Question

Which of the following atmospheric gas does not dissolve in water at standard temperature and pressure conditions?

• A. Oxygen
• B. Carbon dioxide
• C. Nitrogen
• D. Chlorine

Hint:

Think about real-world examples to remember gas solubility. Fish breathe dissolved oxygen. Soda contains dissolved carbon dioxide. The air is 78% nitrogen, but lakes and oceans don't readily absorb it in large amounts.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks which of the given gases is the least soluble in water under standard conditions. While all gases have some degree of solubility, one is significantly less soluble than the others.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze the solubility of each gas:
- Oxygen (O\(_2\)): It is slightly soluble in water. This dissolved oxygen is crucial for the survival of aquatic life.
- Carbon dioxide (CO\(_2\)): It is fairly soluble in water, reacting to form carbonic acid (H\(_2\)CO\(_3\)). This property is used to make carbonated beverages.
- Chlorine (Cl\(_2\)): It is quite soluble in water and is used for disinfection because it reacts with water.
- Nitrogen (N\(_2\)): It is very sparingly soluble in water under standard conditions. The strong triple bond in the N\(\equiv\)N molecule makes it very inert and gives it a very low affinity for dissolving in water.
Comparing the options, nitrogen has the lowest solubility.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Nitrogen is the atmospheric gas among the options that is least soluble in water.