When a concentrated solution of ammonia is saturated with sodium chloride in the presence of pieces — s Block Elements Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: Ammonia-saturated brine (NaCl + NH3) reacts with CO2 gas (released from dry ice) to form sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) and ammonium chloride (NH4Cl). Step 2: The reaction is NH3 + CO2 + H2O + NaCl -> NaHCO3 + NH4Cl. Sodium bicarbonate has a relatively low solubility in water, which is further decreased by the common-ion effect of excess sodium ions from NaCl. Step 3: This causes sodium bicarbonate (sodium hydrogen carbonate) to readily precipitate out, forming a white cloudy suspension (water cloud). Hence, the correct option is (b).