Zeolites can be modified to remove heavy metal from drinking water.How is this accomplished?
A)The pore size in the zeolite is made smaller.
B)The pore size in the zeolite is increased.
C)Sodium and potassium ions are bound to the zeolite structure.
D)Calcium and magnesium cations are replaced with sodium and potassium cations.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Zeolites have the capability to exchange cations in their structure with other positively charged ions. By replacing calcium and magnesium cations with sodium and potassium cations, the zeolite becomes highly effective in removing heavy metals from drinking water. This is because heavy metals have a stronger affinity towards binding with the sodium and potassium cations in the zeolite compared to calcium and magnesium cations. The process is known as ion exchange and is a common method used to treat water containing heavy metals.

Zeolites Can Be Modified to Remove Heavy Metal from Drinking