Chemistry 5070 · O Level · Exothermic and endothermic reactions

Exothermic and endothermic reactions — practice question

When sodium hydrogencarbonate is heated, it breaks down. $2\mathrm{NaHCO_3}(s) \rightarrow \mathrm{Na_2CO_3}(s)+\mathrm{H_2O}(g)+\mathrm{CO_2}(g)$
(a(i))[2]

Fig. 3.1 shows the reaction pathway diagram for the decomposition of sodium hydrogencarbonate. Identify the energy changes marked A and B.

(a(ii))[1]

Using the reaction pathway diagram, explain why the decomposition of sodium hydrogencarbonate is endothermic.

(b)[1]

Describe a chemical test for carbon dioxide and state the observation if carbon dioxide is present.

(c)[3]

A sample of sodium hydrogencarbonate is fully decomposed. A total volume of $230\text{ cm}^3$ of carbon dioxide, measured at r.t.p., is produced. Calculate the mass of the sample of sodium hydrogencarbonate. Give your answer to two significant figures.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 7-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: A is activation energy / Ea

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