Which one of the following sodium compounds is used for softening hard water?

This question was previously asked in
CDS GK Previous Paper 11 (Held On: 7 Feb 2021)
View all CDS Papers >
  1. Na2CO3
  2. NaHCO3
  3. NaOH
  4. Na2SO4

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : Na2CO3
Free
UPSC CDS 01/2025 General Knowledge Full Mock Test
7.9 K Users
120 Questions 100 Marks 120 Mins

Detailed Solution

Download Solution PDF

The correct answer is Na2CO3.

Key Points

  • The sodium compound is used for softening hard water. Washing soda or sodium carbonate is used for removing the permanent hardness of the water.
  • Washing soda has a chemical formula Na2CO3.10H2O.
  • It binds calcium and magnesium molecules in water.
  • Water can be softened by adding sodium carbonate (washing soda) or bypassing the water through an ion-exchange column.
  • For large-scale municipal operations, a process known as the lime-soda process is used to remove Ca2+ and Mg2+ from the water supply.
  •  

6033a9ad1b0d2c2677daea03 16506248910171

 

Additional Information

Na2SO4

Sodium Sulphate

Formula: Na2SO4

Molar mass: 142.04 g/mol

Density: 2.66 g/cm³

Boiling point: 1,429 °C

Melting point: 884 °C

Soluble in: Water

NaOH

Sodium Hydroxide 

Formula: NaOH

Molar mass: 39.997 g/mol

Density: 2.13 g/cm³

Boiling point: 1,388 °C

IUPAC ID: Sodium hydroxide, Sodium oxidanide

Soluble in: Water, Ethanol, Methanol

NaHCO3

Bicarbonate of Soda

Formula: NaHCO₃

IUPAC ID: Sodium hydrogen carbonate

Molar mass: 84.007 g/mol

Density: 2.2 g/cm³

Molar entropy: 102 J/(mol⋅K)

Soluble in: Water

 

Latest CDS Updates

Last updated on May 29, 2025

-> The UPSC CDS 2 Notification has been released at upsconline.gov.in. for 453 vacancies.

-> Candidates can apply online from 28th May to 17th June 2025.

-> The CDS 2 Exam will be held on 14th September 2025.

-> Attempt UPSC CDS Free Mock Test to boost your score.

-> The selection process includes Written Examination, SSB Interview, Document Verification, and Medical Examination.  

-> Refer to the CDS Previous Year Papers to enhance your preparation. 

Get Free Access Now
Hot Links: teen patti master 2025 rummy teen patti teen patti 3a