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: Identify the objective:
The question requires identifying the gas with the lowest solubility in water under standard conditions. All gases exhibit some solubility, but one is considerably less soluble than the others.
Step 2: Analyze gas solubilities:
- Oxygen (O\(_2\)): Exhibits low solubility; essential for aquatic organisms.
- Carbon dioxide (CO\(_2\)): Moderately soluble, forming carbonic acid (H\(_2\)CO\(_3\)), used in carbonated drinks.
- Chlorine (Cl\(_2\)): Highly soluble, used for disinfection due to its reaction with water.
- Nitrogen (N\(_2\)): Very slightly soluble. Its strong triple bond (N\(\equiv\)N) results in low reactivity and minimal affinity for water.
Conclusion: Nitrogen possesses the lowest solubility among the given gases.
Step 3: State the conclusion:
Nitrogen is the atmospheric gas listed that is least soluble in water.