Science Common Sense
1784 - What are the preparations, properties, and applications of common nonmetals and their important compounds?
Let's talk about some common nonmetals, their properties, and uses.
1. Oxygen (O2) Preparation: Found in air, separated using liquid nitrogen Properties: Colorless, odorless gas Applications: We breathe in oxygen to live. Used in steel production, and making medicines like oxygen tanks for patients.
2. Nitrogen (N2) Preparation: Found in air, separated using liquid nitrogen Properties: Colorless, odorless gas Applications: Used in food packaging (like potato chips), making fertilizers for plants, and as a shielding gas for welding.
3. Carbon (in forms of graphite and diamond) Preparation: Graphite is mined from the earth. Diamond is made by heating graphite under high pressure. Properties: Graphite is soft and slippery. Diamond is very hard. Applications: Graphite is used in pencils and as a lubricant. Diamond is used as a precious gemstone and for making cutting tools.
4. Sulfur (S) Preparation: Found in underground deposits, extracted using hot water Properties: Yellowish solid with an unpleasant smell Applications: Used to make matches, gunpowder, and medicines like ointments for skin.
Some important compounds of nonmetals:
- Water (H2O): Made by combining hydrogen and oxygen. We drink water to stay alive.
- Carbon dioxide (CO2): Made by combining carbon and oxygen. Plants take in CO2 during photosynthesis.
- Ammonia (NH3): Made by combining nitrogen and hydrogen. Used as a cleaning agent and in making fertilizers.
Other compounds:
- Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2): Used as a disinfectant and in hair bleach.
- Phosphorus pentoxide (P4O10): Used in making glass and textiles.
Remember, nonmetals are all around us, and their compounds play a big role in our daily lives!