Q1. What is the chemical name of common table salt?
a) Sodium chloride
b) Calcium chloride
c) Potassium chloride
d) Magnesium chloride
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Correct Answer: a) Sodium chloride
Explanation: Common table salt, the most widely used type of salt, has the chemical name sodium chloride (NaCl). It is composed of sodium ions (Na+) and chloride ions (Cl-) arranged in a crystal lattice structure. Sodium chloride is essential for various physiological functions in humans and animals, including fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. In addition to its culinary uses as a flavor enhancer and food preservative, sodium chloride has numerous industrial applications, including in the chemical industry, water treatment, and manufacturing of detergents and metal refining processes.
Q2. Which type of salt is commonly used to melt ice on roads and sidewalks during winter?
a) Sodium chloride
b) Calcium chloride
c) Potassium chloride
d) Magnesium chloride
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Correct Answer: b) Calcium chloride
Explanation: Calcium chloride (CaCl2) is commonly used as a de-icing agent to melt ice on roads and sidewalks during winter. It is effective at lower temperatures compared to sodium chloride and can prevent the formation of ice at temperatures as low as -25°C (-13°F). Calcium chloride works by releasing heat when it dissolves in water, generating a brine solution that lowers the freezing point of ice and facilitates its removal. In addition to its de-icing properties, calcium chloride is used in various other applications, including as a desiccant, food additive, and drying agent in laboratories.
Q3. Which type of salt is commonly used in water softeners to remove hardness ions such as calcium and magnesium?
a) Sodium chloride
b) Calcium chloride
c) Potassium chloride
d) Magnesium chloride
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Correct Answer: a) Sodium chloride
Explanation: Sodium chloride (NaCl) is commonly used in water softeners to remove hardness ions such as calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+) from water. Water softening involves a process known as ion exchange, where calcium and magnesium ions are replaced with sodium ions. Sodium chloride is used as a regenerant in water softener systems, where it is dissolved in water to create a brine solution that flushes out the accumulated hardness ions from the resin bed. This process helps prevent scale buildup in pipes and appliances, improves soap lathering, and extends the lifespan of plumbing fixtures.
Q4. Which type of salt is commonly used in the production of cheese and as a food preservative?
a) Sodium chloride
b) Calcium chloride
c) Potassium chloride
d) Magnesium chloride
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Correct Answer: a) Sodium chloride
Explanation: Sodium chloride (NaCl) is commonly used in the production of cheese and as a food preservative. In cheese making, salt is added to the curds during the cheese-making process to enhance flavor, control moisture content, and inhibit the growth of undesirable microorganisms. Sodium chloride also plays a crucial role in food preservation by reducing water activity, which slows down microbial spoilage and enzymatic degradation. It is used in various food products such as cured meats, pickles, and canned foods to extend shelf life and maintain quality.
Q5. Which type of salt is commonly used in the production of electrolytes for batteries and as a food additive for flavor enhancement?
a) Sodium chloride
b) Calcium chloride
c) Potassium chloride
d) Magnesium chloride
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Correct Answer: c) Potassium chloride
Explanation: Potassium chloride (KCl) is commonly used in the production of electrolytes for batteries and as a food additive for flavor enhancement. In battery manufacturing, potassium chloride is used as an electrolyte in alkaline batteries, where it conducts ions between the electrodes to generate electrical energy. In the food industry, potassium chloride is used as a salt substitute to reduce sodium intake and as a flavor enhancer in various processed foods. It provides a salty taste similar to sodium chloride while also supplying potassium, an essential nutrient for nerve function and muscle contraction.
Q6. Which type of salt is commonly used in the production of tofu and as a coagulant in food processing?
a) Sodium chloride
b) Calcium chloride
c) Potassium chloride
d) Magnesium chloride
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Correct Answer: b) Calcium chloride
Explanation: Calcium chloride (CaCl2) is commonly used in the production of tofu and as a coagulant in food processing. In tofu production, calcium chloride is added to soy milk to help coagulate the proteins and form curds, which are then pressed to produce tofu blocks. Calcium chloride functions as a firming agent and stabilizer, ensuring proper texture and consistency in the final product. In food processing, calcium chloride is used as a preservative, firming agent, and stabilizer in various products such as canned vegetables, pickles, and sports drinks.
Q7. Which type of salt is commonly used in the production of Epsom salt and as a laxative or dietary supplement?
a) Sodium chloride
b) Calcium chloride
c) Potassium chloride
d) Magnesium sulfate
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Correct Answer: d) Magnesium sulfate
Explanation: Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4), also known as Epsom salt, is commonly used as a laxative or dietary supplement. It is composed of magnesium ions (Mg2+) and sulfate ions (SO4^2-) and is known for its laxative properties when taken orally. Magnesium sulfate works by drawing water into the intestines, which softens the stool and promotes bowel movements. It is also used topically in baths for its purported muscle-relaxing and skin-soothing effects. Additionally, magnesium sulfate has various industrial and agricultural applications, including as a fertilizer, desiccant, and coagulant in water treatment.
Q8. Which type of salt is commonly used in the production of borax and as a flame retardant?
a) Sodium chloride
b) Calcium chloride
c) Potassium chloride
d) Boric acid
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Correct Answer: d) Boric acid
Explanation: Boric acid (H3BO3) is commonly used in the production of borax and as a flame retardant. Borax, also known as sodium borate, is a compound derived from the reaction of boric acid with sodium hydroxide. It is used in various industrial applications, including as a cleaning agent, insecticide, and flux in welding. Boric acid is also employed as a flame retardant in materials such as cellulose insulation, textiles, and wood products. When applied to these materials, boric acid reacts with cellulose fibers and forms a protective layer that inhibits combustion and reduces the spread of flames. Additionally, boric acid has antiseptic and antifungal properties, making it useful in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and medical applications.
Q9. Which type of salt is commonly used in the production of bath salts and as a water softener in swimming pools?
a) Sodium chloride
b) Calcium chloride
c) Potassium chloride
d) Magnesium sulfate
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Correct Answer: d) Magnesium sulfate
Explanation: Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4), commonly known as Epsom salt, is used in the production of bath salts and as a water softener in swimming pools. In bath salts, magnesium sulfate is added to bathwater to soothe sore muscles, relax the body, and promote overall well-being. It is believed to be absorbed through the skin, delivering magnesium and sulfate ions that may have therapeutic effects. In swimming pools, magnesium sulfate can be used as an alternative to calcium or sodium chloride for water softening, helping to prevent scale buildup and improve water quality.
Q10. Which type of salt is commonly used as a food seasoning, food preservative, and curing agent for meats?
a) Sodium chloride
b) Calcium chloride
c) Potassium chloride
d) Magnesium chloride
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Correct Answer: a) Sodium chloride
Explanation: Sodium chloride (NaCl), commonly known as table salt, is used as a food seasoning, food preservative, and curing agent for meats. It is one of the oldest and most widely used salts in the world, valued for its ability to enhance flavor, extend shelf life, and inhibit microbial growth in food products. Sodium chloride is added to a wide range of culinary preparations, including savory dishes, baked goods, snacks, and condiments. In meat processing, sodium chloride is used in curing mixtures to draw out moisture, improve texture, and enhance flavor in cured meats such as bacon, ham, and sausage.