12 - Sulfur

Question 1

Describe the Contact process.

Answer 1

S (s) + O₂ (g) → SO₂ (g)
Sulfur is burned in an excess of air

2SO₂(g) + O₂(g) ⇌ 2SO₃ (g)
Exothermic reaction

Optimal temperature: Low
Compromise: 400°C

Optimal pressure: High
Compromise: 2 atm

Catalyst: Vanadium (V) oxide
V₂O₅

H₂SO₄ (l) + SO₃(g) → H₂S₂O₇ (l)
Makes oleum

H₂S₂O₇ (l) + H₂O → 2H₂SO₄

Question 2

State 3 uses of sulfur.

Answer 2

Any from:
Make sulfuric acid
Make drugs
Pesticides
Matches

Question 3

State 3 uses of sulfuric acid.

Answer 3

Any from:
Paints
Making fertilisers
Detergents
Plastics
Pigments