Question

In an average year, the American chemical industry produces more than 9.5 million metric tons of sodium carbonate. Over half of this is used in the manufacture of glass while another third is used in the production of detergents and other chemicals. How many pounds of sodium carbonate are produced annually?

Answer 1

2.09 × 10¹⁰ pounds

Explanation:

The American chemical industry produces more than 9.5 million metric tons of sodium carbonate.

in this problem we have to calculate the amount in pounds of sodium carbonate are produced annually.

so we will convert the amount of 9.5 million metric tons to pounds.

Since in 1 metric ton = 2204.62 pounds

Hence, 9,500,000 metric ton = 2204.62 × 9,500,000

= 20943890000 pounds

= 2.09 × 10¹⁰ pounds

2.09 × 10¹⁰ pounds of sodium carbonate are produced annually.