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d) Briefly describe what takes place in the softening tank and explain why the water is softened. (02 scores) __ ...................................................................... ...... ...................................................................... e) Using relevant equations describe the importance of neutralisation of water before domestic use. (02 scores) __ - .... ........ .............

Question

d) Briefly describe what takes place in the softening tank and explain why the
water is softened.
(02 scores)
__
......................................................................
......
......................................................................
e) Using relevant equations describe the importance of neutralisation of
water before domestic use.
(02 scores)
__
- ....
........
.............

d) Briefly describe what takes place in the softening tank and explain why the water is softened. (02 scores) __ ...................................................................... ...... ...................................................................... e) Using relevant equations describe the importance of neutralisation of water before domestic use. (02 scores) __ - .... ........ .............

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HarryProfessional · Tutor for 6 years

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<p><br />d) In the softening tank, hard water (rich in calcium, magnesium and iron ions) passes through resin beads holding negatively charged sodium ions. The hard substances are attracted to the resin beads due to their stronger positive charge and they displace sodium ions. This process renders the hard water into soft water which is free from mineral salts causing hardness. The water does not lead to lime scale deposits in pipes and faucets.<br />e) Neutralisation is essential before domestic usage to modify the pH of water, the aim is to make the water neutral; nearing the pH values between 6.5 - 7.5. High acidic or alkaline water can institute harmful reactions, even erode metal parts. Reaction with suitable acid or base can make the water safe for consumption and a lesser threat to utilities.

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<p> <br />d) In the softening tank, water is treated to remove hardness causing substances. These substances are primarily calcium, magnesium and iron ions. They are removed from water through a process known as ion exchange. Hard water moves into the softening/component tank where it passes through a vermiform mass of resin beads. These resin beads carry a negative charge, and are bonded with positively charged sodium ions. As the water trickles through the resin, hardness causing ions which carry a more significant positive charge than sodium ions, disembed and stick to the resin. This displacement leaves sodium ions to replace the hard salts in the water, thereby making it *soft* and palatable. Softening of water also reduces the risk of lime scale deposits in pipes and faucets.<br /><br />e) Neutralization of water is highly crucial before domestic use since it changes the pH scale of the water to a more safe and drinkable measure, nearly between 6.5 - 7.5. High acidity or basicity can lead to harmful metal ions in beauty and healthcare products and can erode metal parts. Neutralization is simple, reacting acidic or basic substances with alkali or acid to render the pH neutral. The water thus is safer for consumption and causes minimal harm to household utilities.
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