Question

$P_4{O}_{10}$ is not used to dry $N{H}_3$ gas because:

• A. $P_4{O}_{10}$ reacts with moisture in $N{H}_3$
• B. $P_4{O}_{10}$ is not a drying agent
• C. $P_4{O}_{10}$ is acidic and $N{H}_3$ is basic
• D. $P_4{O}_{10}$ is basic and $N{H}_3$ is acidic

Answer 1

The correct option is A $P_4{O}_{10}$ reacts with moisture in $N{H}_3$

When $P_4{O}_{10}$ comes in contact with water it forms Meta phosphoric acid :

$P_4{O}_{10}+2H_{2}O\to 4HP{O}_3$

This meta phosphoric acid then reacts with ammonia and forms meta ammonium phosphate

${HPO}_3+{NH}_3\to {NH}_4{PO}_3$

Hence, $P_4{O}_{10}$ is not used for drying.