NDA2025General AbilityGeneral ScienceActual
Which one of the following salts is responsible for temporary hardness of water?
Options
- ASulphates of calcium
- BChlorides of magnesium
- CBicarbonates of magnesium
- DSulphates of magnesium
Correct answer
C. Bicarbonates of magnesium
Step-by-step solution
Temporary hardness of water is caused by the presence of dissolved bicarbonates of calcium and magnesium, namely Ca(HCO₃)₂ and Mg(HCO₃)₂ . Permanent hardness of water is caused by the presence of dissolved chlorides and sulphates of calcium and magnesium. Therefore, bicarbonates of magnesium are responsible for the temporary hardness of water. Answer: Bicarbonates of magnesium