Acids and Bases- Balloon Races- Ionization of Hydrochloric Acid and Acetic Acid

Balloon Races- Ionization of Hydrochloric Acid and Acetic Acid

Description: Magnesium is added to equal volumes of 2 M hydrochloric acid and acetic acid. The two systems are closed by balloons. The balloon with the strong acid blows up faster, but both are the same eventual size. A second version of this demonstration uses solid sodium bicarbonate NaHCO₃ (s) in place of Magnesium metal.

Source: UW Card Catalog

Year: N/A   Vol: N/A   Page: N/A

Keywords: Reaction rate, Magnesium, Strong acid, Weak acid, Balloon

Rating:

Hazard: Some

• Skin corrosion hazard
• Use of flammable gas producing reagents
• Inhalation hazard
• Oxidizing solid
• Corrosive to metals
• Acute toxicity hazard – specific organ – respiratory system

Effectiveness: Average

• Results are observable with guidance
• Mild effects are seen by audience
• Contrast between system is noticeable
• Time to results is medium
• Good connection from demo to course material

Difficulty: Medium

• Some simultaneous manipulations are required
• Use of reactive substances
• Simple procedures
• Some practice recommended

Safety Precautions:

• Eye protection required
• Gloves required
• Absorbent materials on hand
• ABC fire extinguisher on hand
• Avoid exposure to dusts, mists or vapors
• Sodium bicarbonate on hand
• Perform in a well-ventilated area

Class: Acid and Bases, Gas-Producing Reactions, Entropy, Dissociation and Solubility

Division: General, Analytical Chemistry

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