Question

Vapors of these solvents are a concern in welding and cutting because the heat and ultraviolet radiation from the arc will decompose the vapors and form highly toxic and irritating phosgene gas. What are these solvents?

1) Acetone
2) Methanol
3) Ethanol
4) Chloroform

Answer 1

Chloroform is the solvent from the options provided that generates highly toxic phosgene gas when subjected to the heat and ultraviolet radiation from welding and cutting processes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The solvents that produce highly toxic and irritating phosgene gas when decomposed by the heat and ultraviolet radiation from welding and cutting arcs are chlorinated solvents. The correct solvent from the given options is chloroform.

Mixtures of solvent vapors and air can be explosive, and they should be handled with caution. Short chain haloalkanes such as chloroform are commonly used as hydrophobic solvents in chemistry. However, when subjected to high temperatures and UV radiation, chloroform can decompose and generate phosgene gas, which is highly toxic and poses significant health risks.

Moreover, it is important to note the hazards associated with the use of chlorinated hydrocarbons due to their carcinogenic potential and the serious health effects from exposure to their vapors.