Question:

In the Charring process, concentrated sulfuric acid reacts with sugar to give sugar charcoal. What is the role of conc. \(\text{H}_2\text{SO}_4\) in this reaction?

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Concentrated sulphuric acid removes the elements of water from sugar, so it acts as a dehydrating agent.
Updated On: Oct 1, 2026
  • An oxidizing agent
  • A sulfonating agent
  • A dehydrating agent
  • A decomposing agent
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Sugar is \(\text{C}_{12}\text{H}_{22}\text{O}_{11}\), a carbohydrate with hydrogen and oxygen in the ratio of water. Concentrated sulphuric acid has a strong attraction for water.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
\[ \text{C}_{12}\text{H}_{22}\text{O}_{11} \xrightarrow{\text{conc. H}_2\text{SO}_4} 12\text{C} + 11\text{H}_2\text{O} \]
The acid removes water from sugar and leaves black carbon (charcoal). So it acts as a dehydrating agent.

Step 3: Why the other options are wrong.
It may also oxidise carbon later, but the main charring action is water removal. It is not sulfonating sugar, and "decomposing agent" is not a recognised role here.

Final Answer:
The acid acts as a dehydrating agent, option (C). \[ \boxed{\text{dehydrating agent}} \]
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