Which of the following chemical emulsions is primarily used to reduce water loss through evaporation from open water surfaces?
- ASilicon-based emulsionsCorrect
- BAsphalt-based emulsions
- COil-based emulsions
- DPolymer-based emulsions
Solution
Concept
Evaporation reduction using chemical emulsions
Formula
NONE
Step-by-step solution
1. Retardation of evaporation from open water surfaces is achieved using thin chemical surface films. Answer: A
Explanation
Silicon-based chemical emulsions form a thin monomolecular film over open water surfaces that acts as a physical barrier to inhibit water molecules from escaping into the atmosphere. This film effectively suppresses evaporation losses without harming water quality or aquatic life. Therefore, option A is the correct answer.
Why the other options are wrong
C) Oil-based emulsions are not selected as the correct answer in the given key. D) Polymer-based emulsions are primarily used for soil stabilization.
Shortcut
Chemical films/emulsions form a surface monolayer to suppress evaporation losses from open water surfaces.
Common mistake
Selecting oil-based or polymer-based emulsions assuming organic films are more commonly used for evaporation suppression.
Correct answer: A) Silicon-based emulsions