MHT CET Chemistry Question (2026) — Solution

Step-by-step solution

The preparation of viscose rayon involves several steps. In the first stage, cellulose is treated with a concentrated solution of sodium hydroxide ( NaOH ) to form alkali cellulose. The reaction is: Cell - OH + NaOH Cell - ONa + H _2 O In the subsequent stages, the alkali cellulose is reacted with carbon disulfide ( CS _2) to form sodium cellulose xanthate, which is then dissolved in dilute NaOH to form a viscous solution called viscose. Finally, it is extruded into an acid bath to regenerate cellulose fibers. Therefore, the first stage is the reaction of cellulose with NaOH . Answer: Cell - OH + NaOH