Chemistry 5070 · O Level · Formulae, functional groups and terminology

Formulae, functional groups and terminology — practice question

When calcium carbide, $\text{CaC}_2$, comes into contact with water, it produces the flammable gas ethyne, $\text{C}_2\text{H}_2$, together with calcium hydroxide.
(a)[2]

Write the symbol equation for this reaction.

(b)[1]

Since calcium carbide is ionic, deduce the formula of the carbide ion.

(c(i))[1]

Explain why ethyne is classified as a hydrocarbon.

(c(ii))[1]

Suggest why ethyne is classed as unsaturated.

(c(iii))[1]

Aqueous bromine reacts with ethyne. Predict the colour change observed in this reaction.

(c(iv))[2]

Draw a dot-and-cross diagram to represent the electronic arrangement in a molecule of ethyne. Show only the outer shell electrons.

(d(i))[2]

Explain, in terms of bond breaking and bond making, why this reaction is exothermic.

(d(ii))[3]

Finish the reaction pathway diagram in Fig. 2.2 for the complete combustion of ethyne. Label the reactants, products, enthalpy change of the reaction $\Delta H$ and activation energy $E_a$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 13-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: CaC₂ + 2H₂O → Ca(OH)₂ + C₂H₂

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