JAMB Chemistry Past Questions & Answers - Page 4

16.

Which of the following substances is NOT hygroscopic?

A.

Salt

B.

Sugar

C.

Silica gel

D.

Aluminum

Correct answer is D

Aluminum is not hygroscopic. It does not have a strong affinity for water vapor and does not absorb moisture from the air.

17.

Which of the following mixtures is an example of a colloid?

A.

Milk

B.

Orange juice

C.

Saltwater

D.

Sugar dissolved in water

Correct answer is A

A colloid is a type of mixture where one substance is dispersed in another in the form of tiny particles that do not settle out. In milk, fat globules are dispersed in water, forming a colloid.

18.

Why is water often referred to as the "universal solvent"?

A.

Water is the most abundant substance on Earth

B.

Water is essential for all living organisms.

C.

Water is involved in many chemical reactions

D.

Water can dissolve a wide variety of substances due to its polar nature

Correct answer is D

Water is often referred to as the "universal solvent" because of its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances. This unique property is mainly due to water's polar nature. Water molecules have a slightly positive charge on the hydrogen atoms and a slightly negative charge on the oxygen atom, making it a polar molecule. This polarity allows water molecules to interact with and surround other polar and ionic substances, breaking them down and forming solutions.

19.

Benzene can be converted to its derivative toluene by the addition of a methyl group. The reaction is an example of

A.

Nucleophilic substitution

B.

Elimination reaction

C.

Electrophilic substitution

D.

Addition reaction

Correct answer is C

The conversion of benzene to toluene involves an electrophilic aromatic substitution reaction. In this reaction, a methyl group (CH3) is added to the benzene ring, replacing one of the hydrogen atoms, and the reaction proceeds through electrophilic attack on the benzene ring.

20.

What is the main environmental concern associated with sulfur dioxide emissions?

A.

Formation of acid rain

B.

Global warming potential

C.

Depletion of the stratospheric ozone

D.

Depletion of the ozone layer

Correct answer is A

Sulfur dioxide, when released into the atmosphere, can react with water vapor and other atmospheric components to form sulfuric acid (H2SO4), which contributes to the formation of acid rain. Acid rain can have harmful effects on the environment, including damaging aquatic life, forests, and buildings.