Question

Identify $X , Y$ and $Z$ in the following reaction (Equation not balanced) $ClO + NO _2 \rightarrow \underline{ X } \stackrel{ H _2 O }{\longrightarrow} \underline{ Y }+\underline{Z}$

• A. $X = ClNO _3, Y = Cl _2, Z = NO _2$
• B. $X = ClONO _2, Y = HOCl , Z = HNO _3$
• C. $X = ClONO _2, Y = HOCl , Z = NO _2$
• D. $X = ClNO _2, Y = HCl , Z = HNO _3$

Hint:

Reactions involving chlorine oxides often produce hypochlorous acid and nitric acid as products when treated with water.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

To solve the problem, we need to identify the substances labeled as \(X\), \(Y\), and \(Z\) in the given chemical reaction. The reaction sequence is:

\(ClO + NO_2 \rightarrow \underline{ X } \stackrel{ H_2O }{\longrightarrow} \underline{ Y }+\underline{Z}\)

Given the options, we need to determine the correct substances for \(X\), \(Y\), and \(Z\).

Step 1: Determine the Product \(X\)

• The first part of the reaction is between \(ClO\) and \(NO_2\). This combination is likely to form a compound of chlorine and nitrogen oxygen compounds.
• The known reaction product of \(ClO\) with \(NO_2\) is peroxynitrate, specifically \(ClONO_2\) (chlorine nitrate or chlorine peroxynitrate).
• Thus, \(X = ClONO_2\).

Step 2: Determine the Products \(Y\) and \(Z\) after Hydrolysis

• Upon hydrolysis of \(ClONO_2\) with water \((H_2O)\), it breaks down into hypochlorous acid \((HOCl)\) and nitric acid \((HNO_3)\).
• This corresponds to \(Y = HOCl\) and \(Z = HNO_3\).

Step 3: Verify with Provided Options

• The option that matches our derived answer is: \(X = ClONO_2, Y = HOCl, Z = HNO_3\).
• This is consistent with the chemical behavior and reactions of the compounds involved.

Therefore, the correct answer is:

$X = ClONO _2, Y = HOCl , Z = HNO _3$