Question

A tetravalent element forms monoxide and overheated element (1273 K), producer gas is obtained. Monoxide of the element is a powerful reducing agent and reduces ferric oxide to iron. Identify the element and write formulas of its monoxide and dioxide. Write chemical equations for the formation of producer gas reduction of ferric oxide with the monoxide.

Answer 1

Producer gas is a mixture of CO and N₂ therefore, the tetravalent element is carbon and its monoxide and dioxide are CO and CO₂ respectively.

2C(s) + O₂ (g) + 4N₂ (g) \(\overset{1273K}{\rightarrow}\) 2CO(g) + 4N₂ Producer gas

The carbon monoxide is a strong reducing agent and reduces ferric oxide to ion.

Fe₂O₃ (s) + 3CO(g) \(\overset{\Delta}{\rightarrow}\) 2Fe(s) + 3CO(g)