QNEET-2024-Ch-39: NEET 2024 Chemistry - Class 11 NEET-2024-Ch-39 Solution: During the preparation of Mohr's salt solution (Ferrous…

Mohr's salt is the ammonium iron(II) sulfate, with the chemical formula ( NH 4 ) 2 Fe ( SO 4 ) 2 _ 6 H 2 O . It is known for its stability compared to the other iron(II) salts which tend to readily oxidize to iron(III) salts when exposed to the air. To prevent the oxidation and hydrolysis of the Fe 2 + ion during the preparation of Mohr's salt, an acid is added. This acid serves several purposes: it maintains the acidic environment necessary to prevent hydrolysis, aids in the solubilization of iron(II) sulfate, and minimizes the oxidation of Fe 2 + ions to Fe 3 + . The options provided give four different types of acids, from which one needs to be selected for the preparation of this salt. We can evaluate them based on their appropriateness: Dilute Hydrochloric Acid: While capable of maintaining a low pH to prevent oxidation, HCl can potentially introduce chloride ions ( Cl _ ), which can form complexes with iron, changing the composition of the solution. Concentrated Sulphuric Acid: This choice is too strong and can lead to excessive acidity as well as potential safety issues during handling and dilution. It is unnecessary for this application. Dilute Nitric Acid: Nitric acid is an oxidizing agent and can promote the oxidation of Fe 2 + to Fe 3 + , which is undesirable in the preparation of Mohr's salt. Dilute Sulphuric Acid: This is a very common choice since it helps maintain the stability of the Fe 2 + ion without contributing extraneous ions that could form undesired complexes or products. Moreover, it keeps the solution acidic, helping prevent oxidation and hydrolysis, while not introducing any oxidizing characteristics. Given these considerations, the best choice for preventing hydrolysis of the Fe 2 + ion during the preparation of Mohr's salt is Dilute Sulphuric Acid (Option D). This is because it maintains the suitable acidic conditions needed for stabilizing the ferrous ion and does not interfere with the redox stability of the iron by providing an oxidative chemical environment.