Silica gel is commonly used as :

Options

A. if both the statement are TRUE and STATEMENT -2 is the correct explanation of STATEMENT - 1
B. If both the statement are STATEMENT -2 is NOT the correct explanation of STATEMENT -1
C. If STATEMENT -1 is TRUE and STATEMENT is FALSE
D. If STATEMENT -1 is FALSE and STATEMENT -2 is TRUE

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Silica Gel**: Silica gel is a granular, porous form of silicon dioxide (SiO2). It is commonly used as a desiccant, which means it is used to absorb moisture from the environment.

2. **Function of Silica Gel**: The primary function of silica gel is to maintain a dry atmosphere. It has a high surface area and can adsorb water vapor from the air, preventing moisture from damaging sensitive materials.

3. **Application in Laboratories**: In laboratory settings, silica gel is often used to store compounds that need to be kept in a moisture-free environment. These compounds are placed in containers that include silica gel packets to ensure that they remain dry.

4. **Understanding Adsorption**: The process by which silica gel absorbs moisture is known as adsorption. This is a surface phenomenon where molecules of a substance (in this case, water) adhere to the surface of another substance (silica gel).

5. **Terminology**: In adsorption:
- The substance that is being adsorbed is called the **adsorbate** (water molecules in this case).
- The substance that adsorbs the adsorbate is called the **adsorbent** (silica gel).

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, silica gel is commonly used as a drying agent due to its ability to adsorb moisture effectively.

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