Acids and Bases- Food is Acidic; Cleaners are Basic

Food is Acidic; Cleaners are Basic

Description: pH of household chemicals is measured with either indicators or a pH meter.

Source: Shakhashiri, B.Z. Chemical Demonstrations: A Handbook for Teachers of Chemistry

Year: 1989   Vol: 3   Page: 65

Keywords: Foods, Cleaners, Shampoos, Acids, Bases

Ratings:

Hazard: Medium

  • Acute toxicity hazard
  • Electric shock hazard
  • Skin corrosion hazard
  • Aquatic toxicity
  • Corrosive to metals
  • Inhalation hazard
  • Serious eye damage

Effectiveness: Average

  • Results are observable with guidance
  • Somewhat connected conceptually to course material
  • Mild effects are seen by audience
  • Time to results is high
  • Secondary observations
  • Good reliability

Difficulty: Medium

  • Use of mildly reactive substances
  • Cross-contamination possible
  • Some concerted or timed manipulations
  • Experiments in which a display is used
  • Multi-step procedures

Safety Precautions:

  • Eye protection required
  • Gloves required
  • Use of UL approved three-prong plug and outlet required
  • Absorbent materials on hand
  • Perform in a well-ventilated area
  • Avoid exposure to mists, gases, and droplets
  • Prevent release of reagents to the environment

Class: Acids and Bases

Division: General

Home| General Chemistry Demos