Question

Write the function of conc. ${\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{SO}}_4$ in the preparation of $\mathrm{CO}$ from oxalic acid.

Answer 1

1. Concentrated sulphuric acid is used as a dehydrating agent.
2. ${\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{C}}_2{\mathrm{O}}_4.2{\mathrm{H}}_2\mathrm{O}\left(\mathrm{aq}\right)+\mathrm{conc}.{\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{SO}}_4\left(\mathrm{aq}\right)\stackrel{∆}{\to }\mathrm{CO}\left(\mathrm{g}\right)+{\mathrm{CO}}_2\left(\mathrm{g}\right)+3{\mathrm{H}}_2\mathrm{O}\left(\mathrm{aq}\right)$
   In this process conc. ${\mathrm{H}}_2{\mathrm{SO}}_4$ act as dehydrating agent.