Video Transcript
Which of the following group 15
elements can be used in the production of the head of a match, shown in the
illustration? (A) Arsenic, (B) bismuth, (C)
phosphorus, (D) nitrogen, (E) antimony.
In order for us to identify the
element used in the production of the head of a match, we need to review some of the
common uses for each element within group 15 of the periodic table. Let us discuss the uses of each
group 15 element in the order they are listed. So we will begin with arsenic.
Arsenic is used in the
manufacturing of furniture. After wood has been processed into
furniture, a common use for arsenic is as a wood preservative. Therefore, option (A), arsenic, is
incorrect.
Now let us take a look at option
(B), bismuth. Bismuth is frequently used within
the medical industry for antidiarrheal medication. Therefore, option (B), bismuth, is
incorrect.
Our next option choice, letter (C),
is phosphorus. This element is used within the
production of fertilizers to provide nutrients to plants and when manufacturing
matches. Therefore, option (C), phosphorus,
is correct for being used in the production of the head of a match.
Now that we know option (C) is
correct, let us find out if option (D) and (E) could be possible answer choices as
well. Option (D), nitrogen, is used in
the production of ammonia and nitrogenous fertilizers, which also provide nutrients
to plants. Therefore, option (D), nitrogen, is
incorrect.
Finally, let us take a look at
option (E), antimony. An example used for this element is
as a flame retardant in Sb2O3. Therefore, option (E) is the
incorrect answer.
Looking back upon all the group 15
elements, the only one that can be used in the production of the head of a match is
option (C), phosphorus. Therefore, option (C), phosphorus,
is the correct answer choice.
