Question

74. Describe the process of separation of constituents of gunpowder.

Answer 1

The process of separation of gunpowder components (KNO₃+ carbon + sulphur) are mentioned below:

• When carbon disulphide is introduced to a beaker containing gunpowder sulphur, it dissolves.
• After that, filter paper is used to filter the mixture.
• The filtrate was placed in a flat tank and exposed to air until the carbon disulphide vaporized, leaving sulphur behind.
• Carbon powder and nitre ( potassium nitrate) were found in the residue.
• It's served in a beaker with hot water. In hot water, nitrate dissolves.
• After that, the mixture is filtered using filter paper.
• After drying, a residue of carbon powder is left on the filter paper, which is collected.
• Solid nitre ( potassium nitrate) is obtained by evaporating the filtrate to dryness using heat.
• As a result, the components of gunpowder are separated.