Thermochemistry- Combustion of Carbon Disulfide With Nitrous Oxide

Demonstration: A long 57mm I.D. 1.3m glass tube is filled with a clear and colorless gas and stoppered at both ends. The tube is clamped into place. A small quantity of a pale-yellow liquid is added to the tube via syringe. The contents are mixed. The tube is un-stoppered, and the mixture is lit. A blue flame and a loud roar are produced as the reaction quickly proceeds. A yellow solid along with a sulfuric smell are produced by the combustion.

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

Year: 1983 Vol: 1 Pages: 117 – 118

Keywords: Combustion, Exothermic, Blue, Sulfur, Thermochemistry

Rating:

Hazards: High

Acute toxicity- inhalation
Asphyxiation hazard
Flammable liquids
Flammable solids
Flammable gas
Skin corrosion hazard
Frostbite hazard
Skin irritation
Sharps hazard
Serious eye damage
Eye irritation
Reproductive toxicity hazard
Specific target organ toxicity- repeated exposure – Central Nervous System, Peripheral Nervous System,
Aquatic toxicity hazard
Gas under Pressure

Effectiveness: Excellent

Results are deeply engaging
Good connection from demo to course material
Spectacular effects are seen by audience
Time to results is very low

Difficulty: High

Prior training required
Use of toxic reagents
Reactions involve risk of explosion or toxicity
Multi-step procedures

Safety Precautions:

Eye protection required
Gloves required
Lab coat recommended
Use of sharps container
ABC fire extinguisher on hand
Avoid exposure to liquids, vapors, and gases
Sodium bicarbonate on hand
Prevent release of reagents to environment
Perform in a specially designated area

Class: Combustion, Thermodynamics

Division: General

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