Question

The chemical formula of tear gas is:
A.$COCl_{ 2 }$
B.$CO_{ 2 }$
C.$Cl_{ 2 }$
D.None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: You should use the elimination method to answer this question. Try to identify each compound given in the options one by one. Tear gas chemical formula has one benzene ring.

Complete step by step answer:
Let’s identify each compound one by one -
Option A, $COCl_{ 2 }$, Phosgene is a colorless gas; in low concentrations, its odor resembles freshly cut hay or grass. Phosgene is a valued industrial building block, especially for the production of urethanes and polycarbonate plastics.
Option B, $CO_{ 2 }$, Carbon dioxide is present in the Earth's atmosphere at a low concentration and acts as a greenhouse gas. In its solid-state, it is called dry ice. It is a major component of the carbon cycle.
Option C, $Cl_{ 2 }$, Chlorine gas is pressurized and cooled for easy storage in liquid form. Since chlorine is heavier than air, it accumulates in low-lying areas.
Tear gas or "CS gas" is an aerosol of a volatile solvent with formula is $C_{ 10 }H_{ 5 }ClN_{ 2 }$ compound 2-chlorobenzalmalononitrile (also called o-chlorobenzylidene malononitrile)
It is a cyanocarbon and used as a riot-control agent and causes a burning sensation and tearing of the eyes.




Therefore, we can conclude that the correct answer to this question D.

Note: We should know that there is no specific antidote to common tear gases. Getting clear of gas and into the fresh air is the first line of action.
Immediate removal of contact lenses has also been recommended, as they can retain particles.