Which of the following is a general method of preparing acids?
A
Direct combination of constituent elements
B
Reaction between a base and an amphoteric oxide
C
Double decomposition involving a salt solution
D
Reaction between an anhydride and water
E
Dissolution of hydroxides followed by neutralization
Verified Correct Answer: D.
Chemical Principles & Mechanism
The correct answer is D - Reaction between an anhydride and water.
This is a general method of preparing acids, where an anhydride (a compound that lacks water) reacts with water to form an acid. For example:
SO\(_3\) + H\(_2\)O → H\(_2\)SO\(_4\)
CO\(_2\) + H\(_2\)O → H\(_2\)CO\(_3\)
This method is commonly used to prepare various types of acids, including inorganic acids like sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and phosphoric acid.
Source: WAEC / JAMB / NECO Classroom Archive (Record #36546)