question_answer

  A non-metal A which is the largest constituent of air, when heated with H2 in 1:3 ratio in the presence of catalyst (Fe) gives a gas B. On heating with O2 it gives anoxide C. If this oxide is passed into water in the presence of air, it gives an acid D which acts as a strong oxidizing agent. (a) Identify A, B, C and D. (b) To which group of the Periodic Table does this non-metal belongs?

Answer:

  (a) A is nitrogen (N) (because in air, percentage of nitrogen is 78%). When it reacts with H2, it forms NH3. Thus, B is ammonia (NH3). When it is heated with O2 it forms                                                                           (1) C is NO2 (nitrogen dioxide). When it is passed into it forms Thus, D is nitric acid (HNO3).                                                                                                                                                 (1) (b) The non-metal belongs to group 15 or VA.                                                                                                                    (1)