Question 23M.2.HL.TZ1.3a
Date | May 2023 | Marks available | [Maximum mark: 6] | Reference code | 23M.2.HL.TZ1.3a |
Level | HL | Paper | 2 | Time zone | TZ1 |
Command term | Calculate, Explain, Outline, Suggest, Write | Question number | a | Adapted from | N/A |
High-pressure carbon monoxide disproportionation (HiPco) produces carbon atoms that react with nano catalysts to produce carbon nanotubes.
Write the equation for the disproportionation of carbon monoxide to produce carbon atoms.
[1]
2CO(g) → C(s) + CO2(g) ✓
Accept reversible arrows.

Calculate the percent atom economy of producing carbon using this method. Use section 1 of the data booklet.
[1]
«100 × 12.01 / 2 × (12.01+16.00) = » 21.44 % ✓

Outline how a metal functions as a heterogeneous catalyst.
[2]
«gaseous» reactants adsorb onto «metal» surface
OR
catalyst provides surface for reaction to occur ✓
weakens «reactant» bonds
OR
products desorb ✓
Accept lowers activation energy for M2.

Explain whether the production of carbon nanotubes using HiPco is a bottom up or top down nanotechnology technique.
[1]
bottom up AND molecular assembly «rather than decomposition» ✓

Suggest one health risk of using nanoparticles.
[1]
Any one of:
more easily airborne/inhaled ✓
have similar dimensions as biological molecules/interfere with biochemical reactions ✓
easily absorbed into body ✓
may cross cell membranes ✓
large surface area could increase toxicity ✓
human defence system not effective with small size ✓
Do not accept just large surface area OR toxic/increased toxicity.
