Which of the options given below is called laughing gas?
A. N ₂O
B. CO ₂
C. H ₂O
D. SO ₂

Question

Which of the options given below is called laughing gas?A. N 2OB. CO 2C. H 2OD. SO 2

Prepp Team · Accepted Answer

Identifying Laughing Gas: Chemical Formulas

The question asks to identify the chemical formula for a substance commonly known as laughing gas from the given options. Laughing gas is a well-known chemical compound with specific properties, including its anesthetic and analgesic effects, which can sometimes induce euphoria or laughter, hence its nickname.

Let's examine each option provided and determine its chemical name and common usage:

Option A: \( \text{N}_2\text{O} \)
Option B: \( \text{CO}_2 \)
Option C: \( \text{H}_2\text{O} \)
Option D: \( \text{SO}_2 \)

Analyzing the Options

We need to match the common name "laughing gas" with its correct chemical formula from the list.

Option A: \( \text{N}_2\text{O} \)
This is the chemical formula for Nitrous Oxide. Nitrous oxide is widely recognized as laughing gas due to its effects when inhaled. It is used in medical and dental procedures for anesthesia and pain relief, and also as a propellant in aerosols.
Option B: \( \text{CO}_2 \)
This is the chemical formula for Carbon Dioxide. Carbon dioxide is a gas present in the Earth's atmosphere. It is essential for photosynthesis and is produced during respiration and combustion. It is used in carbonated drinks, fire extinguishers, and dry ice. It is not laughing gas.
Option C: \( \text{H}_2\text{O} \)
This is the chemical formula for Water. Water is a liquid at room temperature and is essential for life. It is not a gas known as laughing gas.
Option D: \( \text{SO}_2 \)
This is the chemical formula for Sulfur Dioxide. Sulfur dioxide is a toxic gas produced by volcanic activity and industrial processes. It is a significant air pollutant and a major cause of acid rain. It has a pungent odor and is definitely not laughing gas.

Conclusion on Laughing Gas Formula

Based on the analysis, the chemical formula for Nitrous Oxide, which is known as laughing gas, is \( \text{N}_2\text{O} \).

Therefore, Option A, which provides \( \text{N}_2\text{O} \), is the correct answer.

Properties and Uses of Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide)

Property/Use	Description
Chemical Formula	\( \text{N}_2\text{O} \)
Chemical Name	Nitrous Oxide
Common Name	Laughing Gas
State at Room Temp	Gas
Appearance	Colorless
Odor/Taste	Slightly sweet odor and taste
Medical Use	Anesthetic and analgesic
Other Uses	Oxidizer in rockets, propellant for aerosols (like whipped cream), engine performance enhancer.

Revision Table: Common Gases and Their Formulas

Common Name	Chemical Name	Chemical Formula
Laughing Gas	Nitrous Oxide	\( \text{N}_2\text{O} \)
Carbon Dioxide	Carbon Dioxide	\( \text{CO}_2 \)
Water (as steam/vapor)	Dihydrogen Monoxide	\( \text{H}_2\text{O} \)
Sulfur Dioxide	Sulfur Dioxide	\( \text{SO}_2 \)
Oxygen	Oxygen	\( \text{O}_2 \)
Nitrogen	Nitrogen	\( \text{N}_2 \)
Methane	Methane	\( \text{CH}_4 \)

Additional Information on Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)

Nitrous oxide \( \text{N}_2\text{O} \) is a compound made up of nitrogen and oxygen atoms. Each molecule contains two nitrogen atoms and one oxygen atom bonded together. It is one of several oxides of nitrogen. Other oxides of nitrogen include Nitric Oxide \( \text{NO} \), Nitrogen Dioxide \( \text{NO}_2 \), Dinitrogen Trioxide \( \text{N}_2\text{O}_3 \), etc. These compounds have different properties and uses compared to nitrous oxide.

While nitrous oxide is primarily known as laughing gas due to its historical use for anesthesia, it is also considered a significant greenhouse gas, contributing to climate change. It also plays a role in the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer.

Understanding the chemical formulas of common substances like laughing gas is fundamental in chemistry and helps distinguish them from other compounds with different properties and effects.