Chemistry 9701 · AS & A Level · States of matter

States of matter — practice question

When calcium carbide, $\text{CaC}_2$, comes into contact with water, it reacts quickly to give ethyne, $\text{C}_2\text{H}_2$, together with a white ionic compound that is only sparingly soluble.
(a(i))[1]

Write the equation for how $\text{CaC}_2$ reacts with water.

(a(ii))[1]

Draw a ‘dot-and-cross’ diagram for the carbide ion, $\text{C}_2^{2-}$, showing only the outer electrons.

(b)[1]

Ethyne is the first member of the alkyne homologous series. Propyne, $\text{C}_3\text{H}_4$, and butyne, $\text{C}_4\text{H}_6$, are the next two members in the series. Deduce the general formula for the alkynes.

(c(i))[1]

Ethyne may be polymerised to form poly(acetylene), a conducting polymer. Suggest why this polymer is able to conduct electricity.

(c(ii))[1]

State the empirical formula of poly(acetylene).

(c(iii))[1]

By referring to a physical or chemical property, suggest one advantage that a conducting polymer has compared with metals.

(d(i))[3]

Under basic conditions, alkynes can react with carbonyl compounds as shown in reaction 1. The first stage of the mechanism for reaction 1 is the reaction between the alkyne anion and the carbonyl compound. Complete this first stage and draw the intermediate formed. Include every relevant dipole, charge and curly arrow.

(d(ii))[1]

Suggest the mechanism name for reaction 1.

(d(iii))[2]

An alkyne, Q, and a carbonyl compound, R, react together to make compound P as shown. Using reaction 1, suggest the structures of Q and R.

(e)[4]

A series of twelve separate experiments is shown in the table. Complete the table by writing a tick (ၗ) in each box if a reaction occurs, or a cross (ၗ) if no reaction occurs.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 16-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: $\text{CaC}_2 + 2\text{H}_2\text{O} \rightarrow \text{C}_2\text{H}_2 + \text{Ca(OH)}_2$.

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