Question

The incorrect statement(s) about heavy water is (are)

(A) Used as a moderator in a nuclear reactor

(B) Obtained as a by-product in the fertilizer industry

(C) Used for the study of the reaction mechanism

(D) Has a higher dielectric constant than water

Choose the correct answer from the option given below:

• A. $\left(\mathrm{B}\right)$ only
• B. $\left(\mathrm{B}\right)$ and $\left(\mathrm{D}\right)$only
• C. $\left(\mathrm{C}\right)$ only
• D. $\left(\mathrm{D}\right)$ only

Answer 1

The correct option is D

$\left(\mathrm{D}\right)$ only

• Deuterium ($\mathrm{D}$) is the isotope of hydrogen.
• Isotopes are used for the study of the reaction mechanism.
• Hence, heavy water (${\mathrm{D}}_2\mathrm{O}$) is also used for the study of the reaction mechanism.
• In nuclear reactors, heavy water is used as a moderator due to its higher boiling point than normal water.
• These are also obtained as by-products in the fertilizer industry.

The Explanation for the correct options:

(d) Has a higher dielectric constant than water- Explanation:

1. Water has an extremely uncommon dielectric constant, making it extraordinary.
2. Water has a high dielectric constant because of the robust hydrogen bonds between its molecules as well as those between hydrogen and oxygen.
3. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy makes use of heavy water. In some types of nuclear reactors, it serves as a moderator.
4. A high dielectric constant suggests that the solvent, in this case, water, has the capacity to screen charges.

The Explanation for the incorrect options:

(A) Used as a moderator in a nuclear reactor:- Explanation:

• Oxides of nitrogen and sulfur, which have a corrosive effect, are fertilizer industries' byproducts.
• Acid rain is a result of them. The environment is severely harmed by acid rain.

(B) Obtained as a by-product in the fertilizer industry:-Explanation:

• Byproducts of the fertilizer industry include corrosive oxides of sulfur and nitrogen.
• They cause acid rain as a result. Acid rain has a negative impact on the environment.

(C) Used for the study of the reaction mechanism:- Explanation:

• Studying the intricate workings of reaction mechanisms is crucial for a variety of reasons, including the assistance it provides in comprehending and managing chemical reactions.

Therefore, the correct option is (d): The ability of the solvent, in this case, water, to screen charges is suggested by a high dielectric constant.