Chemistry 2004 JAMB Past Questions - Question 33: When steam is passed over red-hot carbon, the substances produced are

Correct Answer

C

Explanation

When steam is passed over red-hot carbon, a chemical reaction known as water gas shift reaction occurs. The reactants and products of this reaction are as follows:

Water gas shift reaction:
\[ \text{H}_2\text{O(g)} + \text{C(s)} \rightarrow \text{CO(g)} + \text{H}_2(g) \]

In this reaction, steam (H₂O) reacts with carbon (C) in the presence of heat to produce carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen gas (H₂). The red-hot carbon serves as a catalyst for the reaction, promoting the conversion of water and carbon into the desired products.