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Difficulty: MediumChemical Industries, Raw Materials, and Siting Factors

In the industrial synthesis of sodium trioxocarbonate(IV) via the Solvay process, ammonia gas is recovered and continuously recycled within the manufacturing loop. Which two naturally occurring raw materials are consumed as the primary starting feedstocks, making proximity to their natural deposits the key siting factor for the plant?

  1. Brine (concentrated sodium chloride) and limestone (calcium carbonate)Answer
  2. B
    Ammonia gas and concentrated tetraoxosulfate(VI) acid
  3. C
    Natural gas (methane) and bauxite mineral ore
  4. D
    Calcium chloride and carbon(IV) oxide gas

Answer

Brine (concentrated sodium chloride) and limestone (calcium carbonate) are the primary naturally occurring raw materials consumed in the Solvay process.
The Solvay process for manufacturing sodium trioxocarbonate(IV) (soda ash) requires concentrated sodium chloride solution (brine) and calcium carbonate (limestone) as primary, naturally occurring starting raw materials. Because these materials are heavy and consumed in bulk, factories are sited near salt deposits/sea coast and limestone quarries to minimize freight costs.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the chemical reactions and overall stoichiometry of the Solvay process.
The overall chemical reaction is 2NaCl+CaCO3→Na2CO3+CaCl22\text{NaCl} + \text{CaCO}_3 \rightarrow \text{Na}_2\text{CO}_3 + \text{CaCl}_2.
Understanding the net balanced equation shows which substances are consumed as starting reactants.
2
Distinguish between primary naturally occurring raw materials, intermediates/reagents, and by-products.
Brine (NaCl\text{NaCl}) and limestone (CaCO3\text{CaCO}_3) are directly extracted natural resources consumed in massive quantities. Ammonia (NH3\text{NH}_3) is recycled internally.
Heavy chemical industries are sited near bulky primary raw material deposits to minimize raw material transportation costs.

Key Concept

Solvay Process Raw Materials and Siting Factors
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Chemical Industries, Raw Materials, and Siting Factors

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