A mixture of sodium chloride and calcium bicarbonate underwent 3 consecutive processes:
1) Mixture was placed in water and heated.
2) Resulting mixture + solution was filtered. Residue X was left in the paper while the filtrate is in a conical flask.
3) The filtrate is evaporated into dryness with solid Y left.

Which one of the following would be X and Y?

letter of choice) x ; y
a) Calcium carbonate ; sodium chloride
b) Calcium carbonate ; sodium hydroxide
c) Calcium chloride ; sodium carbonate
d) Sodium chloride ; calcium carbonate

Much thanks in advance!

Question

A mixture of sodium chloride and calcium bicarbonate underwent 3 consecutive processes:
1) Mixture was placed in water and heated.
2) Resulting mixture + solution was filtered. Residue X was left in the paper while the filtrate is in a conical flask.
3) The filtrate is evaporated into dryness with solid Y left.

Which one of the following would be X and Y?

letter of choice) x ; y
a) Calcium carbonate ; sodium chloride
b) Calcium carbonate ; sodium hydroxide
c) Calcium chloride ; sodium carbonate
d) Sodium chloride ; calcium carbonate

Much thanks in advance!

jfraser · Answer

compounds containing the bicarbonate ion are generally unstable, and will decompose with heat forming a metal carbonate and water. In this case, calcium carbonate is formed. Calcium carbonate is also insoluble in water. The other product, sodium chloride, is soluble in water. Hope that helps~