Chemistry · Periodic trends in properties of elements: atomic and ionic radii, ionization enthalpy, electron gain enthalpy, valence, oxidation states and chemical reactivity
Very pure hydrogen \) can be made by which of the following processes?
Very pure hydrogen \( (99.9 \%) \) can be made by which of the following processes?
- A. Reaction of methane with steam
- B. Mixing natural hydrocarbons of high molecular weight
- C. Electrolysis of water
- D. Reaction of salt like hydrides with water
Step-by-step solution
Electrolysis of water produces hydrogen and oxygen gases. When using pure water and suitable electrodes, the hydrogen gas can be collected with very high purity (up to 99.9% or more), as no other gaseous byproducts are formed. In contrast, the reaction of methane with steam yields a mixture of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide; mixing hydrocarbons does not produce hydrogen; and reaction of salt-like hydrides with water produces hydrogen but often contains impurities from the hydride or water.