Table of Contents
What is Sulphur Dioxide?
Sulphur dioxide is a gas that is formed when sulphur is burned. It is a pollutant that can cause respiratory problems.
Structure of Sulphur Dioxide
The sulfur dioxide molecule is composed of two sulphur atoms and two oxygen atoms. The sulphur atoms are covalently bonded to the oxygen atoms, and the whole molecule is held together by a single bond.
Preparation of Sulphur Dioxide
- Sulphur dioxide is a colourless gas with a pungent, suffocating odour. It is soluble in water and is a weak acid.
- Sulphur dioxide is prepared industrially by burning sulphur in the air. The sulphur is oxidised to sulphur trioxide, dissolved in water to produce sulphuric acid. Sulphur dioxide is then formed as a by-product of the acid reaction.
- Sulphur dioxide can also be prepared by the reaction of sulphur with oxygen in the presence of a catalyst such as platinum.
- Sulphur dioxide is used to manufacture sulphuric acid and as a preservative and disinfectant. It is also used in the production of paper and textiles.
pH of Sulfur Dioxide
Sulfur dioxide is a gas with a sour smell. It is a colorless gas at room temperature. Sulfur dioxide is soluble in water.
The pH of sulfur dioxide is 1.
Occurrence of Sulphur Dioxide in the Atmosphere
Sulphur dioxide is a gas that is produced when coal and oil are burned. It is also produced when metal ores are roasted to extract their metals. Sulphur dioxide is also released into the atmosphere when volcanoes erupt.
Properties of Sulphur Dioxide
- Sulphur dioxide is a colourless gas with a pungent, irritating smell.
- It is soluble in water, forming sulphurous acid.
- It is a powerful reducing agent and is used to manufacture sulphuric acid.
- It is also used as a bleaching agent and preservative in foodstuffs.
- Sulphur dioxide is a toxic gas and can cause breathing difficulties, chest pain, and even death.
Uses of Sulphur Dioxide
Sulphur dioxide is used in a number of industries, including:
- The production of sulphuric acid
- The production of fertilizers
- The production of metals
- The production of paper
- The production of plastics
