Question 63

The Correct Answer is C. ### 2. Explanation of why option C ("Sodium carbonate") is correct Benzyl chloride is a reactive organic halide that, when exposed to water, hydrolyzes to form benzyl alcohol and hydrochloric acid ($\text{HCl}$). It is also highly toxic and a potent lacrimator. According to the Chemical Data Guide (CDG), the preferred method for cleaning up spills of acidic or acid-forming materials like benzyl chloride is to absorb the spill and then neutralize the residue. **Sodium carbonate** ($\text{Na}_2\text{CO}_3$, or soda ash) is a weak base recommended specifically for neutralizing the acidic components (like $\text{HCl}$) generated by the spilled chemical or during the cleanup process. When water is used, the neutralization effect is slow; therefore, using a neutralizing agent like sodium carbonate is recommended as a necessary substitute/addition to water for effective and safer cleanup. ### 3. Explanation of why the other options are incorrect **A) Sodium bisulfite:** Sodium bisulfite ($\text{NaHSO}_3$) is primarily a reducing agent used to neutralize strong oxidizing materials (like chlorine or bleach). It is not the standard neutralizing agent recommended for acidic or acid-forming halogenated organic compounds like benzyl chloride. **B) Alcohol:** Alcohols (such as ethanol) are organic solvents. While they may dissolve benzyl chloride, they do not neutralize the spilled material or the corrosive acid it generates. Furthermore, using a flammable solvent on a deck spill usually increases the hazard unless specifically required for chemical reasons. **D) Soda ash solution:** Soda ash solution is simply sodium carbonate dissolved in water. While this is the form in which the neutralizer is often applied, the question asks for the chemical *substitute* for water. Option C (Sodium carbonate) names the chemical agent itself, which is the substance listed in the Chemical Data Guide as the primary neutralizing agent.