Step 1: Concept
Temporary hardness in water refers to the presence of dissolved salts that can be removed by boiling. These salts primarily consist of calcium and magnesium bicarbonates, which decompose upon heating, releasing carbon dioxide gas.
Step 2: Meaning
Temporary hardness is a type of hardness that can be eliminated through simple processes like boiling or distillation. It does not involve permanent changes to the water's mineral content but rather a change in their form due to chemical reactions at higher temperatures.
Step 3: Analysis
Option A: Calcium and magnesium bicarbonates are known to cause temporary hardness because they decompose when heated, releasing carbon dioxide gas.
Option B: Calcium and magnesium chlorides do not decompose on heating; thus, they would contribute to permanent hardness.
Option C: Calcium and magnesium sulphates also do not decompose upon boiling, indicating that they would result in permanent hardness.
Option D: Sodium carbonate is a salt but does not typically cause temporary hardness as it does not readily form bicarbonates under normal conditions.
The reasoning confirms that the correct answer must be related to compounds that can decompose on heating. Only calcium and magnesium bicarbonates fit this description, making them responsible for temporary hardness.
Step 4: Conclusion
Temporary hardness is caused by the presence of calcium and magnesium bicarbonates in water.
Final Answer: (A)