Question

Which chemical is responsible for the smell of rotten eggs in hot mud pools?
A.Sulphur dioxide
B.Flowers of sulphur
C.Copper sulphate
D.Ammonia

Answer 1

Hint: We know that sulphur dioxide is the chemical compound with the formula $$\text{S}{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}$$. It is a toxic gas released naturally by volcanic activity. Flower of sulphur refers to the fine yellow powdered form of sulfur produced by sublimation. Copper sulfate is a term that can refer to either of the following chemical compounds – cuprous sulfate or cupric sulfate. And we know ammonia to be the compound of nitrogen and hydrogen with the formula $$\text{N}{\text{H}}_{\text{3}}$$.

Complete answer:
Sulfur dioxide has a pungent, irritating odour, similar to the smell of a just-struck match and is the gas responsible for the smell of rotten eggs in hot mud pools. Burning sulfur and sulfur dioxide are essentially the same odor (unless it is being burnt in something other than oxygen). Sulphur dioxide is a colourless gas with a rotten egg smell. So, the chemical that is responsible for the smell of rotten eggs in hot mud pools is sulphur dioxide.
The correct option is A.
Traditionally, sulphur flowers were produced by subliming naturally occurring sulphur, known as sulphur vivum. It does not produce the smell of rotten eggs in hot pools.
 Therefore, option B is false.
Copper sulphate does not have a particularly unpleasant smell or taste.
Thus, option C is false.
Ammonia has a very strong odour that is irritating but it is not responsible for the smell of rotten eggs in hot pools.
Thus, option D is false.

Note:
It must be noted that sulphur dioxide can be used as a food preservative in industries. It also acts as a bleaching agent and disinfectant, in order to remove excess chlorine. Also, in a cold storage plant, it acts as a refrigerant. It can also act as a solvent and reagent and is often used in laboratories. It is being advised that sulphur dioxide be handled with care because of its ability to cause serious health problems like respiratory diseases and early death.