SO\(_3\) is not directly dissolved in water in the industrial preparation of H\(_2\)SO\(_4\) by the...

JAMB 2019

SO\(_3\) is not directly dissolved in water in the industrial preparation of H\(_2\)SO\(_4\) by the contact process because

A. SO\(_3\) is an acidic gas
B. Acid is usually added to water and not water to acid
C. The reaction between SO\(_3\) and water is violently exothermic
D. SO\(_3\) does not dissolve readily in water

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Correct Answer: Option C

Explanation

Sulphur trioxide (SO\(_3\)) is not directly dissolved in water to produce sulphuric acid (H\(_2\)SO\(_4\)) because the reaction is highly exothermic and produces a fine mist of sulphuric acid, which is difficult to control and condense. Instead, SO\(_3\) is absorbed in concentrated sulphuric acid (oleum) to form oleum, which is then diluted with water to produce the desired sulphuric acid concentration.

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