1

SULPHUR AND ITS COMPOUNDS

Sulphur is an element in Group 6 of the Periodic table . It has atomic number 16 and
electronic configuration of 2.8.6. It has a valency of 2 /divalent and thus forms the ion S2-

Occurrence.
1.Sulphur mainly occurs as,
(i) Naturally as an element in Texas and Louisiana in USA and Sicily in Italy.
(ii)Hydrogen sulphide gas in active volcanic areas e.g. Olkaria near Naivasha in
Kenya,in coal mines and in petroleum gas
(iii)as copper pyrites(CuFeS2) ,Galena (PbS,Zinc blende(ZnS))and iron pyrites(FeS2).

Extraction of Sulphur

Suphur deposits occur about 200 metres underground. The soil structure in these areas is
usually weak and can easily cave in which make ordinary mining imposible.
-Digging of tunnels is thus discouraged in trying to extract the mineral. A special method of
mining called frasch process is employed. the process is based on the low meting point of
sulphur(113-1190C) .It involvesdrilling three concentric /round pipes of diameters 2,8 and
15 centimeters respectively. Thee tubes are sunk into the deposit as shown in the figure
below.

Superheated water at 170oC under 10 atmosphere pressure is forced through the outermost
pipe.
The high pressures ensure the water remains as liquid state at high temperatures instead of
vapour of vapour /gas.The superheated water melts the sulphur because the melting point of
sulphur is lower at about at about 115oC.
Hot compressed air at 15 atmospheres is pumped down through the innermost pipe. The hot
air forces the mixture of molten sulphur and water up the middle pipe to the surface where
it is collected and solidifies in large tanks and separates from water.
Sulphur obtained is about 99% pure.

Allotropes of Sulphur.
Sulphur exhibits allotrophy.It exist as two crystalline allotropic forms:
(i)Rhombic sulphur
(ii)Monoclinic sulphur
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Rhombic sulphur Monoclinic sulphur

Bright yellow crystalline solid Pale yellow crystalline solid
Has a melting point of 113oC Has a melting point of 119oC
Has a density of 2.06gcm-3 Has a density of 1.96gcm-3
Stable below 96oC Stable above 96oC
Has octahedral structure Has a needle-like structure

Rhombic sulphur and Monoclinic sulphur have a transition temperature of 96oC.This is the
temperature at which one allotrope changes to the other.

Sulphur also exists in non-crystalline forms (armophous) as:

(i)Plastic sulphur-Plastic sulphur is prepared from heating powdered sulphur to boil
then pouring a thin continuous stream in a beaker with cold water. A long thin elastic yellow
thread of plastic sulphur is formed .If left for long it turn to bright yellow crystalline rhombic
sulphur.
(ii)Colloidal sulphur-Colloidal sulphur is formed when sodium thiosulphate (Na2S2O3) is
added to hydrochloric acid to form a yellow precipitate.

Na2S2O3 + 2HCl 2NaCl + H20 +SO2 +S

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Physical properties of sulphur

1.Heating Sulphur.
A molecule of sulphur exists as puckered ring of eight atoms joined by covalent bonds as S8.

On heating the yellow sulphur powder,it melts at 113oC to clear amber liquid with low
viscosity and thus flows easily.On further heating to 160oC the molten liquid darkens to a
brown very viscous liquid that does not flow easily.This is because the S8 rings break into S8
chain that join together to form very long chains made of over 100000 atoms of Sulphur.
The long chains entangle each other reducing their mobility /flow and hence increases their
viscosity.
On further heating to above 160oC, the viscous liquid darkens but becomes more
mobile/flows easily and thus less viscous.This is because the long chains break to
smaller/shorter chains.
At 444oC, the liquid boils and forms brown vapour of a mixture of S8 ,S6 and S2 molecules
that solidifies to form a yellow sublimate. The sublimate is known as “flowers of sulphur” .It
consists of S8 rings.

2. Solubility- sulphur is soluble in organic solvents such as benzene and carbon

disulphide.It is insoluble in water.
3. Its a poor conductor of heat and electricity.
4. It has a melting point of 115oC and a boiling point of 444oC.
5. its a yellow solid
6.burns with a blue flame to produce a colourless gas that has a pungent smell

Chemical properties of Sulphur

1.Reaction with oxygen/air--Sulphur burns in air and faster in Oxygen to form

Sulphur(IV)Oxide gas and traces/small amounts of Sulphur(VI)Oxide gas. Both oxides react
with water to form the corresponding acidic solution i.e
(i) Sulphur(IV)Oxide gas reacts with water to form sulphuric(IV)acid
(ii) Sulphur(VI)Oxide gas reacts with water to form sulphuric(VI)acid
Chemical equation
S(s) + O2(g)-> SO2(g) (Sulphur(IV)Oxide gas)
2S(s) + 3O2(g) -> 2SO3(g) (Sulphur(VI)Oxide gas traces)
SO2(g) + H2O(l) -> H2 SO3 (aq) ( sulphuric(IV)acid) SO3(g) +
H2O(l) -> H2 SO4 (aq) ( sulphuric(VI)acid).

2. Sulphur combines directly with some elements to form sulphides. eg When a mixture of
iron and sulphur is heated, the reaction is exothermic giving out heat energy that makes the
mixture to continue glowing even after stopping heating. Black Iron(II)sulphide is formed.

Fe(s) + S(s) -> FeS(s) (Exothermic reaction/ -∆H)

NB Heated powdered heavy metals combine with sulphur to form black sulphides.

Cu(s) + S(s) -> CuS(s)

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Zn(s) + S(s) -> ZnS(s)
Pb(s) + S(s) -> PbS(s)
Sulphur also combines with non-metals like carbon and hydrogen forming non-metallic
sulphides.At high temperature,sulphur reacts with carbon to form carbon(iv) sulphide.

S(S) +C (S)→ CS2(S)

S(S) + H2(g)→ H2S(g)

3.Sulphur is oxidised by both conc suphuric and cons nitric acids
-Hot concentrated sulphuric(VI)acid oxidizes sulphur to sulphur (IV)oxide gas. The acid
itself is reduced into water and sulphur (IV)oxide . Traces of sulphur (VI)oxide are also
formed.

S(s) + 3H2 SO4 (l) -> 3SO2(g) + 3H2O(l) +SO3(g)

Sulphur (IV)oxide gas turns Orange potassium dichromate(VI) paper to green.

- When warm hot concentrated Nitric(V)acid is warmed with sulphur,it oxidizes sulphur to
sulphuric (VI)acid. The Nitric (V) acid is reduced to brown nitrogen(IV)oxide gas and water.

S(s) + 6HNO3 (l) -> 6NO2(g) + 2H2O(l) +H2SO4 (l)

NB: Conc hydrochloric acid does not react with sulphur like the other mineral acids because
it is not an oxidizing agent

Uses of sulphur
(i)Contact process for the large scale production of concentrated sulphuric(VI)acid.
(ii)Vulcanization of rubber to make it harder.
(iii)Making gun powder and match stick heads
(iv) As fungicide.
v) manufacture of bleaching agents in paper industry.

Compounds of sulphur
The following are the main compounds of sulphur:
(i) Sulphur(IV)oxide
(ii) Sulphur(VI)oxide .
(iii) Sulphuric(VI)acid
(iv) Hydrogen Sulphide
(v) Sulphate(IV)/SO32- and Sulphate(VI)/ SO42- salts

(i) Sulphur(IV)oxide(SO2)
Sulphur (IV)oxide is found in volcanic areas as a gas or dissolved in water from geysers and
hot springs in active volcanic areas of the world e.g. Olkaria and Hells gate near Naivasha in
Kenya.

laboratory preparation

In a Chemistry laboratory, Sulphur (IV)oxide is prepared from the reaction of dilute

hydrochloric acid and sodium sulphite.It can also be prepared by the action of conc.
Sulphuric acid and copper turnings.
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Cu(s) + 2H2SO4(l) -> CuSO4(aq) + SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

Na2SO3(aq) + HCl(aq) -> NaCl(aq ) + SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

The gas prepared is dried by passing it through concentrated sulphuric acid.Its collected by
downward delivery as it is denser than air. The gas jar is confirmed to be full of the gas when
a paper soaked in potassium dichromate and placed at the mouth of the gas jar changes to
green.

Physical properties of sulphur (IV)oxide gas.

1. It is a colourless poisonous gas with a characteristic irritating and choking smell.
2. Readily liquefied under pressure.
3. It is denser than air hence collected by downward delivery Soluble in water.
4. Changes a moist blue litmus paper to red hence its acidic.It has no effect on a dry blue
litmus paper.
5. Has a boiling point of -100C
6. Highly soluble in water.egwhen a test-tube full of the gas is inverted in a trough of
water,water level rises rapidly inside the test-tube.
It is acidic.When a moist blue litmus paper is placed in a test-tube full of the gas,it changes to
red.Dry sulphur(IV) oxide gas is a molecular compound that does not dissociate/ionize to
release H+(aq)ions and thus has no effect on dry blue/red litmus papers.

Chemical properties
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1.It reacts with water to form an acidic solution of sulphuric (IV)acid which turns litmus
solution red.
SO2(g) + H2O(l) -> H2 SO3 (aq)

2.It reacts with sodium hydroxide solution to form sulphuric(VI)acid. The acid formed then
reacts with sodium hydroxide to form salt and water. During the reaction,an acid and a
normal salt are formed.

2NaOH(aq) + 2H2SO3(aq) -> Na2SO3(aq) + H2O(I)

NaOH(aq) + 2H2SO3(aq) -> NaHSO3(aq) + H2O(I)

3.Bleaching action of sulphur(IV) oxide

When moist coloured flowers/litmus papers are dropped into a gas jar containing sulphur(IV)
oxide gas, they are bleached/decolorized. Sulphur(IV) oxide gas first combines with the
moisture forming sulphuric(IV)acid. The acid then combines with the oxygen from the dye/
material to form sulphuric(VI)acid

(i)Formation of sulphuric(IV)acid

SO2(g) + H2O(l) -> H2 SO3 (aq)

H2 SO3 (aq) + dye -> H2 SO4 (aq) + Colourless material.

NB H2 SO3 (aq) + O -> H2 SO4 (aq) + Colourless material.

Sulphur(IV) oxide gas therefore bleaches by reduction /removing oxygen from a dye unlike
chlorine that bleaches by oxidation /adding oxygen.
The bleaching by removing oxygen from a material is temporary. In paper
manufacture,reducing agents lile sulphuric acid are used to bleach the materials.When such
papers are exposed to atmosphere in presence of sunlight,oxygen removed during bleaching
is restored. e.g. Old newspapers turn brown on exposure to air on regaining the atomic
oxygen.
The bleaching through adding oxygen by chlorine gas is permanent.

4.Reducing action of sulphur(IV) oxide

(a)Turns Orange acidified potassium dichromate(VI) to green. The gas is a strong reducing
agent.This property is only displayed when the gas is in aqueous state. Acidified potassium
dichromate(VI) when reacted with sulphur(iv) oxide changes from orange to green.
Experiment:
(i)Pass a stream of Sulphur(IV) oxide gas in a test tube containing acidified potassium
dichromate(VI) solution. Or dip a filter paper soaked in acidified potassium dichromate(VI)
into a gas jar containing Sulphur(IV) oxide gas.
Observation:
Orange acidified potassium dichromate(VI) turns to green.

Explanation:
Sulphur(IV) oxide gas reduces acidified potassium dichromate(VI) from orange Cr2O72- ions
to green Cr3+ ions without leaving a residue .Itself is oxidized from SO32- ions in
sulphuric(IV) acid to SO42- ions in sulphuric(VI) acid.

Chemical equations:
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(i)Reaction of Sulphur(IV) oxide gas with water
SO2(g) + H2O(l) -> H2 SO3 (aq)

(ii)Dissociation /ionization of Sulphuric(IV)acid.

H2 SO3 (aq) -> 2H+(aq) + SO32- (aq)

(iii)Oxidation of SO32- (aq)and reduction of Cr2O72-(aq)

3SO32-(aq) + Cr2O72-(aq) +8H+(aq) -> 3SO42-(aq) + 2Cr3+(aq) + 4H2O(l)

This is a confirmatory test for the presence of Sulphur(IV) oxide gas.

NB Hydrogen sulphide also reduces acidified potassium dichromate(VI) from orange

Cr2O72- ions to green Cr3+ ions but leaves a yellow residue.

(b) It decolorizes acidified potassium manganate(VII)

Experiment:
(i)Pass a stream of Sulphur(IV) oxide gas in a test tube containing acidified potassium
manganate(VII) solution. Or dip a filter paper soaked in acidified potassium manganate(VII)
into a gas jar containing Sulphur(IV) oxide gas.

Observation:
Purple acidified potassium manganate(VII) turns to colourless/ acidified potassium
manganate(VII) is decolorized.

Explanation:
Sulphur(IV) oxide gas reduces acidified potassium manganate(VII) from purple MnO4- ions
to green Mn2+ ions without leaving a residue. The gas itself is oxidized from SO32- ions in
sulphuric(IV) acid to SO42- ions in sulphuric(VI) acid.
Chemical/ionic equation:
(i)Reaction of Sulphur(IV) oxide gas with water
SO2(g) + H2O(l) -> H2 SO3 (aq)

(ii)Dissociation /ionization of Sulphuric(IV)acid.

H2 SO3 (aq) -> 2H+(aq) + SO32- (aq)

(iii)Oxidation of SO32- (aq)and reduction of MnO4- (aq)

5SO32-(aq) + 2MnO4- (aq) +6H+(aq) -> 5SO42-(aq) + 2Mn2+(aq) + 3H2O(l)
(purple) (colourless)
NB This is another test for the presence of Sulphur(IV) oxide gas.

-Hydrogen sulphide also decolorizes acidified potassium manganate(VII) from purple MnO4-
ions to colourless Mn2+ ions leaving a yellow residue.

(c )It decolorizes bromine water

Experiment:

(i)Pass a stream of Sulphur(IV) oxide gas in a test tube containing bromine water or Put three
drops of bromine water into a gas jar containing Sulphur(IV) oxide gas. Swirl.
Observation:
Yellow bromine water turns to colourless/ bromine water is decolorized.
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Explanation:
Sulphur(IV) oxide gas reduces yellow bromine water to colourless hydrobromic acid (HBr)
without leaving a residue The gas itself is oxidized from SO32- ions in sulphuric (IV) acid to
SO42- ions in sulphuric(VI) acid.

Chemical/ionic equation:
(i)Reaction of Sulphur(IV) oxide gas with water
SO2(g) + H2O(l) -> H2 SO3 (aq)

(ii)Dissociation /ionization of Sulphuric(IV)acid.

H2 SO3 (aq) -> 2H+(aq) + SO32- (aq)

(iii)Oxidation of SO32- (aq)and reduction of MnO4- (aq)

SO32-(aq) + Br2 (aq) + H2O(l) -> SO42-(aq) + 2HBr(aq)
(yellow) (colourless)
When a solution of baruim chloride is added to the mixture above,a white preecipitate of
barium sulphate is formed indicating the presence of sulphate ions.This can also be used as
another test for the presence of Sulphur(IV) oxide gas.
-Hydrogen sulphide also decolorizes yellow bromine water to colourless leaving a yellow
residue.

(d) It reduces Iron(III)- Fe3+ salts to Iron(II) salts- Fe2+

Experiment:

(i)Pass a stream of Sulphur(IV) oxide gas in a test tube containing about 3 cm3 of Iron
(III)chloride solution. or;
(ii)Place about 3cm3 of Iron (III)chloride solution into a gas jar containing Sulphur(IV) oxide
gas.Swirl.
Observation:
Yellow/brown Iron (III)chloride solution turns to green
Explanation:
Sulphur(IV) oxide gas reduces Iron (III)chloride solution from yellow/brown Fe3+ ions to
green Fe2+ ions without leaving a residue itself oxidized from SO32- ions in sulphuric(IV) acid
to SO42- ions in sulphuric(VI) acid.
Chemical/ionic equation:
(i)Reaction of Sulphur(IV) oxide gas with water
SO2(g) + H2O(l) -> H2 SO3 (aq)
(ii)Dissociation /ionization of Sulphuric(IV)acid.
H2 SO3 (aq) -> 2H+(aq) + SO32- (aq)
(iii)Oxidation of SO32- (aq)and reduction of Fe3+ (aq)
SO32-(aq) + 2Fe3+ (aq) +3H2O(l) -> SO42-(aq) + 2Fe2+(aq) + 2H+(aq)
(yellow) (green)

(e) Reduces Nitric(V)acid to brown Nitrogen(IV)oxide gas

Experiment:
(i)Pass a stream of Sulphur(IV) oxide gas in a test tube containing about 3 cm3 of
concentrated nitric(V)acid. Or Place about 3cm3 of concentrated nitric(V)acid into a gas jar
containing Sulphur(IV) oxide gas. Swirl.
Observation:
Brown fumes of a gas evolved/produced.
Explanation:
Sulphur(IV) oxide gas reduces concentrated nitric(V)acid to brown nitrogen(IV)oxide gas
itself oxidized from SO32- ions in sulphuric(IV) acid to SO42- ions in sulphuric(VI) acid.
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Chemical/ionic equation:
SO2(g) + 2HNO3 (l) -> H2 SO4 (l) + NO2 (g)
(brown fumes/gas)
(e)Reduces Hydrogen peroxide to water
Experiment:
(i)Pass a stream of Sulphur(IV) oxide gas in a test tube containing about 3 cm3 of 20 volume
hydrogen peroxide. Add four drops of Barium nitrate(V)or Barium chloride followed by five
drops of 2M hydrochloric acid/ 2M nitric(V) acid.

Observation:
A white precipitate is formed that persist /remains on adding 2M hydrochloric acid/ 2M
nitric(V) acid.
Explanation:
Sulphur(IV) oxide gas reduces 20 volume hydrogen peroxide and itself oxidized from SO32-
ions in sulphuric(IV) acid to SO42- ions in sulphuric(VI) acid.
When Ba2+ ions in Barium Nitrate(V) or Barium chloride solution is added, a white
precipitate of insoluble Barium salts is formed showing the presence of of either SO32-
,SO42- ,CO32- ions. i.e.

SO32-(aq) + Ba2+ (aq) -> BaSO3(s)

white precipitate
SO42-(aq) + Ba2+ (aq) -> BaSO4(s)
white precipitate
CO32-(aq) + Ba2+ (aq) -> BaCO3(s)
white precipitate
If nitric(V)/hydrochloric acid is added to the three suspected insoluble white precipitates
above, the white precipitate:
(i) persist/remains if SO42-(aq)ions (BaSO4(s)) is present.
(ii)dissolves if SO32-(aq)ions (BaSO3(s)) and CO32-(aq)ions (BaCO3(s))is present. .

5.also act as an oxidizing action of Sulphur(IV)oxide

(a)Reduction by burning Magnesium

Experiment
Lower a burning Magnesium ribbon into agas jar containing Sulphur(IV)oxide gas
Observation
Magnesium ribbon continues to burn for some time.
White ash and yellow specks are formed.
Explanation
Sulphur(IV)oxide does not support burning/combustion. Magnesium burns to produce
enough heat energy that decompose Sulphur(IV)oxide into sulphur and oxygen.
The metal continues to burn on this oxygen forming white Magnesium oxide solid/ash.
Yellow specks of sulphur residue form on the sides of reaction flask/gas jar.
During the reaction, Sulphur(IV)oxide is reduced(oxidizing agent)while the metal is oxidized
(reducing agent)

SO2(g) + 2Mg(s) -> 2MgO(s) + S(s)

(white ash/solid) (yellow specks/powder)

(b)Reduction by Hydrogen sulphide gas

Experiment
-Put two drops of water into a gas jar containing dry Sulphur(IV)oxide gas
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Invert a gas jar full of hydrogen sulphide gas over the gas jar containing Sulphur(IV)oxide
gas. Swirl

Observation
Yellow powder/specks formed.
Explanation
Sulphur(IV)oxide oxidizes hydrogen sulphide to yellow specks of sulphur residue and itself
reduced to also sulphur that form on the sides of reaction flask/gas jar.
A little moisture/water act as catalyst /speeds up the reaction.Sulpur(iv) oxide acts as the
oxidising agent.
Chemical equation
SO2(g) + 2H2S(g) -> 2H2O(l) + 3S(s)
(yellow speck/powder)
NB If the two gases are dry,there is no observable change.

Uses of Sulphur(IV)oxide

(i)In the contact process for the manufacture of Sulphuric(VI)acid

(ii)As a bleaching agent of pulp and paper.
(iii)As a fungicide to kill microbes’
(iv)As a preservative of jam, juices to prevent fermentation

(ii) Sulphur(VI)oxide(SO3)
Sulphur (VI)oxide does not occur freely in nature/atmosphere

Preparation
Its prepared from:

Method 1;Catalytic oxidation of sulphur(IV)oxide gas.

Sulphur(IV)oxide gas and oxygen mixture are first dried by being passed through
Concentrated Sulphuric(VI)acid .
The dry mixture is then passed through platinised asbestos to catalyse/speed up the
combination to form Sulphur (VI)oxide gas. Sulphur (VI)oxide gas readily solidify as silky
white needles if passed through a freezing mixture /ice cold water.Sulphur (VI)oxide gas is
deliquescent.Calcium chloride is used to keep it free from moisture
The solid fumes out on heating to a highly acidic poisonous gas.
Diagram pg 177 klb bk

2SO2(g) + O2(g) ----> 2SO3 (g)

Method 2; Decomposing of sodium hygrogen sulphate.

2NaHSO4(aq) -> Na2SO4(s) + H2O(l) + SO3 (g)

NB One of the main uses of sulphur(VI)oxide gas is as an intermediate product in the

contact process for industrial/manufacture/large scale/production of sulphuric(VI)acid.

(iii) Sulphuric(VI)acid(H2SO4)

(b)The Contact process for industrial manufacture of H2SO4 .

Sulphuric(VI) acid is manufactured on a large scale using the contact process
The main raw materials for industrial preparation of Sulphuric(VI)acid include:
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(i)Sulphur from Fraschs process or from heating metal sulphide ore like
Galena(PbS),Zinc blende(ZnS)
(ii)Oxygen from fractional distillation of air
(iii)Water from rivers/lakes

The contact process involves four main chemical processes:

(i)Production of Sulphur (IV)oxide-Sulphur (IV)oxide gas is obtained from the following

sources;
a) Burning/roasting sulphur in air.-Sulphur from Fraschs process is roasted/burnt in air to
form Sulphur (IV)oxide gas in the burners

S(s) + O2(g) --> SO2 (g)

b) Burning/roasting sulphide ores in air. eg

(i)2PbS (s) + 3O2 (g) -> 2PbO(s) + 2SO2 (g)
(ii)2ZnS (s) + 3O2 (g) -> 2ZnO(s) + 2SO2 (g)
(ii)2CuFeS2 (s) + 4O2 (g) -> 2FeO(s) + 3SO2 (g) + Cu2O(s)

-Sulphur(IV)oxide easily/readily liquefies and thus can be transported to a far distance safely.

(ii)Purification of Sulphur(IV)oxide
Sulphur(IV)oxide gas contain dust particles and Arsenic oxide as impurities. These impurities
can“poison”/impair the catalyst by adhering on/covering its surface.The impurities are
removed by electrostatic precipitation method .In the contact process Platinum or
Vanadium(V)oxide cataalyst may be used. Vanadium(V)oxide is preferred because it is :
(i) cheaper/less expensive
(ii) less easily poisoned by impurities

(iii)Catalytic conversion of Sulphur(IV)oxide to Sulphur(VI)oxide

-Pure and dry mixture of Sulphur (IV)oxide gas and Oxygen is heated to 450oC in a heat
exchanger. The heated mixture is passed through long pipes coated with pellets of Vanadium
(V)oxide catalyst. The close “contact” between the reacting gases and catalyst give the
process its name.
Vanadium (V)oxide catalyse the conversion/oxidation of Sulphur(IV)oxide to
Sulphur(VI)oxide gas.

2SO2 (g) + O2(g) -- --> 2SO2 (g)

This reaction is exothermic (-∆H) and the temperatures need to be maintained at around
450oC to ensure that:
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(i)reaction rate/time taken for the formation of Sulphur(VI)oxide is not too slow/long
at lower temperatures below 450oC
(ii) Sulphur(VI)oxide gas does not decompose back to Sulphur(IV)oxide gas and
Oxygen gas at higher temperatures than 450oC.
NB for maximum yield of the acid during the contact process,low temperature nad high
pressure are needed. However,at low temp the reaction is very slow and its also expensive to
maintain high pressure. Comprise optimum conditions used are a temp of450oC. and a
pressure of 2 to 3 atmospheres.
(iv)Conversion of Sulphur(VI)oxide o Sulphuric(VI)acid
The reaction between Sulphur(VI)oxide and water reaction is highly exothermic.It produce
excessive heat boiling the sulphuric acid formed into a thick mist of fine droplets of
Sulphuric(VI)acid in air.
To prevent this, Sulphur (VI)oxide is a passed up the absorption tower to meet downward
flow of 98% Sulphuric(VI)acid. The gas dissolves in the concentrated Sulphuric(VI) acid to
form a viscous oily liquid called Oleum.

H2SO4 (aq) + SO3 (g) -> H2S2O7 (l)

Oleum is diluted carefully with distilled water to give concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid .

H2S2O7 (l) + H2O (l) -> 2H2SO4 (l)

The acid is stored ready for market/sale. In Kenya the acid is manufactured by Kel chemicals
in Thika.

III. Environmental effects of contact process

Sulphur(VI)oxide and Sulphur(IV)oxide gases are atmospheric pollutants that form acid rain
if they escape to the atmosphere.
In the Contact process, about 2% of Sulphur(IV)oxide is not converted into sulphur (VI)
oxide. The gas escapes into the atmosphere.
The following precautions prevent/minimize pollution from Contact process:
(i) Recycling back any unreacted Sulphur(IV)oxide gas back to the heat
exchangers.
(iii)Scrubbing the gas-This involves passing the exhaust gases through very tall
chimneys lined with quicklime/calcium hydroxide solid.
This reacts with Sulphur (VI)oxide gas forming harmless calcium(II)sulphite /CaSO3

Ca(OH)2 (aq) + SO2(g) --> CaSO3 (aq) + H2O (g)

Uses of Sulphuric(VI)acid

(i) In making dyes and paint

(ii)As acid in Lead-acid accumulator/battery
(iii) Making soapless detergents
(iv) Making of fertilizers
v) Making of plastics
vi) Processing of metal ores

Properties of Concentrated sulphuric(VI)acid

(i) Concentrated sulphuric(VI)acid is a colourless oily liquid with a
(ii) Has a density of 1.84gcm-3.
(iii) It has a boiling point of 338oC.

(ii) Concentrated sulphuric(VI)acid is very soluble in water.

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The solubility /dissolution of the acid is highly exothermic. If water is added to the acid,the
reaction is explosive producing fumes. For this reason, the acid is diluted by adding small
portions of the acid into a large volume of water with constant stirring.
(iii) Concentrated sulphuric (VI)acid is a covalent compound. It has no free H+ ions.
Free H+ ions are responsible for turning the blue litmus paper red. Concentrated sulphuric
(VI) acid thus do not change the blue litmus paper red.
(iv) Concentrated sulphuric (VI)acid is hygroscopic. It absorbs water from the atmosphere
and do not form a solution. This property makes concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid suitable as
a drying agent during preparation of gases which do not react with it.
v) It is a dehydrating agent
Experiment I;
Put about four spatula end fulls of brown sugar and glucose in separate 10cm3 beakers.
Carefully add about 10cm3 of concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid .Allow to stand for about 10
minutes.
Observation;
Colour( in brown sugar )change from brown to black.
Colour (in glucose) change from white to black.
The beaker becomes very hot.
Explanation
Concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid is strong dehydrating agent.It removes chemically and
physically combined elements of water(Hydrogen and Oxygen )from compounds.
When added to sugar /glucose a vigorous reaction that is highly exothermic take place.
The sugar/glucose is charred to black mass of carbon because the acid dehydrates the
sugar/glucose leaving carbon.
.
Glucose: C6H12O6(s) --conc.H2SO4--> 6C (s) + 6H2O(l)
(white) (black)

Sugar: C12H22O11(s) --conc.H2SO4--> 12C (s) +11H2O(l)

(brown) (black)
Experiment II;
Put about two spatula end full of hydrated copper(II)sulphate(VI)crystals in a boiling tube
.Carefully add about 10cm3 of concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid .Warm .
Observation;
-Colour change from blue to white.
Explanation
The acid dehydrates blue copper(II)sulphate to white anhydrous copper(II)sulphate .

CuSO4.5H2O(s) --conc.H2SO4--> CuSO4 (s) + 5H2O(l)

(blue) (white)
Experiment III;
-Put about 4cm3 of absolute ethanol in a boiling tube .Carefully add about 10cm3 of
concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid.
-Place moist/damp/wet filter paper dipped in acidified potassium dichromate(VI)solution on
the mouth of the boiling tube. Heat strongly.
Caution:
Absolute ethanol is highly flammable.
Observation;
-Colourless gas produced.
-Orange acidified potassium dichromate (VI) paper turns to green.
Explanation
Concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid is strong dehydrating agent.The acid dehydrates ethanol to
ethene gas at about 170oC.
 14
Ethene with -C=C- double bond turns orange acidified potassium dichromate (VI) paper
turns to green.
C2H5OH(l) --conc.H2SO4/170oC --> C2H4 (g) + H2O(l)
NB: This reaction is used for the school laboratory preparation of ethene gas
Experiment IV;
Put about 4cm3 of methanoic acid in a boiling tube .Carefully add about 6 cm3 of
concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid. Heat gently
Observation;
Colourless gas produced.
Explanation
Concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid is strong dehydrating agent.The acid dehydrates methanoic
acid to poisonous/toxic carbon(II)oxide gas.

HCOOH(l) --> CO(g) + H2O(l)

conc.H2SO4

NB: This reaction is used for the laboratory preparation of small amount carbon (II)oxide gas
6.It is a strong oxidizing agent
Experiment I
Put about 2cm3 of Concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid into three separate boiling tubes. Place a
thin moist/damp/wet filter paper dipped in acidified potassium dichromate (VI)solution on
the mouth of the boiling tubes. Put about 0.5g of Copper turnings, Zinc granuls and Iron
filings to each boiling tube separately.

Observation;
-Effervescence/fizzing/bubbles
-Blue solution formed with copper,
-Green solution formed with Iron
-Colourless solution formed with Zinc
-Colourless gas produced I each case that has a pungent irritating choking smell.
-Gas produced turn orange moist/damp/wet filter paper dipped in acidified potassium
dichromate (VI)solution to green.
Explanation
The acid oxidizes metals into metallic sulphate salts and itself reduced to sulphur(IV)oxide
gas.Sulphur (IV) oxide gas turn orange moist/damp/wet filter paper dipped in acidified
potassium dichromate (VI)solution to green.
CuSO4(aq) is a blue solution. ZnSO4(aq) is a colourless solution. FeSO4(aq) is a green
solution.
Cu(s) + 2H2SO4(aq) --> CuSO4(aq) + SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)
Zn(s) + 2H2SO4(aq) --> ZnSO4(aq) + SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)
Fe(s) + 2H2SO4(aq) --> FeSO4(aq) + SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

Experiment II
Put about 2cm3 of Concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid into two separate boiling tubes. Place a
thin moist/damp/wet filter paper dipped in acidified potassium dichromate (VI)solution on
the mouth of the boiling tube.
Put about 0.5g of powdered charcoal and sulphur powder to each boiling tube separately.
Warm.
Observation;
Black solid charcoal dissolves/decrease
Yellow solid sulphur dissolves/decrease
Colourless gas produced that has a pungent irritating choking smell.
Gas produced turn orange moist/damp/wet filter paper dipped in acidified potassium
dichromate (VI)solution to green.
 15

Explanation
Concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid oxidizes non-metals to non metallic oxides and itself
reduced to sulphur(IV)oxide gas. Sulphur (IV) oxide gas turn orange moist/damp/wet filter
paper dipped in acidified potassium dichromate (VI)solution to green.
Charcoal is oxidized to carbon(IV)oxide. Sulphur is oxidized to Sulphur(IV)oxide .
Chemical equation
C(s) + 2H2SO4(aq) --> CO2(aq) + 2SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)
S(s) + 2H2SO4(aq) --> 3SO2(g) + 2H2O(l)

7.It is a less volatile acid

Conc sulphuric acid displaces more volatile acids from their salts.
QUESTION.
Using chemical equations, explain how sulphuric(VI)acid displaces the less volatile
mineral acids.
(i)Chemical equation
KNO3(s) + H2SO4(aq) --> KHSO4(l) + HNO3(g)
This reaction is used in the school laboratory preparation of Nitric(V) acid (HNO3).

(ii)Chemical equation
KCl(s) + H2SO4(aq) --> KHSO4(s) + HCl(g)
This reaction is used in the school laboratory preparation of Hydrochloric acid (HCl).

Properties of dilute sulphuric(VI)acid.

Dilute sulphuric(VI)acid is made when about 10cm3 of concentrated sulphuric

(VI) acid is carefully added to about 90cm3 of distilled water.
Diluting concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid should be done carefully because the reaction is
highly exothermic. Diluting concentrated sulphuric (VI) acid decreases the number of moles
present in a given volume of solution which makes the acid less corrosive.
On diluting concentrated sulphuric(VI) acid, water ionizes /dissociates the acid fully/wholly
into two(dibasic) free H+(aq) ions and SO42-(aq)ions:

H2SO4 (aq) -> 2H+(aq) + SO42-(aq)

The presence of free H+(aq)ions in dil sulphuric (VI) acid is responsible for ;
(i) Turning blue paper litmus red
(ii) Having a of pH 1/2/3

a) Reaction with metals

Experiment:
-Place 5cm3 of 0.2M dilute sulphuric(VI)acid into 3 separate clean test tubes. Add about 2cm
of Magnesium ribbon to one test tube. Cover the mixture with a finger as stopper.
-Introduce a burning splint on top of the finger and release the finger “stopper”. Repeat by
adding Zinc granules andCopper turnings instead of the Magnesium ribbon to the other test-
tubes.
Observation:
-No effervescence/ bubbles/ fizzing with copper
-Effervescence/ bubbles/ fizzing with Zinc and Magnesium
-Colourless gas produced that produces a “pop” sound when a burning splint is
applied.
-Colourless solution formed with Zinc and Magnesium.
-Green solution formed with Iron
Explanation:
 16
When a metal higher than hydrogen in the reactivity series is put in a test tube
containing dilute sulphuric(VI)acid, effervescence takes place with evolution of
Hydrogen gas which burns with a “pop” sound.
-Sulphate salts are formed. Zinc and Magnesium are higher than hydrogen in the
reactivity. They form Iron (II)sulphate, Magnesium sulphate and Zinc sulphate
respectively.
. When a metal lower than hydrogen in the reactivity is put in a test tube containing
dilute sulphuric(VI)acid, there is no effervescence that take place.Copper thus do not
react with dilute sulphuric(VI)acid.

Chemical/ionic equations

Mg(s) + H2SO4(aq) --> MgSO4(aq) + H2(g)

Mg(s) + 2H+(aq) --> Mg2+ (aq) + H2(g)

Zn(s) + H2SO4(aq) --> ZnSO4(aq) + H2(g)

+ 2+
Zn(s) + 2H (aq) --> Zn (aq) + H2(g)
Fe(s) + H2SO4(aq) --> FeSO4(aq) + H2(g)
+
Fe(s) + H (aq) --> Fe2+ (aq) + H2(g)

NB:(i) Calcium,Lead and Barium forms insoluble sulphate(VI)salts that cover/coat the
unreacted metals.
(iii) Sodium and Potassium react explosively with dilute sulphuric(VI)acid

b)Reaction with metal carbonates and hydrogen carbonates

Experiment:
-Place 5cm3 of 0.2M dilute sulphuric(VI)acid into four separate clean boiling tubes. Add
about 0.1g of sodium carbonate to one boiling tube. Introduce a burning splint on top of the
boiling tube. Repeat by adding Zinc carbonate, Copper (II)carbonate and Iron(II)Carbonate in
place of the sodium carbonate.
Observation:

-Effervescence/ bubbles/ fizzing.

-Colourless gas produced that extinguishes burning splint.
-Colourless solution formed with Zinc carbonate, sodium hydrogen carbonate and sodium
carbonate.
-Green solution formed with Iron(II)Carbonate
-Blue solution formed with Copper(II)Carbonate
Explanation:
-When a metal carbonate or a hydrogen carbonates is put in a test tube containing dilute
sulphuric(VI)acid, effervescence takes place with evolution of carbon(IV)oxide gas.
carbon(IV)oxide gas extinguishes a burning splint and forms a white precipitate when
bubbled in lime water. A sulphate salt is formed.

ZnCO3(s) + H2SO4(aq) --> ZnSO4(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)

ZnCO3(s) + 2H+(aq) --> Zn2+ (aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)
CuCO3(s) + H2SO4(aq) --> CuSO4(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)
FeCO3(s) + H2SO4(aq) --> FeSO4(aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)
2NaHCO3(s) + H2SO4(aq) --> Na2SO4(aq) + 2H2O(l) + 2CO2(g)
NaHCO3(s) + H+(aq) --> Na+ (aq) + H2O(l) + CO2(g)
 17
NB:Calcium, Lead and Barium carbonates forms insoluble sulphate salts that cover/coat the
unreacted metals. As a result,the reaction stops after a while.
(c)Reaction of metal oxides and hydroxides
Experiment I:
-Place 5cm3 of 0.2M dilute sulphuric(VI)acid into four separate clean boiling tubes. Add
about 0.1g of copper(II)oxide to one boiling tube. Stir.
Repeat by adding Zinc oxide, calcium oxide and Sodium Oxide in place of the
Copper(II)Oxide.
Observation:
-Blue solution formed with Copper(II)Oxide
-Colourless solution formed with other oxides
Explanation:
When a metal oxide reacts with dilute sulphuric(VI)acid, salt and water are formed.
ZnO(s) + H2SO4(aq) --> ZnSO4(aq) + H2O(l)
ZnO(s) + 2H+(aq) --> Zn2+ (aq) + H2O(l)
CuO(s) + H2SO4(aq) --> CuSO4(aq) + H2O(l)
MgO(s) + H2SO4(aq) --> MgSO4(aq) + H2O(l)
Na2O(s) + H2SO4(aq) --> Na2SO4(aq) + H2O(l)
NB: Oxides of calcium, Lead and Barium forms insoluble sulphate salts that cover/coat the
unreacted metals oxide prevent further reaction.
-Like other (mineral) acids dilute sulphuric(VI)acid neutralizes alkalis to form a salt and
water only.
2NaOH(aq) + H2SO4(aq) --> Na2SO4(aq) + H2O(l)
OH-(s) + H+(aq) --> H2O(l)
2KOH(aq) + H2SO4(aq) --> K2SO4(aq) + H2O(l)
2NH4OH(aq) + H2SO4(aq) --> (NH4)2SO4(aq) + H2O(l)

(iv) Hydrogen sulphide(H2S)

Hydrogen sulphide is a poisonous gaseous compound.It occur naturally in some deposits

mixed with natural gas.It also occurs in volcanic areas as a gas or dissolved in water from
geysers and hot springs in active volcanic areas of the world e.g. Olkaria and Hells gate near
Naivasha in Kenya.It is present in rotten eggs and human excreta.

(b) Preparation
Hydrogen sulphide is prepared in laboratory by heating Iron (II) sulphide with dilute
hydrochloric acid.
Diagram pg 187

FeS (s) + 2HCl (aq) -> H2S (g) FeCl2 (aq)

NB Any metal sulphide can be reacted with dil.hydrochloric acid to prepare hydrogen
sulphide.Its collected over warm water since it reacts with cold water.
It is dried by passing it through a u-tube packed with anhydrous calcium chloride.It cannot be
dried using conc sulphuric acid since it would be oxidised to sulphur.

3H2S(g) + H2SO4(l) 4S(s) + 4H20(l)

Physical properties of Hydrogen sulphide.

I. Hydrogen sulphide is a colourless gas with characteristic smell of rotten eggs.
II. It is soluble in cold water but insoluble in warm water.
III. It is denser than air
IV. Turns blue litmus paper red.
 18
Chemical propertiesof Hydrogen sulphide

a) Reaction with water

Hydrogen sulphide dissolves in water to form a weak acidic solution(H2S(aq))

H2S(aq) -> 2H+(aq) + S2- (aq)

-Hydrogen sulphide therefore can form both normal and acid salts e.g Sodium hydrogen
sulphide and sodium sulphide both exist

b) Reaction with oxygen

Hydrogen sulphide burns in excess air with a blue flame to form sulphur(IV)oxide gas and
water.
2H2S(g) + 3O2(g) -> 2H2O(l) + 2SO2(g)
Hydrogen sulphide burns in limited air with a blue flame to form sulphur and water.

2H2S(g) + O2(g) -> 2H2O(l) + 2S(s)

c) Reaction of hydrogen sulphide as a reducing agent

Hydrogen sulphide is a strong reducing agent and is readily oxidised into sulphur which is
precipitated as a yellow solid.
The following examples illustrate the reducing properties of Hydrogen sulphide.

(a)Turns Orange acidified potassium dichromate(VI) solution to green

-Hydrogen sulphide gas reduces acidified potassium dichromate(VI) from orange Cr2O72- ions
to green Cr3+ ions leaving a yellow solid residue as itself is oxidized to sulphur.

4H2S(aq) + Cr2O72-(aq) +6H+(aq) -> 4S(aq) + 2Cr3+(aq) + 7H2O(l)

This test is used for differentiating Hydrogen sulphide and sulphur (IV)oxide gas.
-Sulphur(IV)oxide also reduces acidified potassium dichromate(VI) from orange Cr2O72- ions
to green Cr3+ ions without leaving a yellow residue.

(b)Decolorizes acidified purple potassium manganate(VII) solution

Experiment: Dip a filter paper soaked in acidified potassium manganate(VII) into a gas jar
containing Hydrogen Sulphide gas.
Observation:
Purple acidified potassium manganate(VII) turns to colourless/ acidified potassium
manganate(VII) is decolorized.
-Yellow solid residue.
Explanation:
Hydrogen sulphide gas reduces acidified potassium manganate(VII) from purple MnO4- ions
to green Mn2+ ions leaving a yellow residue as the gas itself is oxidized to sulphur.

5H2S(g) + 2MnO4- (aq) +6H+(aq) -> 5S (s) + 2Mn2+(aq) + 8H2O(l)

(purple) (colourless)
-This is another test for differentiating Hydrogen sulphide and Sulphur(IV) oxide gas.
Sulphur(IV) oxide also decolorizes acidified potassium manganate(VII) from purple MnO4-
ions to colourless Mn2+ ions leaving no yellow residue.

(c)Decolorizes bromine water

 19
Hydrogen sulphide gas reduces red-brown bromine water to colourless hydrobromic acid
(HBr) leaving a yellow residue as the gas itself is oxidized to sulphur.
H2 S(g) + Br2 (aq) -> S (s) + 2HBr(aq)
(yellow solution) (yellow solid) (colourless)
This is another test for differentiating Hydrogen sulphide and Sulphur(IV) oxide gas.
Sulphur(IV) oxide also decolorizes acidified potassium manganate(VII) from purple MnO4-
ions to colourless Mn2+ ions leaving no yellow residue.

(d) Reduces Iron(III) Fe3+ salts to Iron(II) salts Fe2+

-Hydrogen sulphide gas reduces yellowIron (III)chloride solution from yellow/brown Fe3+
ions to green Fe2+ ions leaving a yellow residue.The gas is itself oxidized to sulphur.

H2S(aq) + 2Fe3+ (aq) -> S (s) + Fe2+(aq) + 2H+(aq)

(yellow solution) (yellow residue) (green)

(e)Reduces Nitric(V)acid to Nitrogen(IV)oxide gas

When Hydrogen sulphide gas is bubbled into dilute nitric (v) acid, brown fumes of
nitrogen(iv) gas are produced and paleyellow sulphur is deposited.

H2S(g) + 2HNO3 (l) -> 2H2O(l) + S (s) + 2NO2 (g)

(yellow residue) (brown fumes)

(f)Reduces sulphuric(VI)acid to Sulphur

Hydrogen sulphide gas reduces concentrated sulphuric(VI)acid to sulphur.

3H2S(g) + H2SO4 (l) -> 4H2O(l) + 4S (s)

yellow residue)
(g)Reduces Hydrogen peroxide to water
-Hydrogen sulphide gas reduces hydrogen peroxide to water and itself oxidized to sulphur
H2S(g) + H2O2 (l) -> 2H2O(l) + S (s)
(yellow residue)
Reaction with metallic ions
Hydrogen sulphide reacts with some metal ions to form precipitates of metal sulphides All
these metal sulphides are insoluble black salts except sodium sulphide, potassium sulphide
and ammonium sulphides.

NB Hydrogen sulphide gas blackens moist Lead (II) ethanoate /Lead (II) nitrate(V)
paper .The gas reacts with Pb2+ in the paper to form black Lead(II)sulphide.This is the
chemical test for the presence of H2S other than the physical smell of rotten eggs.
Pb+(aq) + H2S -> PbS + 2H+(aq)
(black)
Fe2+(aq) + H2S -> FeS + 2H+(aq)
black)
Zn2+(aq) + H2S -> ZnS + 2H+(aq)
(black)
Cu (aq) + H2S -> CuS + 2H+(aq)
2+

black)

Reaction with alkalis

-When equal volumes of equimolar hydrogen sulphide and sodium hydroxide solutions are
reacted,sodium hydrogen sulphide which is an acid salt is formed.

H2S(g) + NaOH (l) -> H2O(l) + NaHS (aq)

 20
When excess excess sodium hydroxide solution is used,sodium sulphide, a normal salt, is
formed.

H2S(g) + 2NaOH (l) -> 2H2O(l) + Na2S (aq)

Test for the presence of sulphates(SO42-) and sulphites((SO32-) ions

(a)Using Lead(II)nitrate(V)

I. To about 5cm3 of a salt solution in a test tube add four drops of Lead(II)nitrate solution.
Preserve.

Observation Inference
White precipitate/ppt SO42- , SO32- , CO32- , Cl- ions

II. To the preserved sample in (I) above, add six drops of 2M nitric(V) acid . Preserve.

Observation 1
Observation Inference
White precipitate/ppt persists SO42- , Cl- ions

Observation 2
Observation Inference
White precipitate/ppt dissolves SO32- , CO32- , ions

III.(a)To the preserved sample observation 1 in (II) above, Heat to boil.

Observation 1

Observation Inference
White precipitate/ppt persists on boiling SO42- ions

Observation 2
Observation Inference
White precipitate/ppt dissolves on boiling Cl - ions

.(b)To the preserved sample observation 2 in (II) above, add 4 drops of acidified potassium
manganate(VII) /dichromate(VI).

Observation 1
Observation Inference
(i)acidified potassium manganate(VII)decolorized SO32- ions
(ii)Orange colour of acidified potassium
dichromate(VI) turns to green

Observation 2
Observation Inference
(i)acidified potassium manganate(VII) not decolorized CO32- ions
(ii)Orange colour of acidified potassium
dichromate(VI) does not turns to green

Experiments/Observations:
 21
(b)Using Barium(II)nitrate(V)/ Barium(II)chloride

I. To about 5cm3 of a salt solution in a test tube add four drops of Barium(II) nitrate (V) /
Barium(II)chloride. Preserve.

Observation Inference
White precipitate/ppt SO42- , SO32- , CO32- ions

II. To the preserved sample in (I) above, add six drops of 2M nitric(V) acid . Preserve.
Observation 1
Observation Inference
White precipitate/ppt persists SO42- , ions

Observation 2
Observation Inference
White precipitate/ppt dissolves SO32- , CO32- , ions

III.To the preserved sample observation 2 in (II) above, add 4 drops of acidified potassium
manganate(VII) /dichromate(VI).

Observation 1
Observation Inference
(i)acidified potassium manganate(VII)decolorized SO32- ions
(ii)Orange colour of acidified potassium
dichromate(VI) turns to green

Observation 2
Observation Inference
(i)acidified potassium manganate(VII) not decolorized CO32- ions
(ii)Orange colour of acidified potassium
dichromate(VI) does not turns to green