GCSE Chemistry - Atom Economy #31

The video tutorial explains the concept of atom economy, which measures the efficiency of a chemical reaction in terms of how much of the reactants are converted into useful products. It provides a detailed calculation method using the example of hydrogen production, highlighting the low atom economy due to waste products. The tutorial emphasizes the importance of atom economy for cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and environmental impact. It also discusses other factors affecting the profitability of reactions, such as percentage yield and raw material costs.

What is the primary purpose of calculating atom economy in industrial processes?

• To calculate the energy consumption of a reaction

• To measure the efficiency of converting reactants into desired products

• To determine the cost of raw materials

• To assess the environmental impact of waste disposal

In the example reaction to produce hydrogen, what is the atom economy percentage?

• 100%

• 50%

• 95.65%

• 4.35%

Why is a reaction with a high atom economy considered more efficient?

• It converts all reactants into the desired product

• It produces more waste products

• It uses more raw materials

• It requires higher energy input

Which of the following is NOT a reason to improve atom economy?

• Enhancing sustainability

• Minimizing environmental damage

• Increasing the amount of waste produced

• Reducing the cost of raw materials

What is one suggested solution for dealing with waste products in reactions with low atom economy?

• Use more expensive raw materials

• Decrease the pressure of the reaction

• Increase the temperature of the reaction

• Find a use for the waste products as byproducts