Chapter 16, Problem 53A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason for a crushed solid to react with a gas more quickly than a large chunk of the same solid needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Solid particles have definite shape, fixed volumes and boundaries and have negligible compressibility.

Answer to Problem 53A

A crushed solid has a larger surface area than chunk solid. Thus, a crushed solid reacts with a gas more quickly than a large chunk of the same solid.

Explanation of Solution

A crushed solid has a larger surface area than chunk solid. At same time with large surface area there are more molecules which will be able to react. Chance of the molecule hitting with correct direction and enough force will increase with more common collision. Thus rate of the reaction increases.

Conclusion

Than chunk solid a crushed solid has a larger surface area. More reactant atoms or molecules are free to react with the gas around it.