MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #5416

When concentrated sulfuric acid is poured onto a sample of common table sugar (sucrose), the sugar turns black and swells up. What process is occurring?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #5416

  1. Question 1

    Q1. When concentrated sulfuric acid is poured onto a sample of common table sugar (sucrose), the sugar turns black and swells up. What process is occurring?

    • A) Dehydration of sucrose to carbon
    • B) Oxidation of sucrose to CO2
    • C) Hydrolysis of sucrose to glucose
    • D) Sulphonation of the sugar ring

    Answer: Dehydration of sucrose to carbon

    Explanation: Concentrated H2SO4 acts as a powerful dehydrating agent, removing water elements from sucrose and leaving behind a porous mass of black carbon.