How Does Na2CO3 Remove Impurities?

[jsmith613]

Homework Statement

Why is the answer D??

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

So I know that Na₂CO₃ is used to remove excess acid but surely only HBr is the acid?

 

[Borek]

SO₂ is an acid anhydride, so there would be nothing strange in the fact it reacts with a basic solution. However, there is more to it. Bromine is a strong oxidizing agent, and in the alkaline solution it can easily oxidize sulfite (known reducing agent) to something much more stable.

 

[jsmith613]

SO₂ is an acid anhydride, so there would be nothing strange in the fact it reacts with a basic solution. However, there is more to it. Bromine is a strong oxidizing agent, and in the alkaline solution it can easily oxidize sulfite (known reducing agent) to something much more stable.

but the conditions are acidic?

 

[Borek]

During reaction, but we are talking about purification of a distilled product, don't we?

 

[jsmith613]

During reaction, but we are talking about purification of a distilled product, don't we?

oh so it has been separate from acid
and therefore the sodium carbonate is the base? right?