Question:

A mixture of gases \(\mathrm{O_2}\), \(\mathrm{H_2}\) and \(\mathrm{CO}\) are taken in a closed vessel containing charcoal. The graph that represents the correct behaviour of pressure with time is :

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Charcoal adsorbs gases, so the pressure in the closed vessel falls with time and levels off (it cannot reach zero) when adsorption equilibrium is attained.
Updated On: Nov 5, 2026
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Charcoal is a good adsorbent; \(\mathrm{O_2}\), \(\mathrm{H_2}\) and \(\mathrm{CO}\) are adsorbed on its surface.
In a closed vessel adsorption removes gas molecules from the gas phase, so the total pressure decreases with time.
The rate of adsorption is greatest at the start (many free sites, high pressure) and decreases as sites fill and pressure drops, so the fall is exponential-like and the pressure becomes constant at a non-zero value when adsorption equilibrium is reached.
Option (1) is a straight line reaching zero (not possible), option (2) is constant (no adsorption), option (4) shows pressure increasing (wrong). The decaying curve flattening at a non-zero value is option (3).
Answer: (3) decreasing curve that gradually flattens (asymptotic decay)
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