In the process of forming 'mercerised cellulose' the swelling of cellulose is caused by

Options

A. Water soluble
B. `Na_(2)CO_(3)`
C. Aq. NaOH
D. Aq.HCl

Explanation

To determine the cause of swelling in cellulose during the formation of mercerised cellulose, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the term "mercerised cellulose"
Mercerised cellulose, also known as mercerised cotton, is a treatment process that enhances the properties of cellulose fibers, making them stronger, more lustrous, and more absorbent.

### Step 2: Identify the chemicals involved
The question mentions three chemicals: N2CO3 (sodium carbonate), aqueous NaOH (sodium hydroxide), and aqueous HCl (hydrochloric acid). We need to determine which of these causes the swelling of cellulose.

### Step 3: Analyze the effect of aqueous NaOH
When cellulose is treated with concentrated aqueous NaOH, it undergoes a process of swelling. The sodium hydroxide interacts with the cellulose fibers, leading to the breaking of hydrogen bonds within the cellulose structure. This results in the fibers absorbing water and swelling, which is essential for the mercerisation process.

### Step 4: Conclude the cause of swelling
Based on the analysis, the swelling of cellulose in the formation of mercerised cellulose is primarily caused by the treatment with aqueous NaOH.

### Final Answer:
The swelling of cellulose in the process of forming mercerised cellulose is caused by aqueous NaOH (sodium hydroxide).

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