WBCS.LIVE practice question

The 'Temporary Hardness' of water is primarily caused by the presence of which minerals?

Solve this multiple-choice question and check the correct answer with its explanation below.

Answer options

  1. Chlorides of Calcium and Magnesium
  2. Sulfates of Calcium and Magnesium
  3. Bicarbonates of Calcium and Magnesium
  4. Nitrates of Sodium and Potassium

Correct answer and explanation

Correct answer: Bicarbonates of Calcium and Magnesium

Explanation: āœ… Correct Answer: C) Bicarbonates of Calcium and Magnesium šŸ“š Explanation: Hardness in water is caused by dissolved minerals. Temporary hardness is specifically due to the bicarbonates of calcium and magnesium, which can be easily removed by boiling the water. Boiling causes these bicarbonates to decompose and precipitate as solid carbonates (limescale). Permanent hardness, however, is caused by sulfates and chlorides and requires chemical treatment for removal.