C3.2 Water Flashcards
What happens when hard water reacts with soap?
scum is formed so more soap is needed to form lather
What type of soap does not form scum when it reacts with hard water?
soapless detergents
What does hard water contain?
dissolved compounds, usually of calcium or magnesium
When do compounds of calcium or magnesium become dissolved in water?
when water comes into contact with rocks
What are the 2 types of hard water?
temporary hard water
permanent hard water
What is the difference between temporary hard water and permanent hard water?
permanent hard water remains hard when it is boiled whereas temporary hard water is softened by boiling
Describe how temporary hard water is softened by boiling
temporary hard water contains HYDROGENCARBONATE IONS (HCO3-) that decompose on heating to produce carbonate ions which react with calcium or magnesium in the hard water to form precipitates- scale
What are some disadvantages of using hard water?
can increase costs because more soap is needed
When temporary hard water is heated it can produce scale that reduces the efficiency of heating systems and kettles
What are some advantages of using hard water?
calcium compounds are good for the development and maintenance of bones and teeth and can also help to reduce heart disease
How can hard water be made soft? (2 ways)
ADDING SODIUM CARBONATE- which reacts with the calcium and magnesium ions to form a precipitate of calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate
USING COMMERCIAL WATER SOFTENERS- such as ion exchange columns containing hydrogen ions or sodium ions, which replace the calcium and magnesium ions when hard water passes through the column
How can the correct water quality be produced by?
by:
- choosing an appropriate water source
- passing the water through filter beds to remove any solids
- Sterilising with chlorine
For humans, what should water have significantly low levels of?
dissolved salts and microbes
What do water filters contain?
carbon, silver and ion exchange resins
What do water filters do?
they remove some dissolved substances from tap water
to improve the taste and quality
How do water filters work?
carbon removes the chlorine taste and silver is suppose to kill bugs