Which among the following methods is used to separate the constituents

Which among the following methods is used to separate the constituents present in a compound ?

[amp_mcq option1=”Electrochemical method” option2=”Heating method” option3=”Fractional distillation” option4=”Decomposition followed by ion exchange” correct=”option1″]

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CDS-2 – 2023

Download PDF Attempt Online

To separate the constituents (elements) present in a compound, chemical bonds must be broken. This process is called decomposition. Decomposition requires energy and can be achieved through various methods, including using electricity (electrolysis), heat (thermal decomposition), or light (photolysis). Electrochemical methods, such as electrolysis, are used to decompose certain compounds (like water or molten salts) into their constituent elements by passing an electric current through them.

Separating constituents of a compound involves breaking chemical bonds, which is a chemical process (decomposition). This is distinct from separating components of a mixture, which involves physical methods like distillation, filtration, etc.

Option B, Heating method (thermal decomposition), is also a valid method to decompose some compounds, but not all. Option C, Fractional distillation, is a technique used to separate liquids with different boiling points from a *mixture*, not to separate elements bonded within a compound. Option D, Decomposition followed by ion exchange, is a specific process for separating ions after decomposition, but the decomposition itself is the key step in breaking down the compound. Among the given options, Electrochemical method represents a fundamental way to chemically decompose compounds into their constituents.

More similar MCQ questions for Exam preparation:-