Question 17 marks
Question
A teacher uses the apparatus shown in Fig. 1.1 to pass an electric current through molten mercury(II) bromide at a temperature of 300 °C. + power – supply electrodes A ice mercury(II) bromide Fig. 1.1 During the process shown in Fig. 1.1, the molten mercury(II) bromide breaks down and forms bromine and mercury. Table 1.1 shows some information about mercury(II) bromide, bromine and mercury. Table 1.1 melting point boiling point density when liquid substance in °C in °C in g / cm3 mercury(II) bromide 236 322 6 bromine –7 60 3 mercury –39 357 14 (a) Draw an arrow on Fig. 1.1 to show where the apparatus should be heated. [1] (b) Name the item of apparatus labelled A in Fig. 1.1. …… [1] (c) Name the process shown in Fig. 1.1 which breaks down mercury(II) bromide. …… [1] (d) The electrodes used in the process shown in Fig. 1.1 are made from platinum. Give two reasons why platinum is a suitable material for the electrodes. 1 …… 2 …… [2] (e) On Fig. 1.1, draw an X to show where mercury will collect. [1] (f) Explain why ice is used in the experiment. …… [1] [Total: 7]
Mark scheme
1(a) an arrow pointing to the bottom of the left-hand tube 1 1(b) test-tube / boiling tube 1 1(c) electrolysis 1 1(d) any two from: 2 • conducts electricity • high melting point / melts above 322 °C • does not react (with bromine / mercury(II) bromide / mercury / salt / compound) / inert 1(e) X drawn in tube under the electrodes inside the left-hand tube 1 1(f) condenses (the bromine / the gas / vapour) 1