Question:

The temporary hardness of water is due to the presence of

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Remember: Bicarbonates cause Boiling-reversible (temporary) hardness. Chlorides and sulfates cause permanent hardness.
Updated On: Jun 3, 2026
  • Calcium and Magnesium chlorides
  • Calcium and Magnesium sulfates
  • Calcium and Magnesium bicarbonates
  • Sodium and Potassium carbonates
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Concept
Hardness in water is caused by dissolved mineral salts of calcium and magnesium. It is classified into two types: temporary hardness and permanent hardness.

Step 2: Meaning
Temporary hardness can be easily removed by boiling, whereas permanent hardness requires chemical treatment.

Step 3: Analysis
Let us look at the salts responsible: * Permanent hardness is caused by soluble chloride and sulfate salts of calcium and magnesium ($\text{CaCl}_{2}, \text{MgSO}_{4}$, etc.). * Temporary hardness is caused specifically by dissolved bicarbonate salts: calcium bicarbonate [$\text{Ca(HCO}_{3})_{2}$] and magnesium bicarbonate [$\text{Mg(HCO}_{3})_{2}$]. Boiling decomposes these soluble bicarbonates into insoluble carbonates, removing them from the water.

Step 4: Conclusion
Therefore, the presence of calcium and magnesium bicarbonates is responsible for temporary hardness.

Final Answer: (C)
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