an acid is replaced by a metal or metallic /ammonium radical.

 

(ii)An acid salt is formed when part/portion the ionizable /replaceable hydrogen in an acid is replaced by a metal or metallic /ammonium radical.

 

Table showing normal and acid salts derived from common acids

 

   Acid  name Chemical formula Basicity     Normal salt      Acid salt
Hydrochloric acid HCl Monobasic Chloride(Cl) None

 

Nitric(V)acid HNO3 Monobasic Nitrate(V)(NO3) None

 

Nitric(III)acid HNO2 Monobasic Nitrate(III)(NO2) None

 

Sulphuric(VI)acid H2SO4 Dibasic Sulphate(VI) (SO42-) Hydrogen sulphate(VI)

(HSO4)

 

Sulphuric(IV)acid H2SO3 Dibasic Sulphate(IV) (SO32-) Hydrogen sulphate(IV)

(HSO3)

 

Carbonic(IV)acid H2CO3 Dibasic Carbonate(IV)(CO32-) Hydrogen carbonate(IV)

(HCO3)

 

Phosphoric(V)

acid

H3PO4 Tribasic Phosphate(V)(PO43-) Dihydrogen phosphate(V)

(H2PO42-)

 

Hydrogen diphosphate(V)

(HP2O42-)

 

The table below show shows some examples of salts.

Base/alkali Cation Acid Anion Salt Chemical name of salts
NaOH Na+ HCl Cl NaCl Sodium(I)chloride
Mg(OH)2 Mg2+ H2SO4 SO42- MgSO4

Mg(HSO4)2

Magnesium sulphate(VI)

Magnesium hydrogen sulphate(VI)

Pb(OH)2 Pb2+ HNO3 NO3 Pb(NO3)2 Lead(II)nitrate(V)
Ba(OH)2 Ba2+ HNO3 NO3 Ba(NO3)2 Barium(II)nitrate(V)
Ca(OH)2 Ba2+ H2SO4 SO42- MgSO4 Calcium sulphate(VI)
NH4OH NH4+ H3PO4 PO43- (NH4 )3PO4

(NH4 )2HPO4

NH4 H2PO4

Ammonium phosphate(V)

Diammonium phosphate(V)

Ammonium diphosphate(V)

KOH K+ H3PO4 PO43- K3PO4 Potassium phosphate(V)
Al(OH)3 Al3+ H2SO4 SO42- Al2(SO4)2 Aluminium(III)sulphate(VI)
Fe(OH)2 Fe2+ H2SO4 SO42- FeSO4 Iron(II)sulphate(VI)
Fe(OH)3 Fe3+ H2SO4 SO42- Fe2(SO4)2 Iron(III)sulphate(VI)

 

(d) Some salts undergo hygroscopy, deliquescence and efflorescence.

(i) Hygroscopic salts /compounds are those that absorb water from the atmosphere but do not form a solution.

Some salts which are hygroscopic include anhydrous copper(II)sulphate(VI), anhydrous cobalt(II)chloride, potassium nitrate(V) common table salt.

 

(ii)Deliquescent salts /compounds are those that absorb water from the atmosphere and form a solution.

Some salts which are deliquescent include: Sodium nitrate(V),Calcium chloride, Sodium hydroxide, Iron(II)chloride, Magnesium chloride.

 

(iii)Efflorescent salts/compounds are those that lose their  water of crystallization to  the atmosphere.

Some salts which effloresces include: sodium carbonate decahydrate, Iron(II)sulphate(VI)heptahydrate, sodium sulphate (VI)decahydrate.

 

(e)Some salts contain water of crystallization.They are hydrated.Others do not contain water of crystallization. They are anhydrous.

 

Table showing some hydrated salts.

Name of hydrated salt Chemical formula
Copper(II)sulphate(VI)pentahydrate CuSO4.5H2O
Aluminium(III)sulphate(VI)hexahydrate Al2 (SO4) 3.6H2O
Zinc(II)sulphate(VI)heptahydrate ZnSO4.7H2O
Iron(II)sulphate(VI)heptahydrate FeSO4.7H2O
Calcium(II)sulphate(VI)heptahydrate CaSO4.7H2O
Magnesium(II)sulphate(VI)heptahydrate MgSO4.7H2O
Sodium sulphate(VI)decahydrate Na2SO4.10H2O
Sodium carbonate(IV)decahydrate Na2CO3.10H2O
Potassium carbonate(IV)decahydrate K2CO3.10H2O
Potassium sulphate(VI)decahydrate K2SO4.10H2O

 

(f)Some salts exist as a simple salt while some as complex salts. Below are some complex salts.

Table of some complex salts

 

Name of complex salt Chemical formula Colour of the complex salt
Tetraamminecopper(II)sulphate(VI) Cu(NH3) 4 SO4 H2O Royal/deep blue solution
Tetraamminezinc(II)nitrate(V) Zn(NH3) 4 (NO3 )2 Colourless solution
Tetraamminecopper(II) nitrate(V) Cu(NH3) 4 (NO3 )2 Royal/deep blue solution
Tetraamminezinc(II)sulphate(VI) Zn(NH3) 4 SO4 Colourless solution

 

(g)Some salts exist as two salts in one. They are called double salts.

 

Table of some double salts

Name of double salts Chemical formula
Trona(sodium sesquicarbonate) Na2CO3 NaHCO3.2H2O
Ammonium iron(II)sulphate(VI) FeSO4(NH4) 2SO4.2H2O
Ammonium aluminium(III)sulphate(VI) Al2(SO4) 3(NH4) 2SO4.H2O

 

(h)Some salts dissolve in water to form a solution. They are said to be soluble. Others do not dissolve in water. They form a suspension/precipitate in water.

 

Table of solubility of salts

 

          Soluble salts            Insoluble salts
All nitrate(V)salts  
All sulphate(VI)/SO42- salts          except    Barium(II) sulphate(VI)/BaSO4

Calcium(II) sulphate(VI)/CaSO4

Lead(II) sulphate(VI)/PbSO4

All sulphate(IV)/SO32- salts          except    Barium(II) sulphate(IV)/BaSO3

Calcium(II) sulphate(IV)/CaSO3

Lead(II) sulphate(IV)/PbSO3

All chlorides/Cl–                                         except   Silver chloride/AgCl

Lead(II)chloride/PbCl2(dissolves in hot water)

All phosphate(V)/PO43-  
All sodium,potassium and ammonium salts  
All hydrogen carbonates/HCO3  
All hydrogen sulphate(VI)/ HSO4  
Sodium carbonate/Na2CO3,

potassium carbonate/ K2CO3,

ammonium carbonate (NH4) 2CO3

except    All carbonates
All alkalis(KOH,NaOH, NH4OH) except     All bases

 

13 Salts can be prepared in a school laboratory by a method that uses its solubility in water.

  • Soluble salts may be prepared by using any of the following methods:

 

(i)Direct displacement/reaction of a metal with an acid.

By reacting a metal higher in the reactivity series than hydrogen with a dilute acid,a salt is formed and hydrogen gas is evolved.

Excess of the metal must be used to ensure all the acid has reacted.

When effervescence/bubbling /fizzing has stopped ,excess metal is filtered.

The filtrate is  heated to concentrate then allowed to crystallize.

Washing with distilled water then drying between filter papers produces a sample crystal of the salt. i.e.

M(s)    +   H2X      ->   MX(aq)   +    H2(g)

Examples

Mg(s)  +  H2SO4(aq)        ->  MgSO4 (aq)      + H2(g)

Zn(s)   +  H2SO4(aq)        ->  ZnSO4 (aq)       + H2(g)

Pb(s)   +  2HNO3(aq)      -> Pb(NO3) 2(aq)  + H2(g)

Ca(s)   +  2HNO3(aq)      -> Ca(NO3) 2(aq)  + H2(g)

Mg(s)  +  2HNO3(aq)      -> Mg(NO3) 2(aq)            + H2(g)

Mg(s)  +  2HCl(aq)          -> MgCl 2(aq)        + H2(g)

Zn(s)   +  2HCl(aq)          -> ZnCl 2(aq)         + H2(g)

 

(ii)Reaction of an insoluble base with an acid

By adding an insoluble base (oxide/hydroxide )to a dilute acid until no more dissolves, in the acid,a salt and water are formed. Excess of the base is filtered off. The filtrate is heated to concentrate ,allowed to crystallize then washed with distilled water before drying between filter papers e.g.

PbO(s)   +  2HNO3(aq)    -> Pb(NO3) 2(aq)  + H2O (l)

Pb(OH)2(s)   +  2HNO3(aq)       -> Pb(NO3) 2(aq)  + 2H2O (l)

CaO (s)   +  2HNO3(aq)   -> Ca(NO3) 2(aq)  + H2O (l)

MgO (s)  +  2HNO3(aq)  -> Mg(NO3) 2(aq)            + H2O (l)

MgO (s)  +  2HCl(aq)      -> MgCl 2(aq)        + H2O (l)

ZnO (s)   +  2HCl(aq)      -> ZnCl 2(aq)         + H2O (l)

Zn(OH)2(s)   +  2HNO3(aq)       -> Zn(NO3) 2(aq)  + 2H2O (l)

CuO (s)   +  2HCl(aq)      -> CuCl 2(aq)         + H2O (l)

CuO (s)   +  H2SO4(aq)    -> CuSO4(aq)        + H2O (l)

Ag2O(s)   +  2HNO3(aq)  -> 2AgNO3(aq)     + H2O (l)

Na2O(s)   +  2HNO3(aq)  -> 2NaNO3(aq)      + H2O (l)

 

(iii)reaction of insoluble /soluble carbonate /hydrogen carbonate with an acid.

By adding an excess of a soluble /insoluble carbonate or hydrogen carbonate to adilute acid, effervescence /fizzing/bubbling out of carbon(IV)oxide gas shows the reaction is taking place. When effervescence /fizzing/bubbling out of the gas is over, excess of the insoluble carbonate is filtered off. The filtrate is heated to concentrate ,allowed to crystallize then washed with distilled water before drying between filter paper papers e.g.

PbCO3 (s)     +  2HNO3(aq)       -> Pb(NO3) 2(aq)  + H2O (l)+ CO2(g)

ZnCO3 (s)     +  2HNO3(aq)       -> Zn(NO3) 2(aq)  + H2O (l)+ CO2(g)

CaCO3 (s)     +  2HNO3(aq)       -> Ca(NO3) 2(aq)  + H2O (l)+ CO2(g)

MgCO3 (s)    + H2SO4(aq)         -> MgSO4(aq)        + H2O (l)+ CO2(g)

Cu CO3 (s)    +  H2SO4(aq)        -> CuSO4(aq)        + H2O (l) + CO2(g)

Ag2CO3 (s)   +  2HNO3(aq)      -> 2AgNO3(aq)     + H2O (l) + CO2(g)

Na2CO3 (s)    +  2HNO3(aq)      -> 2NaNO3(aq)      + H2O (l) + CO2(g)

K2CO3 (s)     +  2HCl(aq)           -> 2KCl(aq)           + H2O (l) + CO2(g)

NaHCO3 (s)    +  HNO3(aq)       -> NaNO3(aq)        + H2O (l) + CO2(g)

KHCO3 (s)     +  HCl(aq)           -> KCl(aq)                       + H2O (l) + CO2(g)

 

(iv)neutralization/reaction of soluble base/alkali with dilute acid

 

By adding an acid to a burette into a known volume of an alkali with 2-3 drops of an indicator, the colour of the indicator changes when the acid has completely reacted with an alkali at the end point. The procedure is then repeated without the indicator .The solution mixture is then heated to concentrate , allowed to crystallize ,washed with distilled water before drying with filter papers. e.g.

 

NaOH (aq)       +  HNO3(aq)     -> NaNO3(aq)       + H2O (l)

KOH (aq)         +  HNO3(aq)     -> KNO3(aq)         + H2O (l)

KOH (aq)         +  HCl(aq)         -> KCl(aq)            + H2O (l)

2KOH (aq)       +  H2SO4(aq)    -> K2SO4(aq)        + 2H2O (l)

2 NH4OH (aq)  +  H2SO4(aq)    -> (NH4)2SO4(aq)  + 2H2O (l)

NH4OH (aq)     +  HNO3(aq)     -> NH4NO3(aq)      +  H2O (l)

 

(iv)direct synthesis/combination.

When a metal burn in a gas jar containing a non metal , the two directly combine to form a salt. e.g.

2Na(s)         +        Cl2(g)           ->       2NaCl(s)

2K(s)           +       Cl2(g)           ->       2KCl(s)

Mg(s)           +       Cl2(g)           ->       Mg Cl2 (s)

Ca(s)            +       Cl2(g)           ->       Ca Cl2 (s)

 

Some salts once formed undergo sublimation and hydrolysis. Care should be taken to avoid water/moisture into the reaction flask during their preparation.Such salts include aluminium(III)chloride(AlCl3) and iron (III)chloride(FeCl3)

 

  1. Heated aluminium foil reacts with chlorine to form aluminium(III)chloride that sublimes away from the source of heating then deposited as solid again

2Al(s)                    +       3Cl2(g)         ->       2AlCl3 (s/g)

 

Once formed  aluminium(III)chloride hydrolyses/reacts with water vapour / moisture present to form aluminium hydroxide solution and highly acidic fumes of hydrogen chloride gas.

AlCl3(s)+     3H2 O(g)     ->       Al(OH)3 (aq) + 3HCl(g)

 

  1. Heated iron filings reacts with chlorine to form iron(III)chloride that sublimes away from the source of heating then deposited as solid again

2Fe(s)                    +       3Cl2(g)         ->       2FeCl3 (s/g)

 

Once formed , aluminium(III)chloride hydrolyses/reacts with water vapour / moisture present to form aluminium hydroxide solution and highly acidic fumes of hydrogen chloride gas.

FeCl3(s)+     3H2 O(g)     ->       Fe(OH)3 (aq) + 3HCl(g)

 

(b)Insoluble salts can be prepared by reacting two suitable soluble salts to form one soluble and one insoluble. This is called double decomposition or precipitation. The mixture is filtered and the residue is washed with distilled water then dried.

CuSO4(aq)        +   Na2CO3 (aq)         ->       CuCO3 (s)  +  Na2 SO4(aq)

BaCl2(aq)        +   K2SO4 (aq)            ->       BaSO4 (s)   +  2KCl (aq)

Pb(NO3)2(aq)   +   K2SO4 (aq)            ->       PbSO4 (s)   +  2KNO3 (aq)

2AgNO3(aq)               +  MgCl2 (aq)             ->       2AgCl(s)     +  Mg(NO3)2 (aq)

Pb(NO3)2(aq)   +   (NH4) 2SO4 (aq)    ->       PbSO4 (s)   +  2NH4NO 3(aq)

BaCl2(aq)        +   K2SO3 (aq)           ->       BaSO3 (s)   +  2KCl (aq)

 

  1. Salts may lose their water of crystallization , decompose ,melt or sublime on heating on a Bunsen burner flame.

The following shows the behavior of some salts on heating gently /or strongly in a laboratory school burner:

 

(a)effect of heat on chlorides

All chlorides have very high melting and boiling points and therefore are not affected by laboratory heating except ammonium chloride. Ammonium chloride sublimes on gentle heating. It dissociate into the constituent ammonia and hydrogen chloride gases on strong heating.

 

NH4Cl(s)               NH4Cl(g)                         NH3(g) + HCl(g)

(sublimation)              (dissociation)

 

(b)effect of heat on nitrate(V)

(i) Potassium nitrate(V)/KNO3 and sodium nitrate(V)/NaNO3 decompose on heating to form Potassium nitrate(III)/KNO2 and sodium nitrate(III)/NaNO2  and producing Oxygen gas in each case.

2KNO3 (s)    -> 2KNO2(s) +   O2(g)

2NaNO3 (s)  -> 2NaNO2(s) +   O2(g)

 

(ii)Heavy metal nitrates(V) salts decompose on heating to form the oxide and a mixture of brown acidic nitrogen(IV)oxide and oxygen gases. e.g.

2Ca(NO3)2 (s)          ->    2CaO(s)    +   4NO2(g)   +    O2(g)

2Mg(NO3)2(s)         ->    2MgO(s)    +   4NO2(g)   +    O2(g)

2Zn(NO3)2(s)           ->    2ZnO(s)    +   4NO2(g)   +    O2(g)

2Pb(NO3)2(s)           ->    2PbO(s)    +   4NO2(g)   +    O2(g)

2Cu(NO3)2(s)          ->    2CuO(s)    +   4NO2(g)   +    O2(g)

2Fe(NO3)2(s)           ->    2FeO(s)    +   4NO2(g)   +    O2(g)

 

(iii)Silver(I)nitrate(V) and mercury(II) nitrate(V) are lowest in the reactivity series. They decompose on heating to form the metal(silver and mercury)and the Nitrogen(IV)oxide and oxygen gas. i.e.

2AgNO3(s)   ->    2Ag (s)    +   2NO2(g)   +    O2(g)

2Hg(NO3)2 (s)         ->    2Hg (s)    +   4NO2(g)   +    O2(g)

 

(iv)Ammonium nitrate(V) and Ammonium nitrate(III) decompose on heating to Nitrogen(I)oxide(relights/rekindles glowing splint) and nitrogen gas respectively.Water is also formed.i.e.

NH4NO3(s)      ->      N2O (g)     +     H2O(l)

NH4NO2(s)      ->      N2 (g)        +     H2O(l)

 

(c) effect of heat on nitrate(V)

 

Only Iron(II)sulphate(VI), Iron(III)sulphate(VI) and copper(II)sulphate(VI) decompose on heating. They form the oxide, and produce highly acidic fumes of acidic sulphur(IV)oxide gas.

 

2FeSO4 (s)                ->      Fe2O3(s)      +     SO3(g) +     SO2(g)

Fe2(SO4) 3(s)              ->      Fe2O3(s)     +     SO3(g)

CuSO4 (s)                 ->      CuO(s)       +     SO3(g)

 

(d) effect of heat on carbonates(IV) and hydrogen carbonate(IV).

(i)Sodium carbonate(IV)and potassium carbonate(IV)do not decompose on heating.

(ii)Heavy metal nitrate(IV)salts decompose on heating to form the oxide and produce carbon(IV)oxide gas. Carbon (IV)oxide gas forms a white precipitate when bubbled in lime water. The white precipitate dissolves if the gas is in excess. e.g. CuCO3 (s)                     ->      CuO(s)       +     CO2(g)

CaCO3 (s)                       ->      CaO(s)       +     CO2(g)

PbCO3 (s)                       ->      PbO(s)       +     CO2(g)

FeCO3 (s)                       ->      FeO(s)       +     CO2(g)

ZnCO3 (s)                       ->      ZnO(s)       +     CO2(g)

 

(iii)Sodium hydrogen carbonate(IV) and Potassium hydrogen carbonate(IV)decompose on heating to give the corresponding carbonate (IV) and form water and carbon(IV)oxide gas. i.e.

2NaHCO 3(s)              ->      Na2CO3(s)     +     CO2(g)   +  H2O(l)

2KHCO 3(s)                 ->      K2CO3(s)      +     CO2(g)   +  H2O(l)

(iii) Calcium hydrogen carbonate (IV) and Magnesium hydrogen carbonate(IV) decompose on heating to give the corresponding carbonate (IV) and form water and carbon(IV)oxide gas. i. e.

Ca(HCO3) 2(aq)              ->      CaCO3(s)      +     CO2(g)   +  H2O(l)

Mg(HCO3) 2(aq)             ->      MgCO3(s)     +     CO2(g)   +  H2O(l)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     

 

UPGRADE

CHEMISTRY

                

FORM 2

                 

Introduction to ELECTROLYSIS

      

 

                

 

 

 

 

 

Comprehensive tutorial notes

 

 MUTHOMI S.G

www.kcselibrary.info

                                     0720096206

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTRODUCTION TO ELECTROLYSIS     (ELECTROLYTIC CELL)

 

1.Electrolysis is defined simply as the decomposition of a compound by an electric current/electricity.

A compound that is decomposed by an electric current is called an electrolyte. Some electrolytes are weak while others are strong.

 

2.Strong electrolytes are those that are fully ionized/dissociated into (many) ions.    Common strong electrolytes include:

(i)all mineral acids

(ii)all strong alkalis/sodium hydroxide/potassium hydroxide.

(iii)all soluble salts

 

3.Weak electrolytes are those that are partially/partly ionized/dissociated into (few) ions.

Common weak electrolytes include:

(i)all organic acids

(ii)all bases except sodium hydroxide/potassium hydroxide.

(iii)Water

 

  1. 4. A compound that is not decomposed by an electric current is called non-electrolyte.

Non-electrolytes are those compounds /substances that exist as molecules and thus cannot ionize/dissociate into(any) ions .

Common non-electrolytes include:

(i) most organic solvents (e.g. petrol/paraffin/benzene/methylbenzene/ethanol)

(ii)all hydrocarbons(alkanes /alkenes/alkynes)

(iii)Chemicals of life(e.g. proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, starch, sugar)

 

  1. 5. An electrolytes in solid state have fused /joined ions and therefore do not conduct electricity but the ions (cations and anions) are free and mobile in molten and aqueous (solution, dissolved in water) state.

 

6.During electrolysis, the free ions are attracted to the electrodes.

An electrode is a rod through which current enter and leave the electrolyte during electrolysis.

An electrode that does not influence/alter the products of electrolysis is called an inert electrode.

 Common inert electrodes include:

(i)Platinum

(ii)Carbon graphite

Platinum is not usually used in a school laboratory because it is very expensive. Carbon graphite is easily/readily and cheaply available (from used dry cells).

 

7.The positive electrode is called Anode.The anode is the electrode through which current enter the electrolyte/electrons leave the electrolyte

8.The negative electrode is called Cathode. The cathode is the electrode through which current leave the electrolyte / electrons enter the electrolyte

 

  1. 9. During the electrolysis, free anions are attracted to the anode where they lose /donate electrons to form neutral atoms/molecules. i.e.

 

M(l)  ->       M+(l)  +  e  (for cations from molten electrolytes)

M(s)  ->       M+(aq)  +  e  (for cations from electrolytes in aqueous state / solution / dissolved in water)

 

The neutral atoms /molecules form the products of electrolysis at the anode. This is called discharge at anode

 

  1. During electrolysis, free cations are attracted to the cathode where they gain /accept/acquire electrons to form neutral atoms/molecules.

X+ (aq)  +  2e -> X(s) (for cations from electrolytes in aqueous state / solution / dissolved in water)

2X+ (l)  +  2e -> X (l)  (for cations from molten electrolytes)

 

The neutral atoms /molecules form the products of electrolysis at the cathode. This is called discharge at cathode.

 

  1. The below set up shows an electrolytic cell.

 

 

 

 

  1. For a compound /salt containing only two ion/binary salt the products of electrolysis in an electrolytic cell can be determined as in the below examples:

 

 

a)To determine the products of electrolysis of molten Lead(II)chloride

 

(i)Decomposition of electrolyte into free ions;

PbCl2 (l)        ->     Pb 2+(l)  +    2Cl(l)

(Compound decomposed into free cation and anion in liquid state)

 

(ii)At the cathode/negative electrode(-);

Pb 2+(l)    +      2e     ->    Pb (l)

(Cation / Pb 2+ gains / accepts / acquires electrons to form free atom)

 

(iii)At the anode/positive electrode(+);

2Cl(l)      ->    Cl2 (g)  +    2e

(Anion / Cldonate/lose electrons to form free atom then a gas molecule)

 

(iv)Products of electrolysis therefore are;

I.At the cathode grey beads /solid lead metal.

II.At the anode pale green chlorine gas.

 

 

b)To determine the products of electrolysis of molten Zinc bromide

 

(i)Decomposition of electrolyte into free ions;

ZnBr2 (l)        ->    Zn 2+(l)  +    2Br(l)

(Compound decomposed into free cation and anion in liquid state)

 

(ii)At the cathode/negative electrode(-);

Zn 2+(l)    +      2e     ->    Zn(l)

(Cation / Zn2+ gains / accepts / acquires electrons to form free atom)

 

(iii)At the anode/positive electrode(+);

2Br(l)      ->    Br2 (g)  +    2e

(Anion / Brdonate/lose electrons to form free atom then a liquid molecule which change to gas on heating)

 

(iv)Products of electrolysis therefore are;

I.At the cathode grey beads /solid Zinc metal.

II.At the anode red bromine liquid / red/brown bromine gas.

 

c)To determine the products of electrolysis of molten sodium chloride

 

(i)Decomposition of electrolyte into free ions;

NaCl (l)        ->      Na +(l)  +    Cl(l)

(Compound decomposed into free cation and anion in liquid state)

 

(ii)At the cathode/negative electrode(-);

2Na+(l)    +      2e     ->    Na (l)

(Cation / Na+ gains / accepts / acquires electrons to form free atom)

 

(iii)At the anode/positive electrode(+);

2Cl(l)      ->    Cl2 (g)  +    2e

(Anion / Cldonate/lose electrons to form free atom then a gas molecule)

 

(iv)Products of electrolysis therefore are;

I.At the cathode grey beads /solid sodium metal.

II.At the anode pale green chlorine gas.

 

      d)To determine the products of electrolysis of molten Aluminium (III)oxide

 

(i)Decomposition of electrolyte into free ions;

Al2O3 (l)        ->     2Al 3+(l)  +    3O2-(l)

(Compound decomposed into free cation and anion in liquid state)

 

(ii)At the cathode/negative electrode(-);

4Al 3+ (l)    +      12e     ->    4Al (l)

(Cation / Al 3+ gains / accepts / acquires electrons to form free atom)

 

(iii)At the anode/positive electrode(+);

6O2-(l)      ->    3O2 (g)  +    12e

(Anion /6O2- donate/lose 12 electrons to form free atom then three gas molecule)

 

(iv)Products of electrolysis therefore are;

I.At the cathode grey beads /solid aluminium metal.

II.At the anode colourless  gas that relights/rekindles glowing splint.

 

13.In industries electrolysis has the following uses/applications:

 

(a)Extraction of reactive metals from their ores.

Potassium, sodium ,magnesium, and aluminium  are extracted from their ores using electrolytic methods.

 

(b)Purifying copper after exraction from copper pyrites ores.

Copper obtained from copper pyrites ores is not pure. After extraction, the copper is refined by electrolysing copper(II)sulphate(VI) solution using the impure copper as anode and a thin strip of pure copper as cathode. Electrode ionization take place there:

(i)At the cathode; Cu2+ (aq)      +   2e   ->  Cu(s) (Pure copper deposits on the strip

(ii)At the anode;  Cu(s) ->Cu2+ (aq)   +   2e   (impure copper erodes/dissolves)

 

(c)Electroplating

The label EPNS(Electro Plated Nickel Silver) on some steel/metallic utensils mean they are plated/coated with silver and/or Nickel to improve their appearance(add their aesthetic value)and prevent/slow corrosion(rusting of iron). Electroplating is the process of coating a metal with another metal using an electric current. During electroplating, the cathode is made of the metal to be coated/impure.

Example:

During the electroplating of a spoon with silver

(i)the spoon/impure is placed as the cathode(negative terminal of battery)

(ii)the pure silver is placed as the anode(positive terminal of battery)

(iii)the pure silver erodes/ionizes/dissociates to release electrons:

Ag(s) ->Ag+ (aq)   +   e   (impure silver erodes/dissolves)

(iv) silver (Ag+)ions from electrolyte gain electrons to form pure silver  deposits / coat /cover the spoon/impure

Ag+ (aq)      +   e   ->Ag(s)    (pure silver deposits /coat/cover on spoon)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     

 

UPGRADE

CHEMISTRY

                

FORM 2

                 

Chemistry of CARBON

 

 

 

 

      

 

                 Comprehensive tutorial notes

 

 MUTHOMI S.G

www.kcselibrary.info

                                     0720096206

 

 

 

 

 

 

A: CARBON

Carbon is an element in Group IV(Group 4)of the Periodic table .It has atomic number 6 and electronic configuration 2:4 and thus has four valence electrons(tetravalent).It does not easily ionize but forms strong covalent bonds with other elements including itself.

 

(a)Occurrence

Carbon mainly naturally occurs as:

(i)allotropes of carbon i.e graphite, diamond and fullerenes.

(ii)amorphous carbon in coal, peat ,charcoal and coke.

(iii)carbon(IV)oxide gas accounting 0.03% by volume of normal air in the    atmosphere.

(b)Allotropes of Carbon

Carbon  naturally occur in two main crystalline allotropic forms, carbon-graphite and carbon-diamond

 

Carbon-diamond Carbon-graphite
Shiny crystalline solid Black/dull crystalline solid
Has a very high melting/boiling point because it has a very closely packed giant tetrahedral structure joined by strong covalent bonds Has a high melting/boiling point because it has a very closely packed giant hexagonal planar structure  joined by strong covalent bonds
Has very high density(Hardest known natural substance) Soft
Abrassive Slippery
Poor electrical conductor because it has no free delocalized electrons Good electrical conductor because it has free 4th valency delocalized electrons
Is used in making Jewels, drilling and cutting metals Used in making Lead-pencils,electrodes in batteries and as a lubricant
Has giant tetrahedral structure Has giant hexagonal planar structure

 

c)Properties of Carbon

(i)Physical properties of carbon

Carbon occur widely and naturally as a black solid

It is insoluble in water but soluble in carbon disulphide and organic solvents.

It is a poor electrical and thermal conductor.

(ii)Chemical properties of carbon

  1. Burning

Experiment

Introduce a small piece of charcoal on a Bunsen flame then lower it into a gas jar containing Oxygen gas. Put three drops of water. Swirl. Test the solution with blue and red litmus papers.

Observation

          -Carbon chars then burns with a blue flame

-Colourless and odourless gas produced

-Solution formed turn blue litmus paper faint red. Red litmus paper remains red.

Explanation

Carbon burns in air and faster in Oxygen with a blue non-sooty/non-smoky flame forming Carbon (IV) oxide gas. Carbon burns in limited supply of air with a blue non-sooty/non-smoky flame forming Carbon (IV) oxide gas. Carbon (IV) oxide gas dissolve in water to form weak acidic solution of Carbonic (IV)acid.

Chemical Equation

C(s)   +        O2(g)     ->   CO2(g)        (in excess air)

2C(s) +        O2(g)              ->    2CO(g)       (in limited air)

CO2(g)   +    H2O (l)  -> H2CO3 (aq)  (very weak acid)

 

  1. Reducing agent

Experiment

Mix thoroughly equal amounts of powdered charcoal and copper (II)oxide into a crucible. Heat strongly.

Observation

Colour change from black to brown

Explanation

Carbon is a reducing agent. For ages it has been used to reducing metal oxide ores to metal, itself oxidized to carbon(IV)oxide gas. Carbon reduces black copper(II)oxide to brown copper metal

 

Chemical Equation

2CuO(s)        +       C(s)   ->      2Cu(s)         +       CO2(g)

(black)                                       (brown)

 

2PbO(s)        +       C(s)   ->      2Pb(s)          +       CO2(g)

(brown when hot/                      (grey)

yellow when cool)

 

2ZnO(s)        +       C(s)   ->      2Zn(s)          +       CO2(g)

(yellow when hot/                      (grey)

white when cool)

 

Fe2O3(s)      +       3C(s)            ->      2Fe(s)          +       3CO2(g)

(brown when hot/cool                             (grey)

 

Fe3O4 (s)       +       4C(s)            ->      3Fe(s)          +       4CO2(g)

(brown when hot/cool                             (grey)

 

 

 

 

B: COMPOUNDS OF CARBON

 

The following are the main compounds of Carbon

(i)Carbon(IV)Oxide(CO2)

(ii)Carbon(II)Oxide(CO)

(iii)Carbonate(IV) (CO32-)and hydrogen carbonate(IV(HCO3)

(iv)Sodium carbonate(Na2CO3)

 

(i) Carbon(IV)Oxide (CO2)

 

(a)Occurrence

 

Carbon(IV)oxide is found:

-in the air /atmosphere as 0.03% by volume.

-a solid carbon(IV)oxide mineral in Esageri near Eldame Ravine and Kerita near Limuru in Kenya.

 

(b)School Laboratory preparation

 

In the school laboratory carbon(IV)oxide can be prepared in the school laboratory from the reaction of marble chips(CaCO3)or sodium hydrogen carbonate(NaHCO3) with dilute hydrochloric acid.

 

 

 

(c)Properties of carbon(IV)oxide gas(Questions)

 

1.Write the equation for the reaction for the school laboratory preparation of carbon (IV)oxide gas.

Any carbonate reacted with dilute hydrochloric acid should be able to generate carbon (IV)oxide gas.

Chemical equations

CaCO3(s)   +    2HCl(aq)     ->     CaCO3 (aq)    +   H2O(l)     +    CO2 (g)

ZnCO3(s)   +    2HCl(aq)     ->     ZnCO3 (aq)    +             H2O(l)     +    CO2 (g)

MgCO3(s) +    2HCl(aq)     ->     MgCO3 (aq)    +   H2O(l)     +    CO2 (g)

CuCO3(s)   +    2HCl(aq)     ->     CuCO3 (aq)    +   H2O(l)     +    CO2 (g)

NaHCO3(s) +    HCl(aq)     ->       Na2CO3 (aq)    +   H2O(l)     +    CO2 (g)

KHCO3(s)    +     HCl(aq)     ->       K2CO3 (aq)     +   H2O(l)     +   CO2 (g)

2.What method of gas collection is used in preparation of Carbon(IV)oxide gas. Explain.

Downward delivery /upward displacement of air/over mercury

Carbon(IV)oxide gas is about 1½  times denser than air.

3.What is the purpose of :

(a)water?

          To absorb the more volatile hydrogen chloride fumes produced during the vigorous reaction.

 

(b)sodium hydrogen carbonate?

To absorb the more volatile hydrogen chloride fumes produced during the vigorous reaction and by reacting with the acid to produce more carbon (IV)oxide gas .

 

Chemical equation

NaHCO3(s) +    HCl(aq)     ->       Na2CO3 (aq)    +   H2O(l)     +    CO2 (g)

 

(c)concentrated sulphuric(VI)acid?

To dry the gas/as a drying agent

 

4.Describe the smell of carbon(IV)oxide gas

          Colourless and odourless

 

  1. Effect on lime water.

Experiment

Bubbled carbon(IV)oxide gas into a test tube containing lime water for about three minutes

Observation

White precipitate is formed.

White precipitate dissolved when excess carbon(IV)oxide gas is bubbled .

Explanation

Carbon(IV)oxide gas reacts with lime water(Ca(OH)2) to form an insoluble white precipitate of calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate reacts with more Carbon(IV) oxide gas to form soluble Calcium hydrogen carbonate.

Chemical equation

Ca(OH)2(aq)    +    CO2 (g)     ->     CaCO3 (s)    +    H2O(l)

CaCO3 (aq)    +    H2O(l)  +    CO2 (g) ->     Ca(HCO3) 2 (aq)

 

  1. Effects on burning Magnesium ribbon

Experiment

Lower a piece of burning magnesium ribbon into a gas jar containing carbon (IV)oxide gas.

Observation

The ribbon continues to burn with difficulty

White ash/solid is formed.

Black speck/solid/particles formed on the side of gas jar.

Explanation

Carbon(IV)oxide gas does not support combustion/burning.Magnesium burn to produce/release enough heat energy to decompose Carbon(IV) oxide gas to carbon and oxygen.Magnesium continues to burn in Oxygen forming white Magnesium Oxide solid/ash.Black speck/particle of carbon/charcoal residue forms on the sides of reaction flask. During the reaction Carbon(IV) oxide is reduced(Oxidizing agent)to carbon while Magnesium is Oxidized to Magnesium Oxide.

Chemical equation

2Mg(s)    +    CO2 (g)     ->     C (s)    +    2MgO(l)

 

  1. Dry and wet litmus papers were separately put in a gas jar containing dry carbon (IV)oxide gas. State and explain the observations made.

Observation

Blue dry litmus paper remain blue

Red dry litmus paper remain Red

Blue wet/damp/moist litmus paper turn red

Red wet/damp/moist litmus paper remain red

Explanation

Dry Carbon (IV) oxide gas is a molecular compound that does not dissociate/ionize to release H+ and thus has no effect on litmus papers.

Wet/damp/moist litmus papers contains water that dissolves/react with dry carbon (IV) oxide gas to form the weak solution of carbonic (IV) acid(H2CO3).

Carbonic (IV) acid dissociate/ionizes to a few /little free H+ and CO32-.

The few H+ (aq) ions are responsible for turning blue litmus paper to faint red showing the gas is very weakly acidic.

 

Chemical equation

H2CO3(aq)        ->     2H+ (aq)    +    CO32-(aq)

  1. Explain why Carbon (IV)oxide cannot be prepared from the reaction of:

(i) marble chips with dilute sulphuric(VI)acid.

Explanation

Reaction  forms insoluble calcium sulphate(VI)that cover/coat unreacted marble chips stopping further reaction

Chemical equation

CaCO3(s)     +    H2SO4 (aq)     ->     CaSO4 (s)    +             H2O(l)     +    CO2 (g)

PbCO3(s)     +    H2SO4 (aq)     ->     PbSO4 (s)    +             H2O(l)     +    CO2 (g)

BaCO3(s)     +    H2SO4 (aq)     ->     BaSO4 (s)    +             H2O(l)     +    CO2 (g)

(ii) Lead(II)carbonate with dilute Hydrochloric acid.

Reaction  forms insoluble Lead(II)Chloride that cover/coat unreacted Lead(II) carbonate stopping further reaction unless the reaction mixture is heated. Lead(II)Chloride is soluble in hot water.

Chemical equation

PbCO3(s)     +    2HCl (aq)     ->     PbCl2 (s)    +      H2O(l)     +    CO2 (g)

 

  1. Describe the test for the presence of Carbon (IV)oxide.

Using burning splint

Lower a burning splint into a gas jar suspected to contain Carbon (IV)oxide gas.The burning splint is extinguished.

Using Lime water.

Bubble the gas suspected to be Carbon (IV)oxide gas.A white precipitate that dissolve in excess bubbling is formed.

Chemical equation

Ca(OH)2(aq)    +    CO2 (g)     ->     CaCO3 (s)    +    H2O(l)

CaCO3 (aq)    +    H2O(l)  +    CO2 (g) ->     Ca(HCO3) 2 (aq)

 

10.State three main uses of Carbon (IV)oxide gas

(i)In the Solvay process for the manufacture of soda ash/sodium carbonate

(ii)In preservation of aerated drinks

(iii)As fire extinguisher because it does not support combustion and is denser than   air.

(iv)In manufacture of Baking powder.

 

 

 

 

 

(ii) Carbon(II)Oxide (CO)

(a)Occurrence

 

Carbon(II)oxide is found is found from incomplete combustion of fuels like petrol charcoal, liquefied Petroleum Gas/LPG.

 

(b)School Laboratory preparation

 

In the school laboratory carbon(II)oxide can be prepared from dehydration of methanoic acid/Formic acid(HCOOH) or Ethan-1,2-dioic acid/Oxalic acid(HOOCCOOH) using concentrated sulphuric(VI) acid. Heating is necessary.

METHOD 1:Preparation of Carbon (IV)Oxide from dehydration of Oxalic/ethan-1,2-dioic acid

 

 

 

 

METHOD 2:Preparation of Carbon (IV)Oxide from dehydration of Formic/Methanoic acid

 

 

 

 

(c)Properties of Carbon (II)Oxide(Questions)

1.Write the equation  for the reaction for the preparation of carbon(II)oxide using;

 

(i)Method 1;

Chemical equation

HOOCCOOH(s)   –Conc.H2SO4–>   CO(g)  +  CO2 (g)   +  H2O(l)

H2C2O4(s)   –Conc.H2SO4–>   CO(g)  +  CO2 (g)   +  H2O(l)

 

(ii)Method 2;

Chemical equation

HCOOH(s)   –Conc.H2SO4–>   CO(g)     +  H2O(l)

H2CO2(s)   –Conc.H2SO4–>   CO(g)      +  H2O(l)

 

2.What method of gas collection is used during the preparation of carbon (II) oxide.

Over water because the gas is insoluble in water.

Downward delivery because the gas is 1 ½ times denser than air .

 

3.What is the purpose  of :

(i) Potassium hydroxide/sodium hydroxide in Method 1

To absorb/ remove carbon (II) oxide produced during the reaction.

2KOH (aq)    +    CO2 (g)     ->     K2CO3 (s)    +    H2O(l)

 2NaOH (aq)    +    CO2 (g)     ->     Na2CO3 (s)    +    H2O(l)

 

(ii) Concentrated sulphuric(VI)acid in Method 1 and 2.

          Dehydrating agent –removes the element of water (Hydrogen and Oxygen in ratio 2:1) present in both methanoic and ethan-1,2-dioic acid.

 

  1. Describe the smell of carbon(II)oxide.

          Colourless and odourless.

  1. State and explain the observation made when carbon(IV)oxide is bubbled in lime water for a long time.

          No white precipitate is formed.

 

  1. Dry and wet/moist/damp litmus papers were separately put in a gas jar containing dry carbon(IV)oxide gas. State and explain the observations made.

 

Observation

-blue dry litmus paper remains blue

-red dry litmus paper remains red

– wet/moist/damp blue litmus paper remains blue

– wet/moist/damp red litmus paper remains red

Explanation

Carbon(II)oxide gas is a molecular compound that does not dissociate /ionize to release H+ ions and thus has no effect on litmus papers. Carbon(II)oxide gas is therefore a neutral gas.

  1. Carbon (II)oxide gas was ignited at the end of a generator as below.

 

 

Flame K

 

 

 

 

 

      Dry carbon(II)oxide

 

(i)State the observations made in flame K.

          Gas burns with a blue flame

(ii)Write the equation for the reaction taking place at flame K.

                    2CO(g)   +  O2 (g) -> 2CO2 (g)

 

  1. Carbon(II)oxide is a reducing agent. Explain

 

Experiment

Pass carbon(II)oxide through glass tube containing  copper (II)oxide. Ignite any excess poisonous carbon(II)oxide.

Observation

Colour change from black to brown. Excess carbon (II)oxide burn with a blue flame.

Explanation

Carbon is a reducing agent. It is used to reduce metal oxide ores to metal, itself oxidized to carbon(IV)oxide gas. Carbon(II)Oxide  reduces black copper(II)oxide to brown copper metal

Chemical Equation

CuO(s)          +       CO(g)           ->      Cu(s) +       CO2(g)

(black)                                              (brown)

 

PbO(s)          +       CO(g)           ->      Pb(s)  +       CO2(g)

(brown when hot/                                (grey)

yellow when cool)

 

ZnO(s)          +       CO(g)           ->      Zn(s)  +       CO2(g)

(yellow when hot/                                (grey)

white when cool)

 

Fe2O3(s)      +       3CO(s)          ->      2Fe(s)          +       3CO2(g)

(brown when hot/cool                             (grey)

 

Fe3O4 (s)       +       4CO(g)         ->      3Fe(s)          +       4CO2(g)

(brown when hot/cool                             (grey)

These reaction are used during the extraction of many metals from their ore.

 

  1. Carbon (II) oxide is a pollutant. Explain.

Carbon(II)oxide is highly poisonous/toxic.It preferentially combine with haemoglobin to form stable carboxyhaemoglobin in the blood instead of oxyhaemoglobin.This reduces the free haemoglobin in the blood causing nausea , coma then death.

 

10.The diagram below show a burning charcoal stove/burner/jiko. Use it to answer the questions that follow.

 

 

Explain the changes that take place in the burner

Explanation

Charcoal stove has air holes through which air enters. Air oxidizes carbon to carbon(IV)oxide gas at region I. This reaction is exothermic(-∆H) producing more heat.

Chemical equation

C(s)  + O2(g)         -> CO2(g)

Carbon(IV)oxide gas formed rises up to meet more charcoal which reduces it to Carbon(II)oxide gas.

Chemical equation

2CO2 (g)  + O2(g)  -> 2CO (g)

At the top of burner in region II, Carbon (II)oxide gas is further oxidized to Carbon(IV)oxide gas  if there is plenty of air but escape if the air is limited poisoning the living things around.

Chemical equation

2CO (g)  + O2(g)   -> 2CO2 (g)

(excess air)

11.Describe the test for the presence of carbon(II)oxide gas.

Experiment

Burn/Ignite the pure sample of the gas. Pass/Bubble the products into lime water/Calcium hydroxide .

Observation

Colourless gas burns with a blue flame. A white precipitate is formed that dissolve on further bubbling of the products.

Chemical equation

2CO (g)  + O2(g)   -> 2CO2 (g) (gas burns with blue flame)

Chemical equation

Ca(OH) 2 (aq)  + CO2 (g) -> CaCO3 (s) + H2O(l)

Chemical equation

CO2 (g)        +   CaCO3 (s)   +   H2O(l)  -> Ca(HCO3) 2 (aq)

 

  1. State the main uses of carbon (II)oxide gas.

(i) As a fuel /water gas

(ii)As a reducing agent in the blast furnace for extracting iron from iron ore(Magnetite/Haematite)

(iii)As a reducing agent in extraction of Zinc from Zinc ore/Zinc blende

(iv) As a reducing agent in extraction of Lead from Lead ore/Galena

(v) As a reducing agent in extraction of Copper from Copper iron sulphide/Copper pyrites.

 

 

(iii)Carbonate(IV) (CO32-)and hydrogen carbonate(IV(HCO3)

 

1.Carbonate (IV) (CO32-) are normal salts derived from carbonic(IV)acid (H2CO3) and hydrogen carbonate (IV) (HCO3) are acid salts derived from carbonic(IV)acid.

Carbonic(IV)acid(H2CO3) is formed when carbon(IV)oxide gas is bubbled in water. It is a dibasic acid with two ionizable hydrogens.

H2CO3(aq) ->2H+(aq) + CO32-(aq)

H2CO3(aq) -> H+(aq) + HCO3(aq)

2.Carbonate (IV) (CO32-) are insoluble in water except Na2CO3 , K2CO3 and (NH4)2CO3

3.Hydrogen carbonate (IV) (HCO3) are soluble in water. Only five hydrogen carbonates exist. Na HCO3 , KHCO3 ,NH4HCO3   Ca(HCO3)2 and Mg(HCO3)2

Ca(HCO3)2 and Mg(HCO3)2 exist only in aqueous solutions.

3.The following experiments show the effect of heat on Carbonate (IV) (CO32-) and Hydrogen carbonate (IV) (HCO3) salts:

Experiment

In a clean dry test tube place separately about 1.0 of the following:

Zinc(II)carbonate(IV), sodium hydrogen carbonate(IV), sodium carbonate(IV), Potassium carbonate(IV) ammonium carbonate(IV), potassium hydrogen carbonate(IV), Lead(II)carbonate(IV), Iron(II)carbonate(IV), and copper(II)carbonate(IV). Heat each portion gently the strongly. Test any gases produced with lime water.

Observation

(i)Colorless droplets form on the cooler parts of test tube in case of sodium carbonate(IV) and Potassium carbonate(IV).

(ii)White residue/solid left in case of sodium hydrogen carbonate(IV), sodium carbonate(IV), Potassium carbonate(IV) and potassium hydrogen carbonate(IV).

(iii)Colour changes from blue/green to black in case of copper(II)carbonate(IV).

(iv) Colour changes from green to brown/yellow in case of Iron (II)carbonate(IV).

(v) Colour changes from white when cool to yellow when hot in case of Zinc (II) carbonate(IV).

(vi) Colour changes from yellow when cool to brown when hot in case of Lead (II) carbonate(IV).

(vii)Colourless gas produced that forms a white precipitate with lime water in all cases.

Explanation

  1. Sodium carbonate(IV) and Potassium carbonate(IV) exist as hydrated salts with 10 molecules of water of crystallization that condenses and collects on cooler parts of test tube as a colourless liquid.

Chemical equation

Na2CO3 .10H2O(s)     ->     Na2CO3 (s)     +    10H2O(l)

K2CO3 .10H2O(s)       ->     K2CO3 (s)       +    10H2O(l)

  1. Carbonate (IV) (CO32-) and Hydrogen carbonate (IV) (HCO3) salts decompose on heating except Sodium carbonate(IV) and Potassium carbonate(IV).

(a) Sodium hydrogen carbonate(IV) and Potassium hydrogen carbonate(IV) decompose on heating to form sodium carbonate(IV) and Potassium carbonate(IV).Water and carbon(IV)oxide gas are also produced.

Chemical equation

2NaHCO3 (s)     ->     Na2CO3 (s)     +    H2O(l) + CO2 (g)

(white)                         (white)

2KHCO3 (s)     ->     K2CO3 (s)     +    H2O(l) + CO2 (g)

(white)                         (white)

(b) Calcium hydrogen carbonate(IV) and Magnesium hydrogen carbonate(IV) decompose on heating to form insoluble Calcium carbonate(IV) and Magnesium carbonate(IV).Water and carbon(IV)oxide gas are also produced.

Chemical equation

Ca(HCO3)2 (aq)          ->          CaCO3 (s)     +    H2O(l) + CO2 (g)

(Colourless solution)                  (white)

Mg(HCO3)2 (aq)          ->          MgCO3 (s)     +    H2O(l) + CO2 (g)

(Colourless solution)                  (white)

(c) Ammonium hydrogen carbonate(IV) decompose on heating to form ammonium carbonate(IV) .Water and carbon(IV)oxide gas are also produced.

Chemical equation

2NH4HCO3 (s)     ->     (NH4)2CO3 (s)     +    H2O(l) + CO2 (g)

(white)                         (white)

(d)All other carbonates decompose on heating to form the metal oxide and produce carbon(IV)oxide gas e.g.

Chemical equation

MgCO3 (s)          ->          MgO (s)       +       CO2 (g)

(white solid)                   (white solid)

Chemical equation

BaCO3 (s)          ->          BaO (s)       +       CO2 (g)

(white solid)             (white solid)

Chemical equation

CaCO3 (s)          ->          CaO (s)       +       CO2 (g)

(white solid)             (white solid)

Chemical equation

CuCO3 (s)          ->          CuO (s)       +       CO2 (g)

(blue/green solid)          (black solid)

Chemical equation

ZnCO3 (s)          ->          ZnO (s)       +       CO2 (g)

(white solid)             (white solid when cool/

Yellow solid when hot)

Chemical equation

PbCO3 (s)          ->          PbO (s)       +       CO2 (g)

(white solid)             (yellow solid when cool/

brown solid when hot)

4.The following experiments show the presence of  Carbonate (IV) (CO32-) and Hydrogen carbonate (IV) (HCO3) ions in sample of a salt:

 

(a)Using Lead(II) nitrate(V)

  1. Using a portion of salt solution in a test tube .add four drops of Lead(II)nitrate(V)solution.Preserve.

 

Observation inference
White precipitate/ppt CO32- ,SO32- ,SO42- ,Cl

  1. To the preserved solution ,add six drops of dilutte nitric(V)acid. Preserve.

 

Observation inference
White precipitate/ppt persists

 

White precipitate/ppt dissolves

SO42- ,Cl

 

CO32- ,SO32-

  1. To the preserved sample( that forms a precipitate ),heat to boil.
Observation inference
White precipitate/ppt persists

 

White precipitate/ppt dissolves

SO42-

 

Cl

 

  1. To the preserved sample( that do not form a precipitate ),add three drops of acidified potassium manganate(VII)/lime water
Observation inference
Effervescence/bubbles/fizzing colourless gas produced

Acidified KMnO4 decolorized/no white precipitate on lime water

 

Effervescence/bubbles/fizzing colourless gas produced

Acidified KMnO4 not decolorized/ white precipitate on lime water

 

SO32-

 

 

 

 

CO32-

 

 

Experiments/Observations:

(b)Using Barium(II)nitrate(V)/ Barium(II)chloride

 

  1. To about 5cm3 of a salt solution in a test tube add four drops of Barium(II) nitrate (V) / Barium(II)chloride. Preserve.

 

Observation Inference
White precipitate/ppt SO42- , SO32- , CO32- ions

 

  1. To the preserved sample in (I) above, add six drops of 2M nitric(V) acid . Preserve.

 

Observation 1

Observation Inference
White precipitate/ppt persists SO42- , ions

 

Observation 2

Observation Inference
White precipitate/ppt dissolves SO32- , CO32- , ions

 

III.To the preserved sample observation 2 in (II) above, add 4 drops of acidified potassium manganate(VII) /dichromate(VI).

 

Observation 1

Observation Inference
(i)acidified potassium manganate(VII)decolorized

(ii)Orange colour of acidified potassium

dichromate(VI) turns to green

SO32- ions

 

 

Observation 2

Observation Inference
(i)acidified potassium manganate(VII) not decolorized

(ii)Orange colour of acidified potassium

dichromate(VI) does not turns to green

 

CO32- ions

 

 

 

 

 

Explanations

 

Using Lead(II)nitrate(V)

(i)Lead(II)nitrate(V) solution reacts with chlorides(Cl), Sulphate (VI) salts (SO42- ), Sulphate (IV)salts (SO32-) and carbonates(CO32-) to form the insoluble white precipitate of Lead(II)chloride, Lead(II)sulphate(VI), Lead(II) sulphate (IV) and Lead(II)carbonate(IV).

 

Chemical/ionic equation:

Pb2+(aq)       +        Cl (aq)       ->       PbCl2(s)

Pb2+(aq)       +        SO42+ (aq)   ->       PbSO4 (s)

Pb2+(aq)       +        SO32+ (aq)   ->       PbSO3 (s)

Pb2+(aq)       +        CO32+ (aq)  ->       PbCO3 (s)

 

(ii)When the insoluble precipitates are acidified with nitric(V) acid,

– Lead(II)chloride and Lead(II)sulphate(VI) do not react with the acid and thus their white precipitates remain/ persists.

– Lead(II) sulphate (IV) and Lead(II)carbonate(IV) reacts with the acid to form soluble Lead(II) nitrate (V) and produce/effervesces/fizzes/bubbles out sulphur(IV)oxide and carbon(IV)oxide gases respectively.

. Chemical/ionic equation:

PbSO3 (s)   +   2H+(aq)       ->    H2 O (l)    +   Pb2+(aq)    +        SO2 (g)

PbCO3 (s)   +   2H+(aq)      ->    H2 O (l)    +   Pb2+(aq)    +        CO2 (g)

 

(iii)When Lead(II)chloride and Lead(II)sulphate(VI) are heated/warmed;

– Lead(II)chloride dissolves in hot water/on boiling(recrystallizes on cooling)

– Lead(II)sulphate(VI) do not dissolve in hot water thus its white precipitate persists/remains on heating/boiling.

(iv)When sulphur(IV)oxide and carbon(IV)oxide gases are produced;

sulphur(IV)oxide will decolorize acidified potassium manganate(VII)  and / or Orange colour of acidified potassium dichromate(VI) will turns to green. Carbon(IV)oxide will not.

Chemical equation:

5SO32-(aq)  +   2MnO4 (aq) +6H+(aq)   -> 5SO42-(aq) +  2Mn2+(aq) +  3H2O(l)

(purple)                                                     (colourless)

3SO32-(aq)  +   Cr2O72-(aq) +8H+(aq)   -> 3SO42-(aq) +  2Cr3+(aq) +  4H2O(l)

(Orange)                                                 (green)

Carbon(IV)oxide forms an insoluble white precipitate of calcium carbonate if three drops of lime water are added into the reaction test tube when effervescence is taking place. Sulphur(IV)oxide will not.

Chemical equation:

Ca(OH)2(aq)    +   CO2 (g)    ->  CaCO3(s)  +  H2O(l)

These tests should be done immediately after acidifying to ensure the gases produced react with the oxidizing agents/lime water.

 

 

 

Using Barium(II)nitrate(V)/ Barium(II)Chloride

(i)Barium(II)nitrate(V) and/ or Barium(II)chloride solution reacts with Sulphate (VI) salts (SO42- ), Sulphate (IV)salts (SO32-) and carbonates(CO32-) to form the insoluble white precipitate of Barium(II)sulphate(VI), Barium(II) sulphate (IV) and Barium(II)carbonate(IV).

 

Chemical/ionic equation:

Ba2+(aq)       +        SO42+ (aq)   ->       BaSO4 (s)

Ba2+(aq)       +        SO32+ (aq)   ->       BaSO3 (s)

Ba2+(aq)       +        CO32+ (aq)  ->       BaCO3 (s)

 

(ii)When the insoluble precipitates are acidified with nitric(V) acid,

– Barium (II)sulphate(VI) do not react with the acid and thus its white precipitates remain/ persists.

– Barium(II) sulphate (IV) and Barium(II)carbonate(IV) reacts with the acid to form soluble Barium(II) nitrate (V) and produce /effervesces /fizzes/ bubbles out sulphur(IV)oxide and carbon(IV)oxide gases respectively.

. Chemical/ionic equation:

BaSO3 (s)   +   2H+(aq)       ->    H2 O (l)    +   Ba2+(aq)    +        SO2 (g)

 

BaCO3 (s)   +   2H+(aq)      ->    H2 O (l)    +   Ba2+(aq)    +        CO2 (g)

 

(iii) When sulphur(IV)oxide and carbon(IV)oxide gases are produced;

sulphur(IV)oxide will decolorize acidified potassium manganate(VII)  and / or Orange colour of acidified potassium dichromate(VI) will turns to green. Carbon(IV)oxide will not.

 

Chemical equation:

5SO32-(aq)  +   2MnO4 (aq) +6H+(aq)   -> 5SO42-(aq) +  2Mn2+(aq) +  3H2O(l)

(purple)                                                     (colourless)

 

3SO32-(aq)  +   Cr2O72-(aq) +8H+(aq)   -> 3SO42-(aq) +  2Cr3+(aq) +  4H2O(l)

(Orange)                                                 (green)

 

Carbon(IV)oxide forms an insoluble white precipitate of calcium carbonate if three drops of lime water are added into the reaction test tube when effervescence is taking place. Sulphur(IV)oxide will not.

 

Chemical equation:

Ca(OH)2(aq)    +   CO2 (g)    ->  CaCO3(s)  +  H2O(l)

These tests should be done immediately after acidifying to ensure the gases produced react with the oxidizing agents/lime water.

 

(iii) Sodium carbonate(IV) (Na2CO3)

 

(a)Extraction of sodium carbonate from soda ash

 

Sodium carbonate naturally occurs in Lake Magadi in Kenya as Trona.trona is the double salt ; sodium sesquicarbonate. NaHCO3 .Na2CO3 .H2O.It is formed from the volcanic activity that takes place in Lake Naivasha, Nakuru ,Bogoria and Elementeita .All these lakes drain into Lake Magadi through underground rivers. Lake Magadi has no outlet.

Solubility of Trona decrease with increase in temperature.High temperature during the day causes trona to naturally crystallize .It is mechanically scooped/dredged/dug and put in a furnace.

Inside the furnace, trona decompose into soda ash/sodium carbonate.

Chemical equation

2NaHCO3 .Na2CO3 .H2O (s)     ->     3Na2CO3 (s)     +    5H2O(l) + CO2 (g)

(trona)                                               (soda  ash)

Soda ash is then bagged and sold as Magadi soda.It is mainly used:

(i)in making glass to lower the melting point of raw materials (sand/SiO2  from 1650oC and CaO from 2500oC  to around 1500oC)

(ii)in softening hard water

(iii)in the manufacture of soapless detergents.

(iv)Swimming pool “pH increaser”

Sodium chloride is also found dissolved in the lake. Solubility of sodium chloride decrease with decreases in temperature/ sodium chloride has lower solubility at lower temperatures. When temperatures decrease at night it crystallize out .The crystals are then mechanically dug/dredged /scooped  then packed for sale as animal/cattle feeds and seasoning food.

 

Summary flow diagram showing the extraction of Soda ash  from Trona

 

Sodium chloride and Trona dissolved in the sea
Natural fractional crystallization
Crystals of Trona (Day time)
Crystals of sodium chloride(At night)
Dredging /scooping/ digging
Crushing
Furnace (Heating)
                 Carbon(IV) oxide
Soda ash
Bagging

NaCl(s)

Bagging Na2CO3 (s)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

b)The Solvay process for industrial manufacture of sodium carbonate(IV)

(i)Raw materials.

Brine /Concentrated Sodium chloride from salty seas/lakes.

Ammonia gas from Haber.

Limestone /Calcium carbonate from chalk /limestone rich rocks.

Water from rivers/lakes.

 

(ii)Chemical processes

Ammonia gas is passed up to meet a downward flow of sodium chloride solution / brine to form ammoniated brine/ammoniacal brine mixture in the ammoniated brine chamber

The ammoniated brine mixture is then pumped up, atop the carbonator/ solvay tower.

In  the carbonator/ solvay tower, ammoniated brine/ammoniacal brine mixture slowly trickle down to meet an upward flow of carbon(IV)oxide gas.

The carbonator is shelved /packed with quartz/broken glass to

(i) reduce the rate of flow of ammoniated brine/ammoniacal brine mixture.

(ii)increase surface area of the liquid mixture to ensure a lot of ammoniated brine/ammoniacal brine mixture react with carbon(IV)oxide gas.

Insoluble sodium hydrogen carbonate and soluble ammonium chloride are formed from the reaction.

Chemical equation

CO2(g) + H2O(l) + NaCl (aq) + NH3(g) -> NaHCO3(s) + NH4Cl(aq)

 

The products are then filtered. Insoluble sodium hydrogen carbonate forms the residue while soluble ammonium chloride forms the filtrate.

 

Sodium hydrogen carbonate itself can be used:

(i)  as baking powder and preservation of some soft drinks.

(ii) as a buffer agent and antacid in animal feeds to improve fibre digestion.

(iii) making dry chemical fire extinguishers.

 

In the Solvay process Sodium hydrogen carbonate is then heated to form Sodium carbonate/soda ash, water and carbon (IV) oxide gas.

Chemical equation

2NaHCO3 (s)    ->  Na2CO3(s)  +  CO2(g)  +  H2O(l)

 

Sodium carbonate is stored ready for use in:

(i) during making glass/lowering the melting point of mixture of sand/SiO2     from 1650oC and CaO from 2500oC  to around 1500oC

(ii) in softening hard water

(iii) in the manufacture of soapless detergents.

(iv) swimming pool “pH increaser”.

Water and carbon(IV)oxide gas are recycled back to the ammoniated brine/ammoniacal brine chamber.

More carbon(IV)oxide is produced in the kiln/furnace. Limestone is heated to decompose into Calcium oxide and carbon(IV)oxide.

Chemical equation

CaCO3 (s)    ->   CaO(s)   +    CO2(g)

 

Carbon(IV)oxide is recycled to the carbonator/solvay tower. Carbon (IV)oxide is added water in the slaker to form Calcium hydroxide. This process is called slaking.

Chemical equation

CaO(s)   +    H2O (l)    ->    Ca(OH)2 (aq)

Calcium hydroxide is mixed with ammonium chloride from the carbonator/solvay tower in the ammonia regeneration chamber to form Calcium chloride , water and more ammonia gas.

Chemical equation

Ca(OH)2 (aq) +2NH4Cl (aq)    ->  CaCl2(s)  +  2NH3(g)  +  H2O(l)

 

NH3(g)  and H2O(l) are recycled.

Calcium chloride may be used:

(i)as drying agent in the school laboratory during gas preparation (except ammonia gas)

(ii)to lower the melting point of solid sodium chloride / rock salt salts during the Downs process for industrial extraction of sodium metal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Detailed Summary flow diagram of Solvay Process

 

 

 

 

 

 

Practice

 

  1. The diagram below shows part of the Solvay process used in manufacturing sodium carbonate. Use it to answer the questions that follow.
Carbon (IV)oxide

 

 

Ammonia
Process II
Sodium carbonate
Saturated sodium chloride solution
Sodium hydrogen  carbonate
Ammonium chloride
Process I

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

 

(a)Explain how Sodium Chloride required for this process is obtained from the sea.

Sea water is pumped /scooped into shallow pods. Evaporation of most of the water takes place leaving a very concentrated solution.

(b)(i) Name process:

  1. Filtration
  2. Decomposition

(ii) Write the equation for the reaction in process:

Process I

Chemical equation

CO2(g) + H2O(l) + NaCl (aq) + NH3(g) -> NaHCO3(s) + NH4Cl(aq)

 

Process II

Chemical equation

2NaHCO3 (s)    ->  Na2CO3(s)  +  CO2(g)  +  H2O(l)

 

(c)(i) Name two substances recycled in the solvay process

                    Ammonia gas , Carbon(IV)Oxide and Water.

 

(ii)Which is the by-product of this process?

                    Calcium(II)Chloride /CaCl2

 

(iii)State two uses that the by-product can be used for:

  1. As a drying agent in the school laboratory preparation of gases.
  2. In the Downs cell/process for extraction of Sodium to lower the melting point of rock salt.

 

 (iv)Write the chemical equation for the formation of the by-products in the Solvay process.

Chemical equation

Ca(OH)2 (aq) +2NH4Cl (aq)    ->  CaCl2(s)  +  2NH3(g)  +  H2O(l)

 

(d)In an experiment to determine the % purity of Sodium carbonate produced in the Solvay process ,2.15g of the sample reacted with exactly 40.0cm3 of 0.5M Sulphuric(VI)acid.

 

(i)Calculate the number of moles of sodium carbonate that reacted.

 

Chemical equation

Na2CO3 (aq) +H2SO4 (aq)    ->  Na2SO4 (aq)+  CO2(g)  +  H2O(l)

 

Mole ratio Na2CO3 :H2SO4  => 1:1

 

Moles H2SO4    =   Molarity  x  Volume   =>  0.5  x  40.0   = 0.02 Moles

1000                           1000

Moles of Na2CO3  = 0.02 Moles

 

(ii)Determine the % of sodium carbonate in the sample.

Molar mass of Na2CO3  = 106g

                    Mass of Na2CO3  = moles x Molar mass => 0.02   x   106    =  2.12 g

%  of Na2CO3           =            ( 2.12 g x 100)    =  98.6047%

2.15

(e) State two uses of soda ash.

(i) during making glass/lowering the melting point of mixture of sand/SiO2     from 1650oC and CaO from 2500oC  to around 1500oC

(ii) in softening hard water

(iii) in the manufacture of soapless detergents.

(iv) swimming pool “pH increaser”.

 

(f)The diagram below shows a simple ammonia soda tower used in manufacturing sodium carbonate .Use it to answer the questions that follow:

Substance A
Sodium hydrogen carbonate
Metal plates
Excess Carbon(IV)oxide
Raw materials
 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

(i)Name the raw materials needed in the above process

          -Ammonia

-Water

-Carbon(IV)oxide

-Limestone

-Brine/ Concentrated sodium chloride

 

(ii)Identify substance A

          Ammonium chloride /NH4Cl

(iii) Write the equation for the reaction taking place in:

I.Tower.

Chemical equation

CO2(g) + NaCl (aq) + H2O(l) + NH3(g) -> NaHCO3(s) + NH4Cl(aq)

 

  1. Production of excess carbon (IV)oxide.

Chemical equation

CaCO3 (s)    ->   CaO(s)   +    CO2(g)

 

III. The regeneration of ammonia

Chemical equation

Ca(OH)2 (aq) +2NH4Cl (aq)    ->  CaCl2(s)  +  2NH3(g)  +  H2O(l)

 

(iv)Give a reason for having the circular metal plates in the tower.

          -To slow the downward flow of brine.

-To increase the rate of dissolving of ammonia.

-To increase the surface area for dissolution

 

(v)Name the gases recycled in the process illustrated above.

          Ammonia gas , Carbon(IV)Oxide and Water.

 

  1. Describe how you would differentiate between carbon (IV)oxide and carbon(II)oxide using chemical method.

 

Method I

-Bubble both gases in lime water/Ca(OH)2

          -white precipitate is formed if the gas is carbon (IV) oxide

No white precipitate is formed if the gas is carbon (II) oxide

 Method II

          -ignite both gases

Carbon (IV) oxide does not burn/ignite

– Carbon (II) oxide burn with a blue non-sooty flame.

Method III

-Lower a burning splint into a gas containing each gas separately.

-burning splint is extinguished if the gas is carbon (IV) oxide

-burning splint is not extinguished if the gas is carbon (II) oxide.

3.Using Magnesium sulphate(VI)solution ,describe how you  can differentiate between a solution of sodium carbonate from a solution of sodium hydrogen carbonate

-Add Magnesium sulphate(VI) solution to separate portions of a solution of sodium carbonate and sodium hydrogen carbonate in separate test tubes

-White precipitate is formed in test tube containing sodium carbonate

-No white precipitate is formed in test tube containing sodium hydrogen carbonate.

Chemical equation 

Na2CO3 (aq) +MgSO4 (aq)    ->  Na2SO4 (aq)         +  MgCO3(s)

(white ppt)

Ionic equation 

CO32- (aq)    +        Mg2+ (aq)      ->              MgCO3(s)

(white ppt)

Chemical equation 

2NaHCO3 (aq) +MgSO4 (aq)    ->  Na2SO4 (aq)      +  Mg(HCO3)2 (aq)

(colourless solution)

 

  1. The diagram below shows a common charcoal burner .Assume the burning take place in a room with sufficient supply of air.

 

 

(a)Explain what happens around:

          (i)Layer A

Sufficient/excess air /oxygen enter through the air holes into the burner .It reacts with/oxidizes Carbon to carbon(IV)oxide

Chemical equation

          C(s)             +        O2(g)           ->       CO2 (g)

 

(ii)Layer B

Hot carbon(IV)oxide rises up and is reduced by more carbon/charcoal to carbon (II)oxide.

Chemical equation

          C(s)             +        CO2(g)         ->       2CO (g)

(ii)Layer C

 Hot carbon(II)oxide rises up and burns with a blue flame to be oxidized by the excess air to form carbon(IV)oxide.

2CO (g)       +        O2(g)                     ->       2CO2(g)

 

(b)State and explain what would happen if the burner is put in an enclosed room.

The hot poisonous /toxic carbon(II)oxide rising up will not be oxidized to Carbon(IV)oxide.

 

(c)Using a chemical test , describe how you would differentiate two unlabelled black solids suspected to be charcoal and copper(II)oxide.

 

Method I

-Burn/Ignite the two substances separately.

-Charcoal burns with a blue flame

– Copper(II)oxide does not burn

 

Method II

-Add dilute sulphuric(VI)acid/Nitric(V)acid/Hydrochloric acid separately.

-Charcoal does not dissolve.

– Copper(II)oxide dissolves to form a colourless solution.

  1. Excess Carbon(II)oxide was passed over heated copper(II)oxide as in the set up shown below for five minutes.

 

(a)State and explain the observations made in the combustion tube.

Observation

Colour change from black to brown

Explanation

Carbon (II)oxide reduces  black copper(II)oxide to brown copper metal itself oxidized to Carbon(IV)oxide.

Chemical equation

CO(g)                   + CuO (s)    ->         Cu(s)         +        CO2(g)

(black)                (brown)

 

(b) (i)Name the gas producing flame A

                    Carbon(II)oxide

 

(ii)Why should the gas be burnt?

                    It is toxic/poisonous

(iii)Write the chemical equation for the production of flame A

          2CO(g)                 +   O2(g)      ->       2CO2(g)

(c)State and explain what happens when carbon(IV)oxide is prepared using Barium carbonate and dilute sulphuric(VI)acid.

 

Reaction starts then stops after sometime producing small/little quantity of carbon(IV)oxide gas.

Barium carbonate react with dilute sulphuric(VI)acid to form insoluble Barium sulphate(VI) that cover/coat unreacted  Barium carbonate stopping further reaction to produce more Carbon(IV)oxide.

 

(d) Using dot () and cross(x) to represent electrons show the bonding in a molecule of :

          (i) Carbon(II)oxide

(ii) Carbon(IV)Oxide.

 

(e) Carbon (IV)oxide is an environmental pollutant of global concern. Explain.

          -It is a green house gas thus causes global warming.

-It dissolves in water to form acidic carbonic acid which causes “acid rain”

 

(f)Explain using chemical equation why lime water is used to test for the presence of Carbon (IV) oxide instead of sodium hydroxide.

 

Using lime water/calcium hydroxide:

– a visible white precipitate of calcium carbonate is formed that dissolves on  bubbling excess Carbon (IV) oxide gas

Chemical equation

Ca(OH)2(aq)    +    CO2 (g)     ->     CaCO3 (s)    +    H2O(l)

(white precipitate)

CaCO3 (aq)    +    H2O(l)  +    CO2 (g) ->     Ca(HCO3) 2 (aq)

Using sodium hydroxide:

No precipitate of sodium carbonate is formed Both sodium carbonate and sodium hydrogen carbonate are soluble salts/dissolves.

Chemical equation

2NaOH (aq)    +    CO2 (g)     ->     Na2CO3 (s)    +    H2O(l)

(No white precipitate)

Na2CO3 (s)    +    H2O(l)  +    CO2 (g)     ->     2NaHCO3 (s)

 

(g)Ethan-1,2-dioic acid and methanoic acid may be used to prepare small amount of carbon(II)oxide in a school laboratory.

(i) Explain the modification in the set up when using one over the other.

Before carbon(II)oxide is collected:

-when using methanoic acid, no concentrated sodium/potassium hydroxide is needed to absorb Carbon(IV)oxide.

-when using ethan-1,2-dioic acid, concentrated sodium/potassium hydroxide is needed to absorb Carbon(IV)oxide.

 

(ii)Write the equation for the reaction for the formation of carbon(II)oxide from:

I.Methanoic acid.

Chemical equation         HCOOH(aq)   ->  CO(g) + H2O(l)

 

  1. Ethan-1,2-dioic acid

Chemical equation         HOOCCOOH(aq) -> CO2(g)+CO(g)+H2O(l)

(h)Both carbon(II)oxide and carbon(IV)oxide affect the environment. Explain why carbon(II)oxide is more toxic/poisonous.

-Both gases are colourless,denser than water and odourless.

-Carbon(II)oxide is preferentially absorbed by human/mammalian haemoglobin when inhaled forming stable carboxyhaemoglobin instead of oxyhaemoglobin.This reduces the free haemoglobin in the blood leading to suffocation and quick death.Carbon(IV)oxide is a green house gas that increases global warming.

-Carbon(II)oxide is readily oxidized to carbon(IV)oxide

 

6.Study the flow chart below and use it to answer the questions that follow.

 

 

(a)Name:

          (i)the white precipitate A

                    Calcium carbonate

(ii) solution B

                    Calcium hydrogen carbonate

(iii) gas C

                    Carbon(IV)oxide

(iv) white residue B

                    Calcium oxide

          (v) solution D

                    Calcium hydroxide/lime water

 

(b)Write a balanced chemical equation for the reaction for the formation of:

          (i) the white precipitate A from solution D

Chemical equation

Ca(OH)2(aq)    +    CO2 (g)     ->     CaCO3 (s)    +    H2O(l)

 

(ii) the white precipitate A from solution B

Chemical equation

Ca(HCO3)2(aq)    ->     CO2 (g)     +    CaCO3 (s)    +    H2O(l)

 

(iii) solution B  from the white precipitate A

Chemical equation

CO2 (g)     +    CaCO3 (s)    +    H2O(l)   -> Ca(HCO3)2(aq)

 

(iv) white residue B from the white precipitate A

Chemical equation

CaCO3(s)    ->     CO2 (g)     +    CaO (s)

 

(iv) reaction of white residue B with water

Chemical equation

CaO (s)    +    H2O(l)   -> Ca(OH)2(aq)

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CRE END YEAR EXAMS FORM 2

NAME: ……………………………        Adm. No. ………………..….

STREAM:: ……………                 Candidate’s signature: …………….….……

U.P.I NO: ………………………       Date: ………..………………..

CRE

FORM 2 

END YEAR EXAMINATION

TIME: 2 ½ HOURS

 DUDI GIRLS SECONDARY SCHOOL

CRE

FORM 2 

END YEAR EXAMINATION

Instructions to candidates:

 

  • This paper consists of SIX
  • Answer any FIVE questions in the answer booklet provided.

 

FOR EXAMINER’S USE ONLY

 

 

QUESTIONS

 

MAX SCORE

 

CANDIDATE’S SCORE

1 20  
2 20  
3 20  
4 20  
5 20  
6 20  
TOTAL 100  

 

  1. (a) From the Genesis stories of creation, identify four teachings on the relationship between human

being and environment.                                                                                                                           (8marks)

(b)   Give six responsibilities that God gave to man from the Genesis accounts of creation.     (6marks)

(c)   State the causes of evil in the traditional African community.                                                   (6 marks)

  1. (a) Identify seven activities that took place on the night of Exodus.                                        (7 marks)

(b)   Write down the importance of the Ten Commandments to the Israelites.                          (5 marks)

(c)   State lessons Christians learn about God from the ten plagues.                                                (8 marks)

  1. (a) State reasons that contributed to the division between Judah and Israel.                     (7 marks)

(b)   Identify seven failures of King Ahab.                                                                                                       (7 marks)

(c)   Give reasons why political leaders in Kenya fail to perform their duties effectively.       (6marks)

  1. (a) Explain the differences between the traditional African Prophets and old testament prophets.                                                                                                    (8 marks)
  • State Amos teaching on Israel’s election.                                                      (6 marks)

(c)   Give six ways through which the church prepares her converts for membership.               (6marks)

  1. (a) Outline Zechariah’s message about John the Baptist in the Benedictus. (Luke 1: 76 – 79)                                                                                                                                                                                                                   (6marks)

(b)  State the similarities between the work of John the Baptist and that of Jesus Christ. (8marks)

(c)  With appropriate examples from the book of Luke, give six lessons Christians learn from the life of

John the Baptist.                                                                                                                                                   (6marks)

  1. (a) Describe the incident when Jesus healed a man possessed by a demon in a Synagogue at apernaum.

(Luke 4:31-37)                                                                                                                                               (7marks)

(b)  State seven qualities of a disciple of Jesus taught in the sermon on the plain.                   (7marks)

(c)   State six challenges facing Christianity today.                                                                                    (6marks)




END OF YEAR EXAMINATION 

FORM 2

MARKING SCHEME

 CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS EDUCATION MARKING SCHEME

  1. (a) Teaching on the relationship between human beings and the environment.

(i)        Both have a common origin. They are created by God

(ii)       Human beings are superior to all other creatures

(iii)      Human beings should take care of the environment

(iv)      Human beings have authority over the rest of creation

(v)       Human beings should enjoy Gods creation

(vi)      Human beings should treat the rest of creation with respect

(vii)     Human beings and the environment are interdependent

(viii)    Human beings and the rest of Gods creation have a common destiny

(ix)      Both were made to reveal Gods glory                                               4 x 2 = 8 marks

 

(b)       Give the responsibilities given to man by God from genesis from chapter 1 and 2

(i)        To procreate/have children

(ii)       To rule over the rest of creation

(iii)      To cultivate the garden of Aden

(iv)      To guard the garden of Aden

(v)       To eat the fruit of the garden

(vi)      To obey Gods commands

(vii)     To get married

(viii)    To name Gods creation                                                                      6 x 1 = 6 marks

(c)       Causes of evil in the traditional African communities

(i)        Evil spirits

(ii)       Malicious ancestral spirits

(iii)      Evil people like witches, sorcerers, wizards

(iv)      Breaking the taboos

(v)       Curses by parents and elders

(vi)      Breaking of oaths

(vii)     Bad omen                                                                                6 x 1 = 6 marks

 

  1. (a) Activities that took place on the night of the exodus

(i)        Animals were slaughtered

(ii)       Blood was put on the door post of the house

(iii)      The slaughtered animal was to be roasted

(iv)      Israelites ate unleavened bread /bitter herbs

(v)       They ate while fully dressed for the journey in hurry

(vi)      They stayed in door until morning

(vii)     They burnt all the leftovers of the meal

(viii)    The killing Egyptian firstborns by the angel of death

(ix)      The mourning by the Egyptians when they realized their firstborns were dead

(x)       The pharaoh allowing the Israelites to leave Egypt                          7 x 1 = 7 marks

 

(b)       Importance of the Ten Commandments to the Israelites

(i)        To help them relate well with God

(ii)       To help them relate well with one another

(iii)      To protect them from the polytheistic Canaanite religion/ influences

(iv)      The Ten Commandments formed the foundation of their lives and their nation

(v)       To make the Israelites live as Gods people and be a model to other people/to

help them live according to the covenant

(vi)      To create order in the community.                                                    5 x 1 = 5 marks

 

 

 

(c)       Lessons Christians can learn about God from the then plagues

(i)        God is powerful

(ii)       God uses people to pass his message

(iii)      God is just/God punishes those who go wrong

(iv)      God is all knowing

(v)       God is merciful he delivered the Israelites

(vi)      God is omnipresent

(vii)     God is faithful/god keeps his promises

(viii)    God demands obedience

(ix)      God saves

(x)       God is the lord of nature                                                                    8 x 1 = 8 marks

 

  1. (a) Reasons that contributed to the division of the kingdom

(i)        Solomon had married foreign wives who brought idols with them

(ii)       Solomon built high places of worship for idol god which displeased God

(iii)      Solomon overtaxed the Israelites

(iv)      He introduced force labour in Israel to accomplish the building of the place

and the temple

(v)       The availability of Jeroboam to be a spokesman of the people of Israel

(vi)      Rejection of Rehoboam of the advice of the old men

(vii)     Rehoboam accepted the advice of the young to rule harshly

(viii)    The readiness of jeroboam to rule the people of the North               7 x 1 = 7 marks

 

(b)       Failures of King Ahab

(i)        He allowed the idol worship Israel

(ii)       He allowed his wife Jezebel to bear false witness against Naboth

(iii)      He coveted Naboths vineyard

(iv)      He killed Naboth

(v)       He failed to protect the weak/poor as demanded by the law

(vi)      He took Naboths vineyard unlawfully

(vii)     He worshipped idols

(viii)    He stole Naboths vineyard stealing

(ix)      He used the name of God in vain when he said that Naboth had

blasphemed God                                                                                 7 x 1 = 7 marks

 

(c)       Reasons why political leaders fail to perform their duties effectively

(i)        Lack of leadership skills

(ii)       Divisions/conflicts within/between parties

(iii)      Women leaders are discriminated

(iv)      Inability to live to the expectation of the electorate

(v)       Inadequate funds to initiate development projects to help their electorate

(vi)      Cultural/religious tribal/ethnic/racial corruption

(vii)     Conflict/division of ideologies

(viii)    Insecurity /threats/harassment

(ix)      Ridicule from member of society

(x)       Lack o adequate forum to meet with the electorate                          6 x 1 = 6 marks

 

2

  1. (a) Difference between testament prophets and traditional African prophets

(i)        The Old Testament prophets stressed the worship of one God/Monotheism

while in traditional African Communities prophets recognized many, gods,

and goddesses

(ii)       The Old Testament prophets faced opposition from their people while traditional African prophets were respected in their communities

(iii)      The Old Testament received their power, guidance, directly from God, while the

African traditional prophets got their power from God through spirit

(iv)      The Old Testament prophets prophesied to other communities and nations but traditional African prophets were configured to their ethnic communities

(v)       The work of Old Testament prophets were recorded and reserved while in

traditional African it was handed through oral tradition                  4 x 2 = 8 marks

 

(b)       Amos teaching on Israel election

(i)        Israelites were chosen by God

(ii)       Israelites was chosen /elected from many other nations

(iii)      By being elected it put at a point of responsibility

(iv)      Israel was to obey God/be faithful

(v)       Failure to be faithful would lead to punishment

(vi)      Israel election was due to the love for their fore father

(vii)     God would choose many other nations

(viii)    Israel election was not supposed to be used to manipulate God but serve him

6 x 1 = 6 marks

(c)       Ways through which the church prepares converts for full membership

(i)        The converts were taught the bible, the history of the church and its doctrines

(ii)       The converts are counselled on the Christian values and principles

(iii)      They are taught their responsibilities in the church

(iv)      They are taught catechism to prepare them for baptism and confirmation

(v)       They go through the sacrament of baptism and confirmation

(vi)      They are instructed on how to study the bible

(vii)     They are introduced to the members of the church /congregation

(viii)    In some churches, they are given a chance to affirm their faith practically

through public confession

(ix)      The leaders of the church and other members pay the pastoral visit

(x)       They are given uniform and badges

(xi)      They undergo ordination ceremonies

(xii)     Married couples are encouraged to solemnize their marriage          6 x 1 = 6 marks

 

  1. (a) Zechariah’s message about John the Baptist in the Benedictus. (Luke 1: 76 – 79)
  • John will be the Prophet of the Most High.
  • He will be the forerunner of the Messiah / He will prepare the way of the Messiah.
  • He will give knowledge of salvation to the people of God.
  • John will give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death.
  • He will direct God’s people to tender mercy of God which they will receive forgiveness of sins. (any 3×2 = 6mks)

(b)

  • Both preached the message of salvation / They preached the Good News.
  • Both preached about social justice / They condemned social injustices.
  • They advised people to repent their sins in order to attain salvation.
  • Both condemned hypocrisy in the Jewish society.
  • Both predicted what would happen in the future / They foretold the future / Both were prophets.
  • John and Jesus encountered opposition from the Jewish leaders.
  • Both died for what they stood for.
  • Both fulfilled what was prophesized in the Old Testament / Their ministry had been prophesied in the Old Testament. (any 4×2 = 8mks)

(c)

  • Christians should be courageous in their work, John did not fear to condemn Herod.
  • They should be honest like John who revealed the hypocrisy in the lives of Israel.
  • They should be ready to suffer just as John was jailed for the sake of the Gospel.
  • Christians should have faith. John had a strong conviction that the Messiah would be coming very soon.
  • John obeyed God by proclaiming His message. Christians should also obey God.
  • Christians should be ready to lead a life of self-denial. John lived in the wilderness.
  • Christians should be ready to serve God. John served God by baptizing people and preaching the gospel.
  • John was humble as he acknowledged the greatness of Jesus. Christians should be humble.                                                                       (any 6 x 1 = 6mks)
  1. (a)
  • Jesus went to Capernaum after the rejection at Nazareth.
  • He taught people in a synagogue.
  • People were astonished at his teaching because he taught with authority.
  • There was a man in the synagogue who had a demon.
  • The man cried out to Jesus with a loud voice. Ah! What have you to do with us Jesus of Nazareth?
  • Jesus rebuked the demon and commanded it to be silent.
  • The demon threw the man down and left without hurting him.
  • People were amazed.
  • Reports about Jesus spread. (any 7×1 = 7mks)

(b)

  • He should love his enemies.
  • Should pray for those who mistreat them.
  • A true disciple should give without expecting to be paid back.
  • A disciple should be merciful as God is merciful.
  • He / she should not judge / condemn others.
  • He should forgive others so as to be forgiven also.
  • A disciple should obey God / should set a good example.
  • A disciple should not revenge / not strike back when offended.(any 7×1=7mks)

(c)

  • Advancement in science has challenged the basic beliefs of Christianity.
  • There are false doctrines which are opposed to Christianity / cults that spread false teachings.
  • Negative influence by the mass media / competition from modern entertainment.
  • Competition from other faiths such as Islam, Hinduism and Budhism.
  • Different interpretation of the Bible on issues such as homosexuality, same sex marriage and lesbianism.
  • Secularization of the society prevents Christians from practicing their faith freely.
  • Failure by some Christians to measure up to the teachings of the church / Hypocrisy is rife in Christianity.
  • Schism in the church especially between the third world and developed countries.
  • The influence of prosperity gospel / materialism in the church.
  • The diminishing numbers of people who attend the church / Reduction of church membership especially in western world.
  • Lack of adequate training / mentorship of church leaders. (any 6×1 = 6mks)

KCSE Mokasa Chemistry Paper 1 Joint Exams and Marking Schemes Free Access

Name: …………………………………………………………………………Class: …………  Adm.No……………..

School: ………………………………………………………………………..Date: ………………Sign: ………………

233/1

CHEMISTRY

Paper 1

Time: 2 hours

 

M O K A S A 2   J O I N T   E X A M I N A T I O N –

Kenya Certificate to Secondary Education

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATES

  • Write your name, admission number, date and school in the spaces provided.
  • Answer all the questions in the spaces provided.
  • All working must be clearly shown where necessary.
  • Scientific calculators may be used.

 

FOR EXAMINERS’ USE ONLY

 

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
                   
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
                   
21 22 23 GRAND TOTAL    %  
           

 

 

 

This paper consists of 17 printed pages.  Candidates are advised to check and to make sure all pages are as indicated and no question is missing. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. a) Define the term isomerism. (1mark)

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. b) Draw and name two isomers of C4H10 (2 marks)

 

 

 

 

 

  1. The figure below shows the behavior of emission from a radioactive isotope M. Use it to answer the questions that follow.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Explain why isotope M emits radiations (1 mark)

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

  1. Name the radiations labeled P and J (1 mark)

P…………………………………………..

J…………………………………………..

  1. Explain why radiation A is not deflected (1 mark)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. 68gof aluminiumsulphate were dissolved in 600cm3 of water, calculate the concentration of the sulphate ions in the solution. (Al=27,S=32,O=16) (3 marks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. a) Using an equation explain the observation made when concentrated nitric (V) acid is added into a beaker containing copper turnings. (2 marks)

 

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

  1. b) What property of nitric acid is shown in the equation above? (1 mark)

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

  1. An element Z is atomic number 13, Z reacts with both oxygen and chlorine. Explain why the oxide of Z has a melting point of 10200C while the chloride of Z sublimes at 124oC (2marks)

 

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

 

 

  1. Study the flow chart below and answer the questions that follows.
Ammonia gas
Drying agent
Heated black solid
Copper metal
X
Nitrogen

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Name a suitable drying agent used in the process above (1mark)

……………………………………………………………………………………………………….

  1. Describe one chemical test for ammonia gas (1mark)

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

  • Name substance X (1mark)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. Lead (II) nitrate solution forms a white precipitate when reacted with sodium hydroxide. The precipitate dissolves in excess sodium hydroxide to form a colourless solution.

 

  1. Identify;
  2. The white precipitate …………………………………………… (1mark)
  3. Colourless solution ……………………………………………… (1mark)
  4. Write an ionic equation for the formation of the colourless solution (1mark)

 

 

 

 

 

  1. The set up below shows the investigation of the effect of a certain gas on heated iron powder. Use the diagram to answer the questions that follow.
Conc H2SO4
NaCl(s)
Conc H2SO4
Combustion tube
Iron
Water
Heat
B

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. State the observation made in the combustion tube. (1mark)

………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. State and explain the difference in the observation made if chlorine gas was used instead of the gas produced in the set up above. (2marks)

 

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. Identify the amendment that would be made in the set up above when chlorine gas is to be used. (1 mark)

 

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. Describe one chemical test that can be used in a school laboratory to distinguish between ethanol and ethanoic acid. (2mark)

 

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

K
L
M
  • The diagram below shows a piece of heating apparatus. Study it and answer the questions that follow.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Name the parts labeled L and M (2marks)

L………………………………………………………………………….

M…………………………………………………………………………

  1. State the function of the parts labeled K (1mark)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. Hydrazine gas N2H4 burns in oxygen to form nitrogen gas and steam.
  2. Write a balanced chemical equation when hydrazine burns in oxygen (1mark)

 

 

  1. Use the bond energies given below to calculate enthalpy change for the reaction in (a) above.             (3marks)

 

Bond Bond energy (kJmol-1)
N         N
N         N
N         H
H         H
O         O
944
  163
  388
  496
  463

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. A form four students accidentally mixed the following: iron filling, sodium chloride, aluminium chloride and copper (II) oxide. Describe how the student can obtain a pure sample of sodium chloride crystal.       (3marks)

 

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

  1. Explain how a student can prepare a crystal of silver nitrate in the school laboratory starting with silver metal.       (3marks)

 

A 2+(aq) +     2e–                                      A(s)                      -2.72
B 2+(aq) +      2e–                                      B(s)                      -1.78
C + (aq) +       e–                                         C2 (g)                  0.00
D 2+(aq) +      2e–                                      D(s)                      +0.34
F2 (g) +          2e–                                      F (aq)                +2.44
EθVolts

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. Use the standard electrode potential below to answer the questions that follow. The letters do not represent the actual symbol of the elements.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Identify element C (1mark)

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. Draw a well labeled diagram for the electrochemical cell formed when the half cells of A and B are combined.      (3marks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Carbon (II) oxide was passed over heated lead (II) oxide in a combustion tube as shown in thediagram below.
Lead (II) oxide
Dry

Carbon (II) oxide

Heat
Tube A
Calcium hydroxide

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. State the observation made in tube A (1mark)

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. Write a well-balanced chemical equation for the reaction that took place in the combustion tube.                             (1mark)

 

  1. Graphite is one of the allotropes of carbon:
  2. Name one other element that exhibits allotropy (1mark)

………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. Give a reason why graphite is an ideal lubricant than ordinary oil (1mark)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

  1. a) State the Grahams’ law of diffusion (1mark)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

  1. b) In an experiment 60cm3 of a gas Q diffuse through a porous plate in 10 seconds. Another gas P diffuse through the same plate in 30 seconds. Given that the density of gas Q is 25g/cm3, calculate the density of gas P. (3marks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. An element Q reacts with excess oxygen to form a yellow solid.
  2. Write a balanced chemical equation for the reaction between Q and water. (1mark)

 

 

  1. State one observation made when Q reacts with water (1mark)

………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. Study the graph below and answer the questions that follow. The letters do not represent the actual symbols of the elements.
100
200
300
400
500
600
P
Q
R
3
11
19
Atomic number
 
Ionization

energy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. What is meant by the term ionization energy? (1mark)

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. What is the general name given to the group in which elements P,Q and R belong to (1mark)

………………………………………………………………………………………………….

 

  1. Explain why R has the lowest ionization energy (1mark)

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

  1. Hydrogen chloride gas was bubbled into three boiling tubes A, B and C containing methylbenzene, distilled water and excess sodium hydroxide solution respectively. A piece of magnesium ribbon was then added into each boiling tube. State and explain the observations made in boiling tubes A and B. (3marks)

 

 

Boiling

tube

 

                Observation

 

                       Explanation

A    
B    
  1. An element C reacts moderately with an acid to produce hydrogen gas. It also reacts with

steam to form a black solid and hydrogen gas.

 

  1. State the name of the name of the product formed when C is exposed to moist air (1mark)

………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. Write the equation for the reaction between C and steam.        (1mark)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. The figure below represents extraction of sulphur by frasch process.
Z
X
Y
Ground level

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Identify the substance carried through pipe X (1mark)

…………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. State two properties of molten sulphur that make it possible for sulphur to be extracted by the method shown above. (2 mark)

 

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

  • Explain why sulphur is not extracted by open cast mining method. (1mark)

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

 

Metallic cup
Ag(s)
Ag+ (aq)
  • The set up below was used by Anthony a form four student who wanted to electroplate his metallic cup with silver. He passed a current of 2A for 2 hours.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. If the initial mass of the cup was 98g, determine the mass of the cup after the 2hours (1F=96,500C Ag=108) (3marks)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • State one importance of electroplating (1mark)

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

 

 

 

  1. Study the diagram below and answer the questions that follow.
Dry Chlorine gas
Dry flower petals
Fresh flower petals
Chlorine gas
A
B

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. State and explain the observations made in gas jar A and B (3marks)
Gas

jar

Observation Explanation
A    
B    

 

  1. Write the chemical equation that occurs in gas jar B (1mark)

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Study the flow chart below and answer the questions that follows.
Ore
Oxide X
Metal X +Hydrogen gas
Salt solution
Colourless solution
CO2
Heat
HCl (aq)
Excess NH3 (aq)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Name the chief ore from which metal X is extracted             (1mark)

………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. Name the main cation in the colourless solution (1mark)

………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. Write the chemical equation for the reaction between the oxide of X and carbon (II) oxide when heated.             (1mark)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Time (sec)
A
B
  • In an experiment magnesium ribbon was reacted with dilute hydrochloric acid and the volume of hydrogen gas produced with time recorded. The graph below shows the volume of hydrogen gas produced against time.

 

 

 

Volume of hydrogen m3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Explain the following observations:

  1. The curve is steep at the beginning (2mark)

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

  1. The curve flattens at region AB    (1mark)

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

  • On the same axis plot the curve that would be obtained if the acid used was ethanoic acid in place of hydrochloric acid    (1mark)

Latest Physics Form one to four notes, exams, schemes of work lesson plans, revision materials free

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Chemistry Form 3 Best Notes Free

 .3UNIT 2: NITROGEN AND ITS COMPOUNDS.

Unit checklist.

  1. Introduction
  2. Preparation of nitrogen
  • Isolation from air
  • Isolation from liquid air
  • Laboratory preparation
  • Preparation from ammonia
  • Properties of nitrogen
  • Oxides of nitrogen
    • Nitrogen (I) oxide
    • Nitrogen (II) oxide
    • Nitrogen (IV) oxide
  1. Action of heat on nitrates.
  2. Ammonia gas
  • Preparation
  • Laboratory preparation
  • Preparation from caustic soda
  • Test for ammonia
  • Fountain experiment
  • Properties and reactions of ammonia
  • Large scale manufacture of ammonia gas: the Haber process
  • Uses of ammonia
  1. Nitric (V) acid
  • Laboratory preparation
  • Industrial manufacture of nitric (V) acid: The Otswald’s process.
  • Reactions of dilute nitric acid
  • Reactions of concentrated nitric acid
  • Uses of nitric acid
  1. Test for nitrates.
  2. Pollution effects of nitrogen and its compounds
  3. Reducing pollution environmental pollution by nitrogen compounds.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Introduction:

– About 78% of air is nitrogen, existing as N2 molecules.

– The two atoms in the molecules are firmly held together.

– Nitrogen does not take part in many chemical reactions due to its low reactivity.

– Its presence in air dilutes oxygen and slows down respiration, burning and rusting.

 

Preparation of nitrogen.

(a). Isolation from air.

(i). Apparatus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure.

– Air is driven out of the aspirator by passing water into the aspirator from a tap.

– The air is the passed through a wash bottle containing concentrated potassium hydroxide solution.

Reason:

– To remove carbon (IV) oxide from air.

 

Equations:

2KOH(aq) + CO2(g)                   K2CO3(aq) + H2O(l)

 

Then

K2CO3(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)                     2KHCO3(aq)

 

Thus;

KOH(aq) + CO2(g)                     KHCO3(aq)

 

– The carbon (IV) oxide-free air is then passed into a combustion tube with heated copper metal.

Reason:

– To remove oxygen from the air.

 

Note:

In this reaction the brown copper metal is oxidized to black copper (II) oxide.

 

Equation:

2Cu(s) + O2(g)                  2CuO(s)

Brown                                                Black

 

Note:

– Alternatively oxygen can be removed by passing the carbon (IV) oxide-free air through pyrogallic acid.

– The remaining part of air is mainly nitrogen and is collected over water.

 

Note:

– Nitrogen obtained by this method contains noble gases like xenon, argon etc as impurities.

– Purer nitrogen may be obtained by heating ammonium nitrite.

 

Equation:

NH4NO3(s)       Heat       N2(g) + 2H2O(g)

 

Summary.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(b). Removal from liquid air.

– Liquid air is primarily a mixture of nitrogen and oxygen with small amounts of noble gases.

– This method involves manufacture of liquid air and consequent fractional distillation.

 

The chemical process.

Step 1: removal of dust particles.

– Dust particles are first removed by either of the two processes:

  • Electrostatic precipitation

(i). Electrostatic precipitation:

– Air is passed through oppositely charged plates hence an electric field.

– Dust particles (charged) are consequently attracted to plates of opposite charges.

 

Diagram: electrostatic precipitation:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Filtration:

– The air is passed through a series of filters which traps dust particles as the air is forced through.

 

Step 2: removal of carbon (IV) oxide.

– The dust-free air is passed through a solution of potassium hydroxide; to remove carbon (IV) oxide.

 

Equations:

2KOH(aq) + CO2(g)                        K2CO3(aq) + H2O(l)

 

Then:

K2CO3(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)                 2KHCO3(aq)

(Excess)

– Alternatively, sodium hydroxide may be used in place of potassium hydroxide.

 

Step 3: Removal of water vapour.

– The dustless, carbon (IV) oxide-free air is next passed into a chamber with concentrated sulphuric acid or anhydrous calcium chloride in which water vapour is separated and removed.

 

Note:

To remove water vapour, air may be alternatively passed into a freezing chamber where it is condensed at -25oC.

– The water vapour solidifies and is then absorbed by silica gel and separated out.

– Air is freed from carbon (IV) oxide, water vapour and dust particles (before compression) so as to prevent blockage of the pipes caused by  solid materials at liquefaction temperatures i.e. carbon (IV) oxide and water vapour form solids which may block the collection pipes.

 

Step 4: Liquification of air.

– The air free from dust, carbon (IV) oxide and water vapour is then compressed at about 200 atmospheres, cooled and allowed to expand through fine jet.

– This sudden expansion causes further cooling and the gases eventually liquefy.

– The liquid is tapped off through a valve while gas which has escaped liquefaction returns to the compressor.

– Liquid air is a transparent pale blue liquid.

– This liquid is then fractionally distilled.

 

Step 5: Fractional distillation of liquid air.

– The boiling point of nitrogen is -196oC (77K) and that of oxygen is -183oC (90K).

– Consequently when liquid air is allowed to warm up, the nitrogen boils off first and the remaining liquid becomes richer in oxygen.

– The top of the fractionating column is a few degrees cooler than the bottom.

– Oxygen, the liquid with the higher boiling point (-183oC) collects at the bottom as the liquid.

– The gas at the top of the column is nitrogen which ahs a lower boiling point.

– The more easily vapourised nitrogen is taken off.

– This way about 99.57% nitrogen is obtained.

 

Note:

– The separation of nitrogen and oxygen from air is a proof that air is a mixture and not a compound.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Summary: Fractional distillation of liquid air.

AIR

 

 

 

 

Step 1: Elimination of dust by Filtration

and electrostatic precipitation

 

 

 

 

Step 2: CO2 removal, pass dust free air

through KOH or NaOH

 

 

 

 

 

Step 3: Removal of water vapour; through

condensation -25oC) or conc. H2SO4

 

 

 

 

 

Recycling                        Step 4: Compression at approximately 200

atmospheres; cooling and expansion of air

 

 

 

 

 

Step 5: Fractional distillation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(c). Laboratory preparation method.

(i). Apparatus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure:

– Concentrated solutions of sodium nitrite and ammonium chloride are heated together in a round bottomed flask.

 

(iii). Observations.

– Colourless gas (nitrogen) is evolved rapidly and is collected over water.

 

(iv). Equation.

NaNO2(aq) + NH4Cl(aq)            heat       NaCl(aq) + N2(g) + 2H2O(l).

 

Note: the resultant gas is less dense than that isolated from air.

Reason:

– It does not contain impurities.

 

(d). Preparation from ammonia.

(i). Apparatus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure:

– Dry ammonia gas is passed over a heated metal oxide e.g. copper metal.

– The metal oxide is reduced to the metal while ammonia gas is itself oxidized to nitrogen and water.

– Water is condensed and collected in a u-tube immersed in ice cubes.

– Nitrogen produced is collected over water.

 

(iii). Observations and explanations.

  • Copper (II) oxide:

3CuO(s) + 2NH3(g)                           3Cu(s) + N2(g) + 3H2O(l)

(Black)                                                                            (Brown)    (Colourless)

 

  • Zinc (II) oxide

3ZnO(s) + 2NH3(g)                           3Zn(s) + N2(g) + 3H2O(l)

(Yellow-hot)                                                                  (Grey)    (Colourless)

(White-cold)

 

  • Lead (II) oxide

3PbO(s) + 2NH3(g)                           3Cu(s) + N2(g) + 3H2O(l)

(Red-hot)                                                                      (Grey)    (Colourless)

(Yellow-cold)

 

 

 

Properties of nitrogen.

(a). Physical properties.

  1. It is a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas; almost completely insoluble in water.
  2. Slightly lighter than air.

 

(b). Chemical properties.

  1. It is inert (unreactive)

Reason:

– The inert nature of nitrogen is due to the strong covalent bonds between the two nitrogen atoms in the molecule; N2.

 

Structurally;

 

 

 

 

 

 

– In air, it neither burns nor supports combustion and acts mainly as a diluent for the oxygen; slowing down the rate of burning.

 

Chemical test for nitrogen.

– A gas is proved to be nitrogen by elimination: –

  • It extinguishes a lighted splint and dos not burn; hence it is not oxygen, hydrogen or carbon (II) oxide.
  • It has neither smell nor colour; and therefore is not chlorine, ammonia, sulphur (IV) oxide or hydrogen chloride.
  • It does not form a white precipitate in lime water, and so it is not carbon (IV) oxide.
  • It is neutral to litmus and therefore cannot be carbon (IV) oxide, hydrogen sulphide, ammonia, hydrogen chloride

 

  1. Reaction with hydrogen.

– Under special conditions (i.e. high pressure, low temperatures and presence of iron catalyst), nitrogen combines with hydrogen to produce ammonia.

Equation:

N2(g) + 3H2(g)                2NH3(g)

 

– This reaction forms the basis of Haber process used in the manufacture of ammonia.

 

  1. Reaction with burning magnesium.

(i). Apparatus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure:

– A piece of burning magnesium ribbon is introduced into a gas jar full of nitrogen.

 

(iii). Observations:

– The magnesium ribbon continues to burn and a white solid; magnesium nitride is formed.

 

Equation:

3Mg(s) + N2(g)     Heat     Mg3N2(s)

 

Note:

– When magnesium nitride is treated with water or a solution of sodium hydroxide; the characteristic pungent smell of ammonia can be detected.

 

Equations:

In water

Mg3N2(s) + 6H2O(l)                   2NH3(g) + 3Mg(OH)2(aq)

 

In sodium hydroxide:

Mg3N2(s) + NaOH(aq)     

 

  1. Reaction with oxygen.

– When nitrogen and oxygen in air are passed through an electric arc small quantities of nitrogen (II) oxide are formed.

Equation:

N2(g) + O2(g)                      2NO(g)

 

Note:

– Nitrogen reacts with oxygen under various conditions to give different types of nitrogen oxides.

 

Uses of nitrogen

  1. Used in the Haber process in the manufacture of ammonia.
  2. Due to its inert nature, it is mixed with argon to fill electric bulbs (to avoid soot formation).
  3. In liquid state it is used as an inert refrigerant e.g. storage of semen for artificial insemination.
  4. Due to its inert nature, it is used in food preservation particularly for canned products i.e. it prevents combination of oxygen and oil which tends to enhance rusting.
  5. It is used in oil field operation called enhanced oil recovery where it helps to force oil from subterranean deposits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oxides of nitrogen.

– The three main oxides of nitrogen are:

  • Nitrogen (I) oxide, N2O
  • Nitrogen (II) oxide, NO
  • Nitrogen (IV) oxide, NO2

 

  1. Nitrogen (I) oxide.

Preparation of nitrogen (I) oxide, N2O

(i). Apparatus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure:

– Ammonium nitrate is gently heated in a boiling tube and gas produced collected over warm water.

– Heating is stopped while excess ammonium nitrate still remains.

Reason:

– To avoid chances of an explosion.

 

(iii). Observations:

– The solid (ammonium nitrate) melts and gives off nitrogen (I) oxide which is collected over warm water.

Reasons:

– Nitrogen (I) oxide is slightly soluble in cold water.

 

(iv). Equation:

NH4NO3(s)       Heat       NO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

 

Properties:

  1. It is a colourless gas, denser than air, fairly soluble in cold water and neutral to litmus.
  2. It supports combustion by oxidizing elements like sulphur, magnesium and phosphorus under strong heat.

Equations:

N2O(g) + Mg(s)    Heat     MgO(s) + N2(g)

 

2N2O(g) + S(s)     Heat     SO2(g) + 2N2(g)

 

2N2O(g) + C(s)     Heat     CO2(g) + 2N2(g)

 

5N2O(g) + 2P(s)   Heat     P2O5(g) + 5N2(g)

 

  1. Magnesium decomposes the gas and continues to burn in it.

Equation:

N2O(g) + Mg(s)    Heat     MgO(s) + N2(g)

 

  1. When exposed over red-hot finely divided copper it is reduced to nitrogen.

Equation:

N2O(g) + Cu(s)     Heat     CuO(s) + N2(g)

 

  1. Chemical test.
  • It relights a glowing splint.

Note:

  • It can be distinguished from oxygen by the following tests:
  • It has a sweet sickly smell; oxygen is odourless.
  • It will not give brown fumes (NO2) with nitrogen (II) oxide; oxygen does.
  • It is fairly soluble in cold water; oxygen is insoluble.
  • It extinguishes feebly burning sulphur; oxygen does not.

 

Uses of nitrogen (I) oxide.

– It was formerly used in hospitals as an aesthetic for dental surgery but has since been discontinued due to availability of more efficient anaesthetics.

 

Note:

– Nitrogen (I) oxide is also called laughing gas; because patients regaining consciousness from its effects may laugh hysterically.

 

  1. Nitrogen (II) oxide, NO.

Preparation:

(i). Apparatus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure:

– Action of heat on 50% concentrated nitric acid on copper turnings.

– Not any heat is required.

 

Equation:

3Cu(s) + 8HNO3(aq)                              3Cu(NO3)2(aq) + 4H2O(l) + 2NO(g)

 

(iii). Observations:

– An effervescence occurs in the flask; with brown fumes because the nitrogen (II) oxide produced reacts with oxygen of the air in the flask to form a brown gas, nitrogen (IV) oxide.

 

Equation:

2NO(g) + O2(g)              2NO2(g)

Colourless    Colourless                   Brown

 

– The brown fumes eventually disappear and the gas collected over water.

– The NO2 fumes dissolve in the water in the trough, resulting into an acidic solution of nitrous acid.

– The residue in the flask is a green solution of copper (II) nitrate.

– Industrially, the gas is obtained when ammonia reacts with oxygen in the presence of platinum catalyst.

– This is the first stage in the production of nitric acid.

 

(v). Properties.

  1. It is a colourless, insoluble and neutral to litmus. It is also slightly denser than air.
  2. Readily combines with oxygen in air and forms brown fumes of nitrogen (IV) oxide.
  3. Does not support combustion except in the case of strongly burning magnesium and phosphorus; which continues to burn in it, thereby reducing it i.e. it is an oxidizing agent.

 

Example:

2Mg(s) + 2NO(g)                       2MgO(s) + N2(g)

 

4P(s) + 10NO(g)             2P2O5(s) + 5N2(g)

 

  1. When passed over red-hot finely divided copper, it is reduced to nitrogen gas.

 

Equation:

2Cu(s) + 2NO(g)                        2CuO(s) + N2(g)

 

  1. Reaction with iron (II) sulphate.

– When iron (II) sulphate solution (freshly prepared) is poured into a gas jar of nitrogen (II) oxide, a dark brown colouration of Nitroso-iron (II) sulphate is obtained.

 

Equation:

FeSO4(aq) + NO(g)                                 FeSO4.NO(aq)

Green solution                                                                         Dark brown

                                                                                                    (Nitroso-iron (II) sulphate/ nitrogen (II) oxide iron (II) sulphate complex)

 

  1. It is also a reducing agent.

 

Equation:

Cl2(g) + 2NO(g)                       2ClNO(l)

Chloro nitrogen (II) oxide.

 

  1. Reaction with hydrogen.

– When electrically sparked with hydrogen, NO is reduced to nitrogen.

 

Equation:

2H2(g) + 2NO(g)          2H2O(l) + N2(g)

 

Chemical test:

– When exposed to air, nitrogen (II) oxide forms brown fumes of nitrogen (IV) oxide.

 

Uses of Nitrogen (II) oxide.

Note: –It is not easy to handle owing to its ease of oxidation.

  1. It is an intermediate material in the manufacture of nitric acid

 

  1. Nitrogen (IV) oxide.

Preparation:

(i). Apparatus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure:

– Action of conc. Nitric acid on copper metal.

 

Equation:

Cu(s) + 4HNO3(l)                              Cu(NO3)2(aq) + 2NO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

 

Note:

– NO2 is also prepared by the action of heat on nitrates of heavy metals like lead nitrate.

– NO2 is given off together with oxygen when nitrates of heavy metals are heated.

– It is best prepared by heating lead (II) nitrate in a hard glass test tube.

  • Lead (II) nitrate is the most suitable because it crystallizes without water of crystallization (like other nitrates) which would interfere with preparation of nitrogen (IV) oxide that is soluble in water.

– The gas evolved passes into a U-tube immersed in an ice-salt mixture.

 

  • Apparatus:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Equation:

2Pb(NO3)2(s)                         2PbO(s) + 4NO2(g) + O2(g)

  • Observations:

– The heated white lead (II) nitrate crystals decompose and decrepitates (cracking sound) to yield red lead (II) oxide; which turns yellow on cooling.

– A colourless gas, oxygen is liberated, followed immediately by brown fumes of nitrogen (IV) oxide.

– Nitrogen (IV) oxide is condensed as a yellow liquid; dinitrogen tetroxide (N2O4); and is collected in the U-tube.

 

Note:

– At room temperature, nitrogen (IV) oxide consists of nitrogen (IV) oxide and dinitrogen tetroxide in equilibrium with each other.

 

Equation:
2NO2(g)                                    N2O4(g)

(Nitrogen (IV) oxide)                                       (Dinitrogen tetroxide)

 

– The oxygen being liberated does not condense because it ahs a low boiling point of -183oC.

 

Properties of nitrogen (IV) oxide.

  1. Red-brown gas with a pungent chocking smell
  2. It is extremely poisonous.
  3. It is acidic, hence turns moist litmus paper red.
  4. When reacted with water, the brown fumes dissolve showing that it is readily soluble in water.

 

Equation:

2NO2(g) + H2O(l)                           HNO3(aq) + HNO2(aq)

(Nitric (V) acid)     (Nitrous (III) acid)When liquid nitrogen

 

– Like carbonic (IV) acid, nitrous (III) acid could not be isolated. It is easily oxidized to nitric (V) acid.

 

Equation:

2NHO2(aq) + O2(g)                         2NHO3(aq)

(Nitric (III) acid)                                                (Nitrous (V) acid)

 

  1. Reaction with magnesium.

– Nitrogen (IV) oxide does not support combustion.

– However burning magnesium continues to burn in it.

Reason:

– The high heat of combustion of burning magnesium decomposes the nitrogen (IV) oxide to nitrogen and oxygen; the oxygen then supports the burning of the magnesium.

 

Equation:

4MgO(s) + 2NO2(g)                               4MgO(s) + 2N2(g)

 

Note:

– Generally nitrogen (IV) oxide oxidizes hot metals and non-metals to oxides and itself reduced to nitrogen gas.

Examples:

(i). Copper:

4Cu(s) + 2NO2(g)                                   4CuO(s) + N2(g)

 

(ii). Phosphorus:

8P(s) + 10NO2(g)                           4P2O5(s) + 5N2(g)

(iii). Sulphur:

2S(s) + 2NO2(g)                        2SO2(g) + N2(g)

 

Note:

– NO2 reacts with burning substances because the heat decomposes it to NO2 and O2.

 

Equation:

2NO2(g)      Heat        2NO(g) + O2(g)

 

– This is the oxidizing property of nitrogen (IV) oxide.

– The resultant oxygen supports the burning.

 

  1. Effects of heat:

– On heating, nitrogen (IV) oxide dissociates to nitrogen (II) oxide and oxygen and will support a burning splint.

 

Equation:

2NO2(g)       Heat          2NO(g) + O2(g)

 

  1. – When liquid nitrogen (IV) oxide or dinitrogen tetroxide is warmed, it produces a pale brown vapour.

– This is due to the reversible set of reactions:

Heat                                                                    Heat

N2O4(l)                                     2NO2(g)                                    2NO(g)     +    O2(g)

(Dinitrogen tetroxide)      Cool                (Nitrogen (IV) oxide)               Cool               (Nitrogen (II) oxide)   (Oxygen)

Pale yellow                                                               Brown                                                               

          Colourless

– Percentage of each in the equilibrium depends on temperature.

– At low temperatures, percentage of N2O4 is high and the mixture is pale yellow in colour.

– Percentage of nitrogen (IV) oxide increases with increase in temperature and the colour darkens till at 150oC when the gas is entirely NO2 and is almost black.

– Still at higher temperatures, nitrogen (IV) oxide dissociates into colourless gas (NO and O2).

 

  1. Reaction with alkalis.

– A solution of aqueous sodium hydroxide is added to a gas jar of nitrogen (IV) oxide and shaken.

 

Observation:

– The brown fumes disappear.

 

Explanation:

– Formation of sodium nitrate and sodium nitrite.

 

Equation:

2NaOH(aq) + 2NO2(g)                  2NaNO3(g) + NaNO2(aq) + H2O(l)

 

Ionically:

2OH(aq) + 2NO2(g)                        NO3(aq) + NO2(aq) + H2O(l)

 

Conclusion:

Nitrogen (IV) oxide is an acidic gas because it can react with an alkali.

 

 

 

Uses of nitrogen (IV) oxide.

  1. Mainly used in the manufacture of nitric (V) acid.

 

Summary on comparison between oxides of nitrogen.

 

  Nitrogen (I) oxide Nitrogen (II) oxide Nitrogen (IV) oxide
Colour – Colourless gas

– Sweet sickly smell

– Colourless; turns brown in air;

– Odourless

– Red brown gas;

– Choking pungent smell;

2. Solubility – Fairly soluble in cold water; but less soluble in hot water; – Almost insoluble in water – Readily soluble in water to form nitric (V) acid and nitrous (III) acid;
3. Action on litmus – Neutral to litmus – Neutral to litmus – Turns moist blue litmus paper red; i.e. acidic.
4. Combustion – Supports combustion; relights a glowing splint; – Does not support combustion; – Does not support combustion.
5. Density – Denser than air – Slightly denser than air – Denser than air;
6. Raw materials and conditions – Ammonium nitrate and heat; – Copper and 50% nitric acid; – Copper metal and concentrated nitric acid;

 

Action of heat on nitrates.

– All nitrates except ammonium nitrate decompose on heating tom produce oxygen gas as one of the products.

– Nitrates can be categorized into 4 categories based on the products formed when they are heated.

The ease with which nitrates decompose increases down the electrochemical series of metals.

 

  1. Nitrates of metals higher in the electrochemical series like sodium and potassium decompose on heating to give the corresponding metal nitrite and oxygen.

 

Examples:

2NaNO3(s)        Heat    2NaNO2(s) +  O2(g)

 

2KNO3(s)          Heat    2KNO2(s) +  O2(g)

 

  1. Nitrates of most other metals (heavy metals) that are average in the electrochemical series decompose on heating to give the metals oxide; nitrogen (IV) oxide and oxygen gas.

 

Example: action of heat on lead (II) nitrate.

(i). Apparatus:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure:

– Solid white lead (II) nitrate crystals are strongly heated in a boiling (ignition) tube.

Products are passed into a U- tube immerse in ice.

– Excess gases are channeled out to a fume chamber.

 

(iii). Observations:

– The white crystalline solid decrepitates.

– A colourless gas (oxygen) is liberated and immediately followed by a red brown fumes/ gas (nitrogen (IV) oxide).

– A pale yellow liquid (dinitrogen tetroxide) condenses in the U-tube in the ice cubes.

– This is due to condensation of nitrogen (IV) oxide.

– A residue which is red when hot and yellow on cooling remains in the boiling (ignition) tube

 

Equation:

2Pb(NO3)2(s)      Heat       2PbO(s) + 4NO2(g) + O2(g)

(White crystalline solid)                 (Red-hot            Brown Fumes     Colourless gas
yellow-cold)

 

Further examples:

 

2Ca(NO3)2(s)      Heat       2CaO(s)  +   4NO2(g)   +  O2(g)

(White solid)                                   (White solid)      Brown Fumes     Colourless gas

2Mg(NO3)2(s)     Heat       2MgO(s) + 4NO2(g)   +  O2(g)

(White solid)                                  (White solid)       Brown Fumes     Colourless gas

2Zn(NO3)2(s)      Heat       2ZnO(s)  +  4NO2(g)    +   O2(g)

(White solid)                                    (Yellow-hot       Brown Fumes      Colourless gas
White-cold)

 

2Cu(NO3)2(s)      Heat       2CuO(s)   +  4NO2(g)   +   O2(g)

(Blue solid)                                     (Black solid)       Brown Fumes     Colourless gas

Note:

– Some nitrates are hydrated and when heated first give out their water of crystallization; and then proceed to as usual on further heating.

 

Examples:

 

Ca(NO3)2.4H2O(s)          Heat       Ca(NO3)2(s)  +   4H2O(g) 

(White solid)                                                       (White solid)             Colourless gas

On further heating;

 

2Ca(NO3)2(s)      Heat       2CaO(s)  +   4NO2(g)   +  O2(g)

(White solid)                                   (White solid)      Brown Fumes     Colourless gas

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Nitrates of metals lower in the reactivity series e.g. mercury and silver decompose on heating to give the metal, nitrogen (IV) oxide and oxygen.

 

Example:

 

Hg(NO3)2(s)       Heat       Hg(s)  +   2NO2(g)   +  O2(g)

(White solid)                                                          Brown Fumes     Colourless gas

2AgNO3(s)          Heat       2Ag(s) +  2NO2(g)   +  O2(g)

(White solid)                                                        Brown Fumes     Colourless gas

  1. Ammonium nitrate decomposes to nitrogen (I) oxide and water vapour.

 

Example:

NH4NO3(s)         Heat       N2O(g)   +  O2(g)

                                                     Colourless gas    Colourless gas
Note:

This reaction is potentially dangerous as ammonium nitrate explodes on strong heating.

 

Ammonia.

– Is a compound of nitrogen and hydrogen and is the most important hydride of nitrogen.

– It is formed when any ammonium salt is heated with an alkali whether in solid or solution form.

– It is a colourless gas with a pungent smell of urine.

– It is alkaline and turns moist red litmus paper to blue when introduced to it.

 

Laboratory preparation of ammonia.

(i). Reagents.

Base + ammonium salt                     NH3(g) + H2O(l)

 

(ii). Apparatus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(iii). Procedure.

– Ammonium chloride (NH4Cl)/ sal-ammoniac is mixed with a little dry slaked lime i.e. Ca(OH)2 and the mixture thoroughly ground in a mortar.

Reason:

– To increase surface area for the reactions.

 

– The mixture is then heated in a round-bottomed flask.

Note:

– A round-bottomed flask ensures uniform distribution of heat while heating the reagents.

– The flask should not be thin-walled.

Reason:

The pressure of ammonia gas liberated during heating may easily crack or break it.

 

– The flask is positioned slanting downwards.

Reason:

– So that as water condenses from the reaction, it does not run back to the hot parts of the flask and crack it.

– The mixture on heating produces ammonia, calcium chloride and water.

 

Equation:

Ca(OH)2(s) + NH4Cl(s)                   CaCl2(aq) + 2NH3(g) + 2H2O(g)

(Slaked lime)

 

(iv). Drying:

– Ammonia is dried by passing it through a tower or U-tube filled with quicklime (calcium oxide) or pellets of caustic potash but not caustic soda which is deliquescent.

 

Note:

Ammonia cannot be dried with the usual drying agents; concentrated sulphuric acid and calcium chloride as it reacts with them.

  • With concentrated sulphuric acid.

2NH3(g) + H2SO4(l)                      (NH4)2SO4(aq)

 

  • With fused calcium chloride:

CaCl2(aq) + 4NH3(g)                  CaCl2.4NH3(s)

 

– i.e. ammonia reacts forming complex ammonium salt.

 

(v). Collection:

– Dry ammonia gas is collected by upward delivery.

Reasons:

– It is lighter than air.

– It is soluble in water.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other methods of preparing ammonia.

 

(b). Ammonia from caustic soda (sodium hydroxide) or caustic potash (potassium hydroxide)

Note:

– The slaked lime is replaced by either of the above solutions.

– Thus the solid reactant is ammonium chloride and the liquid reactant is potassium hydroxide.

 

(i). Apparatus:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure:

– The flask is not slanted. It is vertical and heated on a tripod stand and wire gauze.

Reason:

– No need of slanting since water produced is in liquid form and not gaseous. Thus there is no possibility of condensation of water on hotter parts.

 

Equations:

(i). With caustic soda:

NaOH(aq) + NH4Cl(s)                NaCl(aq) + H2O(l) + NH3(g)

 

Ionically;

Na+(aq) + OH(aq) + NH4Cl(s)               Na+(aq) + Cl(aq) + H2O(l) + NH3(g)

 

Hence; NH4Cl(s) + OH(aq)                Cl(aq) + H2O(l) + NH3(g)

 

(ii). With caustic potash:

KOH(aq) + NH4Cl(s)                  KCl(aq) + H2O(l) + NH3(g)

 

Ionically;

K+(aq) + OH(aq) + NH4Cl(s)                 K+(aq) + Cl(aq) + H2O(l) + NH3(g)

 

Hence; NH4Cl(s) + OH(aq)                Cl(aq) + H2O(l) + NH3(g)

 

 

 

 

 

Note:

Ammonium sulphate could be used in place of ammonium chloride in either case.

 

Equations:

 

(i). With caustic soda:

2NaOH(aq) + (NH4)2SO4(s)            Na2SO4(aq) + 2H2O(l) + 2NH3(g)

 

Ionically;

2Na+(aq) + 2OH(aq) + (NH4)2SO4(s)                   2Na+(aq) + SO42-(aq) + H2O(l) + NH3(g)

 

Hence; (NH4)2SO4(s) + 2OH(aq)               SO42-(aq) + 2H2O(l) + 2NH3(g)

 

(ii). With caustic potash:

2KOH(aq) + (NH4)2SO4(s)              K2SO4(aq) + 2H2O(l) + 2NH3(g)

 

Ionically;

2K+(aq) + 2OH(aq) + (NH4)2SO4(s)                     2K+(aq) + SO42-(aq) + H2O(l) + NH3(g)

 

Hence; (NH4)2SO4(s) + 2OH(aq)               SO42-(aq) + 2H2O(l) + 2NH3(g)

 

(iii). With calcium hydroxide:

Ca(OH)2(aq) + (NH4)2SO4(s)             CaSO4(aq) + 2H2O(l) + 2NH3(g)

 

Ionically;

Ca2+(aq) + 2OH(aq) + (NH4)2SO4(s)                    Ca2+(aq) + SO42-(aq) + H2O(l) + NH3(g)

 

Hence; (NH4)2SO4(s) + 2OH(aq)                 SO42-(aq) + 2H2O(l) + 2NH3(g)

 

Note:

Reaction with calcium hydroxide however stops prematurely, almost as soon as the reaction starts.

Reason;

– Formation of insoluble calcium sulphate which coats the ammonium sulphate preventing further reaction.

 

Preparation of ammonium solution.

(i). Apparatus.

 

(ii). Procedure:

– The apparatus is altered as above.

– The drying tower is removed and the gas produced is directly passed into water by an inverted funnel.

 

Reasons for the inverted broad funnel.

– It increases the surface area for the dissolution of thereby preventing water from “sucking back” into the hot flask and hence prevents chances of an explosion.

 

(iii). Equation.

NH3(g) + H2O(l)           NH4OH(aq)

 

Note:

– The solution cannot be prepared by leading the gas directly to water by the delivery tube.

Reason:

– Ammonia gas is very soluble in water and so water would rush up the delivery tube and into the hot flask causing it to crack.

– The rim of the inverted funnel is just below the water surface.

 

Tests for ammonia.

  1. It is a colourless gas with a pungent smell.
  2. It is the only common gas that is alkaline as it turns moist red litmus paper blue.
  3. When ammonia is brought into contact with hydrogen chloride gas, dense white fumes of ammonium chloride are formed.

 

Equation:

NH3(g) + HCl(g)                                 NH4Cl(s)

 

Fountain experiment.

(i). Diagram:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure:

– Dry ammonia is collected in a round-bottomed flask and set up as above.

– The clip is open and solution let to rise up the tube.

– The clip is closed when the solution reaches the top of the tube after which it is again opened fro a while.

 

(iii). Observations and explanations.

– When a drop of water gets to the jet, it dissolves so much of the ammonia gas that a partial vacuum is created inside the flask.

– As the ammonia in the flask dissolves, the pressure in the flask is greatly reduced.

– The atmospheric pressure on the water surface in the beaker forces water into the flask vigorously.

– The drawn-out jet of the tube causes a fountain to be produced.

– The fountain appears blue due to the alkaline nature of ammonia.

 

(iv). Caution:

– Ammonia is highly soluble in water forming an alkaline solution of ammonium hydroxide.

 

Note:

1 volume of water dissolves about 750 volumes of ammonia at room temperature.

 

Properties and reactions of ammonia.

  1. Smell: has a characteristic pungent smell.
  2. Solubility: it is highly soluble in water. The dissolved ammonia molecule reacts partially with water to form ammonium ions (NH4+) and hydroxyl ions (OH)

 

Equation:

NH3(g) + H2O(l)                       NH4+(aq) + OH(aq)

 

– Formation of hydroxyl ions means that the aqueous solution of ammonia is (weakly) alkaline and turns universal indicator purple.

 

  1. Reaction with acids.

– Sulphuric acid and concentrated ammonia solution are put in a dish and heated slowly.

– The mixture is evaporated to dryness.

 

Observations:

– A white solid is formed.

 

Equation:

2NH4OH(aq) + H2SO4(aq)                             (NH4)2SO4(aq) + H2O(l)

 

Ionically:

2NH4+(aq) + 2OH(aq) + 2H+(aq) + SO42-(aq)                    2NH4+(aq) + SO42-(aq) + 2H+(aq) + 2OH(aq) + H2O(l).

 

Then;

2H+(aq) + 2OH(aq)                    2H2O(l)

 

– To some of the resultant white solid, a little NaOH(aq) was added and the mixture warmed.

– The gas evolved was tested fro ammonia.

 

Observation:

– The resultant gas tested positive for ammonia.

 

Equation:

(NH4)2SO4(s) + 2NaOH(aq)                   Na2SO4(aq) + 2NH3(g) + 2H2O(l).

 

 

Explanations:

– Evolution of ammonia shows that the white solid formed is an ammonium salt.

– The ammonia reacts with acids to from ammonium salt and water only.

 

Further examples:
HCl(aq) + NH4OH(aq)                      NH4Cl(aq) + H2O(l)

 

HNO3(aq) + NH4OH(aq)                   NH4NO3(aq) + H2O(l)

 

Ionic equation:

NH3(g) + H+(aq)                         NH4+(aq)

 

  1. Reaction of ammonia with oxygen.

– Ammonia extinguishes a lighted taper because it dos not support burning.

– It is non-combustible.

– However it burns in air enriched with oxygen with a green-yellow flame.

 

Experiment: Burning ammonia in oxygen.

(i). Apparatus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure:

– Dry oxygen is passed in the U-tube for a while to drive out air.

– Dry ammonia gas is then passed into the tube.

– A lighted splint is then passed into the tube.

 

(iii). Observations:

– A colourless gas is liberated.

– Droplets of a colourless liquid collect on cooler parts of the tube.

 

(iv). Explanations:

– The conditions for the reactions are:

  • Dry ammonia and oxygen gas i.e. the gases must be dry.
  • All air must be driven out of the tube.

– Ammonia burns continuously in oxygen (air enriched with oxygen) forming nitrogen and water vapour i.e. ammonia is oxidized as hydrogen is removed from it leaving nitrogen.

 

Equation:

4NH3(g) + 3O2(g)                                   2N2(g) + 6H2O(g)

 

 

 

Sample question:

Suggest the role of glass wool in the tube.

 

Solution:

– To slow down the escape of oxygen in the combustion tube, thus providing more time for combustion of ammonia.

 

  1. Ammonia as a reducing agent.

– It reduces oxides of metals below iron in the reactivity series.

 

Experiment: reaction between ammonia and copper (II) oxide.

(i). Apparatus.

Ice cubes

(ii). Procedure:

– Copper (II) oxide is heated strongly and dry ammonia is passed over it.

– The products are then passed through a U-tube immersed in cold water (ice cubes).

 

(iii). Observations.

– The copper (II) oxide glows as the reaction is exothermic.

– A colourless liquid collects in the U-tube.

– A colourless gas is collected over water.

– The black copper (II) oxide changes to brown copper metal.

 

(iv). Explanations.

– Ammonia gas reduces copper (II) oxide to copper and is itself oxidized to nitrogen and water.

 

Equation:

3CuO(s) + 2NH3(g)                                3Cu(s) + 3H2O(l) + N2(g)

Black                                                                                         red-brown                        (colourless)

 

– The water produced condenses in the U-tube immersed in cold (ice) water.

– The resultant nitrogen is collected by downward displacement of water.

– The nitrogen gas collected is ascertained indirectly as follows:

  • A lighted splint is extinguished and the gas does not burn; thus it is not oxygen, hydrogen, or carbon (II) oxide.
  • It has neither smell nor colour; it is not ammonia, chlorine, sulphur (IV) oxide or nitrogen (IV) oxide.
  • It is not carbon (II) oxide because it does not turn lime water into a white precipitate.

 

 

Note:

– This experiment proves that ammonia contains nitrogen.

 

  1. Reaction with chlorine.

(i). Procedure:

– Ammonia gas is passed into a bell jar containing chlorine.

 

(ii). Apparatus:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(iii). Observations:

– The ammonia catches fire and burns for a while at the end of the tube.

– The flame then goes out and the jar then gets filled with dense white fumes of ammonium chloride.

 

Equations:

2NH3(g) + 3Cl2(g)                      6HCl(g) + N2(g)

 

Then;

6HCl(g) + 6NH3(g)                     6NH4Cl(s)

 

Overall equation:

8NH3(g) + 3Cl2(g)                             6NH4Cl(s) + N2(g)

 

  1. Ammonia solution as an alkali.

– Solution of ammonia in water contains hydroxyl ions.

 

Equation:

NH3(g) + H2O(l)             NH4+(aq) + OH(aq)

 

– Thus it has many properties of a typical alkali.

– Ammonia salts are similar to metallic salts.

– The group (NH4+) precipitates in the reaction as a whole without splitting in any way.

– It exhibits unit valency in its compounds and therefore called a basic radical.

 

Note:

– It cannot exist freely as ammonia gas (NH3) which is a compound.

– Like other alkalis, ammonia solution precipitates insoluble metallic hydroxides by double decomposition when mixed with solution of salts of the metals.

 

 

 

 

  1. Reaction with air in the presence of platinum wire.

(i). Apparatus:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure:

– Concentrated ammonia solution is put in a conical flask.

– The platinum (or even copper) wire is heated until white-hot.

– Oxygen gas or air is then passed through the ammonia solution.

– The red-hot platinum (copper) wire is then put into the flask containing the concentrated ammonia.

 

(iii). Observations:

– The hot platinum wire glows.

– Red-brown fumes are evolved.

 

(iv). Explanations:

– The hot platinum coil glows when it comes into contact with the ammonia fumes, which come from the concentrated ammonia solution.

– Reaction between ammonia and oxygen takes place on the surface of the platinum wire that acts a s a catalyst.

– A lot of heat is produced in the reaction that enables the platinum coil to continue glowing.

– Ammonia is oxidized to nitrogen (IV) oxide.

 

Equation:

4NH3(g) + 5O2(g)     Platinum catalyst   4NO(g) + 6H2O(l)

 

– Red-brown fumes of nitrogen (IV) oxide are produced due to further oxidation of the nitrogen (II) oxide to from nitrogen (IV) oxide.

 

Equation:

2NO(g) + O2(g)                     2NO2(g)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Action of aqueous ammonia on solution of metallic salts

(i). Procedure:

– To about 2cm3 of solutions containing ions of calcium, magnesium, aluminium, zinc, iron, lead, copper etc in separate test tubes; aqueous ammonia is added dropwise till in excess.

 

(ii). Observations:

The various metal ions reacted as summarized in the table below.

 

Metal ions in solution Observations on addition of ammonia
Few drops of ammonia Excess drops of ammonia
Ca2+ White precipitate White precipitate persists;
Mg2+ White precipitate Precipitate persists;
Al3+ White precipitate Precipitate persists;
Zn2+ White precipitate Precipitate dissolves;
Fe2+ Pale green precipitate Precipitate persists; slowly turns red-brown on exposure to air;
Fe3+ Red-brown precipitate Precipitate persists;
Pb2+ White precipitate Precipitate persists;
Cu2+ Pale blue precipitate Precipitate dissolves forming a deep blue solution;

 

(iii). Explanations:

– Most metal ions in solution react with ammonia solution to form insoluble metal hydroxides.

– In excess ammonia, some of the so formed hydroxides dissolve forming complex ions.

 

(iv). Equations:

 

  1. Mg2+(aq) from MgCl2;

 

MgCl2(aq) + 2NH4OH(aq)                             Mg(OH)2(s) + 2NH4Cl(aq)

 

Ionically:

Mg2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)                            Mg(OH)2(s)

                                                                                        (White ppt)

 

  1. Fe2+ from Fe(NO3)2;

 

Fe(NO3)2(aq) + 2NH4OH(aq)                 Fe(OH)2(s) + 2NH4NO3(aq)

 

Ionically:

Fe2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)                    Fe(OH)2(s)

(Pale green ppt)

 

  1. Fe3+ from FeCl3;

 

Ionically:

Fe3+(aq) + 3OH(aq)                    Fe(OH)3(s)

(Red brown ppt)

 

 

 

 

 

Note:

Zn2+(aq) and Cu2+(aq) dissolve in excess ammonia solution forming complex ions.

 

  1. Zinc ions and ammonia solution.

 

  • With little ammonia:

ZnCl2(aq) + 2NH4OH(aq)                     Zn(OH)2(s) + 2NH4Cl(aq)

 

Ionically:

Zn2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)                   Zn(OH)2(s)

                                                                                (White ppt.)

 

  • In excess ammonia:

– The white precipitate of Zn(OH)2(s) dissolves in excess ammonia to form a colourless solution; proof that solution has Zn2+ ions;

– The colourless solution is a complex salt of tetra-amine zinc (II) ions.

 

Equation:

Zn(OH)2(s) + 4NH3(aq)                          [Zn(NH3)4]2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)

(White ppt.)                                                                              (Colourless solution-tetra amine zinc (II) ions)

 

  1. Copper (II) ions.

 

  • With little ammonia:

– A pale blue precipitate is formed.

 

Ionically:

Cu2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)                   Cu(OH)2(s)

(Pale blue ppt.)

 

  • In excess ammonia:

– The pale blue precipitate of Cu(OH)2(s) dissolves in excess ammonia to form a deep blue solution; proof that solution has Cu2+ ions;

– The deep blue solution is a complex salt of tetra-amine copper (II) ions.

 

Equation:

Cu(OH)2(s) + 4NH3(aq)                         [Cu(NH3)4]2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)

(Pale blue ppt.)                                                                       (Deep blue solution-tetra amine copper (II) ions)

 

Uses of ammonia gas and its solution:

  1. Ammonia gas is used in the manufacture of nitric acid and nylon.
  2. Ammonia gas is important in the preparation of ammonium salts used as fertilizers.
  3. It liquefies fairly easily (B.P is -33oC) and the liquid is used as a refrigerant in large cold storages and ice cream factories.
  4. Liquid ammonia is injected directly into the soil as a high nitrogen content fertilizer.
  5. Ammonia solution is used in laundry work as a water softener and a cleansing agent (stain remover)
  6. Ammonia is used in the manufacture of sodium carbonate in the Solvay process.
  7. Ammonia is used in “smelling salts”. It has a slightly stimulating effect on the action of the heart and so may prevent fainting

 

 

 

Qualitative analysis for cations using sodium hydroxide solution

(i). Procedure:

– To about 2cm3 of solutions containing ions of calcium, magnesium, aluminium, zinc, iron, lead, copper etc in separate test tubes; aqueous sodium hydroxide is added dropwise till in excess.

 

(ii). Observations:

The various metal ions reacted as summarized in the table below.

 

Metal ions in solution Observations on addition of ammonia
Few drops of ammonia Excess drops of ammonia
Ca2+ White precipitate White precipitate persists
Mg2+ White precipitate Precipitate persists;
Al3+ White precipitate Precipitate dissolves;
Zn2+ White precipitate Precipitate dissolves;
Fe2+ Pale green precipitate Precipitate persists; slowly turns red-brown on exposure to air;
Fe3+ Red-brown precipitate Precipitate persists;
Pb2+ White precipitate Precipitate dissolves;
Cu2+ Pale blue precipitate Precipitate dissolves forming a deep blue solution;

 

(iii). Explanations:

– Most metal ions in solution react with sodium hydroxide solution to form insoluble metal hydroxides.

– In excess sodium hydroxide, some of the so formed hydroxides (hydroxides of Zn, Al, Pb and Cu) dissolve forming complex ions.

 

(iv). Equations:

Ca2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)                             Ca(OH)2(s)

                                                                                        (White ppt)

 

Mg2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)                            Mg(OH)2(s)

                                                                                        (White ppt)

 

Al3+(aq) + 3OH(aq)                              Al(OH)3(s)

                                                                                        (White ppt)

 

Zn2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)                             Zn(OH)2(s)

                                                                                        (White ppt)

 

Pb2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)                              Pb(OH)2(s)

                                                                                        (White ppt)

 

Cu2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)                             Cu(OH)2(s)

                                                                                       (Pale blue ppt)

 

Fe2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)                    Fe(OH)2(s)

(Pale green ppt)

 

Fe3+(aq) + 3OH(aq)                    Fe(OH)3(s)

(Red brown ppt)

 

 

 

 

Note:

Hydroxides of Zn2+(aq) ; Pb2+(aq) ; and Al3+(aq) dissolve in excess ammonia solution forming complex ions.

 

  1. Zinc ions and sodium hydroxide solution.

 

  • With little sodium hydroxide:

 

Zn2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)                   Zn(OH)2(s)

                                                                                (White ppt.)

 

  • In excess sodium hydroxide:

– The white precipitate of Zn(OH)2(s) dissolves in excess sodium hydroxide to form a colourless solution;

– The colourless solution is a complex salt of tetra-hydroxo zinc (II) ions (zincate ion).

 

Equation:

Zn(OH)2(s) + 2OH(aq)                          [Zn(OH)4]2-(aq)

(White ppt.)                                                                              (Colourless solution-tetra hydroxo- zinc (II) ion/ zincate ion)

 

  1. Aluminium ions and sodium hydroxide solution.

 

  • With little sodium hydroxide:

 

Al3+(aq) + 3OH(aq)                    Al(OH)3(s)

                                                                                (White ppt.)

 

  • In excess sodium hydroxide:

– The white precipitate of Al(OH)3(s) dissolves in excess sodium hydroxide to form a colourless solution;

– The colourless solution is a complex salt of tetra-hydroxo aluminium (III) ions (aluminate ion).

 

Equation:

Al(OH)3(s) + OH(aq)                     [Al(OH)4](aq)

(White ppt.)                                                          (Colourless solution-tetra hydroxo- aluminium (III) ion/aluminate ion

 

  1. Lead (II) ions and sodium hydroxide solution.

 

  • With little sodium hydroxide:

 

Pb2+(aq) + 2OH(aq)                    Pb(OH)2(s)

                                                                                (White ppt.)

 

  • In excess sodium hydroxide:

– The white precipitate of Pb(OH)2(s) dissolves in excess sodium hydroxide to form a colourless solution;

– The colourless solution is a complex salt of tetra-hydroxo lead (II) ions (plumbate ions).

 

Equation:

Zn(OH)2(s) + 2OH(aq)                          [Zn(OH)4]2-(aq)

(White ppt.)                                                                              (Colourless solution-tetra hydroxo- lead (II) ion/ plumbate ion)

 

 

Summary and useful information on qualitative analysis:

Colours of substances in solids and solutions in water.

 

COLOUR IDENTITY
SOLID AQUESOUS SOLUTION

(IF SOLUBLE)

1. White Colourless Compound of K+; Na+, Ca2+; Mg2+; Al3+; Zn2+; Pb2+; NH4+
2. Yellow Insoluble Zinc oxide, ZnO (turns white on cooling); Lead oxide, PbO (remains yellow on cooling, red when hot)
Yellow Potassium or sodium chromate;
3. Blue Blue Copper (II) compound, Cu2+
4. Pale green

 

Green

Pale green (almost colourless)

Green

Iron (II) compounds,Fe2+

 

Nickel (II) compound, Ni2+; Chromium (II) compounds, Cr3+; (Sometimes copper (II) compound, Cu2+)

5. Brown Brown (sometimes yellow)

 

Insoluble

Iron (III) compounds, Fe3+;

 

Lead (IV) oxide, PbO2

6. Pink Pink (almost colourless)

Insoluble

Manganese (II) compounds, Mn2+;

Copper metal as element (sometimes brown but will turn black on heating in air)

7. Orange Insoluble Red lead, Pb3O4 (could also be mercury (II) oxide, HgO)
8. Black Purple

Brown

Insoluble

Manganate (VII) ions (MnO) as in KMnO4;

Iodine (element)-purple vapour

Manganese (IV) oxide, MnO2

Copper (II) oxide, CuO

Carbon powder (element)

Various metal powders (elements)

 

 

Reactions of cations with common laboratory reagents and solubilities of some salts in water

 

CATION SOLUBLE COMPOUNDS (IN WATER) INSUOLUBLE COMPOUNDS (IN WATER) REACTION WITH AQUEOUS SODIUM HYDROXIDE REACTION WITH AQUEOUS AMMONIA SOLUTION
Na+ All None No reaction No reaction
K+ All None No reaction No reaction
Ca2+ Cl; NO3; CO32-; O2-; SO42-; OH; White precipitate insoluble in excess White precipitate insoluble in excess, on standing;
Al3+ Cl; NO3; SO42- O2-; OH; White precipitate soluble in excess White precipitate insoluble in excess
Pb2+ NO3; ethanoate; All others; White precipitate soluble in excess White precipitate insoluble in excess
Zn2+ Cl; NO3; SO42- CO32-; O2-; SO42-; OH; White precipitate soluble in excess White precipitate soluble in excess
Fe2+ Cl; NO3; SO42- CO32-; O2-; OH; (Dark) pale green precipitate insoluble in excess (Dark) pale green precipitate insoluble in excess
Fe3+ Cl; NO3; SO42- CO32-; O2-; OH; (Red) brown precipitate insoluble in excess (Red) brown precipitate insoluble in excess
Cu2+ Cl; NO3; SO42- CO32-; O2-; OH; Pale blue precipitate insoluble in excess Pale blue precipitate soluble in excess forming a deep blue solution
NH4+ All None; Ammonias gas on warming Not applicable.

 

 

Qualitative analysis for common anions.

 

  SO42-(aq) Cl(aq) NO3(aq) CO32-(aq)
TEST Add Ba2+(aq) ions from Ba(NO3)2(aq); acidify with dilute HNO3(aq) Add Ag+(aq) from AgNO3(aq).

Acidify with dilute HNO3

Alternatively;

Add Pb2+ from Pb(NO3)2 and warm

Add FeSO4(aq);

Tilt the tube and carefully add 1-2 cm3 of concentrated H2SO4(aq)

Add dilute HNO3(aq); bubble gas through lime water;
OBSERVATION The formation of a white precipitate shows presence of SO42- ion; The formation of a white precipitate shows presence of Cl ion;

Formation of a white precipitate that dissolves on warming shown presence of Cl(aq) ions

The formation of a brown ring shows the presence of NO3 ions Evolution of a colourless gas that forma a white precipitate with lime water, turns moist blue litmus paper red; and extinguishes a glowing splint shows presence of CO32- ions
EXPLANATION Only BaSO4 and BaCO3 can be formed as white precipitates.

BaCO3 is soluble in dilute acids and so BaSO4 will remain on adding dilute nitric acid

Only AgCl and AgCO3 can be formed as white precipitates.

AgCO3 is soluble in dilute acids but AgCl is not;

– PbCl2 is the only white precipitate that dissolves on warming

Concentrated H2SO4 forms nitrogen (II) oxide with NO3(aq) and this forms brown ring complex (FeSO4.NO) with FeSO4; All CO32- or HCO3 will liberate carbon (IV) oxide with dilute acids

 

Checklist:

  1. Why is it not possible to use dilute sulphuric acid in the test for SO42- ions;
  2. Why is it not possible to use dilute hydrochloric acid in the test for chloride ions?
  3. Why is it best to use dilute nitric acid instead of the other two mineral acids in the test for CO32- ions?
  4. How would you distinguish two white solids, Na2CO3 and NaHCO3?

 

What to look for when a substance is heated.

 

1. Sublimation White solids on cool, parts of a test tube indicates NH4+ compounds;

Purple vapour condensing to black solid indicates iodine crystals;

2. Water vapour (condensed) Colourless droplets on cool parts of the test tube indicate water of crystallization or HCO3 (see below)
3. Carbon (IV) oxide CO32- of Zn2+; Pb2+; Fe2+; Fe3+; Cu2+;
4. Carbon (IV) oxide and water vapour (condensed) HCO3
5. Nitrogen (IV) oxide NO3of Cu2+; Al3+; Zn2+; Pb2+; Fe2+; Fe3+
6. Oxygen NO3 or BaO2; MnO2; PbO2;

 

 

 

 

 

 

Industrial manufacture of ammonia-The Haber process.

 

– Most of the world’s supply of ammonia is from the synthesis of Nitrogen and hydrogen in the Haber process.

 

(i). Raw materials

 

  • Nitrogen

– Usually obtained from liquid air by fractional distillation

 

  • Hydrogen

– Obtained from water gas in the Bosch process.

– Also from crude oil (cracking)

 

(ii). General equation

 

N2(g) + 3 H2(g)                        2NH3(g) + heat;

 

Note:

– Nitrogen and hydrogen combine in the ratio 1:3 respectively to form two volumes of ammonia gas plus heat.

-The reaction is exothermic releasing heat to the surrounding.

 

(iii). Conditions

 

  • High pressures

– The process is favoured by high pressures and thus a pressure of approximately 200 to 300 atmospheres is used.

 

Reason:

– The volume of gaseous reactants from equation is higher than volume of gaseous products. Thus increased pressure shifts the equilibrium to the right; favoring the production of more ammonia.

Note:

Such high pressures are however uneconomical.

 

  • Low temperatures

– Low temperatures favour production of ammonia;

Reason:

– The reaction is exothermic (releases heat to the surrounding) hence lower temperature will favour the forward reaction (shift the equilibrium to the right), producing more ammonia.

 

  • Catalyst

– The low temperatures make the reaction slow and therefore a catalyst is used to increase the rate of reaction

– The catalyst used is finely divided iron; impregnated with Aluminium oxide (Al2O3)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(iv). The chemical processes

 

Step 1: Purification

-The raw materials, nitrogen and hydrogen are passed through a purification chamber in which impurities are removed.

-The main impurities are CO2, water vapour,  dust particles, SO2, CO2 and O2;

 

Reason:

The impurities would poison the catalyst

 

Step 2: Compression

– The purified Nitrogen and Hydrogen gases are compressed in a compressor at 500 atmospheres.

 

Reasons:

  • To increase chances of molecules reacting;
  • To increase rate of collision of the reacting particles.
  • To increase pressure (attain desired pressures); and hence increase concentration of reacting particles.

 

Step 3: Heat exchanger reactions

– Upon compression the gaseous mixture, nitrogen and hydrogen are channeled into a heat exchanger; which heats them increasing their temperature.

– This enables the reactants (hydrogen and nitrogen) to attain the optimum temperatures for the succeeding reactions (in the catalytic chamber)

– From the heat exchanger the gases go to the catalyst chamber.

 

Step 4: Catalytic chamber.

– The gases then combine in the ratio of 1:3 (N2:H2 respectively), to form ammonia.

– This reaction occurs in presence of a catalyst; which speeds up the rate of ammonia formation;

– The catalyst is finely divided iron impregnated with aluminium oxide (Al2O3 increases the catalytic activity of iron).

 

Equation in catalytic chamber

 

N2(g) + 3H2(g)                          2NH3(g) + Heat (-92kjmol)

 

– Only about 6-10% of the gases combine.

– Due to the high heat evolution involved, the products are again taken back to the heat exchanger; to cool the gases coming from the catalytic chamber.

 

Step 5: Heat exchanger

– The gases from the catalytic chamber enter the heat exchanger a second time.

 

Reason:

– To cool the gases coming from the catalytic chamber, thus reduce cost of condensation.

-The gaseous mixture; ammonia and uncombined nitrogen and hydrogen are the passed through a condenser.

 

Step 6: The condenser reactions (cooling chamber)

– The pressure and the low temperatures in this chamber liquefy ammonia, which is then drawn off.

– The uncombined (unreacted) gases are recirculated back to the compressor, from where they repeat the entire process.

Summary: flow chart of Haber process.

Fractional distillation of air
Nitrogen
Hydrogen
Crude oil cracking; or water gas in Bosch process

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purifier: removal of duct particles; CO2; H2O vapour etc

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unreacted gases

(recycling)

 

 

 

 

 

 

6-10% ammonia + air;

 

 

 

 

LIQUID AMMONIA

 

 

Citing a Haber process plant

– When choosing a site for this industrial plant, the following factors are considered:

  1. Availability of raw materials (natural gas and crude oil)
  2. Presence of cheap sources of energy.
  3. Availability of transport and marketing.
  4. Availability of appropriate technology and labour force.

 

Ammonium salts as fertilizers

– Ammonium salts are prepared by the reaction between ammonia and the appropriate acid in dilute solution followed by evaporation and crystallization

 

(a). Ammonium sulphate

– Is prepared by absorbing ammonia in sulphuric acid.

 

Equation:

 

2NH3(g) + H2SO4(aq)                          (NH4)2SO4(aq)

 

Note: It is a cheap fertilizer.

 

(b). Ammonium nitrate

– Is prepared by neutralization nitric acid by ammonia.

 

Equation:

 

NH3(g) + HNO3(aq)                    NH4NO3(aq)

 

– As there is some danger of exploding during storage, ammonium nitrate is mixed with finely powdered limestone (CaCO3).

-The mixture, sold as nitro-chalk is much safer.

(c). Ammonium phosphate

– It is particularly useful as it supplies both nitrogen and phosphorus to the soil.

– It is prepared by neutralizing othophosphoric acid by ammonia

 

Equation:

 

3NH3(g) + H3PO4(aq)                       (NH4)3 PO4(aq)

 

(d) Urea CO (NH2)2

– Is made from ammonia and carbon (IV) oxide

– Its nitrogen content by mass is very high; nearly 47%

 

Equation:

 

NH3(g) +CO2(g)                       CO (NH2)2(aq)  + H2O(l)

   

Nitric (V) acid

– Is a monobasic acid (has only one replaceable Hydrogen atom); and has been known as strong water (aqua forty).

– It is a compound of hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen.

 

Laboratory preparation of nitric (V) acid

(i). Apparatus

           

(ii). Reagents

– Nitric acid is prepared in the laboratory by action of concentrated sulphuric acid on solid nitrates e.g. potassium nitrate (KNO3) and sodium nitrate (NaNO3)

 

(iii). Procedure

– 30-40 grams of small crystal of KNO3 are put in a retort flask.

– Concentrated sulphuric acid is added just enough to cover the nitrate; and then heated (warmed) gently.

– The apparatus is all glass.

Reason:

– Nitric (V) acid would attack rubber connections.

– The neck of the retort flask is inserted into a flask that is kept cool continually under running water; this is where nitric acid is collected.

 

Note:

The cold water running over the collection flask is meant to cool (condense) the hot fumes of nitric (V) acid.

 

(iv). Observations and explanations

– Fumes of nitric are observed in the retort;

 

Equation

 

KNO3(g) + H2SO4(aq)                      KHSO4(aq) +HNO3(g)

 

– If Lead (II) nitrate was used;

 

Pb(NO3)2(s) + H2SO4(aq)                  PbSO4(s) + 2HNO3(g)

 

Note: with lead (II) nitrate the reaction soon stops because the insoluble lead (II) sulphate coats the surface of the nitrate preventing further reaction; yield of nitric (V) acid is thus lower;

 

-These fumes of nitric acid appear brown.

Reason:

– Due to the presence of nitrogen (iv) oxide gas formed by thermal decomposition of nitric acid.

 

Equation:

4HNO3(aq)                       4NO2(g) + O2(g) + 2H2O(g)

 

– Pure nitric (V) acid is colourless but may appear yellow (brown) due to the presence of Nitrogen (IV) oxide.

– The brown colour can be removed by blowing air through the acid.

– Fuming nitric acid boils at 83oC and is 99% pure; while concentrated nitric acid is only 70% acid and 30% water.

 

Note: Nitric acid is usually stored in dark bottles.

Reason:

– To avoid its decomposition by light to nitrogen (IV) oxide, oxygen and water.

– The reaction in the retort flask is a typical displacement reaction; in which the more volatile nitric (V) acid is displaced from nitrates by the less volatile sulphuric acid.

– The nitric acid distills over because it is more volatile than sulphuric acid.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Properties of concentrated nitric acid

– Nitric (V) acid readily gives oxygen and therefore is called an oxidizer.

– The acid is usually reduced to nitrogen (IV) oxide and water.

 

  1. Effects of heat on concentrated nitric acid

(i) Apparatus

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii) Observations

– Brown fumes are seen in the hard glass tube.

– Colourless gas is collected over water.

 

(ii). Explanations

– Sand soaked in concentrated nitric acid produces nitric solid vapour on heating.

– The hot glass wool catalyzes the decomposition of nitric acid to nitrogen (IV) oxide (brown fumes), water vapour and oxygen.

 

Equation

 

4HNO3(l)                    4NO2(g) + 2H2O(l) + O2(g)

                                            (Brown fumes)

 

– The so formed nitrogen (IV) oxide dissolves in water forming both nitric and nitrous acids.

 

Equation:

 

2NO2(g) + H2O(l)                    HNO2(aq) + HNO3(aq)

 

– The oxygen gas is collected over water; and with the solution becoming acidic.

 

  1. Reaction with saw dust

– Saw dust contains compounds of carbon Hydrogen and oxygen.

 

Procedure:

– Some saw dust is heated in an evaporating dish and some few drops of concentrated nitric (V) acid on it (this is done in a fume cupboard)

 

Observation:

– A violent reaction occurs, the saw dust catches fire easily and a lot of brown fumes of nitrogen (IV) oxide given off.

– Nitric (V) acid oxidizes the compounds in saw dust to CO2 and water; and itself it is reduced to nitrogen (IV) oxide and water.

 

Equation:

(C, H, O) n(s) + HNO3(l)                      NO2(g) + CO2(g) +H2O(g)

Saw dust

 

– Warm concentrated nitric (V) acid oxidizes pure carbon and many other compounds containing carbon.

 

Equation:

C(s) + 4HNO3(l)                         2H2O(l) + 4NO2(g) + CO2(g)

 

  1. Reaction with sulphur

Procedure:

– 2 cm3 of concentrated nitric (V) acid is added to a little sulphur in a test tube and warmed.

– The mixture is filtered to remove excess sulphur and the filtrate diluted with distilled water.

– Drops of barium chloride are then added to the resultant solution.

 

Observations:

– Red brown gas, nitrogen (IV) oxide (NO2) is evolved and the sulphur is oxidized to sulphuric acid.

 

Equation

S(s) + 6HNO3(l)                          H2SO4(aq) + 6NO2(g) +2H2O(l)

 

– On addition of barium chloride to the solution, a white precipitate is formed.

– This is due to formation of barium sulphate and is a confirmation for the presence of SO42– ions.

 

Equation:

 

Ba2+(aq) + SO42-(aq)                     BaSO4(s)

                                                (White precipitate)

 

  1. Reaction with metals

– Concentrated nitric (V) acid reacts with metals except gold and platinum.

– Actual reaction depends on the concentration of the acid and the position of the metal in the reactivity series.

– The reaction results in a metal nitrate, NO2 and water.

– Copper, which is low in the reactivity series, reduces conc. HNO3 to NO2.

 

Equation:

 

Cu(s) + HNO3(l)                   Cu(NO3)2(aq) + 2NO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

 

– Metals more reactive than copper e.g. Magnesium may reduce nitric acid to dinitrogen monoxide (N2O) or Nitrogen (N2).

– Some metals like iron and aluminium form insoluble layers when reacted with nitric acid thus stopping any further reaction.

 

 

 

  1. Reaction with iron (II) salts

 

Procedure:

– Few crystals of iron (II) sulphate are dissolved in dilute sulphuric acid.

– A little concentrated nitric (V) acid is added to the solution and mixture warmed.

 

Observation:

– Green solution turns brown.

 

Equation:

 

6FeSO4(s) + 3H2SO4(aq) +3HNO3(l)                    4H2O(l) +2NO(g) + 3Fe2 (SO4)3(aq)

 

Explanation:

– Nitric acid oxidizes green iron (II) salts (Fe2+) to brown iron (III) salts (Fe3+) and itself is reduced to Nitrogen (II) Oxide.

 

Note:

– In air, nitrogen (II) oxide is readily oxidized to nitrogen (IV) oxide; resulting to brown fumes.

 

Equation:
2NO(g) + O2(g)                           2NO2(g)

 

  1. Reduction of nitric (V) acid by hydrogen sulphide.

Procedure

– A few drops of conc. nitric (V) acid are added to a gas jar full of hydrogen sulphide and the jar then covered.

 

Observations

– Fumes (brown) of Nitrogen (IV) oxide and yellow deposits of sulphur;

 

Equation

– It is a REDOX reaction.

Oxidation

 

 

H2S(g) + 2HNO3(l)                       2H2O(l) + 2NO2(g) +S(s)

 

 

Reduction

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Properties of dilute nitric (V) acid

  1. Reaction with metals

– Dilute nitric (V) acid reacts with most metals to form nitrogen (II) oxide instead of hydrogen.

 

Example:

3Mg(s) + 8HNO3(aq)                  3Mg(NO3)2(aq) +2NO(g) + 4H2O(l)

 

– In fact HNO3 is reduced to NO and water but NO soon gets oxidized in air to form brown fumes of NO2.

– However very dilute HNO3 (cold) reacts with more active metals such as Magnesium to produce Hydrogen.

 

  1. Dilute nitric (V) acid as a typical acid

(a). It turns blue litmus paper red.

(b). It reacts with metal oxides and metal hydroxides to form a metal nitrate and water (Neutralization)

 

Examples

  • CuO(s) + 2HNO3(aq)          Cu (NO3)2(aq) + H2O(l)

                  (Black)                                                                                (Blue)

 

  • Zn(OH)2(s) + 2HNO3(aq)            Zn (NO3)2(aq) + 2H2O(l)

                   (White ppt)                                                                      (Colourless)

 

  • KOH(aq) + HNO3(aq)            KNO3(aq) + H2O(l)

                 (Alkali)                (Acid)                                                 (Salt)              (Water)

 

  1. Reaction with metal carbonates and hydrogen carbonates

– Dilute HNO3 reacts with metal carbonates and hydrogen carbonates to form a nitrate, CO2 and water.

 

Examples.

CuCO3(s) + 2HNO3(aq)                   Cu(NO3)2(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)

(Green)                                                                      (Blue solution)

 

NaHCO3(s) + HNO3(aq)                    NaNO3(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)

 

Test for nitrates/nitric acid

  1. Oxidation of iron (ii) sulphate

– Concentrated HNO3 oxidizes green Iron (II) sulphate in presence of sulphuric acid into Iron (III) sulphate (yellow/brown)

– However the solution turns dark brown due to formation of a compound, FeSO4.NO

– NO is produced by reduction of nitrate to nitrogen monoxide by Fe2+

 

Ionically;

Fe2+(aq)                       Fe3+(aq)   +   e (oxidized)

 

NO3(aq) + 2H+(aq) + e                   NO2(g) + H2O(l) (reduced)

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Brown ring test

Procedure.

– An unknown solid is dissolved then acidified using dilute H2SO4.

– Some FeSO4 solution is then added.

– The test tube is then held at an angle and concentrated sulphuric (V) acid is added slowly (dropwise) to the mixture.

 

Observations

– The oily liquid (conc. H2SO4) is denser than water hence sinks to the bottom.

– A brown ring forms between the two liquid layers if the solid is a nitrate.

 

Diagrams:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Explanations:

– Suppose the solution tested isKNO3, the conc. H2SO4 and the KNO3 reacted to produce HNO3.

 

Equation:

KNO3(aq) +H2SO4(aq)                  KHSO4(aq) + HNO3(aq)

 

– The NO3 from nitric acid oxidizes some of the FeSO4 to Fe2 (SO4)3 (Fe2+ toFe3+) and itself reduced to NO by the Fe2+

 

-The NO so formed reacts with more FeSO4 to give a brown compound (FeSO4 NO) which appears as a brown ring.

 

Equation:

FeSO4(aq) + NO(g)               FeSO4. NO(aq)

(Green)                                                         (Brown)

 

Ionically:

Fe2+(aq) + 5H2O(l) + NO(g)                   [Fe(H2O)5NO]2+(aq)

(Green)                                                                                      (Brown)

 

  1. Heat

– Nitrates of less reactive metals decompose easily with gentle heating; clouds of brown NO2 can be seen.

 

Equation:

2Cu(NO3)2        heat         2CuO(s) + 4NO2(g) +  O2(g)

                                                      (Brown, acidic)

– The nitrates of more reactive metals need much stronger heating and decompose in a different way.

 

Equation:

2Na NO3(s)       heat      2NaNO2(s)  +  O2(g)

 

 

Uses of nitric acid 

– Large quantities are used in fertilizer manufacture.

– Manufacture of explosives (TNT)

– Manufacture of dyes

– Making nitrate salts

– Etching of metals.

– Manufacture of nylon and terylene

– Refining precious metals

– An oxidizing agent.

 

Industrial manufacture of nitric acid

The Otswald’s process

 (a). Introduction

– Nitric acid is manufactured by the catalyst oxidation of ammonia and dissolving the products in water.

 

(b). Raw materials

– Atmosphere air

– Ammonia from Haber process.

 

(c). Conditions

Platinum-rhodium catalyst or platinum gauze.

– The ammonia-air mixture must be cleaned (purified) to remove dust particles which could otherwise poison the catalyst.

 

(d). Chemical reactions.

Step 1: Compressor reactions.

– Ammonia and excess air (oxygen) (1:10 by volume) is slightly compressed.

– The mixture is then cleaned to remove particles which would otherwise poison the catalyst.

– They are then passed to the heat exchanger.

 

Step 2: Heat exchanger and catalytic chamber.

– In the heat exchanger, the gaseous mixture is heated to about 900oC and then passed over a platinum-rhodium catalytic chamber.

– An exothermic reaction occurs and ammonia is oxidized to nitrogen (II) oxide and steam.

 

Equation:

4NH3(g) + 5O2(g)                       4NO(g) + 6H2O(g)  + Heat.

 

– The exothermic reaction once started, provides the heat necessary to maintain the required catalytic temperature.

-This is of economical advantage i.e. electrical heating of catalyst is not continued hence lowering production costs.

 

Step 3: Heat exchanger.

– The hot products from catalytic chamber are again passed back through the heat exchanger.

– The hot gases are cooled and then passed into the cooling chamber.

 

 

Step 4: Cooling chamber

Once cooled, the NO is oxidized to NO2 by reacting it with excess oxygen.

 

Equation:

 

2NO(g) + O2(g)                       2NO2(g)

 

Step 5: Absorption towers:

– The NO2 in excess air is then passed through a series of absorption towers where they meet a stream of hot water and form nitric (V) acid and nitrous (III) acid.

 

Equations:

2NO2(g) + H2O(l)                      HNO3(aq) + HNO2(aq) (blue solution)

                                                                   Nitric                Nitrous

 

– The so produced nitrous (III) acid is oxidized by oxygen in excess air to nitric (V) acid so that the concentration of nitric acid in the solution (liquid) gradually increases.

 

Equation:

2 HNO2(aq) +  O2(g)                    2HNO3(aq)

 

– The resultant HNO3 is only 55%-65% concentrated.

– It is made more concentrated by careful distillation of the solution.

 

The process of distillation (increasing the concentration).

– Concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid is added to the dilute nitric (V) acid.

– The heat produced (when dilute sulphuric acid reacts with water) vapourises the nitric (V) acid.

– The resultant nitric (V) acid vapour is condensed.

Note:

  • Nitric (V) acid is stored in dark bottles.

Reason:

– To prevent its decomposition since it undergoes slow decomposition when exposed to light.

 

  • Dilute nitric (V) acid has higher ions concentration than concentrated nitric (V) acid.

Reason.

– Dilute nitric (V) acid is a stronger acid hence ionizes fully to yield more hydrogen ions than concentrated nitric (V) acid.

– Dilute nitric (V) acid is ionic whereas concentrated nitric (V) acid is molecular;

– Dilute nitric (V) acid is more (highly) ionized than concentrated nitric (V) acid.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Flow diagram for the otswald’s process.

                                       Ammonia

HEAT EXCHANGER
CATALYTIC CHAMBER

 

 

 

 

Air

 

 

 

Water                     Unreacted                NO(g)

                                                 NO + air;

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

            Nitric (V) acid

 

Pollution effects of nitrogen compounds.

  1. Acid rain

– Nitrogen (II) oxide is produced in internal combustion engines on combination of nitrogen and oxygen.

– Nitrogen (II) oxide oxidized to nitrogen (IV) oxide which dissolves in water to form nitric (III) and nitric (V) acids.

– Nitric (v) acid eventually reaches ground as acid rain and causes:

  • Loss of chlorophyll (chlorosis) from leaves
  • Corrosion of stone buildings and metallic structures, weakening them and destroying beauty.
  • Leaching of vital minerals from soils. These are converted into soluble nitrates and washed away from top soil. This leads to poor crop yields.

 

  1. Smog formation.

– Nitrogen (IV) oxide also undergoes series of chemical reactions in air to produce one of the major components of smog.

– Smog reduces visibility for motorists, irritates eyes and causes breathing problems.

 

  1. Eutrophication:

– Refers to enrichment of water with excess nutrients for algal growth.

– Presence of nitrate ions from nitrogen fertilizers in a water mass encourages rapid growth of algae.

– This eventually leads to reduction of dissolved oxygen in water, killing aquatic animals like fish.

– Presence of nitrate ions in drinking water may also cause ill health to humans. This is because they are converted into carcinogenic compounds.

 

Prevention.

  1. Recycling unreacted gases in manufacture of nitric acid to prevent release into environment.
  2. Treating sewage and industrial effluents to remove nitrogen compounds before releasing to rivers and lakes.
  3. Fitting exhausts systems of vehicles with catalytic converters which convert nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen gas.
  4. Adding lime to lakes and soils in surrounding regions to reduce acidity.
  5. Applying fertilizers at right and in the correct proportion to prevent them from being washed into water masses.

 

UNIT 3: SULPHUR AND ITS COMPOUNDS

Checklist:

 

  1. Occurrence of sulphur
  2. Extraction of sulphur
  • The Frasch pump
  • Extraction process
  1. Properties of sulphur
  • Physical properties
  • Chemical properties
  1. Uses of sulphur
  2. Allotropes of sulphur
  • Rhombic sulphur
  • Monoclinic sulphur
  1. Compounds of sulphur
  • Sulphur (IV) oxide
  • Laboratory preparation
  • Other preparation methods
  • Properties of sulphur (IV) oxide
    • Physical properties
    • Chemical properties
    • Uses of sulphur (IV) oxide
  1. Sulphur (VI) oxide
  • Laboratory preparation
  • Properties of sulphur (VI) oxide
  1. Sulphuric (VI) acid
  • Large scale manufacture
    • Raw materials
    • The chemical process
    • Pollution control
  • Properties of concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid
    • Physical properties
    • Chemical properties
  • Properties of dilute sulphuric (VI) acid
  • Uses of sulphuric (VI) acid
  1. Hydrogen sulphide gas
  • Laboratory preparation
  • Properties of hydrogen sulphide
  • Physical properties of hydrogen sulphide
  • Chemical properties of hydrogen sulphide
  1. Atmospheric pollution by sulphur compounds

 

 

 

 

 

Occurrence

– Occurs naturally as s free element in the underground deposits in Texas and Louisiana (USA) and Sicily (ITALY).

– It also occurs as a sulphate and sulphide ores.

 

Examples;

Metallic sulphides: iron pyrites (FeS2); Zinc blende (ZnS) Copper pyrites (CuFeS2)

Metallic sulphates e.g. Gypsum, CaSO4

Hydrogen sulphide e.g. H2S present in natural gas.

 

Extraction of sulphur: The Frasch process

– Is done using a set of 3 concentric pipes called Frasch pump; hence the name Frasch process.

 

(i). Apparatus: Frasch pump

Hot compressed air

 

 

Superheated water at 170oC
Froth of molten sulphur

 

Cross section of the Frasch pump

 

 

Outermost pipe: brings superheated water at 170oC

 

 

 

Innermost pipe: brings in hot compressed air;

 

Middle pipe: brings out a froth of molten sulphur

 

 

(ii). Chemical process

Note: Sulphur cannot be mined by conventional mining methods such as open cast, alluvial mining etc

Reasons:

– Sulphur deposits lie very deep under several layers of quicksand hence cannot be accessed easily.

– Sulphur deposits are associated with poisonous gases such as sulphur (IV) oxide gas which can cause massive pollution if exposed to open environment.

– Three concentric pipes, constituting the Frasch pump are drilled through the rock and soil down to the sulphur deposits.

 

 

(a). The outer tube (pipe)

– Is used to pump superheated water at 170o c and 10 atmospheres down the deposits.

– The heat of the water melts the sulphur.

– By the time the water reaches the sulphur, its temperature drops to 120oC, but this is enough to melt sulphur whose M.P is 114oC.

 

(b). The innermost tube

– Is the smallest pipe and is used to blow or force a jet of hot compressed air down the sulphur deposits.

– This produces a light froth of molten sulphur (mixture of air, water and sulphur) which is forced up the middle pipe.

 

(c). The middle pipe.

– Allows the sulphur froth (mixture of molten sulphur, water and air) into the surface; where mixture is run into large tanks.

– The forth usually settles in two layers, the bottom layer is mainly water while the upper layer is mainly molten sulphur; due to differences in density.

– Once in the settling tanks, sulphur solidifies and separates out; giving 99% pure sulphur.

– The sulphur is removed, melted again and poured into moulds, to form roll sulphur in which form it is sold.

 

Properties of sulphur

Physical properties

  1. – It is a yellow solid which exists in one amorphous form and 2 crystalline forms.

– A molecule of sulphur consists of a pluckered ring of 8 sulphur atoms covalently bonded.

 

Diagram: structure of a sulphur molecule.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Solubility

– It is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like carbon disulphide, xylene and toluene.

 

  1. It is a poor conductor of heat and electricity since it is a covalent element lacking free electrons or ions.

 

  1. Effects of heat

– When sulphur is heated out of contact with air, it melts at low temperatures of about 113oC to form an amber (orange) coloured mobile liquid.

Reason:

– The S8 rings open up to form chains of S8.

 

 

 

 

Diagrams:

The pluckered S8 ring of sulphur molecule                                           Chains of S8 molecule

 

 

 

 

 

 

– On further heating, the liquid darkens in colour.

– At 160oC, the liquid becomes much darker and very viscous (such that the test tube can be inverted without the sulphur pouring out.)

– The viscosity continues to increase until a temperature of about 1950C

Reason:

– The S8 rings of sulphur are broken and they then join to form very long chains of sulphur atoms, with over 100,000 atoms (S100 000).

 

Note: As the chains entangle with one another the viscosity increases and colour darkens.

 

– Near the boiling point, the liquid becomes less dark i.e. red-brown and more mobile (runny).

Reason

– The long chains are broken to shorter chains.

 

– At 444oC (boiling point), sulphur vapourises to form a red-brown vapour consisting of S8, S6, S4 and S2 molecules.

Reason

– The sulphur liquid changes state to form sulphur vapour.

– The vapour is light brown in colour, and consists of a mixture of molecules of formula S2-S10

 

Note

If heated further the larger sulphur vapour molecules (S8, S6 etc) dissociate and at 750oC the vapour is mostly constituted of diatomic molecules (S2)

On exposure to cold surfaces the light brown vapour condenses to a yellow sublimate. The yellow sublimate is called flowers of sulphur.

 

Chemical properties

  1. Burning in air

– It burns in air with a bright blue flame forming a misty gas with a choking smell.

– The gas is sulphur (IV) oxide, with traces of sulphur (VI) oxide, both of which are acidic.

 

Equation:

S(s) + O2(g)                        SO2(g)

 

Note:

The SO3 is formed due to further oxidation of some of the SO2 gas

 

Equation:

2SO2(s) + O2(g)                   2SO3(g)

 

 

 

  1. Reaction with acids.

– Dilute acids have no effect on sulphur.

– It is however easily oxidized by concentrated (VI) sulphuric acid and Nitric (VI) acid.

 

  • With conc. H2SO4

– When warmed with conc. H2SO4, sulphur is oxidized to sulphur (IV) oxide while the acid is reduced to the same gas.

 

Equation:

S(s) + 2H2SO4(l)                        3SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

 

  • With conc. HNO3

– Sulphur is oxidized to sulphuric (VI) acid while acid itself is reduced to red-brown Nitrogen (IV) oxide.

 

Equation:

S(s) + 6HNO3(l)                   H2SO4(aq) + 6NO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

 

Note:

– The resultant solution gives a white precipitate with a solution of Barium chloride.

Reason

– Due to presence of sulphate ions which combine with Ba2+ to form insoluble BaSO4(s)

 

Ionically;

Ba2+(aq)  + SO42-(aq)                      BaSO4(s)

 

  1. Reaction with other elements.

– It combines directly with many other elements to form sulphides.

– With metals, sulphur forms metal sulphides, most of which are black.

 

Examples.

(a). With metals

 

  • Iron metal

Fe(s) + S(s)                         FeS(s) + Heat

(Grey)   (Yellow)                                  (Black)

 

Note:

– During the reaction, the mixture glows spontaneously; immediately the reaction has started.

 

  • Copper

2Cu(s) +   S(s)                  Cu2S

(Red-brown)  (Yellow)                    (Black copper (I) sulphide))

 

(b). Non-metals

 

  • Carbon

C(s)  +  2S(s)                     CS2(s)

(Black) (Yellow)                                (Black Carbon disulphide)

 

 

Note.

– Carbon (IV) sulphide has a distinct smell.

– It is an excellent solvent and is used as a pesticide due to its poisonous nature.

 

  • Hydrogen

H2(g) +  S(s)                     H2S(g)

 

  • Fluorine

S(s) + F2(g)                 SF2(g)

 

  • Chlorine

S(s) + Cl2(g)                SCl2(g)

 

  • Bromine

2S(s) +Br2(g)               S2Br2(g)

 

  • Phosphorous

10S(s) + 4P(s)                P4S10(s)

 

Note:

– Sulphur does not react with inert gases, nitrogen and iodine.

 

Uses of sulphur

  1. Industrial manufacture of sulphuric (VI) acid in the contact process.
  2. It is used as a fungicide for treatment of fungal skin diseases.
  3. It is used for vulcanization (hardening) of rubber
  4. Manufacture of calcium hydrogen sulphite (Ca(HSO3)2 used for bleaching in paper and textile industries.
  5. Manufacture of matches and fireworks.
  6. Manufacture of dyes e.g. sulphur blacks that gives paint smooth texture.
  7. Manufacture of sulphur ointments and drugs e.g. sulphur-guanidine for dysentery.
  8. Manufacture of hair oil.
  9. Small amounts of sulphur are added to concrete to prevent corrosion by acids.
  10. Manufacture of fungicides for spraying crops against fungal infections e.g. ridomil, dithane for potato and tomato blights

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Allotropes of sulphur

– Allotropy is the existence of an element in more than one form without change of state.

– Sulphur has 2 allotropes

  • Rhombic sulphur/ octahedral/ alpha-sulphur
  • Monoclinic/ prismatic sulphur/ beta-sulphur.

 

-Unlike carbon only the rhombic sulphur occurs naturally.

 

Comparison of rhombic and monoclinic sulphur.

 

                     Allotrope 

Characteristic

Rhombic sulphur Monoclinic sulphur
Stability – Stable below transitional temp. of 96oC – Stable above 96oC
Colour – Bright yellow crystalline solid – Pale yellow crystalline solid
Melting point – Melts at 113oC; – Melts at 119oC;
Density – About 2.06gcm-3(heavier than monoclinic Sulphur) – Lighter than 1.98gcm-3 (lighter than rhombic sulphur)
Shape – Octahedral shape

Diagram:

 

– Needle-like/ prismatic

Diagram:

 

Note.

96oC is called transitional temperature; because both allotropes are stable.

 

Compounds of sulphur

 

Oxides of sulphur.

 

Sulphur (IV) oxide

Laboratory preparation of sulphur (IV) oxide

(i). Apparatus:

Dry sulphur (IV) oxide gas
Sodium sulphite
Dilute HCl

 

Conc. H2SO4(l)

 

 

(ii). Procedure

– Dilute HCl or H2SO4 is poured into sodium sulphite crystals in the flask.

– The gas produced is passed through conc. Sulphuric acid to dry it.

– If the reaction is slow, the round-bottomed flask is heated (warmed) gently.

– Dry gas is collected by downward delivery as it is denser than air.

 

(ii). Equation.

Na2SO3(aq) + 2HCl(aq)                        H2O(l) + SO2(g) + 2NaCl(aq)

 

Ionically;

2H+(aq) + SO32-(aq)                         H2O(l) + SO2(g)

 

Note:

– Nitric (V) acid should not be used.

Reason:

– It is a strong oxidizing agent and cannot therefore reduce the metal sulphites.

– Instead it will oxidize the SO2 produced to sulphuric (VI) acid

 

Equation:

2HNO3(aq) + SO2(g)                      2NO2(g) +  H2SO4(l)

 

Other methods of preparing sulphur (IV) oxide.

(b). Preparation from concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid

(i). Apparatus

– As in (a) above

 

(ii). Procedure

– Copper turnings are covered with concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid and the mixture heated (a must in this case).

Note:

– Dilute sulphuric (VI) acid does not react with copper hence the need for concentrated acid.

– Cold concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid does not also react with copper hence warming.

 

(iii). Observation.

– When the solution becomes hot, there is evolution of sulphur (IV) oxide gas.

 

Equation.

Cu(s) +2H2SO4(l)                    CuSO4(aq) + 2H2O(l) + SO2(g)

 

Note:

– This reaction is in two stages.

  • Oxidation of Cu to CuO

– Concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid oxidizes copper to Copper (II) oxide

 

Equation:

Cu(s) + H2SO4(l)                     CuO(s) + H2O(l) + SO2(g)

 

  • CuO further reacts with the acid to form salt and water.

 

Equation:

CuO(s) + H2SO4(l)                  CuSO4(aq)  + H2O(l)

 

Overall equation:

Cu(s) + H2SO4(l)                      CuSO4(aq) + 2H2O(l) + SO2(g)

 

(c). Roasting sulphur in air

– When sulphur is burnt in air, SO2 is produced.

 

Equation:

S(s) + O2(g)                     SO2(g)

 

Note:

This reaction is not suitable for preparing a pure sample of the gas in the lab.

Reason

– The gas is contaminated with traces of O2; N2; CO2 and inert gases.

– There are higher chances of environmental pollution, due to escape of some of the gas into the atmosphere.

 

(d). Roasting metal sulphides in air

Examples:

2FeS(g) + 3O2(g)                    2FeO(s) + 2SO2(g)

2ZnS(g) + 3O2(g)                    2ZnO(s) + 2SO2(g)

 

Preparation of sulphur (IV) oxide solution.

(i). Apparatus

                       

(ii). Procedure

– Gas is directly passed into water using an inverted funnel; to prevent “sucking back” by increasing surface area for dissolution.

 

Properties of sulphur (IV) oxide gas

Physical properties

  1. It is a colourless gas with an irritating (pungent) characteristic smell.
  2. It neither burns nor supports combustion i.e. when a lighted splint is introduced into a gas jar full of sulphur (IV) oxide, the splint is extinguished.
  3. It has a low PH.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chemical properties.

– It is a strong reducing agent.

– An aqueous solution of sulphur (IV) oxide, sulphurous acid is strong reducing agent.

– The sulphite radical, SO32-, acts as a supplier of electrons; the overall reaction results into formation of sulphate ions.

 

Equations:

H2SO3(aq)                       2H+(aq) + SO32-(aq) then;

 

SO32-(aq) + H2O(l)                SO42-(aq) + 2H+(aq) + 2e-

 

– The resultant electrons supplied are accepted by an oxidizing agent, which consequently gets reduced.

 

Examples:

(i). Reduction of acidified potassium manganate (VII).

Procedure.

-To about 2 cm3 of sulphur (IV) oxide solution, 2 cm3 of dilute H2SO4 was added followed by an equal volume of potassium manganate (VII) solution.

 

Observations

– Purple solution changes to colourless.

 

Explanation

– Purple manganate (VII) ions are reduced to colourless manganate (II) ions, while H2SO3 (sulphurous (IV) acid) is reduced to sulphate ions and water.

 

Equation:

 

5SO2(g) + 2KMnO4(aq) + 2H2O                       K2SO4(aq) + 2MnSO4(aq)+ H2SO4(aq)

 

 

Ionically;

2MnO4(aq) + 5SO32-(aq) + 6H+(aq)                      2Mn2+(aq) + 5SO42-(aq) + 3H2O(l)

 

(ii). Reduction of potassium chromate (IV) solution

 

Procedure

– To 2 cm3 of Sulphur (IV) oxide solution, 2 cm3 of dilute H2SO4 was added followed by an equivalent volume of potassium chromate (VI) solution.

 

Observation

– Acidified potassium chromate (VI) solution change from orange to green.

 

Equation

K2Cr2O7(aq) + 3SO2(aq) + H2SO4(aq)                    K2SO4(aq) + H2O(l) + Cr2(SO4)3(aq)

(Orange)                                                                                                                                                                    (Green)

 

Ionically:                                Oxidation

 

 

Cr2O72-(aq) + 3SO32-(aq) + 8H+(aq)                      2Cr3+(aq) + 3SO42-(aq)

 

 

Reduction

Note:  this is the usual chemical test for sulphur (IV) oxide.

 

(iii). Reduction of Iron (III) ions to Iron (II) ions (Fe3+ to Fe2+)

 

Procedure

– About 3 cm3 of Iron (III) chloride solution are heated in a test tube and sulphur (IV) oxide gas bubbled into it.

 

Observations

– The brown solution turns green.

 

Explanation

– Aqueous sulphur (IV) oxide reduces to Fe3+ in FeCl3 which are brown to green Fe2+ in FeCl2(aq).

 

Ionically

2Fe3+(aq) + SO32-(aq) + H2O(l)                               Fe2+(aq) + SO42-(aq) + H+(aq)

 

 

(iv). Reduction of bromine water

 

Procedure

– Bromine water (red brown) is added to a solution of sulphur (IV) oxide followed by HCl and BaCl2 solution.

 

Equation

Br2(aq) + SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)                   2HBr(aq) + H2SO4(aq)

 

Ionically:                                         Oxidation

 

 

Br2(aq) + H2O(l) + SO32-(aq)                    2HBr(aq) + SO42-(aq)

(Red-brown)                                                                             (Colourless)

 

 

Reduction

On addition of barium chloride

– A white precipitate is formed, due to the formation of insoluble barium sulphate.

 

Equation:

Ba2+(aq) + SO42-(aq)                   BaSO4(s)

Note

– This test confirms presence of SO42- since a white precipitate insoluble in dilute hydrochloric acid is formed.

– CO32-(aq) and SO32- also forms a white precipitate with BaCl2(aq) but the white precipitates dissolve in dilute HCl(aq)

 

 

 

 

 

 

(v). Reduction of hydrogen peroxide

 

Procedure

– To 2 cm3 of aqueous sulphur (IV) oxide, an equal volume of hydrogen peroxide is added followed by 1 cm3 of HCl, then a few drops BaCl2 solution.

 

Observation and explanations:

– Bubbles of a colourless gas; that relights a glowing splint.

– Hydrogen peroxide is reduced to water; while the sulphite ion in aqueous sulphur (IV) oxide (H2SO3(aq)) is oxidized to SO42-(aq)

 

Equation

H2O2(l) +SO32-(aq)                         H2O(l) + SO42-(aq)

 

– On addition of BaCl2, a white precipitate insoluble in dilute HCl.

– This confirms presence of sulphate ions.

 

Equation:

Ba2+(aq) + SO42-(aq)                   BaSO4(s)

 

(vi). Reduction of concentrated nitric (V) acid

 

Procedure

– Sulphur (IV) oxide is bubbled through (into) a solution of concentrated nitric (v) acid.

 

Observation

– Brown fumes (of NO2) are liberated.

 

Explanation

– Sulphur (IV) oxide reduces nitric (V) acid to nitrogen (IV) oxide (brown) while it is itself oxidized by HNO3 to form H2SO4.

– Thus while SO2 is the reducing agent; HNO3 is the oxidizing agent.

 

Equation:

2HNO3(l) + SO2(g)                               2NO2(g) + H2SO4(aq)

                                                                                               (Brown fumes)

 

(vii). Reaction with atmospheric oxygen in light.

 

Procedure:

– About 2 cm3 of Sulphur (IV) oxide solution is left in a test tube in light for 24 hours, dilute HCl is then added, followed by barium chloride.

 

Observations and explanations:

– Atmospheric oxygen in light oxidizes sulphite ion (SO32-) into sulphate (SO42-)

 

Equation:

2SO32-(aq) + O2(g)                          2SO42-(aq)

 

– On adding barium chloride, a white precipitate insoluble in dilute HCl results; confirming presence of sulphate ion.

Equation:

Ba2+(aq) + SO42-(aq)                   BaSO4(s)

                                                (White ppt)

 

  1. Sulphur (IV) oxide as oxidizing agent

– It reacts as an oxidizing agent with reducing agents more powerful than itself.

 

Examples

 

(a). Reaction with hydrogen sulphide

 

Procedure

– A test tube of dry hydrogen sulphide gas is inverted into a gas jar full of moist sulphur (IV) oxide, and the gases allowed to mix.

 

Observation

Yellow deposits of sulphur is produced.

 

Examples:     

                         Oxidation

 

 

2H2S(g) + SO2(g)                       2H2O(l) + 3S(s)

 

 

                  Reduction

Explanations:

– H2S is a stronger reducing agent than sulphur (IV) oxide.

– Thus sulphur (IV) oxide acts as an oxidizing agent supplying oxygen to the hydrogen sulphide.

 

Note

– Dry gases do not react and for this reaction to occur, the gases must be moist or at least one of them.

 

(b). Reaction with burning magnesium

 

Procedure

– Burning magnesium is lowered into a gas jar full of sulphur (IV) oxide.

 

Observation

White fumes of magnesium oxide and yellow specks of sulphur.

 

Equation

 

2Mg(s) + SO2(g)                        2MgO(s) + S(s)

 

  1. Sulphur (IV) oxide as bleaching agent.

 

Procedure

– Coloured flower petals are placed in a test-tube full of sulphur (IV) oxide.

 

Observation

– The coloured (blue or red) petals are bleached (turned colorless);

 

Explanations:

– In presence of water, sulphur (IV) oxide acts as a bleaching agent.  It bleaches by reduction (removal of oxygen form the dye)

– It first combines with water forming the sulphurous acid; which then reduces the dye to form a colourless product.

 

Equations:

SO2(g) + H2O(l)                  H2SO3(aq)

 

H2SO3(aq)                               2H+(aq) + SO32-(aq)

 

Then;

SO32-(aq) + [O]             SO42-(aq)

               From dye

 

General equation

SO2(g) + H2O(l) + [Dye + (O)]                      Dye + H2SO4(aq)

                                                    Coloured                                       Colourless

Note

– The original colour may be restored by oxidation or prolonged exposure to air.  This explains why old newspapers which were originally bleached white by sulphur (IV) oxide turn brown with time.

– Chlorine bleaches by oxidation hence its oxidation is permanent; SO2 is however preferred because it is milder in action.

 

  1. Reaction with sodium hydroxide (alkalis)

 

Procedure

– A gas jar full of sulphur (IV) oxide is inverted over sodium hydroxide solution in a trough and shaken.

Observations

– Solution seen rises up in the jar.

 

Explanation

– Sulphur (IV) oxide is acidic, hence easily absorbed by alkaline solutions such as sodium hydroxide solution.

– Sodium sulphite and sodium hydrogen sulphites are formed depending on amount of sulphur oxide.

 

Equations

  • With limited sulphur (IV) oxide:

 

2NaOH(aq) +  SO2(g)                             Na2SO3(aq) + H2O(l)

 

  • With excess sulphur (IV) oxide:

 

NaOH(aq) + SO2(g)                                NaHSO3(aq)

 

Reaction with chlorine:

– Sulphur (IV) oxide reacts with moist chlorine to form an acidic mixture of sulphuric (VI) acid and hydrochloric acid.

 

Equation:

SO2(g) + SO2(g) H2O(l)                             H2SO4(aq) + 2HCl(aq)

Explanation:

– Sulphur (IV) oxide serves as the reducing agent reducing chlorine into hydrochloric acid;

– Chlorine acts as the oxidizing agent; oxidizing the sulphur (IV) oxide into sulphuric (VI) acid

 

Tests for sulphur (iv) oxide

  1. Characteristic pungent smell.
  2. Bleaches flower petals.
  3. Decolourises purple potassium manganate (VII)
  4. Turns filter paper soaked in acidified orange potassium dichromate (VI) solution to green

 

Sulphur (IV) oxide as a pollutant

– It is industrial waste in some chemical processes.

– The emission to the air it dissolves forming sulphurous acid.

 

Equation:

SO2(g) + H2O(l)                          H2SO3(aq)

 

– Sulphurous acid is readily oxidized to sulphuric (VI) acid; which attacks stonework and metal structures causing them to corrode.

– If breathed in, SO2 causes lung damage.

 

Uses of sulphur (VI) oxide

– Industrial manufacture of sulphuric (VI) acid.

– Fumigation in green houses for purposes of pest and disease control.

– Preservative in jam and fruit juices.

– Bleaching agent for wool, straw, paper pulp etc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sulphuric (VI) acid

 

Industrial manufacture of sulphuric (VI) acid: The contact process

 

Raw materials

– Sulphide ores or sulphur.

– Water

– Oxygen (air)

– Concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid.

 

The chemical process

 

Step 1: Production of sulphur (VI) oxide

– Sulphur (IV) oxide is obtained b burning the metal ores of sulphides or elemental sulphur in air.

 

Equation:

 

S(s) + O2(g)                    SO2(g)

 

– Obtaining sulphur (IV) oxide form pyrites is cheaper than form sulphur.

– Flowers of sulphur form pyrites is impure and contains dust; which involves extra expenses and time in purification.

 

 

Step 2:            Purification and drying

– The Sulphur (IV) oxide and excess air are passed through a series of driers and purifiers.

– Purifiers remove dust particles, which would otherwise poison the catalyst used in this process by taking up the catalytic surface thus impairing the catalytic efficiency.

– Purification (removal of dust) is by electrostatic precipitation.

– Are dried through concentrated sulphuric acid then passed through heat exchanger.

 

Step 3:  Heat exchanger reactions

– The pure dry SO2 and excess air mixture are passed into heat exchanger reactions.

 

Reason:

– To lower their temperatures since reaction in the proceeding chamber (catalytic chamber) are exothermic hence requiring lower temperatures.

 

Step 4:            Catalytic chamber

– Dry dust-free SO2 is mixed with clean excess air, heated and passed into a catalytic chamber containing vanadium (V) oxide catalyst.

 

Equation                 V2O5

2SO2(g) + O2(g)                          2SO3(g) + Heat

450oC

 

– The product is sulphur (VI) oxide, SO3.

– Formation of sulphur (VI) oxide is accompanied by evolution of heat (exothermic reaction) and a reduction in volume.

 

Note:

– A good yield of SO3 is favoured by the following conditions.

 

  1. Temperature

– The forward reaction is exothermic hence the yield can be favourable in low temperatures.

– However, at such low temperatures the equilibrium is attained very slowly.

– At high temperatures, equilibrium is achieved very quickly but sulphur (VI) oxide decomposes considerably.

– Thus a compromise optimum temperature of about 450oC is used in order to enable as much sulphur (VI) oxide as possible to be made in a reasonable time.

– From the graph, high SO3 yield is favoured by relatively low temperatures.

 

Graph: %age yield of sulphur (VI) oxide against temperature.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Pressure

– High pressures favour production of more sulphur (VI) oxide.

 

Reason

– The volume of gaseous reactants is higher than volume of gaseous products.

– Since reaction involves reduction in volume, theoretically pressure used should be as high as is economically convenient.

 

Note:

– High pressures are however disadvantageous.

 

Reason

– The equipment required to generate high pressure would be expensive to maintain.

– The high pressure could also liquefy sulphur (VI) oxide.

– A pressure slightly above atmospheric pressure is used providing 98% conversion at low maintenance costs.

 

  1. Catalyst

– A catalyst neither takes part in a reaction nor increases the yield.

– It merely speeds up the reaction i.e. reduces the time taken to react at equilibrium of 450oC.

– Main catalyst is vanadium (V) oxide (V2O5).

– It is spread out (in trays) on silica gel to increase the surface area for combination of reactants.

– Dust settled in the catalyst may reduce its effective area.

– Dust may also react with the catalyst, “poison” it and further reduce its efficiency.

– This explains need to purify gases thoroughly.

– An effective catalyst is platinised asbestos.

– However, vanadium (V) oxide is preferred.

 

Reasons:

– It is not easily poisoned by dust particles.

– It is cheaper and readily available.

 

Note:

– The highest yield of sulphur (VI) oxide is obtained at optimum conditions of 4500C and pressure 2-3 atmospheres in presence of vanadium (V) oxide or platinised asbestos.

 

Step 5:            Heat exchanger reactions

– Hot SO3 gas from catalytic chamber is again passed through heat exchanger for cooling after which the cooled gas is taken into an absorption chamber.

 

Step 6: Absorption chamber

– The SO3 is not dissolved (passed) into water directly.

 

Reason

– It dissolves in water exothermically with a loud, hissing sound giving off corrosive vapour resulting into harmful sulphuric acid “sprays” or mist all around.

 

– The SO3 is dissolved in conc. H2SO4 forming oleum (pyrosulphuric acid/ fuming sulphuric acid).

 

Equation:

 

SO3(g) + H2SO4(l)                      H2S2O7(l)

 

– Resultant “Oleum” is then channeled into a dilution chamber.

 

Step 7:  Dilution chamber.

– Oleum is diluted with correct amounts of water to form concentrated sulphuric acid.

 

Equation:

 

H2S2O7(l) + H2O(l)                          2H2SO4(aq)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Summary: flow diagram for the contact process:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pollution control in contact process.

– Main source of pollution is sulphur (IV) oxide.

– In catalyst chamber, SO2 reacts with oxygen forming SO3.

Equation:                V2O5

2SO2(g) + O2(g)                          2SO3(g) + Heat

450oC

– This is a reversible reaction and upto 98% conversion is possible and excess (unreacted) SO2 warmed and released into atmosphere via long chimneys.

– However, SO2 being a pollutant, little or none should be released into atmosphere.

– This is done by scrubbing the gas.

– This involves neutralizing the chimney gas by a solution of Calcium hydroxide forming a salt (calcium sulphite) and water.

 

Equation:

Ca(OH)2(aq) + SO2(g)                   CaSO3(aq) + H2O(l)

 

Note:

– In certain cases, filters are also installed to remove any traces of acid spray or mist form the exhaust gases.

– The unreacted gases (SO2 and SO3) may also be recycled within the process.

Properties of concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid

Physical properties

  1. – Colourless, odourless, oily liquid.
  2. – Very dense; with density 1.84 gcm-3.
  3. – Soluble in water and gives out considerable heat when a solution is formed.
  4. – It is hygroscopic – absorbs atmospheric moisture to become wet.

 

Experiment: To show hygroscopic nature of conc. H2SO4.

(i). Procedure

– A small beaker half full of conc. H2SO4 is weighed.

– Level of acid in beaker is marked to the outside using gummed paper.

– Acid is left exposed to air for a week or so then weighed again and level also noted.

 

(ii). Observations

– There is an increase in weight of acid.

– Level of acid in beaker is now above the paper mark.

 

(iii). Explanations

– The increase in weight and size is due to water absorbed form the air by the conc. sulphuric (VI) acid.

 

Note:

– This explains why sulphuric (VI) acid is used as a drying agent.

 

Chemical properties

 

  1. – It is a dehydrating agent.

Examples:

 

(a). Action on blue hydrated copper (II) sulphate (CuSO4.5H2O) crystals.

 

(i). Procedure

– A few crystals of hydrated CuSO4.5H2O were put in a test tube and enough concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid added, to cover them completely.

 

(ii). Observation:

– Blue copper (II) sulphate pentahydrate crystals turn to white powder of anhydrous CuSO4.

 

Equation

 Conc. H2SO4

 

 

CuSO4.5H2O(s)               CuSO4(s) + 5H2O(l)

(Blue crystals)                                                      (White crystals)

 

Explanations:

– Conc.H2SO4 has a very strong affinity for water and hence removes water of crystallization from crystals hence dehydrating them.

 

 

 

 

 

 

(b). Action on white sugar (C12H22O11)

 

(i). Procedure:

– A tablespoonful of sugar is put in an evaporating dish form a beaker and adequate volume of conc. H2SO4 is added.

 

(ii). Observations:

– Sugar turns form brown then yellow and finally to a charred black mass of carbon.

– A spongy black mass of charcoal (carbon) rises almost filling the dish.

– Steam is also give off and dish becomes very hot since reaction is exothermic.

 

Equation

 Conc. H2SO4

 

 

C12H22O11(s)                       12C(s) + 11H2O(l)

(White crystals)                                       (Black solid)

 

Explanation

– The acid removed from the sugar elements of water (hydrogen and oxygen, ratio 2:1) to form water, leaving behind a black charred mass of carbon.

 

(c). Action on oxalic acid (ethanedioic acid (H2C2O4)

– Conc. H2SO dehydrates oxalic acid on heating to a mixture of carbon (II) oxide and carbon (IV) oxide.

 

 Conc. H2SO4

Equation

 

H2C2O4(s)                         CO(g) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)

 

Note: 

– Conc. H2SO4 acid gives severe skin burns because it removes water and elements of water from skin tissue.

– Should the acid spill on skin, it is washed immediately with plenty of water followed with a solution of sodium hydrogen carbonate.

– Holes appear where the acid spills on clothes for same reason.

 

(d). Action on alcohols (alkanols)

– Conc. sulphuric (VI) acid dehydrates alcohols to corresponding alkenes.

 

Example: dehydration of ethanol to ethene

Equation:

 Conc. H2SO4

 

 

CH3CH2OH(s)                        C2H4(g) + H2O(l)

(Ethanol)                                                        (Ethene)

 

(e). Action on methanoic acid.

– Conc. sulphuric (VI) acid dehydrates methanoic acid to form CO.

 Conc. H2SO4

Equation:

 

HCOOH(s)                       CO(g) + H2O(l)

 

 

  1. Further reactions of conc. H2SO4 as an oxidizing agent.

– Hot concentrated Sulphuric acts as an oxidizing agent in which cases it is reduced to sulphur (IV) oxide and water.

 

Examples:

 

(a). Reaction with metals.

  • Copper

Cu(s) + 2H2SO4(l)                      CuSO4(aq) + SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

 

Note: the copper (II) sulphate formed is white since the conc. H2SO4 further dehydrates the hydrated CuSO4.

 

  • Zinc

Zn(s) + 2H2SO4(l)                      ZnSO4(aq) + SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

                    (Hot acid)

 

Zn(s) +  H2SO4(l)                       ZnSO4(aq) + H2(g)

                    (Cold acid)

 

  • Lead

Pb(s) + 2H2SO4(l)                      PbSO4(aq) + SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

                    (Hot; conc.)                                      (Insoluble)

 

Note: 

– Dilute sulphuric (VI) acid doesn’t  have any action on copper.

Reason:

– Copper is below hydrogen in reactivity series hence cannot displace it from the acid.

 

– This acid (H2SO4) has very little effects on lead, and usually the amount of SO2 liberated is very little.

Reason:

– Formation of an insoluble lead sulphate layer that forms a protective coating on the metal stopping further reaction.

 

(b). Reaction with non-metals.

– Concentrated sulphuric acid oxidizes non-metals such as sulphur and carbon to their respective oxides.

 

Equations:

Ø  With carbon

C(s) + 2H2SO4(l)                        CO2(g) + 2SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

Ø  With sulphur

S(s) + 2H2SO4(l)                      3SO2(aq) +  2H2O(l)

 

  1. It is a less volatile acid; and displaces more volatile acids (refer to lab preparation of HNO3)

 

 

 

 

 

Reactions of dilute sulphuric acid

  1. Reaction with metals

– It reacts with metals above hydrogen in the reactivity series to produce a salt and hydrogen.

– With potassium and sodium, reaction is violent.

 

Equations:

  • With magnesium:

Mg(s) + H2SO4(aq)                     MgSO4(aq) + H2(g)

 

  • With zinc:

Zn(s) + H2SO4(aq)                      ZnSO4(aq) + H2(g)

 

Note:

– Copper is below hydrogen in reactivity series hence can’t displace hydrogen form dilute sulphuric (VI) acid.

 

  1. Reaction with carbonates and hydrogen carbonates

– Dilute H2SO4(aq) reacts with carbonates and hydrogen carbonates to produce a salt, carbon (IV) oxide and water.

 

Equations

  • With sodium carbonate:

Na2CO3(s) + H2SO4(aq)                      Na2SO4(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)

 

  • With calcium hydrogen carbonate:

CaHCO3(s) + H2SO4(aq)                    CaSO4(aq) + CO2(g) + H2O(l)

 

Note:

– Reaction with lead carbonate however stops soon after the reaction.

 

Reason:

– Formation of an insoluble coating of the lead (II) sulphate on the lead (II) carbonate which prevents further contact between acid and carbonate.

– The same logic applies for calcium carbonate.

 

  1. Reaction with oxides and hydroxides

– Reacts to form salt and water.

– However, those metal oxides whose sulphates are insoluble react only for a while.

– Thus reaction between dilute sulphuric (VI) acid and lead (II) oxide stops almost immediately.

– This is due to formation of an insoluble layer of lead (II) sulphate which effectively prevents further contact between acid and oxide.

 

Equations:

  • With magnesium oxide:

MgO(s) + H2SO4(aq)                  MgSO4(aq) + H2O(g)

(White)                                                               (Colourless solution)

 

  • With copper (II) oxide:

CuO(s) + H2SO4(aq)                   CuSO4(aq) + H2O(g)

(Black)                                                               (Blue solution)

  • With sodium hydroxide:

NaOH(s) + H2SO4(aq)                Na2SO4(aq) + 2H2O(g)

(White)                                                               (Colourless solution)

 

  • With lead (II) oxide:

PbO(s) + H2SO4(aq)                   PbSO4(aq) + H2O(g)

(Red)                                                                   (White ppt; reaction stops immediately)

 

Uses of sulphuric (VI) acid

  1. Manufacture of fertilizers.
  2. Processing of metal ores.
  3. Manufacture of detergents.
  4. Manufacture of plastics.
  5. Manufacture of dyes and paints.
  6. Manufacture of lead and accumulators.
  7. Manufacture of polymers.
  8. Manufacture of petroleum (petroleum refinery).
  9. Drying agent in industrial processes.

 

 

Hydrogen sulphide gas

– It is a colourless gas with a characteristic “rotten egg” smell; and is usually given out by rotting cabbage and eggs.

 

Laboratory preparation

 

(i). Apparatus:

    Warm water

 

H2S(g)
Iron (II) sulphide
     Dil. HCl
                                           Anhydrous                       Dry H2S gas

Calcium chloride

    Iron (II) sulphide
Dil HCl
 

 

 

 

Or

(ii). Procedure:

– Dilute hydrochloric acid is poured into Iron (II) sulphide in a round-bottomed flask.

– Resultant gas is passed through U-tube with anhydrous calcium chloride to dry the gas.

– This can also be done with phosphorous (V) oxide.

 

Equation:

FeS(s) + 2HCl(aq)                      H2S(g) + FeCl2(aq)

 

Ionically:

S2-(aq) + H+(aq)                H2S(g)

 

(iii). Collection of gas

– When dry, the gas is collected by downward delivery because it is denser than air.

– When wet is collected over warm water because it is more soluble in cold water.

 

  • Hydrogen sulphide test.

– When a strip of filter paper soaked in aqueous lead (II) ethanoate is put in hydrogen sulphide, the paper turns black or dark brown.

Reason:

– Due to the formation of lead (II) sulphide which is black.

 

Equation

H2S(g) + (CH2COOH)2Pb(aq)                     PbS(s) + 2CH3COOH(aq)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Properties of hydrogen sulphide gas

Physical properties

  1. Colourless and very poisonous gas (similar to hydrogen cyanide)
  2. Has a repulsive smell (similar to that of rotten eggs or decaying cabbages)
  3. Soluble in water giving a weak acid (only slightly ionized)

 

Equation:

H2S(g) + H2O(l)                          H2S(aq)

 

Then:

H2S(aq)                                     H+(aq) + HS(aq)                         2H+(aq) + S2-(aq)

 

– The acid is dibasic hence forms hydrogen sulphides.

 

Equation:

2NaOH(aq) + H2S(g)                         NaHS(aq) + 2H2O(l)

 

Note: 

Potassium hydroxide reacts similarly like sodium hydroxide.

 

Chemical properties

  1. Combustion

– Burns in a blue flame in a limited supply of oxygen (air) forming a yellow deposit of sulphur and steam.

 

Equation:

2H2S(g) + O2(g)                      2SO2(s) + 2H2O(g)

 

– In plentiful supply (excess) of Oxygen (air) it burns with a blue flame forming SO2 and steam.

 

Equation:

2H2S(g) +3O2(g)       2S(s) + 2H2O(g)

 

  1. It is a reducing agent

– It supplies electrons which are accepted by the oxidizing agent and forms sulphur.

 

Ionically:

H2S(aq) + 2H+(aq) + S2-(aq)

 

Then

S2-(aq)                   S(s) + 2e(aq)

 

H2S(aq) + [O]                     S(s) + H2O(l); in terms of addition of oxygen.

 

 

 

 

Examples

(i). With acidified K2Cr2O7 solution (potassium dichromate VI)

 

Equation:

Reduction:

 

 

Cr2O72-(aq) + 3H2S(g) + 8H+(aq)                          2Cr3+(aq) + 7H2O(l) + 3S(s)

(Orange)                                                                                                        (Green)

 

                                                                                                         Oxidation

 

Observation: The orange solution turns green and H2S oxidized to yellow sulphur.

 

(ii). Potassium manganate (VII) (KMnO4)

Equation:

Reduction:

 

 

2MnO4(aq) + 5H2S(g) + 6H+(aq)                         2Mn2+(aq) + 8H2O(l) + 5S(s)

(Purple)                                                                                                         (Colourless)

 

                                                                                                         Oxidation

Observation:

– The Purple solution turns colourless

– Manganate (VII) ions are reduced to manganate (II) ions; H2S oxidized to yellow sulphur.

 

(iii). Action on Iron (III) chloride ions

Equation:

FeCl3(aq) + H2S(g)                                       2FeCl2(aq) + 2HCl(aq) + S(s)

 

Ionically:

Reduction:

 

 

Fe3+(aq) + S2-(g)                                                     Fe2+(aq) + 3S(s)

(Brown)                                                                                                         (Pale green)

 

                                                         Oxidation

 

Observation:

– The brown solution turns pale green;

– The Fe3+(aq) are reduced to Fe2+(aq); while the S2-(aq) are oxidized to yellow sulphur.

 

(iv). Action with Conc. HNO3

Equation:

2HNO3(aq) + H2S(g)                                   2H2O(aq) + 2NO2(aq) + S(s) + Heat

 

Ionically:

Reduction:

 

 

2H+(aq) + 2NO3(aq) + H+(aq) + S2-(aq)                   2H2O(l) + 2NO2(g) + S(s) + Heat

(Colourless solution)                                                                                                              (Brown)          (Yellow)

 

                                                                                                         Oxidation

Observation:

– Evolution of brown fumes; and deposits of a yellow solid;

– HNO3(aq) is reduced to brown NO2(g); while S2-(aq) are oxidized to yellow sulphur;

Note: The solution also contains H2SO4 produced by the reaction:

Reduction

 

 

2HNO3(aq) + H2S(g)                                 H2SO4(aq) + 8NO2(aq) + 4H2O(l) ;

 

 

Oxidation

 

(v). Action of air on H2S

– The gas is dissolved in distilled water in a beaker and exposed to air; after a few days, a white disposal is formed.

 

Equation:

H2S(g) + O2(g)                2H2O(l) + 2S(s)

 

(vi). Action with concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid.

 

Equation

Reduction

 

 

H2SO4(aq) + 3H2S(g)                               4S(s) + 4H2O(l)

 

 

Oxidation

 

(vii). Action with halogen elements

  • Red-brown bromine water

– Red-brown bromine water is reduced forming colourless hydrogen bromide (Hydrobromic acid) and yellow deposits (suspension) of sulphur.

 

Equation:

Reduction

 

 

Br2(aq) + H2S(g)                         2HBr(aq) + S(s)

(Red-brown)                                                       (Colourless)    (Yellow suspension)

 

Oxidation

 

(viii). Action with hydrogen peroxide.

Equation:

Reduction

 

 

H2O2(aq) + H2S(g)                      2H2O(l) + S(s)

(Red-brown)                                                       (Colourless)    (Yellow suspension)

 

Oxidation

 

 

 

 

Preparation of metallic sulphides

– Hydrogen sulphide reacts with metal ions in solution to form precipitates of metal sulphides; majority of which are black in colour.

 

(i). Procedure

– The gas is bubbled through solutions of the following salts: Pb (NO3)2, CuSO4, FeSO4 etc.

 

(ii). Observations and equations

  • Lead ions:

Pb(NO3)2(aq) + H2S(aq)                         PbS(s) + 2HNO3(aq)

(Colourless)                                                                              (Black)

 

Ionically:

Pb2+(aq) + S2-(aq)                        PbS(s)

 

  • Copper (II) ions:

CuSO4(aq) + H2S(aq)                         CuS(s) + H2SO4(aq)

(Blue)                                                                          (Black)

 

Ionically:

Cu2+(aq) + S2-(aq)                       CuS(s)

 

  • Iron (II) ions:

FeSO4(aq) + H2S(aq)                                  FeS(s) + H2SO4(aq)

(Pal green)                                                                                (Black)

 

Ionically:

Fe2+(aq) + S2-(aq)                      FeS(s)

 

  • Zinc ions:

Zn(NO3)2(aq) + H2S(aq)                         ZnS(s) + 2HNO3(aq)

(Colourless)                                                                              (Black)

 

Ionically:

Zn2+(aq) + S2-(aq)                     ZnS(s)

 

Note:

– Most metal sulphides are insoluble in water except those of sodium, potassium and ammonium.

 

 

 

Sulphites

– Are compounds of the sulphite radical (SO32-) and a metallic or ammonium cation

 

Effects of heat

– They decompose on heating, forming SO2;

 

Example:

CuSO3(s)       Heat         CuO(s) + SO2(g)

 

Test for sulphites

 

(i). Procedure

– To 2cm3 of the test solution, ad 2 cm3 of BaCl2 or Ba (NO3)2; i.e. addition of barium ions.

– To the mixture add 2 cm3 of dilute HCl or HNO3.

 

(ii). Observation

– A white precipitate (BaSO3) is formed which dissolves on addition of acid.

– Production of a colourless gas that turns filter paper soaked in acidified orange potassium dichromate (VI) to green.

 

(iii). Explanations

– Only BaSO3; BaCO3 and BaSO4 form white precipitates;

– The precipitates of BaSO3 and BaCO3 dissolve on addition of dilute acids; unlike BaSO4;

– BaSO3 produces SO2(g) as it dissolves on addition of a dilute acid; SO2 turns orange acidified potassium dichromate (VI) to green;

– BaCO3 of the other hand dissolves in dilute acids producing CO2; which has no effect on K2Cr2O7; but forms a white precipitate in lime water;

 

Equations:

  • On addition of Ba2+:

Ba2+(aq) + SO32-(aq)                        BaSO3(s)

(White precipitate)

 

  • On addition of dilute HCl(aq):

BaSO3(s) + 2HCl(aq)                     BaCl2(aq) + SO2(g) + H2O(l)

(White precipitate)                                                                              (Colourless)

 

Ionically:

BaSO3(s) + 2H+(aq)                        Ba2+(aq) + SO2(g) + H2O(l)

 

 

Sulphates

– Are compounds of the sulphate radical (SO42-) and a metallic or ammonium cation.

 

Effects of heat.

– Decompose on heating and liberate SO2 and SO3 or SO3 alone;

– However quite a number of sulphates do not decompose on heating; and thus require very strong heating in order to decompose.

 

Examples:

2FeSO4(s)         Heat       Fe2O3(s) + SO2(g) + SO3(g)

(Pale green)                                      (Brown)            (Colourless gases)

 

CuSO4(s)          Heat       CuO(s) + SO3(g)

(Blue)                                                 (Black)         (Colourless)

Action of acids

Test for sulphates

– To about 2 cm3 of the test solution, 2 cm3 of BaCl2 or Ba (NO3)2 solution is added.

– To the mixture, 2 cm3 of dilute HCl or HNO3 is added.

 

Observation

– A white precipitate is formed when Ba (NO3)2 is added; which is insoluble in excess acid.

 

Explanations.

– Only BaSO3; BaCO3 and BaSO4 form white precipitates;

– The precipitates of BaSO3 and BaCO3 dissolve on addition of dilute acids; unlike BaSO4;

– Thus the white precipitate insoluble in dilute HCl or HNO3 could only be a sulphate; in this case barium sulphate.

 

Equations:

  • On addition of Ba2+:

 

Ba2+(aq) + SO42-(aq)                        BaSO4(s)

                                                                                (white precipitate)

 

  • On addition of dilute acid:

BaSO4(s) + 2HCl(aq)                     BaSO4(s) + 2HCl(aq); i.e. no effect;

(White precipitate)                                                                    (White precipitate)

 

 

 

Pollution by sulphur compounds.

– Main pollutants are sulphur (IV) Oxide and hydrogen sulphide.

 

(a). Sulphur (IV) oxide.

– SO2 is emitted when sulphur-containing fuels are burnt; during extraction of metals like copper and in manufacture of sulphuric (VI) acid.

– SO2 is oxidized to SO3;

– SO3 reacts with water in atmosphere to form sulphuric (VI) acid which comes down as acid rain or acid fog.

Acid rain (fog) has environmental effects:

  • Leaching of minerals in soil;
  • Erosion of stone work on buildings;
  • Corrosion of metallic structures;
  • Irritation of respiratory systems thus worsening respiratory illnesses;
  • Death of plants as a result of defoliation (falling of leaves);
  • Destruction of aquatic life in acidified lakes;
  • Stunted plant growth due to chlorosis;

 

(b). H2S is very poisonous.

 

 

 

 

UNIT 5: CHLORINE AND ITS COMPOUNDS.

Unit Checklist:

  1. About chlorine.
  2. Preparation of chlorine.
  3. Properties of chlorine.
  • Colour and smell
  • Solubility in water
  • Action on litmus paper
  • Bleaching action
  • Action on hot metals
  • Reaction with non-metals
  • Oxidation reactions
  • Reaction with alkalis
  • Effect of sunlight on chlorine water.
  1. Industrial manufacture of chlorine (The mercury cathode cell)
  2. Uses of chlorine and its compounds
  3. Hydrogen chloride gas
  • Preparation
  • Properties
  1. Test for chlorides.
  2. Hydrochloric acid
  • Large scale manufacture
  • Uses of hydrochloric acid
  1. Environmental pollution of chlorine and its compounds

 

Introduction:

– Chlorine is a molecular non-metallic element made up of diatomic molecules.

– Its electron arrangement is 2.8.7 and it belongs to the halogen family.

 

Preparation of chlorine.

Note: It is usually prepared by oxidation of concentrated hydrochloric acid by removal of hydrogen.

 

Equation:

2HCl(aq) + [O]                Cl2(g) + H2O(l)

– The [O] is from a substance containing oxygen.

 

(a). Preparation of chlorine from MnO2 and HCl.

(i). Apparatus:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Conditions:

– Heating;

– Presence of an oxidizing agent; in this case it is manganese (IV) oxide.

 

(iii). Procedure:

– Hydrochloric acid is reacted with manganese (IV) oxide (dropwise);

Equation:

MnO2(s) + 4HCl(aq)     Heat        MnCl2(aq) + 2H2O(l) + Cl2(g)

 

(iv). Explanation:

– Manganese (IV) oxide oxidizes hydrochloric acid by removing hydrogen resulting into chlorine.

– The manganese (IV) oxide is reduced to water and manganese chloride.

– The resultant chlorine gas is passed through a bottle containing water.

Reason:

– To remove hydrogen chloride fumes (gas) which is very soluble in water.

– Next it is passed through concentrated sulphuric acid or anhydrous calcium chloride; to dry the gas.

 

(v). Collection:

(a). Wet chlorine is collected over brine (saturated sodium chloride solution) or hot water.

Reason:

– It does not dissolve in brine and is less soluble in water

 

(b). Dry chlorine is collected by downward delivery (upward displacement of air)

Reason:

– It is denser than air (2.5 times).

Note:

– Chlorine may also be dried by adding calcium chloride to the jar of chlorine.

 

(c). The first bottle must contain water and the second concentrated sulphuric acid.

Reason:

– If the gas is first passed through concentrated sulphuric acid in the first bottle then to the water; it will be made wet again.

 

Properties of chlorine gas.

  1. Colour and smell.

Caution: Chlorine is very poisonous.

– It is a green-yellow gas with an irritating pungent smell that attacks the nose and the lungs.

– It is 2.5 times denser than air, hence can be collected by downward delivery.

 

  1. Solubility in water.

– It is fairly soluble in water forming green-yellow chlorine water.

 

Equation:

Cl2(g) + H2O(l)                           HCl(aq) + HOCl(aq)

 

– Chlorine water is composed of two acids; chloric (I) acid (hypochlorous acid) and hydrochloric acid.

 

  1. Action on litmus paper.

– Moist chlorine turns litmus paper red then bleaches it.

– Dry chlorine turns damp blue litmus paper red then bleaches it.

– Moist chlorine bleaches red litmus paper; dry chlorine bleaches damp red litmus paper.

– Dry chlorine has no effect on dry litmus paper.

Reasons:

(i). In presence of moisture chlorine forms chlorine water which is acidic and hence turns blue litmus paper red.

(ii). Hypochlorous acid in the chlorine water is an oxidizing agent; thus adds oxygen (oxidizes) to the colour of most dyes; hence bleaching it.

 

Equations:

Cl2(g) + H2O(l)                           HCl(aq) + HOCl(aq)

 

 

Acidic solution

Then:

Dye + HOCl(aq)                      HCl(aq) + {Dye + [O]}

Coloured                                                                                              Colourless

 

  1. Bleaching action.

– Moist chlorine bleaches dyes but not printers ink which is made of carbon.

– The colour change is due to oxidation by hypochlorous acid.

 

Equations:

Cl2(g) + H2O(l)                           HCl(aq) + HOCl(aq)

 

 

Acidic solution

Then:

Dye + HOCl(aq)                      HCl(aq) + {Dye + [O]}

Coloured                                                                                            Colourless

  1. Action on a burning splint.

– The gas put out a glowing splint. It does not burn.

 

  1. Action on hot metals.

(a). Preparation of iron (III) chloride.

(i). Apparatus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Precaution.

– Experiment should be done in a fume cupboard or in the open.

Reason:

– Chlorine gas is poisonous and will thus be harmful to the human body.

 

(iii). Procedure:

– Dry chlorine gas is passed over iron wool as per the diagram.

 

(iv). Conditions.

  • Chlorine gas has to be dry (done by the anhydrous calcium chloride in the U-tube)

Reason:

To prevent hydration hence oxidation of iron (which will then form Fe2O3.5H2O) hence preventing reaction between iron and chlorine.

 

  • Iron metal must be hot; and this is done by heating.

Reason:

To provide activation energy i.e. the minimum kinetic energy which the reactants must have to form products.

 

  • Anhydrous calcium chloride.

– In the U-tube; to dry the chlorine gas.

– In the thistle funnel; to prevent atmospheric water vapour (moisture) from getting into the apparatus and hence reacting with iron (III) chloride.

 

(v). Observations:

– Iron metal glows red-hot.

– Red brown fumes (FeCl3(g)) are formed in the combustion tube.

– A black solid (FeCl3(s)) is collected in the flask.

Note:

– Iron (III) chloride cannot be easily collected in the combustion tube.

Reason:

– It sublimes when heated and hence the hotter combustion tube causes it to sublime and its vapour is collected on the cooler parts of the flask.

 

(vi). Reaction equation.

2Fe(s) + 3Cl2(g)                  2FeCl3(g)

 

(vii). Conclusion.

– Iron (III) chloride sublimes on heating; the black solid changes to red-brown fumes on heating.

Equation:

FeCl3(s)                                  FeCl3(g)

(black)                                        (Red-brown)

 

 

(b). Aluminium chloride.

2Al(s) + 3Cl2(g)             2FeCl2(s)

2Al(s) + 3Cl2(g)             Al2Cl6(s)

 

Note:

– Aluminium chloride also sublimes on heating.

Equation:

AlCl3(s)                                  AlCl3(g)

(White)                                        (White)

 

(c). Reaction with burning magnesium.

(i). Procedure:

– Burning magnesium is lowered into a gar jar of chlorine gas.

 

(ii). Observations:

– The magnesium continues to burn with a bright blinding flame;

– Formation of white fumes (MgCl2); which cools into a white powder.

 

(iii). Equation:

Mg(s) + Cl2(g)                  MgCl2(s)

 

– Generally chlorine reacts with most metals when hot top form corresponding chlorides.

Note:

Where a metal forms two chlorides when it reacts with chlorine, the higher chloride is usually formed.

Reason:

The higher chloride is stable. This explains why reactions of chlorine with iron results into iron (III) chloride and not iron (II) chloride.

 

 

  1. Reaction with non-metals.

– It reacts with hot metals; forming covalent molecular compounds.

 

(a). Reaction with phosphorus.

(i). Procedure:

– A piece of warm phosphorus is lowered into a gas jar of chlorine.

 

(ii). Observations:

– Phosphorus begins to smoulder and then ignites spontaneously.

– Evolution of white fumes (PbCl3 and PCl5)

 

(iv). Explanation.

– Chlorine reacts with warm dry phosphorus to form white fumes of phosphorus (III) and (V) chlorides.

 

Equations:

P4(s) + 6Cl2(g)                  4PCl3(s)

(With limited chlorine)

P4(s) + 10Cl2(g)              4PCl5(s)

(With excess chlorine)

 

(b). Reaction with hydrogen.

(i). Conditions:

– Heating or presence of light; since chlorine and hydrogen do not react with each other at room temperature.

 

(ii). Precaution:

– The experiment is performed in a fume chamber (cupboard); since the reaction is explosive;

 

(iii). Procedure:

– Chlorine gas is mixed with hydrogen gas and the mixture heated or exposed to direct light; then aqueous ammonia brought near the mouth of the jar.

 

(iv). Observations:

White fumes at the mouth of the jar.

 

(v). Explanations:

– Chlorine reacts explosively with hydrogen to form hydrogen chloride gas.

Equation:

Cl2(g) + H2(g)    Heat/ Light     2HCl(g).

 

– The hydrogen chloride gas diffuses upwards and reacts with ammonia at the mouth of the test tube to form white fumes of ammonium chloride; NH4Cl.

Equation:

HCl(g) + NH3(g)       NH4Cl(g)

White fumes.

 

  1. Chlorine as an oxidizing agent.

– Chlorine is a strong oxidizing agent and oxidizes many ions, by readily accepting electrons.

– During the process, chlorine itself undergoes reduction.

 

(a). Reaction with hydrogen sulphide gas.

(i). Procedure:

– A gas jar full of chlorine gas is inverted into another containing hydrogen sulphide gas.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Apparatus:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(iii). Observations:

Yellow deposits (of sulphur)

Misty fumes (hydrogen chloride gas)

 

(iv). Explanations:

– Chlorine oxidizes hydrogen sulphide gas to sulphur solid, while itself is reduced to hydrogen chloride gas.

Equation:              Oxidation

 

 

Cl2(g) + H2S(g)               2HCl(g) + S(s)

 

 

Reduction

(v). Conditions:

– At least one of the gases must be moist; they do not react with each other in absence of moisture.

Note:

– In absence of moisture both gases are still in molecular form and hence cannot react; water facilitates their ionization hence ability to react.

 

– If aqueous hydrogen sulphide is used, then sulphur forms as a yellow suspension on the acidic solution.

Equations:

Stoichiometric:

Cl2(g) + H2S(aq)             2HCl(aq) + S(s)

 

Ionic:

Cl2(g) + S2-(g)                 2Cl(g) + S(s)

 

(b). Reaction with sodium sulphite.

Procedure:

– Chlorine gas is bubbled through sodium sulphate in a beaker.

– Resulting solution is then divided into two portions.

– To the first portion, drops of dilute nitric acid are added followed by few drops of barium nitrate solution.

– To the second portion, few drops of lead (II) nitrate are added and the mixture warmed then cooled.

 

(ii). Observations:

1st portion: White precipitate formed indicating presence of SO42-;

 

 

Explanations:

– The white precipitate indicate presence of SO42-; the precipitate is barium sulphate Ba(SO4)2;

– Chlorine oxidizes SO32- in Na2SO3 to SO42- while itself is reduced to chloride ions;

 

Equations:

H2O(l) + Cl2(g) + Na2SO3(aq)                  Na2SO4(aq) + 2HCl(aq)

 

Ionically:

Cl2(g) + SO32-(aq) + H2O(l)                        SO42-(aq) +  2H+(aq) + 2Cl(aq)

 

– On adding barium nitrate (Ba(NO3)2); the Ba2+ ions react with the SO42-  to form insoluble BaSO4; the white precipitate.

 

Ionically;

Ba2+(aq)   +  SO42-(aq)                              BaSO4(s)

(White precipitate)

Note:

– The solution is first acidified (with HNO3) before addition of Ba(NO3)2 to prevent precipitation of BaSO3(s) and BaCO3(s).

 

2nd portion:

Observation:

– Formation of a white precipitate on addition of Pb(NO3)2 solution.

– On warming the white precipitate dissolves then recrystalizes back on cooling.

 

Explanations:

– The white precipitate shows presence of either Cl; SO32- or  SO42-

– However the fact that it dissolves on warming confirms the presence of Cl(aq) and not SO32-(aq) and SO32-(aq)

 

Equation:

Pb2+(aq)   +  Cl(aq)                                     PbCl2(s)

(White precipitate soluble on warming)

 

(c). Reaction with ammonia.

(i). Procedure:

Chlorine gas is bubbled through aqueous ammonia.

 

(ii). Observations:

– Evolution of white fumes.

 

(iii). Explanation.

– Chlorine gas oxidizes ammonia to nitrogen, while is itself reduced to white fumes of ammonium chloride.

 

Equation:              Reduction

 

 

8NH3(g) + 3Cl2(g)                      6NH4Cl(g) + N2(s)

 

 

Oxidation

 

(d). Displacement reactions with other halogens.

(i). Procedure:

– Chlorine is bubbled through aqueous solutions of fluoride, bromide and iodide ions contained in separate test tubes.

 

(ii). Observations and explanations:

  • With fluoride ions.

– No observable change or no reaction; because chlorine is a weaker oxidizing agent than fluorine.

 

  • With bromide ions:

– If potassium bromide was used, the colourless solution turns red-brown.

Reason:

– Chlorine has a higher tendency to gain electrons than bromine.

– It readily oxidizes bromide ions (in KBr) to form potassium chloride and bromine which immediately dissolves to make the solution red-brown.

 

Equation:              Reduction

 

 

2KBr(aq) + Cl2(g)                       2KCl(aq) + Br2(l)

 

 

Oxidation                                         Red brown

Ionically;

2Br(aq) + Cl2(g)                              2Cl(aq) + Br2(l)

 

With iodide ions.

– Using potassium iodide the colourless solution would turn black.

Reason:

– Chlorine has a higher tendency to gain electrons that iodine.

– It readily oxidizes the I (in KI) to form iodine and potassium chloride.

– Iodine solid in the resulting solution makes it black.

 

Equation:          Reduction

 

 

2KI(aq) + Cl2(g)             2KCl(aq) + I2(l) (black)

 

 

Oxidation                                                

Ionically;

2I(aq) + Cl2(g)                    2l(aq) + Br2(l)

 

  1. Reaction with alkalis.

(a). Reaction with sodium hydroxide solution.

(i). Procedure:

– Bubble chlorine slowly through cold dilute sodium hydroxide solution.

– Dip litmus paper.

 

(ii). Observation:

– Litmus paper is bleached; the product has the colour and smell of chlorine.

 

 

(iii). Explanation:

– Chlorine dissolves in sodium hydroxide to form a pale yellow solution of sodium chlorate (I) or sodium hypochlorite (NaClO);

– The sodium chlorate (I) bleaches dyes by oxidation.

Equation:

Cl2(g)+ 2NaOH(l)                      NaCl(aq) + NaClO(aq) + H2O(l)

 

 

Pale yellow solution

Bleaching action of NaClO:

– The NaClO donates oxygen to the dye making it colourless; and thus it bleaches by oxidation.

Equation:

Dye + NaClO(aq)                     NaCl(aq) + {Dye + [O]}

Coloured                                                                                                Colourless

 

Note:

With hot concentrated sodium hydroxide, the chlorine forms sodium chlorate (III); NaClO3.

Equation:

3Cl2(g)+ 6NaOH(l)                          5NaCl(aq) + NaClO3(aq) + 3H2O(l)

 

(b). Reaction with potassium hydroxide

– Follows the trend of sodium.

 

(c). Reaction with slaked lime {Ca(OH)2(s)}

Equation:

Cl2(g)+ Ca(OH)2(l)                        CaOCl2(aq) + 3H2O(l)

Calcium chlorate I

 

Note:

Bleaching powder, CaOCl2 always smells of strongly of chlorine because it reacts with carbon (IV) oxide present in the atmosphere to form chlorine.

Equation:

CaOCl2(s) + CO2(g)                          CaCO3(s) + Cl2(g)

 

  1. Effects of chlorine gas on:

(a). A burning candle.

(i). Procedure:

– A burning candle is lowered into a gas jar of chlorine.

 

(ii). Observations:

– It burns with a small, red and sooty flame.

 

(iii). Explanations:

– Wax (in candles) consists of mainly hydrocarbons.

– The hydrogen of the hydrocarbon reacts with chlorine forming hydrogen chloride while leaving behind carbon.

 

(b). warm turpentine.

(i). Procedure:

– A little turpentine is warmed in a dish and a filter paper soaked (dipped) in it.

– The filter paper is then dropped into a gas jar of chlorine.

(ii). Observation:

– There is a red flash accompanied by a violent action whilst a black cloud of solid particles form.

 

(iii). Conclusion:

– Black cloud of slid is carbon.

– Turpentine (a hydrocarbon) consists of hydrogen and carbon combined together.

– The chlorine combines with hydrogen and leaves the black carbon behind.

 

Equation:

C10H16(l) + 8Cl2(g)                     16HCl(g) + 10C(s)

 

  1. Effects of sunlight on chlorine water.

(i). Procedure:

– Chlorine water is made by dissolving the gas in water.

– A long tube filled with chlorine water is inverted over a beaker containing water.

– It is then exposed to sunlight (bright light) as shown below.

 

(ii). Apparatus:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(iii). Observations:

– After sometime a gas collects in the tube and on applying a glowing splint, the splint is rekindles showing that the gas collected is oxygen.

 

(iv). Explanation:

– Chlorine water has two components.

Equation:

Cl2(g) + H2O(l)                           HCl(aq) + HOCl(aq)

 

– The HOCl being unstable will dissolve on exposure to sunlight, giving out oxygen.

Equation:

2HOCl(aq)                       2HCl(aq) + O2(g) (slow reaction)

 

Overall reaction:

2H2O(l) + 2Cl2(g)                       4HCl(aq) + O2(g)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Industrial manufacture of chlorine (the mercury cathode cell)

The electrolysis of brine

(i). Apparatus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Electrolyte.

– Brine, concentrated sodium chloride solution, NaCl

 

(iii). Electrodes.

Anode: carbon (graphite)

Cathode: Flowing mercury;

 

(iv). Ions present:

NaCl(aq)                       Na+(aq) + Cl(aq)

 

 

H2O(l)                  H+(aq) + OH(aq)

 

(v). Reactions:

Anode:

– Cl and OH migrate to the anode.

– Because of high concentration of Cl(aq), they are discharged in preference to OH ions.

 

Equation:

2Cl(aq)                                     Cl2(g) + 2e

(Green-yellow)

 

Cathode:

– H+(aq) and Na+(aq) migrate to the cathode.

– Because the cathode is made of mercury, Na+(aq) is discharged in preference to H+(aq) ions;

 

Equation:

2Na+(aq) + 2e                         2Na(s)

 

Note:

– Sodium formed at the cathode dissolves in the flowing mercury cathode to form sodium amalgam (Na/Hg).

– Sodium amalgam is reacted with water to form sodium hydroxide and hydrogen.

– Mercury (in the sodium amalgam) remains unreacted.

 

Equation:

2Na/Hg(l) + 2H2O(l)                              2NaOH(aq) + H2(g) + 2Hg(l)

 

– The unreacted mercury is recycled.

 

(vi). Products:

Chlorine gas at the anode.

Hydrogen and sodium hydroxide at the cathode.

 

Uses of chlorine gas and its compounds.

  1. Manufacture of hydrochloric acid.
  2. Used in form of bleaching powder in textile and paper industries.
  3. For sterilization of water for both domestic and industrial use and in swimming pools.
  4. Used in sewage treatment e.g. NaOClO3 solution used in latrines.
  5. Manufacture of plastics (polyvinyl chloride; PVC)
  6. Manufacture of germicides, pesticides and fungicides e.g. DDT and some CFCs.
  7. CFCs are used to manufacture aerosol propellants.
  8. Manufacture of solvents such as trichloromethane and some chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
  9. CFCs are commonly freons are used as refrigerants in fridges and air condition units due to their low boiling points.
  10. Manufacture of chloroform, an aesthetic.

 

Hydrogen chloride gas.

Laboratory preparation of hydrogen chloride gas.

(i). Apparatus:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure:

– Concentrated sulphuric acid is reacted with sodium chloride, and the mixture heated gently.

– Resultant gas is passed through conc. Sulphuric (VI) acid; to dry the gas.

 

(iii). Equation:

H2SO4(l) + NaCl(aq)                              NaHSO4(s) + HCl(g)

 

Ionically;

H+(aq) + Cl(aq)                          HCl(g)

Note:

– The reaction can proceed in the cold, but on large scale HCl(g) is produced by the same reaction but the heating is continued to re hot.

 

Properties of hydrogen chloride gas.

  1. Colourless gas with a strong irritating pungent smell.
  2. Slightly denser than air (1¼ times). This makes it possible to collect the gas by downward delivery.
  3. Very soluble in water; and fumes strongly in moist air forming hydrochloric acid deposits.

 

Diagram:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

– The aqueous solution is known as hydrochloric acid.

– It is almost completely ionized (a strong acid) in aqueous solution.

Equation:

HCl(aq)                    H+(aq) + Cl(aq)

 

– This solution has the usual acidic properties:

Examples:

(i). turns blue litmus red.

(ii). Liberates hydrogen gas with certain metals e.g. zinc, Magnesium, iron etc.

Note:

Hydrochloric acid does not react with metals below hydrogen in the reactivity series.

Equations:

Zn(s) + 2HCl(aq)                        ZnCl2(aq) + H2(g)

Mg(s) + 2HCl(aq)                       MgCl2(aq) + H2(g)

Fe(s) + 2HCl(aq)                        FeCl2(aq) + H2(g)

 

(iii). Neutralizes bases to form salt and water.

Examples:

HCl(aq) + NaOH(aq)                          NaCl(aq) +H2O(l)

2HCl(aq) + CuO(s)                             CuCl2(aq) + H2O(l)

 

(iv). Liberates carbon (IV) oxide from carbonates and hydrogen carbonates.

Examples:

CaCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq)                    CaCl2(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)

ZnCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq)                    ZnCl2(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)

NaHCO3(s) + HCl(aq)                   NaCl(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)

 

 

 

Note:

As the hydrogen chloride gas very soluble in water, the solution must be prepared using a funnel arrangement; to prevent sucking back and increase the surface area for the dissolution of the gas;

 

Diagram: dissolution of hydrogen chloride gas

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Dry hydrogen chloride is NOT particularly reactive at ordinary temperatures, although very reactive metals burn in it to form the chloride and hydrogen gas.

Equation:

2Na(s) + 2HCl(aq)                      2NaCl(s) + H2(g)

 

Metals above hydrogen in the reactivity series react with hydrogen chloride gas when heated.

Note:

If reacted with some metals it forms 2 chlorides e.g. iron where iron (II) and iron (III) chlorides exist.

 

  1. Hydrogen chloride gas forms white fumes of ammonium chloride when reacted with ammonia gas;

Equation:

NH3(g) + HCl(g)                         NH4Cl(s)

 

Note: This is the chemical test for hydrogen chloride gas.

 

  1. Hydrogen chloride is decomposed by oxidizing agents, giving off chlorine.

Examples:

PbO2(s) + 4HCl(g)                      PbCl2(s) + 2H2O(l) + Cl2(g)

MnO2(s) + 4HCl(g)                    MnCl2(s) + 2H2O(l) + Cl2(g)

 

Diagram: reacting hydrogen chloride with an oxidizing agent.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Test for chlorides.

Test 1: Using silver ions:

Procedure:

– To the test solution, add silver ions from silver nitrate.

– Acidify with dilute nitric acid.

 

 

(ii). Observations and inference:

– Formation of a white precipitate shows presence of Cl(aq)

 

(iii). Explanations:

– Only silver carbonate and silver chloride can be formed as white precipitates.

– Silver carbonate is soluble in dilute nitric acid but silver chloride is not.

 

Equations:

– Using Cl from NaCl as the test solution;

NaCl(aq) + AgNO3(aq)               NaNO3(aq) + AgCl(s)

White ppt.

 

Ionically;

Ag+(aq) + Cl(aq)                          Ag(s)

White ppt.

 

Note:

– This precipitate dissolves in excess ammonia.

– The white precipitate of silver chloride turns violet when exposed to light.

 

Test 2: Using lead ions

(i) Procedure:

– To the test solution, add lead ions from lead (II) nitrate, then warm

 

(ii). Observations and inference:

– Formation of a white precipitate that dissolves on warming shows presence of Cl(aq)

 

(iii). Explanations:

– Only lead carbonate, lead sulphate, lead sulphite and lead chloride can be formed as white precipitates.

– Only lead chloride dissolves on warming; unlike the rest which are insoluble even on warming.

 

Equations:

Using Cl from NaCl as the test solution;

2NaCl(aq) + Pb(NO3)2(aq)                     2NaNO3(aq) + PbCl2(s)

White ppt.

Ionically;

Pb2+(aq) + Cl(aq)                       PbCl2(s)

White ppt.

 

 

 

Hydrochloric acid.

Large scale manufacture of hydrochloric acid.

(i). Diagram:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Raw materials:

Hydrogen obtained as a byproduct of petroleum industry; electrolysis of brine or from water by Bosch process;

Chlorine obtained from the electrolysis of brine or as fused calcium chloride.

 

(iii). Procedure:

– A small sample of hydrogen gas is allowed through a jet and burnt in excess chlorine gas.

Equation:

H2(g) + Cl2(g)                 2HCl(g)

 

Precaution: A mixture of equal volumes of hydrogen and chlorine explodes when put in sunlight.

 

– The hydrogen chloride gas formed is dissolved in water over glass beads.

– The glass beads increase the surface area over which absorption takes place.

– Commercial hydrochloric acid is about 35% pure.

– Hydrochloric acid is transported in steel tanks lined inside with rubber.

– If the acid comes into contact with exposed parts of metal or with rust, it forms iron (III) chloride that makes the acid appear yellow.

 

Pollution in an industry manufacturing hydrochloric acid.

(i). Chlorine is poisonous.

(ii). Mixture of hydrogen and oxygen in air is explosive when ignited.

 

Uses of hydrochloric acid.

  1. Sewage treatment.
  2. Treatment of water (chlorination) at the waterworks.
  3. Removing rust from metal e.g. descaling iron before it is galvanized or and other metals before they are electroplated.
  4. Making dyes, drugs and photographic materials like silver chloride on photographic films.

 

 

 

 

Environmental pollution by chlorine and its compounds.

  1. Chlorine may dissolve in rain and fall as acid rain, which has adverse effects on plants and animals, buildings and soil nutrients.
  2. CFCs are non-biodegradable. Over time, they diffuse into the atmosphere breaking down to free chlorine and fluorine atoms. These atoms deplete the ozone layer. Chlorine is thus one of the greenhouse gases.
  3. PVCs are non-biodegradable.
  4. DDT is a pesticide containing chlorine and has a long life span, affecting plants and animal life.

Note: DDT is banned in Kenya; NEMA advises increased use of pyrethroids in mosquito control.

 

ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I

Contents checklist.

 

ORGANIC CHEMISTRY

Definition

– The chemistry of hydrogen carbon chain compounds.

– It the study of carbon compounds except the oxides of carbon i.e.  CO, CO2 and             Carbons.

 

ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I: THE HYDROCARBONS

 

Hydrocarbons

Are compounds of hydrogen and carbon only; and are the simplest organic compounds.

 

Main groups of hydrocarbons

Are classified on the basis of the type of bonds found within the carbon atoms.

  • Alkanes: Are hydrocarbons in which carbon atoms are linked by single covalent bonds.
  • Alkenes: Carbon atoms are held by at least one double bond.
  • Alkynes: Have at least one triple bond between any tow carbon atoms.

 

Saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons

(a). Saturated hydrocarbons

– Are hydrocarbons which the carbon atoms are bonded to the maximum number of other             atoms possible.

– hydrocarbons which don’ react and hence cannot decolourise both Bromine water and acidified potassium manganate (VII).

– They are compounds in which each carbon atom has only single covalent bonds, throughout the structure.

 

(b). Unsaturated hydrocarbons

– Are hydrocarbons which contain at least one double or bond, between any two adjacent carbon atoms.

– The carbon atoms do not have maximum covalency.

– They can decolourise both bromine water and acidified potassium manganate (VII).

 

Examples: All alkenes and Alkynes.

 

Experiment:   To verify saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons.

Procedure:
– 3 to 4 drops of bromine wate are added to about 1 cm3 of the liquid under investigation.

– The mixture is then shaken thoroughly and the observations recorded;

– For gases the gas under investigation is bubbled ito 1 cm3 of bromine water;

– The procedures are then repeated with acidified potassium manganate (VII);

 

Observations:

 

COMPOUND

OBSERVATIONS
With potassium permanganate With Bromine water
Kerosene No observable colour change No colour change
Laboratory gas No observable colour change No observable colour change
Turpentine Purple colour turns colourless Solution is decolourised
Hexane No observable  colour change No observable colour change
Pentene Potassium permanganate is decolourised Solution is decolourised

 

Conclusion

– Kerosene, laboratory gas and hexane are saturate hydrocarbons

– Turpentine and pentane are unsaturated hydrocarbons.

 

Homologous series

– Refers to a group of organic compounds that have the same general formula, whose consecutive members differ by a similar unit, and usually have similar chemical properties.

 

Characteristics of a Homologous series.

(i). Can be represented by a general formula;

(ii). Have similar chemical properties

(iii). Have similar structures and names

(iv). They show a steady gradation of physical properties

(v). Can usually be prepared by similar methods.

 

Structural and molecular formula

  • Molecular formulae

– Simply shows the number and type of elements (atoms) in the compound.

 

  • Structural formula

Shows how the different atoms in the molecules (of a compound) are bonded or joined together.

 

Example:

Methane

Molecular formula CH4;

 

Structural formula

H

H – C – H

H

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Alkanes

Are the simplest hydrocarbons with the general formula; CnH2n + 2 where n = number of carbon atoms in the molecule.

 

Examples:

– For compound with only 1 carbon atom, formula = CH4

– 2 carbon atoms; the formula = C2H6

 

Names and formulas of the first 10 Alkanes

 

Note:

Consecutive members of the alkane series differ by a CH2-unit, hence a homologous series.

 

(a). General  formula

– The Alkanes have a general formula CnH2n+2 where n is the number of carbon atoms in the molecule.

Example:       

When n = 3, (2n + 2) = 8, and the alkane has the formula C3H8 (Propane)

 

(b). Structure

– In all Alkanes the distribution of bonds around each carbon atom is tetrahedral.

 

Example: Methane

 

(c). Homologous series

– The Alkanes differ from each other by a –CH2-.

– Thus methane, CH4 differs from ethane, C2H6 by –CH2-, and ethane in turn differs from             propane C3H8 by – C 2 -.

– They therefore form a homologous series.

 

(d). Functional groups

– A functional group is a part of a compound which has a characteristic set of properties.

– Thus when a bromine atom replaces a hydrogen atom in an alkane, it imparts to the compound new chemical and physical properties.

 

Examples: six important functional groups.

 

(e). Isomerism

– Is a situation whereby two or more compounds have similar molecular formulae but different structural formula.

– Such compounds are called isomers, i.e compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural formula.

 

Examples: For Butane, (C4H10) there are two possible structures.

 

Isomers have different physical and chemical properties.

 

 

 

 

Example: Ethanol and dimethyl ether.

– Molecular formula: both have C2H6O

 

  • Structural formula:

(i). Ethanol                                                                 (ii). Dimethyl ether

 

 

 

 

 

Differences

Ethanol Dimethyl ether
– A liquid of boiling point 78.4oC

– Completely soluble in water

– Reacts with sodium  ethoxide and  liberates hydrogen gas

– A gas at room temperature (B.P – 240C).

– Slightly soluble in water.

– Does not react with sodium metal.

 

(f). Alkyl groups

– Is a group formed by the removal of a hydrogen atom form a hydrocarbon.

– Alkyl groups don’t exist on their own but are always attached to another atom or group.

 

Naming of alkyl groups

– Is done by removing the ending -ane from the parent alkane and replacing it with –yl.

 

Examples

Methane (CH4) gives rise to Methyl -CH3

Ethane (C2H6) gives rise to ethyl, – C2H5 i.e. -CH2CH3

Propane (C3H8) gives rise to Propyl, – C3H7 // -CH2CH2CH3;

 

(g). Nomenclature of Alkanes

– Generally all Alkanes end with the suffix -ane;

– Alkanes can either be straight chain or branched.

 

(i). Straight chain Alkanes

– The names of all Alkanes end with the suffix -ane;

Examples:

Methane, ethane, propane, butane.

 

– With the exception of the first 4 members of the series (i.e. the 4 listed above) the names of Alkanes begin with a Greek prefix indicating the number of carbon atoms in the main chain.

Examples: – Pentane – 5 carbon atoms

Hexane – 6 carbon atoms.

 

(ii). Branched Alkanes

The naming of branched chain Alkanes is based on the following rules:-

  1. The largest continuous chain of carbon atoms in the molecule is used to deduce the parent name of the compound.
  2. The carbon atoms of this chain are numbered such that the branching // substituents are attached to the carbon atom bearing the lowest number.
  3. The substituent // branch is named e.g. methyl, ethyl etc and the name of the compound written as one word.

 

Examples

Further examples

H   H    H                                         CH2CH2CHCH2CH3

│   │    │                                         │           │

H – C – C – C – H                                   CH3       CH2

│                                                       │

H – C – H                                                 CH3

│                                                     3-ethylhexane;

H

2-methylpropane;

 

Further examples.

  1. CH3CH2CH2CH3

CH3

3-methylpentane;

 

  1. CH3

H3C – C – CH3

CH3

2, 2-dimethylpropane;

 

Note: refer to course books and draw as many examples as possible.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Draw the structural isomers of:

  1. Butane.

 

  1. Pentane;

 

  1. Hexane;

 

(f). Occurrence of Alkanes

– There are 3 known natural sources:

(i). Natural gas: this consists of mainly of methane;

 

(ii). Crude oil:

– Consists of a mixture of many Alkanes

– It can be separated into its components by fractional distillation.

Reason:

– The different components have different boiling points.

 

(iii). Biogas: This contains about 60-75% of methane gas/marshy gas.

 

Separation of the components of crude oil.

(i). Apparatus

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure

– The apparatus is arranged as shown above.

– The first distillate appears at about 120oC and is collected, the of 40oC intervals thereafter until the temperatures reach 350oC.

 

(iii). Observations and explanations

– This method of separation is called fractional distillation, and depends on the fact that the various components of the mixture have different boiling points.

– The various fractions vary in properties as explained below.

 

(a). Appearance

– Intensity of the colour increases with increase in boiling point.

– Boiling point increases with increasing number of carbon atoms.

Reason:         

– The higher the number of carbon atoms, the higher the number of covalent bonds.

– Thus the first fraction to be distilled (lab gas) is colourless while the last           distillates (between) is dark black in colour.

 

(b). Viscosity

Increases with increasing boiling point;

– The fractions with low boiling points are less viscous while the fraction with the highest boiling point is semi-solid;

 

(c). Inflammability:

– Decreases with increasing boiling points.

– The gaseous fractions, with least boiling points readily catches fire // burn, while the semi-solid fractions with very high boiling points are almost non-combustible.

 

Note:  Some Hydrocarbons are found in more than one fraction of crude oil and more advanced chemical methods are necessary for complete separation.

 

Uses of the various fractions of crude oil.

No. f carbon atom per molecule Fractions Uses
1-4 Gases Laboratory gases and gas cookers
5-12 Petrol Fuel in petrol engines
9-16 Kerosene (paraffin) Fuel for jet engines (aeroplanes) and domestic uses
15-18 Light diesel oils Fuel for heavy diesel engines e.g. for ships
18-25 Diesel oils Fuel for diesel engines
20-70 Lubricating oils Used for smooth running of engine parts
>70 Bitumen Road tarmacking

 

Changes // gradation of physical properties across the alkane homologous series

 

Name of alkane Formula State of room temperature (208K) M.P (K) B.P (K) Density

(g cm-3)

Solubility Solubility
Methane

Ethane

Propane

Butane

Pentane

Hexane

Heptane

Octane;

Nonane

Decane

CH4

C2H6

C3H8

C4H10

C5H12

C6H14

C7H16

C8H10

C9H20

C10H22

 

Gaseous

 

Liquid

 

 

90

91

85

138

143

178

 

 

 

243

112

184

231

273

309

342

447

0.424

0.546

0.582

0.579

0.626

0.659

0.730

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preparation and chemical properties of Alkanes

Note:

– Alkanes, like any other Homologous series have similar chemical properties.

– Generally any alkane can be represented form the reaction represented by the following equation:

CnH2n + 1COONa + NaOH(aq) → CnH2n +2 + Na2CO3(aq);

 

Thus;

– Methane can be prepared form sodium ethanoate (CH3COONa)

– Ethane can be prepared form sodium propanoate (CH3CH2COONa)

– Propane can be prepared form sodium Butanoate (CH3CH2CH2COONa)

Laboratory Preparation of methane

(i). Apparatus

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(ii). Procedure

– About 5g of odium ethanoate and an equal mass of soda lime is put in a hard glass test tube, upon mixing them thoroughly in a mortar.

– The mixture is heated thoroughly in the test-tube.

 

(iii). Observation

– A colourless gas collects over water

Reasons:

– Methane does not react with and is insoluble in water.

 

Equation

CH3COONa + NaOH(s) → CH4(g) + Na2CO3(aq)

Sodium ethanoate         sodalime            Methane       Sodium carbonate

 

Physical properties of methane

  1. It is a non-poisonous, colourless gas.
  2. It is slightly soluble in water, but quite soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and ether.
  3. II is less denser than air and when cooled under pressure, it liquefies.

 

Chemical properties

  1. Burning

– It is flammable and burns in excess air // oxygen with a pale blue non-luminous flame to give carbon (IV) oxide ad water vapour.

Equation:

CH4(g) + 2O2(g) → CO2(g) + 2H2O(g)

 

Note:  In a limited supply of air, the flame is luminous.

Reason:

– This is due to incomplete combustion of the methane.

– A mixture of methane and air explodes violently when ignited if the volume ratio is approximately 1:10 and this is often the cause of fatal explosions in coal mines.

 

  1. Reaction with Bromine water and acidified potassium permanganate

– When methane is bubbled through bromine water the red brown colour of bromine persists; and when bubbled through acidified potassium manganate (VII) solution; the purple colour of the solution remains;

– Thus it has no effect on either bromine water or acidified potassium permanganate.

Reason: It is a saturated hydrocarbon.

 

  1. Substitution reactions

– A substitution reaction is one in which one atom replaces another atom in a molecule.

 

Example: The substitution of Bromine in methane.

Procedure:

– A sample of Methane (CH4) is placed in a boiling tube and to it is added some bromine gas.

– The tube is stoppered, and the mixture shaken, then allowed to stand and exposed to ultra-violet lamp.

 

Observations

– The red colour of Bromine begins to fade, and the pungent smell of hydrogen bromide (HBr) gas is detectable when the stopper is removed.

– A moist blue litmus paper also turns red on dipping into the resultant mixture.

Equation                                                                                                                                                                CH4(g) + Br2(g) → CH3Br(g) + HBr(g)

Explanation                                                                                                                                                                      – For a chemical reaction to occur, bonds must be broken.                                                                                       – The light energy (V.V. light) splits the Bromine molecule into free atoms, which are very reactive species.                                                                                                                                                                               – Similarly the energy breaks the weaker carbon – hydrogen bonds, and not the stronger carbon – carbon bonds.                                                                                                                                                                                  – The free bromine atoms can then substitute (replace one of the hydrogen atoms of methane, resulting unto bromomethane and hydrogen bromide gas.

Note:  This process can be repeated until all hydrogen atoms in CH4 are replaced.

Write all the equations to show the stepwise substitution of all hydrogen atoms in methane.

– The substitution reactions can also occur with chlorine, forming chloremethane dichloromethane, trichloromethane (chloroform) and tetrachloromethane (carbon tetrachloride) respectively.

Equations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Uses of methane                                                                                                                                                    – It is used as a fuel                                                                                                                                                     – Used in the manufacture of carbon black which is used in printers ink and paints.                                                         – Used in the manufacture of methanol, methanal, chloromethane and ammonia.

Cracking of Alkanes                                                                                                                                                 – Is the breaking of large alkane molecules into smaller Alkanes, alkenes and often hydrogen.                                  It occurs under elevated temperatures of about 400-700oC

Equation

Example: Cracking of propane

 

  1. Alkenes

– Are hydrocarbons with at least one carbon-carbon double bond, and have the general formula CnH2n.

– They thus form a homologous series – with the simplest member behind ethane.

 

Names and formulae of the first six alkenes.

 

Name of alkene Formula
Ethene

Propane

Pbut-l-ene

Pent-lene

Hex-tene

 

 

 

NOMENCLATURE OF ALKENES

 

Rules

  1. The parent molecule is the longest carbon chain; and its prefix is followed by the suffix –ene.
  2. The carbon atoms in the chain are numbered such that the carbon atoms joined by the double bonds get the lowest possible numbers.
  3. The position of the substituent groups is indicated by showing the position of the carbon atom to which they are attached.
  4. In case of 2 double bonds in an alkene  molecule, the carbon atom to which each double bond is attached must be identified.

 

Examples

 

Questions:      For each of the following alkenes, draw the structural formula

 

  1. Hex- l – ene
  2. Prop-l-ene
  • Hex-2-ene

 

  1. Give the IUPAC names for:

 

Note:  Branched alkenes:

 

Event for branched alkenes, the numbering of the longest carbon chain is done such that the carbon atoms joined by the double bonds gets the smallest numbers possible.

 

 

 

 

Isomerism in alkenes

  • Alkenes show two types of isomerism:-
  1. Branching isomerism
  2. Positional isomerism

 

  1. i) Branching isomerism

Occurs when a substitutent groups is attached to one of the carbon atoms in the largest             chain containing the double bond.

 

Positional isomerism; in alkenes

 

Is a situation whereby two or more unsaturated alkenes have same molecular formular but different structural formula; due to alteration of the position of the double bond.

 

 

 

Question:       Draw all the possible  isomers of Hexene , resulting from positional and                           branching isomerism.

 

Gradation of physical properties of Alkenes

 

Name of alkene Formula (MP0C) B.P (0) Density g/cm3 solubility
Ethene

Propene

But-l-ene

Pent-l-ene

Hex-l-ene

  -169

-189

-185

-138

-98

-104

–47.7

-6.2

-3.0

-98

0.640

0.674

 

 

Note:   the double bond is the reactive site in alkenes

 

Preparation and chemical properties of Ethene

 

  1. i) Apparatus

 

 

  1. Procedure

A mixture of ethanol and concentrated sulfuric acid in the ratio 1:2 respectively  are heated in a flask to a temp. of 1600C – 1800C.

 

  • Observation

A colourless gas results; and is collected over water.

 

Reasons:         Its insoluble, unreactive and lighter than water.

 

  1. Equation

 

  1. Explanation

 

At 1600C – 1800C the conc. H2SO4 dehydrates the ethanol, removing a water molecule form it and the remaining C and H atoms  rearrange and combine to form Ethene which is collected as  colourless gas.

 

Note:  At temperature  below 1400C, a different  compound called ether is predominantly              formed.

 

Ethene  can also be prepared by passing hot aluminum  oxide over ethanol.  The later of which acts as a catalyst i.e.

 

Reactions of ethene/chemical properties

 

  1. Burning/combustion

Just like an alkenes and alkanes, ethene  burn in air, producing carbon dioxide and large quantities of heat.

 

Equation:

 

Caution:         Mixtures of air and ethene  can be explosive and must be handled                         very carefully.

 

  1. Additional reactions:

Is a reaction in which are molecule adds to another to form  a single product occur              in alkenes due to presence of a double bond.

 

  1. With oxidizing agents
  2. i) Reaction with acidified potassium permanganate.

Procedure:      Ethene is bubbled into a test tube containing acidified potassium                                       permanganate.

Observation:   The purple   colour  of the solution disappears.

Explanation:  Ethene reduces the potassium permanganate.

The  permanganate ion is reduced to Manganese (II) ion and water.

 

Equation

 

Note:   The net effect of the above reaction is the addition of two –OH groups to                                     the double bond forming ethan-1, 2-dio(ethylene glycol).

In cold countries ethylene glycol is used as an antifreeze in car radiators.

 

  1. Reaction with acidified potassium chromate (VI) (K2Cr2O7)

 

  1. Halogenations is the addition of halogen atoms across a double bond.
  2. i) Reaction with Bromine Br2(g)

 

Procedure:     Ethene is mixed with Bromine liquid/gas

Observation:  The reddish  brown bromine gas is decoloursed/becomes  colourless.

Explanation:   Bromine is decoloursed due to the addition of Bromine  atoms to the twocarbon atoms f the double bond forming 1.2 dibromethane.

 

  1. ii) Reaction with chlorine

The Chlorine  (greenish yellow) also gets decoloursied due the addition of its             atoms on the double bond.

 

 

Note: Alkenes react with and decolourise halogens and potassium permanganate  by             additional  reaction at room temperature and pressure.

 

The reaction site is the double bond  and hence/all alkenes will react in a similar             manner.

Example; Butene and Bromine

 

 

iii)       Reaction with Bromine water

Bromine  is dissolved in water and reacted with ethene.

 

Equation:

 

Further examples of additional reactions

 

  1. Addition of hydrogen halides

 

  1. With hydrobromic acid; HBr (aq)

 

With  sulphuric acid

 

  1. Addition of Ethene  with sulphuric acid

 

Note:  When ethylhydrogen sulphate is hydrolysed, ethanol is formed.

 

In this reaction, water is added to ehylhydrogen sulphate and the mixture warmed.

 

  1. Ethene with Hydrogen i.e. Hydrogenation.

 

Is commonly termed hydrogenation though just a typical addition reaction.

 

Ethene  is reacted with hydrogen, under special conditions.

 

Conditions;     moderate temperature and pressure.

Nickel catalyst/palladure catalyst.

 

Equation:

 

Application:    it is used industrially in the conversion f various oils into fats e.g. in the preparation of Margarine.

 

  1. Polymerization reactions.

Also called self-addition reactions

Alkanes have the ability to link together (polymerise) to though the double bond to give a molecule of larger molecular mass (polymers)

 

Polymers:       Are  very large molecules formed when 2 or more (smaller) molecules link                         together  to form a larger unit.

Polymers have properties different form those of the original constituent manners.

 

Examples:      Polymerisation of ethene

 

  1. i) Conditions
  • High temperatures of about 2000C
  • High/elevated pressures of approximately 1000 atmospheres
  • A trace of oxygen catalyst.

 

  1. ii) Procedure: Ethene is heated at 2000C and 1000 atm. Pressure over  a catalyst.

 

iii)        Observation:  Sticky white substance  which hardens  on cooling  is formed.                                            This solid is called  polythene, commonly reffered to as polythene.

 

  1. Equation:

 

 

Generally

 

Uses of polythene

 

  1. Used for the manufacture of many domestic articles (bowls, buckets, water cans, and cold water pipes) e.t.c.

 

Note:  Polythene pipes have a great advantage over metal pipes as they can be             welded quickly and do not burst in frosty weather.

 

  1. Manufacture of reagent bottles, droppers, stoppers etc. since polythene is unaffected by alkalis and acids.

 

Test for Alkenes

 

–           They decolourise bromine water, acidified potassium manganate VII.

i.e. These addition reactions show the presence of a double bond.

 

Uses of Alkenes

 

  1. Manufacture of plastics, through polymerization.
  2. Manufacture of ethanol; through hydrolysis reactions
  3. Ripening of fruits.
  4. Manufacture of ethan – 1, 2-diol(glyco) which is used as a coolant.

 

           

  1. ALYKYNES

 

Are unsaturated hydrocarbons which form a homologous series of a general formula CnH2n-2, where n = 2 or more.

 

The functional groups of the alkyne series is the carbon – carbon tripple bond.

 

They also undergo addition reactions because of High unsaturation and may be polymerised like the alkenes.

 

Examples

 

Name Molecular formula Structural formular
Ethyne

Propyne

But-l-yne

Pent-l-yne

C2H2

C3H4

C4H6

C5H8

CH     CH

CH3C     CH

CH3CH2C       CH

CH3(CH2)2C     CH

 

Nomenclature of alkynes

 

  • The largest chain with the tripple carbon – carbon bond forms  the parent molecule.
  • Numbering of the carbon atoms is done such that the carbon atom with the tripple bond acquires the lowest possible number.
  • The substituent branch if any is named, and the compound written as a single word.

Examples

 

 

  1. Draw the structures of the following hydrocarbons
  2. 2,2 dimethyl-but-2-yne
  3. propyne
  • 4,4 diethyl-hex-2-yne.

 

Isomerism in alkynes

 

  1. Positional isomerism

Isomerism commonly occurs in alkynes due to the fact that the  position of the tripple bond can be altered.

 

Such isomers, as usual have same molecular but different structural  formulas.

 

Examples

  1. i) Isomers of Butyne

 

 

  1. Branching isomerism – occurs when alkyl group is present in the molecule.

 

  1. Others

 

Gradation in physical properties of Alkynes

 

Name of Alkyne Formula M.P/0C B.P/0C Density/gcm-3
Ethyne

Propyne

Butyne

Pent-l-yne

Hex-l-yne

HC    CH

CH3    CH

CH3CH2CC    CH

CH3CH2CH2C   CH

CH3(CH2)3C  CH

-8108

-103

-122

-90

-132

-83.6

-23.2

8.1

39.3

71

0.695

0.716

 

 

Preparation and chemical properties of Ethyne.

 

  1. Preparation
  2. i) Apparatus

 

 

 

  1. ii) Procedure:

Water is dripped over calcium carbide and is collected over water.

Reasons for over-water collection:-

  • It’s insoluble in water
  • Unreactive and lighter than water.

 

  • Conditions
  • Room temperature

 

  1. Equation

 

 

  1. Properties of Ethyne
  2. i) Physical
  • Colourless gas, with a sweet smell when pure.
  • Insoluble in water and can thus be collected over water.
  • Solubility is higher in non- solvents    *  Draw table on physical properties.
  1. Chemical properties
  • Combustion

Ethyne burns with a luminous and very sooty  flame; due to the high percentage of carbon content, some of which remains unburnt.

  • In excess air, the products are carbon dioxide and water.

 

Equation

 

In limited air, they undergoes incomplete combustion, forming a mixture of carbon and carbon dioxide.

 

Note:  A sooty flame observed when a hydrocarbon burns in air is an indication of             unsaturation in the hydrocarbon.

 

Addition reactions

During  addition reactions of alkynes (Ethyne) the tripple bond breaks in stages;

 

  1. Reaction with hydrogen (Hydrogenation)

 

 

Note:  This reaction occurs under special conditions i.e. –  Presence of a Nickel catalyst

Temperatures about 2000C

 

  1. Reaction with halogens
  2. i) Reaction with chlorine

 

 

  1. With Bromine gas
  • The red-brown bromine vapour is decoloursed.

 

Equations

 

Note:   In this reaction Cl2 should be diluted with an inert.

 

Reason:           Pure Cl2 reacts explosively with Ethyne, forming carbon and HCl.

 

  1. Reaction with Bromine liquid

When  Ethyne reacts with Bromine water, the reddish – brown  colour of bromine water disappears.

 

Reason:          The Bromine adds to the carbon  tripple bond leading to the      …… of                              1;1,2,2 tetrabromoethane.

 

Equation

 

E; Ethyne  also decolorizes acidified potassium permanganate.

 

Note:  Decolourization of acidified potassium  permanganate  and bromine water are             tests for unsaturated hydrocarbons (alkanes and alkynes)

 

  1. Reaction with hydrogen halides

 

Uses of Ethyne

 

  1. Industrial manufacture of compounds like adhesives and plastics
  2. It’s used in the oxy-acetylene flame which is used for welding and cutting metals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCHEMES OF WORK FORM TWO ENGLISH TERM 1-3

 

 
SCHEME OF WORK                     FORM    TWO   ENGLISH                TERM  ONE  20………….  NAME………………………….
   
WK NO
L/
NO
 
TOPIC
 
SUBTOPIC
LESSON / SPECIFIC
OBJECTIVES
TEACHING / LEARNING
ACTIVITIES
MATERIALS
  /
RESOURCES
REF.
     REMARKS  
1 1,

 

 

 

 

2

Reading. Comprehension.

Reading & answering questions.

 

 

Review of Questions.

By the end of the lesson, the learner should be able to:

Answer questions derived from a passage.

Infer meanings of new words as used in the passage.

 

 

 

Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Answering questions.

 

 

 

Standard dictionary.

 

INTEGRATED

ENGLISH,

NEW EDITION

BK. II.

 

 PP 2-4

   
3 Grammar. Collective nouns. Identify collective nouns in given sentences.

Assign the correct collective noun to a group of entities.

Answering questions;

Oral exercise on collective nouns;

Written exercises.

Supplementary references. PP 5-6    
4

 

 

5

Grammar. Phrasal quantifiers.

 

Phrasal quantifiers with uncountable nouns.

Identify phrasal quantifiers in given sentences.

Use phrasal quantifiers with uncountable nouns, countable nouns and abstract nouns correctly.

 

Q/A to review word gratifiers;

Exposition of phrasal quantifiers;

Questions and answers;

Exercises & review.

  PP 5-7    
6 Listening and speaking. Idioms. Define an idiom.

 

Give meanings of some common English idioms.

Brainstorming;

Give examples of common idioms;

Group exercises;

Written exercise.

 

Supplementary references. PP  8-9    
2 1 Listening and speaking. Telephone etiquette. Observe various rules when receiving a personal or business call, making a call and ending a call.

 

Guided group work, discussion and simulations / presentations.   PP 10-12    
2 Grammar. Pronouns. Identify singular and plural forms of personal pronouns. Q/A to review personal pronouns; singular and plural forms of pronouns and the three persons.

Oral exercise.

Written exercise.

 

  PP 13-16    
3 Grammar. Indefinite pronouns. List down examples of indefinite pronouns.

Use indefinite pronouns in singular and plural forms.

 

Oral and written exercises;

Exercise review.

  P 16    
4 Writing. Skimming a text. Skim through a text and give a suitable title for the text.

Skim through a text and decide what sort of text it is and its intended function.

 

Guided practice & supervision;

Reading;

Listening;

Writing.

Supplementary references. PP 17-22    
5 Functional writing. Text messaging.

(sms)

Write a text message briefly and precisely.

Translate a text message and rewrite it in the correct English with the appropriate punctuation.

 

Guided activity;

Group competitions;

Reading;

Listening;

Writing.

 

Mobile phones. PP 22-24    
6 Functional writing. Sending a text message. Send a text message on a mobile phone. Guided practical activity;

Writing and sending a text message;

Replying to text message.

 

Mobile phones;

Sample text messages.

P 24    
3 1 Grammar. Punctuation:

 

The comma.

State uses of commas in sentences.

Punctuate sentences with commas and other punctuation marks.

List of sentences showing uses of the comma.

Oral and written exercises.

 

  PP 26-29    
2 Reading. Reading comprehension. Read a passage and answer questions derived from it in complete sentences.

 

Infer meanings of new words as used in the passage.

Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions.

Supplementary references, dictionary. PP 29-31    
3 Grammar. The future time (1). Express planned events using the words “going to”. Examples of sentences both in the affirmative and the negative;

 

Oral exercise.

  PP 31-32    
4 Grammar. The future time. Use present simple tense to anticipate events in a timetable, programme, etc. List down events in a given program using present simple tense;

Exercises.

Timetable / programme of an event. PP 33-34    
5 Grammar. The future time. Indicate future arrangements using the present continuous tense and using the verb ”to be”.

 

Consider given examples.

 

Oral exercise.

  PP 35-37    
6 Writing. Personal writing. Make lists of related items.

Draft a plan of action in tabular form.

Group work.

 

Making lists as guided, and then comparing them.

 

Supplementary references. PP 37-38    
4 1,

 

 

2

Listening and speaking. Listening & speaking.

 

The sound /s/ and

/z /.

Distinguish the sound /s/ from the sound /z/ and pronounce them correctly.

 

Oral exercise.

Pronunciation of words;

Correcting wrong pronunciations.

Supplementary references. PP 39-42    
3 Listening comprehension. Listening comprehension. Answer questions based on a passage that has been read out. Teacher reads a text to the class.

Students answer questions derived from the text.

Review of the questions.

 

 

Supplementary references. PP 42-43    
4

 

 

5

 

 

Grammar. The future time (2).

 

 

Contracted forms.

State the functions of will and shall in given sentences.

Use the contracted forms ‘ll, won’t, shan’t appropriately.

 

 

Examples of sentences showing functions of shall and will.

 

Oral & written exercises.

  PP 43-45    
6 Poetry. Haiku. Define the term haiku.

Outline features of a haiku.

Exposition, brief discussion. Supplementary references. PP 45-47    
5 1 Reading. Reading comprehension. Read a passage and answer questions derived from it in complete sentences.

Infer meanings of new words as used in the passage.

 

 

Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions.

 

 

Standard dictionary.

PP 48-49    
2 Writing. Fact and fiction. Distinguish an actual fact from fiction, and a fact from an individual’s opinion.

 

 

Group work:

Establish factual truth /opinion in statements.

Brief discussion.

Supplementary references. PP 49-50    
5 3,

 

 

 

4

Grammar. The verb “to do”.

-positive statements / interrogatives.

 

-negative statements / interrogatives.

 

Use the verb “to do” in positive and

negative statements & interrogatives.

Q/A: different forms of the verb “to do .”

Oral exercise.

Written exercise.

  PP 51-53    
5,6 Listening and speaking.

 

 

Non-verbal listening skills. Identify good and bad listening skills.

 

Guided group activities;

Simulation.

  PP 53-55    
6 1,2 Oral literature. Myths. Define the term myth.

Compare and contrast given myths.

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions.

Supplementary references. PP 56-58    
3,4 Listening and speaking. Public speaking. Prepare, review, organize and present a given topic. Reading;

Speaking;

Listening.

 

  PP 59-61    
5

 

 

6

Grammar. Possessives.

–        Singular.

 

–        Plural.

 

 

 

Show possession in both singular and plural forms.

Rewrite sentences using possessive form of a noun / pronoun, putting an apostrophe where appropriate.

 

Oral exercise: position of the apostrophe.

 

Written exercises.

 

Review the exercise.

  PP 62-64    
7 1 Grammar. Interjections. Identify interjections used in a written text.

List down interjections of expressing shock, disapproval, pain or surprise.

Read paragraphs and Identify the interjections.

Teacher exposes other interjections.

Assignment: common interjections.

 

  PP 65-66    
2,

 

 

3

Reading. Reading comprehension. Read a passage and answer questions derived from it in complete sentences.

Infer meanings of new words as used in the passage.

 

Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions.

 

 

Standard dictionary.

PP 66-68    
4 Grammar. Present perfect tense. Use present perfect tense correctly.

Rewrite sentences in the present perfect tense.

Oral exercise:

Use of has, have, recently, so far, yet, etc.

Written exercise.

  PP 68-71    
5 Grammar. Quotation marks (inverted commas). Punctuate sentences with quotation marks. Brainstorming, oral & written exercises.   PP 71-72    
6 TEST          
8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1 Writing. Advertisements. Identify features of advertisements.

Interpret advertisements.

Examine an actual advertisement.

 

Brief discussion.

 

Posters, newspaper cutting, PP 73-74    
2 Grammar.

 

Present perfect continuous tense. Rewrite sentences using present perfect forms of verbs. Teacher gives examples of verbs in the present perfect continuous tense.

Students give further examples.

Written exercise.

  PP 75-76    
3 Reading. Listening comprehension. Carry out a task based upon a passage that has been read out. Listening & writing an exercise. Chart: family tree. PP 77-78    
4,

 

 

 

 

 

5

Writing. Paragraphing a text. Explain importance of paragraphing a text.

Identify the topic sentence for a given paragraph.

Paragraph a text written in continuous prose.

 

Reading two texts: one in continuous prose and the other paragraphed.

Exposition: meaning of the term “topic sentence”.

Supervised exercise & review of the exercise.

Newspaper articles. PP 78-80    
6,

 

 

 

 

Reading. Reading comprehension.

 

Read a passage and answer questions derived from it in complete sentences.

Infer meanings of words as used in the passage.

 

Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions;

Look up new words.

 

Supplementary references.

Standard dictionary.

PP 81-83    
9 1,2

 

Grammar. Punctuation:

 

The hyphen.

Give examples of hyphenated words.

 

Explain uses of hyphens.

Q/A: differentiating hyphenated words from compound words.

Listening;

Writing.

Supplementary references. PP 84-87    
3 Writing. Reading skills;

Scanning a text.

Scan a story extract and use it to answer given questions. Guided practical activity.

Silent reading;

Writing;

Listening;

Answering questions.

  PP 87-90    
4 ,5 Writing. Arranging paragraphs in order. Identify words and expressions that may be used to start specified paragraphs.

 

Probing questions, detailed discussion;

Writing.

Supplementary references. PP 91-92    
6 Grammar. Auxiliary verbs. Identify auxiliary verbs and use them in different ways. Discussion: auxiliary & main verbs.

Oral and written exercises.

 

 

  PP 93-95    
10 1,2 Reading & speaking. Reading & speaking. Carry out a reading and speaking activity. Guided practical activity.

Reading;

Listening;

Writing;

Answering questions.

Supplementary references. PP 96-97    
3,

 

 

4

Grammar. Compound nouns. Identify compound nouns.

 

Form compound nouns.

Q/A: review nouns, hyphenated words, adjectives.

Oral & written exercises.

Forming compound nouns.

 

  PP 97-100    
5-6 Grammar. Vocabulary. Compiling lists of words with similar endings. Guided oral and written exercises;

Group activities.

  P 100    
11 1,2 Oral literature. Poetry:

Superstition.

Read a poem in groups or individually with the right pace.

 

Discussion;

Listening;

Writing.

Supplementary references. PP 103-105    
3 Writing. Linking words in a paragraph. Practise linking words in a paragraph. Discussion;

Listening;

Writing.

  P 105    
4,5 Grammar. The order of adjectives. Arrange adjectives used in sentences in the correct order. Discussion; listening and writing. Supplementary references. PP 106-108    
6 Functional writing. Personal journal. Define a personal journal.

Identify features of a personal journal.

Reading an extract from a journal.

Discussion on people, places, and world events in written journals.

 

Personal journal. P 109    
12-13   END  OF  TERM  ASSESSMENT TEST    

 

 

 

 

 

  SCHEME OF WORK                     FORM    TWO  ENGLISH                TERM TWO  20………….  NAME………………………….    
WK NO
L/
NO
 
TOPIC
 
SUBTOPIC
LESSON / SPECIFIC
OBJECTIVES
TEACHING / LEARNING
ACTIVITIES
MATERIALS          /
RESOURCES
REF.
     REM.  
1 1 Listening & speaking.

 

Hissing sounds. Pronounce the hissing sounds /s/ and /z/ correctly.

 

Identify letters that produce the two hissing sounds.

Practise pronunciation of given words.

Correct wrong pronunciation of given words.

 

  INTEGRATED

ENGLISH,

NEW EDITION

BK. II.

PP 110-112

   
2
Listening and writing.
Listening comprehension.
Answer questions based upon a story that is read out by the teacher. Teacher reads out a story as the students listen.

Students answer questions derived from the story.

 

 

Standard dictionary.

P 112    
3,4 Reading. Expressive reading. Identify features of expressive reading. Read a passage silently.

Carry out guided tasks based on the passage.

  PP 113-115    
5,6 Grammar. Position of adjectives. Place adjectives at the right positions in sentences.

Rewrite sentences according to given instructions.

 

 

Reading;

Listening;

Writing.

  PP 115-116    
2 1 Writing. Creative writing: play dialogue. Identify features of a play dialogue. Reading;

Listening;

Probing questions;

Writing.

  PP 117-119    
2 Writing. Creative writing:

Play dialogue.

Write or complete a play dialogue. Written exercise.

Review the exercise.

 

Standard dictionary. PP 117-119    
2 3 Grammar. Interrogative and possessive adjectives. List down interrogative and possessive adjectives.

Use interrogative and possessive adjectives

in sentences correctly.

Q/A: types of adjectives.

 

 

Exercise on interrogative and possessive adjectives.

 

  PP 119-120    
4 Writing. Clichés. Define the term clichés.

Identify clichés in a paragraph or a poem.

Infer meanings of clichés.

 

Expositions &

guided exercises.

  PP 121-123    
5 Reading. Reading comprehension. Read a passage and answer questions derived from it in complete sentences.

Infer meanings of words as used in the passage.

 

Read a passage.

Answer questions.

 

 

Infer meanings of words/ phrases.

Standard dictionary. PP 123-124    
6 Grammar. Adverbs of degree. Give examples of adverb of degree.

Use them in sentences correctly.

Q/A: review adverbs of place, manner, time & frequency.

Oral exercise: listing down adverbs of degree.

Written exercise: choosing appropriate adverbs of degree.

 

  PP 125-126    
3 1 Functional writing Informal letters. Classify informal letters on basis of level of informality.

Write various types of informal letters.

 

Q/A: types of salutations, letter layout, presentation and punctuation. Sample informal letter. PP 127-130    
2 Poetry. Poetry. Answer questions based upon a poem.

Carry out activities based upon a poem.

Read a poem.

Written exercise.

Guided group activities.

  PP 130-132    
3 3 Poetry. Rhymes and rhyming patterns in poetry.

 

Identify rhymes and rhyming patterns in poems. Reading;

Listening;

Discussion.

  PP 130-132    
4 Listening & speaking. Listening & speaking. Carry out a group activity in order to improve listening and speaking skills. Guided group work.

Review of the activity.

  PP 133-136    
5 Grammar. Comparison of regular adverbs. Form comparative and superlative degrees of regular adverbs. Q/A: review comparative and superlative degrees of adjectives.

Oral & written exercises on adverbs.

 

 

  PP 133-136    
6 Grammar. Comparison of irregular adverbs. Form comparative and superlative degrees of irregular adverbs. Oral & written exercises.   P 135-136    
4 1,2 Reading Reading comprehension. Answer questions derived from a passage.

 

Infer meanings of the passage.

Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions.

Standard dictionary. PP 13-139    
3,4 Grammar. Punctuation:

 

The apostrophe.

Identify functions of the apostrophe.

 

Rewrite sentences using an apostrophe appropriately.

 

Teacher emphasizes effects of position of apostrophe on the meaning of a sentence.

Oral & written exercises.

 

  PP 139-143    
5 Social writing. Giving and following directions. Give direction and instructions both precisely & clearly.

Illustrate directions with a simple map.

Guided activities.

Written exercise, group work.

Route maps. PP 1431-45    
6 Grammar. Vocabulary. Enrich vocabulary using a word ladder. Group activities.

Assignment.

  P 146    
5 1 Listening comprehension. Listening comprehension. Answer questions based upon a text that has been read out. Listening;

Answering questions.

Standard dictionary. P 147    
2 Grammar. Adverbial phrases. Identify adverbial phrases.

Classify adverbial phrases.

Q/A: review types of adverbs.

Exposition and explanations.

  PP 147-150    
3 Listening and speaking. Using reference materials:

 

Using a Thesaurus.

 

The Guinness Book of record.

Define the term Thesaurus.

 

State uses of a Thesaurus.

 

Answer questions based upon an extract from the Guinness Book of record.

 

Expository approach: Teacher exposes new concepts.

 

Written exercise.

 

Review of the exercise.

The Guinness Book of record.

 

 

Computer

MS – Word programme.

PP 150-154    
4 Grammar. Prepositions. Use the correct prepositions with particular words to express given meanings.

 

Q/A: examples of prepositions.

Oral exercise.

Written exercise.

  PP 155-158    
5 Grammar. Complex propositions / prepositional phrases. Use complex propositions / prepositional phrases. Teacher gives examples of complex propositions / prepositional phrases and students give further examples.

Oral & written exercises.

 

  PP 158-161    
6 Listening & speaking:

 

Word stress. Put emphasis on a particular syllable in a word to bring out the intended meaning. Reading words aloud and pronouncing them correctly according to the stressed syllable.

Deduce meanings of words depending on the stressed and unstressed syllable.

 

Standard dictionary. PP 158-161    
6 1,2
Creative writing.
Narrative compositions.
Write an interesting composition based on a given plan. Q/A: Review simple plan for a narrative composition.

Discussion: further development of skills for writing a composition.

  PP 162-163    
3,4 Petry. Poetry. Answer questions based on a poem. Reading a poem silently then aloud in groups.

Written exercise.

Supplementary resource materials. PP 163-164    
5,6 Writing. Letter of Apology. Write a letter of apology based on a given scenario.

 

Reply to a letter of apology.

Detailed discussion.

Letter writing.

 

 

Review the exercise.

Sample letter of apology. PP 165-167    
7 1,2 Grammar. Simple sentences. Identify subjects & predicates in given sentences. Q/A: review parts of a simple sentence.

Oral & written exercises.

  PP 168-170    
3 Listening and speaking. Listening and speaking. Carry out a given task to improve listening & speaking skills. Guided tasks and exercise.

Review the exercise.

  PP 170-171    
4,5 Grammar. Compound sentences. Define a compound sentence. Review simple sentences.

Discussion:

Types of clauses and identifying them.

Exercise and review.

  PP 171-173    
7 6 Grammar. Punctuating compound sentences. Punctuate a compound sentence correctly. Oral & written exercises.

Word puzzles.

 

Word puzzles. PP 171-173    
8 1,2 Reading. Reading comprehension. Answer questions derived from a passage.

 

Infer meanings of new words as used in the passage.

Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions.

Standard dictionary. PP 176-177    
3,4 Grammar. Use of conjunctions in compound sentences. Group conjunctions according to their functions.

Use them in compound sentences correctly.

 

Detailed discussion.

 

Exercise.

  PP 177-181    
5,6 Creative writing:

 

 

Prose dialogue.

 

 

Identify features of a prose dialogue.

Write a paragraph containing a prose dialogue observing all the punctuation.

 

Read a prose dialogue.

Discussion on its characteristics & punctuation rules.

  PP 182-183    
9 1 Reading. Listening comprehension. Answer questions derived from a passage.

 

Infer meanings of new words as used in the passage.

Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions.

  PP 184-185    
2 Functional Writing. Writing a Will. Define a Will.

Write a Will based on a given format.

Guided practical activity;

Listening;

Writing.

 

 

Sample Will. PP 185-186    
3 Poetry. Poetry. Answer questions based upon a given poem. Reading a poem.

Discussion groups and groups’ presentations.

Supplementary references. PP 187-189    
9 4,5
Grammar.
Complex sentences.
Define a complex sentence.

Identify subordinate conjunctions.

Review types of clauses.

List down subordinate conjunctions.

Written exercise.

  PP 189-190    
6 Writing. Note making. Develop note making skills. Read a passage and make notes as instructed.

 

  PP 193-194    
10 1,2
Grammar.
Spelling.
Improve spelling of words and have positive attitude towards learning how to spell words correctly. Identify and write down homonyms.

Construct sentences to convey meanings of homonyms.

Spelling games, taking a dictation, correction of

misspelt words.

 

  PP 200-202    
3,4 Oral literature. Legends. Define a legend.

Identify features of a legend.

Read a passage that can be classified as a legend.

Discussion based on the oral narrative read.

  PP 202-204    
5 Grammar. Relative pronouns. Complete sentences using relative pronouns.

Join sentences using relative pronouns.

Q/A: relative pronouns used for people and those used for animals and things.

Oral exercise.

Written exercise.

Review of exercise.

 

 

 

  PP 20-205    
6 Creative writing. Writing invitations. Write letters of invitation to neighbors, officials, etc.

Reply to invitation letter.

Accepting or declining the invitation.

 

Listening;

Writing.

Invitation cards. PP 206-207    
11 1 Grammar. Relative clauses. Identify relative clauses.

Use relative clauses in sentences correctly.

Examples.

Oral exercise.

Written exercise.

 

  PP 210-216    
2 Grammar. Inference of meanings of new words. Infer meanings of new words from the context in which they are used. Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions.

  P 217    
3,4

 

 

Writing. Summary writing (I). Express important ideas in own words and express relationships among the ideas in a logical sequence. Read a passage.

Convert information into own words.

Link the main points and write short logical sentences.

Supervised practice: write a final draft.

  PP 218-219    
5,6 Reading. Reading comprehension. Answer questions derived from a passage.

 

Infer meanings of new words.

Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions.

Standard dictionary. PP 219-221    
12-13   MID YEAR ASSESSMENT TEST    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  SCHEME OF WORK                     FORM    TWO  ENGLISH                TERM  THREE                    20………….              NAME………………………….    
WK NO
L/
NO
 
TOPIC
 
SUBTOPIC
LESSON / SPECIFIC
OBJECTIVES
TEACHING / LEARNING
ACTIVITIES
MATERIALS
          /
RESOURCES
REF.
     REM.  
 

 

1

 

 

 

 

1
Listening and speaking
Intonation.
Deduce the implications of words from the intonation of the speaker. Read a dialogue;

Deduce implications of the words used by the speakers;

Discussion.

  INTEGRATED

ENGLISH,

NEW EDITION

BK. II.

P 226

   
2 Listening comprehension. Rising and falling intonation. Use rising and falling intonation in written and spoken work. Reading;

Listening;

Oral examples.

Written exercise.

  PP 227–228    
3,4 Writing. Business letter.

 

 

Reply to a business letter.

Write a business letter using the correct format.

 

Write a reply to a business letter.

Q/A: review format of an informal letter.

Discuss characteristics of a business letter.

Assignments & their review;

Writing.

An ideal business letter. P 230-232    
5,6 Grammar. Relative clauses

(III):

Defining and non-defining relative clauses.

Give examples of relative clauses.

Identify defining and non-defining relative clauses and use them in sentences correctly.

 

Exposition and examples of relative clauses.

Oral and written exercises.

Sample business letter. PP 233-235    
2 1,

2

 

Reading. Reading comprehension. Answer questions derived from a passage.

 

Infer meanings of new words used in the passage.

Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions.

  PP 236-238    
3,4 Grammar. Vocabulary. Formulate a list of words from another word. Individual and group reflections.

Inter-group competitions.

  P 238    
5-6 Grammar. The past perfect tense. Write sentences in the past perfect tense.

Rewrite sentences in the past perfect tense.

Q/A: review simple perfect tense.

Written exercise.

  PP 239-241    
3 1-2 Writing. Descriptive compositions. Select the most suitable descriptive words to complete given sentences. Probing questions & detailed discussion.   PP 241-242    
3.4 Grammar. Past perfect continuous tense. Rewrite sentences in the past perfect continuous tense. Q/A: review past perfect tense and simple past tense.

Oral and written exercises.

  PP 243-244    
5,6 Reading. Reading comprehension. Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions.

Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions;

Look up words in a dictionary;

Construct sentences using new words.

  PP 245-246    
4 1,2 Functional Writing. Descriptive composition (II). Read the description of a given person and complete the task given. Individual and group work;

Reading;

Writing.

Newspapers / newspaper cuttings. P 247    
3,4 Writing. Summary writing

(II).

Carry out an effective summary writing, observing all necessary rules. Teacher exposes summary writing rules.

Supervised practice,

Listening;

Writing.

  PP 248 -249    
5,6 Listening & speaking:

 

 

Word play. Write down expressions as read out by the teacher.

Rewrite sentences in other versions as instructed.

Teacher reads some expressions as students write them down.

 

Correct the written exercise.

 

  PP 250-251    
5 1,2 Writing. Imaginative Essays. Identify factors to consider when writing an essay.

Write an essay based on the laid down rules.

Expository and descriptive approaches.

 

Essay writing.

  PP 251-253    
3,4 Grammar. Modal Auxiliaries

(I).

Identify the nine single-word modal auxiliaries.

Use single-word modals correctly.

Exposition, discussion and written exercise. Chart: The nine single-word modal auxiliaries.

 

PP 254-258    
5,6 Listening and speaking. Interviews. Describe two broad categories of interviews.

Outline features of a journalistic interview.

Exposition.

Read an interview.

Simulate an interview.

Group work: observe positive attributes of a good interviewer and interviewee.

 

  PP 258-260    
6 1,2 Reading. Reading comprehension. Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions.

Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions;

Look up words in a dictionary;

Construct sentences using new words.

  PP 261-263    
3 Creative writing. Creative writing. Develop creative writing skills. Written exercise to practise creative writing.   P 263    
4 TEST            
5,

 

 

 

 

 

6

Grammar. Modal auxiliaries

(II):

must, has to, have to.

 

 

Had better, should, ought to.

 

 

Express necessity using the modal auxiliaries.

 

 

 

Express advice using the words had better, should, and ought to.

 

 

Exposition;

Examples of statements and questions involving modal auxiliaries.

 

Listening;;

Writing.

  PP 263-266    
7 1,2 Grammar. Vocabulary. Construct a word scale to enrich vocabulary. Group discussion & group presentations.   PP 266-267    
3,4 Grammar. Adverbial clauses of time, place and manner  (I). Identify adverbial clauses of time, place and manner. Q/A: review adverbs and categories of adverbs.

Discussion: adverbial clauses.

Oral exercise.

Mixed exercise.

 

  PP 267-270    
5,6 Reading. Reading comprehension. Read a passage and answer questions derived from it in complete sentences.

Infer meanings of words as used in the passage.

Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions;

Look up words in a dictionary;

Construct sentences using new words.

  P 271    
8 1,2 Poetry. Poetry presentation. Recite a poem in the right pace and tone.

 

Group work: reading poems, preparing to recite the poems and reciting them.

 

Supplementary references. PP 272-274    
8 3,

 

4

Grammar. Adverbial clauses

(II)

Adverbial clauses of reason, purpose

and

comparison.

 

Identify adverbial clauses of reason, purpose and comparison. Exposition;

Listening;

Writing.

  PP 274-276    
5,6 Writing. Summary writing

(III).

Read a passage and summarize it as instructed. Guided exercise & review of the exercise;

Listening;

Writing.

  PP 276-277    
9

 

1,

 

 

 

2

Reading. Reading comprehension. Read a passage and answer questions derived from it in complete sentences.

Infer meanings of new words as used in the passage.

 

Silent reading;

Writing;

Reading aloud;

Listening;

Answering questions;

Look up words in a dictionary;

Construct sentences using new words.

  PP 278-280    
3 Grammar. Adverbial clauses of result, concession and conditions. Identify adverbial clauses of result, concession and conditions.

Join sentences using adverbial clauses of result, concession and conditions.

 

Exposition & explanations.

 

Written exercises;

Exercise review.

  PP 281-282    
4
Creative Writing.
Filling in forms.
Fill in information required in forms.

 

Hands-on practice;

Filling in forms.

Application forms; bursary / job application forms. PP 283-284    
5 Grammar. The active voice. Identify the subject and direct object in given sentences.

Rewrite sentences in the passive voice.

 

 

Listening, speaking and writing.   PP 285-286    
6 Grammar. The passive voice. Change sentences from active to passive voice and vice-versa.

 

 

Questioning to review active voice;

Oral and written exercises.

  PP 287-288    
10 1-2 Oral literature. Drama. Answer questions based upon an extract. Reading an extract;

Oral and written exercises.

Discussion on the exercises.

 

 

  PP 289-292    
3,4
Oral literature.
Characterization.
Identify the character traits of characters in a play / drama.

 

Compare and contrast these characters.

Discussion on character traits and corresponding textual evidence.

 

Q/A: similarities and differences in character traits;

 

Writing.

 

  PP 293-294    
5,6
Oral literature.
Themes. Discuss themes postulated in a given text.

Identify textual evidence to support a given theme.

 

 

 

Detailed discussion.

 

Cite evidence for specific themes.

 

Writing.

  PP 295-296    
11 1-2 Oral literature. Drama. Answer questions based upon an extract. Reading an extract;

Oral and written exercises.

Discussion on the exercises.

 

 

  PP 289-292    
11 3,4
Oral literature.
Characterization.
Identify the character traits of characters in a play / drama.

 

Compare and contrast these characters.

Discussion on character traits and corresponding textual evidence.

 

Q/A: similarities and differences in character traits;

 

Writing.

 

  PP 293-294    
5,6
Oral literature.
Themes. Discuss themes postulated in a given text.

Identify textual evidence to support a given theme.

 

 

 

Detailed discussion.

 

Cite evidence for specific themes.

 

Writing.

  PP 295-296    
12-13 SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT TEST