Question

With a real-world example, give at least one reason for why it would be desirable to slow down the rate of a chemical reaction.

A. Slowing down the reaction prevents accidents and explosions in chemical plants.
B. Slowing down the reaction allows for better control and precision in scientific experiments.
C. Slowing down the reaction conserves energy and resources.
D. Slowing down the reaction speeds up the production of desired products.

Answer 1

It is desirable to slow down chemical reactions to prevent accidents in chemical plants and to preserve freshness of food by extending shelf-life.

Step-by-step explanation:

One reason for why it would be desirable to slow down the rate of a chemical reaction is preventing accidents and explosions in chemical plants. A real-world example of this is the manufacturing processes involving highly reactive chemicals where the reaction rate must be precisely controlled to prevent dangerous situations. By slowing down the reaction, technicians can ensure a safer working environment and more stable production conditions. For instance, in the production of nitroglycerin, an explosive chemical, the reaction is maintained at a lower temperature to limit the rate at which the product forms, thus reducing the risk of sudden explosions.

Another example of where slowing the reaction rate is beneficial is in the preservation of food. The spoilage of food is a chemical reaction that occurs more rapidly at higher temperatures. By refrigerating food, we slow down the reaction rate significantly, conserving the freshness and extending the shelf-life of the product.