What are drying or desiccating agents. Give examples.

In which of the following substances will there be :

(a) increase in mass

(b) decrease in mass

(c) no change in mass when they are exposed to air?

1. Sodium chloride
2. Iron
3. Conc. sulphuric acid
4. Table salt
5. Sodium carbonate crystals

Sodium sulphate is soluble in:

1. Ether
2. Water
3. Alcohol
4. Benzene

Water acts as a universal solvent because:

1. It is an organic compound
2. It is polar and has a high dielectric constant.
3. It is liquid at room temperature.
4. It boils at 100°C